History 21 The Podcast - 4.21 Wargo Nature Center's Heritage Lab

Each fall hundreds of kids visit Wargo Nature’s Heritage lab to experience a melding of nature and history with a day immersing them in a part of Minnesota history. The Wargo naturalists are joined by staff from Gibbs Farm and ACHS to create seven different stations the kids rotate through. In this episode listen as Eric Vehe, Program Services Supervisor, shares what goes into creating this program, and hear the kids’ excitement as we take a microphone into the woods to capture the day.

Host Sara Given, ACHS Volunteer Coordinator and Rebecca Desens, ACHS Executive Director.

Heritage Lab 2024, Photo cred. Anoka County Parks

Heritage Lab 2024, Photo cred. Anoka County Parks

Heritage Lab 2024, Photo cred. Anoka County Parks

Wargo Nature Center

Wargo Nature Center is located in Lino Lakes on the Rice Creek Chain of Lakes. and is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers of all ages. This expansive center offers a variety of recreational activities and educational programs, making it a popular destination for families and individuals seeking to connect with the natural world.

Explore the Nature Center’s interactive displays, nature and story walks, and nature play areas. Keep an eye out for a variety of programs and events throughout the year.

In November, 2024 the naturalists at Wargo are hosting programs about tracking animals, fall food over the fire, and even an eco-art series.

Photos provided by Anoka County Parks

Anoka County Library Minute

Further Reading: 

For those to whom nature play does not come naturally, the library has a vast array of books and other resources for guidance. Check them out!

• Crafting With Nature: grow or gather your own supplies for simple handmade crafts, gifts & recipes by Amy Renea (745.5 REN)

• The Curious Nature Guide: explore the natural wonders all around you by Clare Walker Leslie (508 LES)

• Enchantment: awakening wonder in an anxious age by Katherine May (158.1 MAY)

• The Family Guide to Outdoor Adventures: 30 wilderness activities to enjoy nature together! By Creek Stewart (796.5 STE)

• Finding Ecohappiness: fun nature activities to help your kids feel happier and calmer by Sandi Schwartz (155.418 SCH)

• Forest School for Grown-ups: explore the wisdom of the woods by Richard Irvine - Forest School educator (796.5 IRV)

• Forest School Wild Play: outdoor fun with nature’s elements earth, air, fire & water by Jane Worroll (371.384 WOR)

• Handmade Outdoor Crafts: 70+ fun & easy projects by Mark Hagen (745.5 HAG)

• The Healing Magic of Forest Bathing: finding calm, creativity, and connection in the natural world by Julia Plevin (155.91 PLE)

• Nature Journaling: learning to observe and connect with the world around you by Clare Walker Leslie (508 LES)

• Nature Play Workshop for Families: a guide to 40+ outdoor learning experiences in all seasons by Monica Wiedel-Lubinski (790.191 WIE)

• Nature’s Treasures by Ben Hoare (508 HOA)

• Park Packs

A collaboration of Anoka County Parks Department and Anoka County Library to encourage outdoor recreation, nature appreciation, conservation and creativity.