Not every great outdoor lesson happens on a trail. This summer, BHPFA took nature education straight to libraries and forests, making it easier than ever for families and neighbors to connect with public lands.

Library Partnerships

In Sturgis, our Nature Knows Series, in collaboration with the public library, drew teens and adults eager to learn outdoor essentials. One night, Education Specialist Tom Tonkin showed how to start a fire without a lighter, build simple shelters, and find safe drinking water. It was part skills training, part confidence boost—and a whole lot of fun.

BHPFA also partnered with the Custer Public Library, giving local families a chance to explore naturalist skills without traveling far. Programs ranged from tracking and survival basics to hands-on ecology.

“BHPFA believes that nature education is a resource that belongs to all members of the Black Hills communities,” said Program Manager Andrea Fountain. “By partnering with libraries and our partners, we address barriers that limit access to nature education and meet people where they live.”

Forest Exploration Hikes

At the same time, our staff led the Forest Exploration Program Series with Black Hills National Forest. These free hikes combined adventure with learning, covering topics such as animal sounds, nocturnal wildlife, the role of fire in the ecosystem, and even the concept of friendship in nature. Participants of all ages had the chance to earn a Junior Forest Ranger badge along the way.

One highlight: the Fire on the Landscape hike at Buzzard’s Roost. Families explored how fire can destroy, renew, and ultimately strengthen forest ecosystems. Hikers paused to see signs of past burns and observe how plants rebound with fresh growth.

The season wraps up September 27 at Mount Roosevelt Trail with Friends in Nature, a celebration of both ecological and human relationships on National Public Lands Day.

Why It Matters

Together, the library series and the forest hikes prove that nature education can meet people where they are—whether that’s in a town library or on a mountain trail. They also complement our new paid Nature Connection Workshops, which offer deeper dives for small groups.

By keeping both free and premium programs strong, BHPFA ensures that everyone has a way to explore, learn, and belong in the public lands we serve. ➡️ Find upcoming programs at blackhillsparks.org.