42 MARCH 2023 By Rachael Bouley With a mission to inspire a deeper appreciation of Arizona’s natural beauty and wildlife, the Nina Mason Pulliam Rio Salado Audubon Center has launched new education programs for Valley students. As the southwest headquarters for the National Audubon Society, the organization hopes to protect birds and their habitats through science, advocacy, education and conservation. According to Director of Community Education Katie Weeks, they are excited to offer more ways for students and families to learn about science and nature. This includes the new STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts, mathematics) program developed in partnership with local art educators to show students how perspective and art can connect to scientific data collection. “We believe kids can still learn and be inspired by nature and encourage that real- world wonder through our activities and lessons,” Weeks said. “There’s something amazing about hearing a familiar bird’s song, feeling a bobcat’s pelt, or seeing pollen up close. Our new programs combine these classic lessons and phenomena with innovative experiences.” The community is welcome to get involved with field trips to Rio Salado and outdoor programs and presentations at local schools. “Our Nature in Your Neighborhood field trip is an award-winning experience that allows students to learn about the wildlife and ecosystems along the Rio Salado,” Weeks explained. The new Nature in the Schoolyard program is an adaptation of the field trip, allowing students to investigate their campus through hands-on activities, including a guided binocular walk and schoolyard habitat redesign. The business also offers off-site and virtual options, like Downtown Owls and Urban Hummingbirds, that teach students more about native bird species and protecting their habitats. Weekend programs include guided bird outings, live animal encounters, and art workshops, offering more opportunities for the whole family to learn about Sonoran flora and fauna. “Our programs seek to connect people with nature, including the birds and habitats found right outside your front door,” Weeks explained. “Participants can learn about local birds, mammals and plants. We always end with new ways to help conserve birds and the local environment, whether by growing native plants, getting involved in our conservation workdays, or just sharing a love for birds and wildlife.” Rio Salado is located just outside downtown Phoenix. Admission for most programs is free, and program scholarships are available for Title 1 schools. It is also free to visit, with new art installations and exhibits throughout the 7,850 sq. ft. nature center nestled within the Habitat Restoration Area. There are more than 200 species of birds and wildlife visitors may encounter in this Sonoran habitat, including the black phoebe, Gambel’s quail, black-chinned hummingbird, great blue heron, and yellow- rumped warbler, just to name a few. Rio Salado Audubon Center is booking field trips and school visits now through the end of the school year, with more educational resources available online. riosalado.audubon.org Rio Salado Audubon Center takes learning outside Rio Salado Audubon Center offers STEAM-focused education programs for youth in grades K-8. PHOTO BY COREY LYCOPOLUS found right outside your front door,” Weeks and the local environment, whether by downtown Phoenix. Admission for most Gambels Quail

Mon-Thurs 8:30-5p.m. | Fri 8:30-4p.m. | Sat 9-2p.m. | ROC#179513 4454 East Thomas Road Phoenix, AZ 85018 602.508.0800 liwindow.com INDOOR/ OUTDOOR LIVING A TREND THAT’S NEVER OUT OF STYLE Mon-Thurs 8:30-5p.m. | Fri 8:30-4p.m. | Sat 9-2p.m. | ROC#179513 4454 East Thomas Road Phoenix, AZ 85018 602.508.0800 liwindow.com INDOOR/ OUTDOOR LIVING A TREND THAT’S NEVER OUT OF STYLE