Seed Swap Day at January Jr. Naturalists

Communities around the world host seed swapping events in the late winter
in preparation for spring planting.

Darke County Parks invites students in grades 3-6 to join them for the Jr. Naturalists program on Saturday, January 28th from 9:30am to 12pm at Shawnee Prairie Preserve on St. Rt. 502 west of Greenville. This month will focus on seeds and biodiversity. Seeds were one of the first commodities valued and traded. For millennia gardeners traded their saved seeds to try new varieties, save money, and improve their garden’s diversity. Students will look at the differences between heirloom and hybrid seeds, learn how to properly collect and store seeds, and do some trading of their own.

The Jr. Naturalists is a series of monthly programs designed to give 3rd-6th grade students hands-on interaction with the natural world and a look at our current and historical place within it. Hikes, games, crafts, and service projects are all a part of this exciting integrated study group. A fee of $3 is charged for the program, and registration is required. For questions about the Jr. Naturalists program or any other park district programs or to register for the January class, please call the park office at (937) 548-0165 or email info@darkecountyparks.org.