School and Youth Programs
More than 10,000 Orinda school children have experienced the programs at the Nature Area since 1970. All programs are coordinated and taught by Toris Jaeger, who has overseen the Nature Area’s programs since 1978. Toris retired from Orinda Union School District as District Naturalist in 2009 when her position was eliminated, but continues to serve the Nature Area with donations collected by FWRNA. To donate, click here.
Elementary School Field Trips:
Third Grade
Animal Camp: One full day of animal habitat, food chain, ecosystems studies.
Fourth Grade
Native American Studies: Two full days of California history with a focus on the cultures of the Ohlone and Bay Miwok tribes.
Rancho Days: Two full days of California history.
Fifth Grade
First Thanksgiving: One full day of foraging, outdoor cooking, and early American history.
Pioneer Days: Two full days of California history.
Sixth – Eighth Grades
Others First Program
High School
Miramonte High School Environmental Education
Scout/Volunteer Projects:
Boy Scouts, Girl Scouts, Eagle Scouts, Rotary Clubs and many other community organizations and individuals have contributed thousands of volunteer hours for special projects at the Nature Area. Through their work, they have enriched wildlife habitats, developed educational resources, and improved accessibility to promote nature and inspire others. The following is a partial list of projects completed:
Elementary School Field Trips:
Third Grade
Animal Camp: One full day of animal habitat, food chain, ecosystems studies.
Fourth Grade
Native American Studies: Two full days of California history with a focus on the cultures of the Ohlone and Bay Miwok tribes.
Rancho Days: Two full days of California history.
Fifth Grade
First Thanksgiving: One full day of foraging, outdoor cooking, and early American history.
Pioneer Days: Two full days of California history.
Sixth – Eighth Grades
Others First Program
High School
Miramonte High School Environmental Education
Scout/Volunteer Projects:
Boy Scouts, Girl Scouts, Eagle Scouts, Rotary Clubs and many other community organizations and individuals have contributed thousands of volunteer hours for special projects at the Nature Area. Through their work, they have enriched wildlife habitats, developed educational resources, and improved accessibility to promote nature and inspire others. The following is a partial list of projects completed:
- Owl Box
- Mason Bee Box
- Bat Box
- Miwok House Replica
- Display Kiosk at Nature Area Entrance
- Water Catchment System
- Cynthia Crespi Bell Tower
- Decorative Masonry Bench
- Picnic Tables in Olive Grove
- Gate Surrounding Ann Morton Pond
- Directional and Historical Signs
- Native Tree Plantings
- Trail and Walkway Restoration
- Irrigation Projects
- Deer Fencing
- Raised Bed and Garden Upgrades
- Dr. Phil Loggins Memorial
- Butterfly Garden Bed
- Wheelchair Accessibility
