Environmental Interpretive Center

We are the gateway to the 120-acre Environmental Study Area that is accessible to the university, school groups, and the public.

The EIC building is open from 9:00am - 5:00pm Monday through Friday and the Environmental Study Area is open from sunrise to sunset.

Check out our programs Volunteer at the EIC

We offer a wide range of upcoming events and programs that provide everyone with the opportunity to connect with and appreciate nature. Discover what's happening next at the Environmental Interpretive Center.

(Wilson's Warbler [male] photo by Alexander Viduetsky) — Photo by Alexander Viduetsky

Fall Bird Walk

8:00-10:00 AM Saturday Oct. 7 with Rick Simek

Migratory birds are heading back to their southerly homes. Catch the waves of warblers and thrushes as they fuel up on the fall harvest of berries and bugs. Binoculars are recommended but not required. Ages 10 and older.

Nature Walks for Mental Health

2023 Fall Schedule: 2:00-2:45pm on September 18, October 2 & 16, November 6 & 20, December 4^th (Last Walk & Celebration)

Focus on your mental health this fall by attending 45-minute guided walks through nature. All students, faculty, staff, and community members are invited to join!

EIC Parkhurst Natural Areas Fellow and Program Coordinator Alexis Kott will point out any interesting wildlife and natural phenomena encountered along the way and a Mental Health and Wellness Peer Educator from Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS) will share brief guided meditations and mental health check-ins. Meet inside the EIC. Contact ankott@umich.edu for more information.

Nature Photography Walks

2:00-3:00pm, September 13 & 27, October 11 & 25, November 8 & 22

Join EIC Naturalist and Nature Photographer on a guided nature walk. Bring your own cameras and accessories, we supply the scenery! Meet inside the Environmental Interpretive Center. For more information, or for accommodations, please email ankott@umich.edu.

Art in Nature

2:00-3:00, September 11 & 25, October 9 & 23, November 13 & 27

Experience art outdoors with an EIC Naturalist and Artist! Guided nature walks include art demonstrations and tips. Meet inside the Environmental Interpretive Center, and bring your own art supplies. For more information or for supplies please email ankott@umich.edu.