Botany Adventure Tours are inquiry-based, guided science programs conducted at Meerkerk Gardens and in the classroom and introduce students in grades K-5 from all school backgrounds to plant growth and development through a series of 1 ½ to 2 hours seasonal tours .  The gardens become an “outdoor classroom” for teachers and students as they choose from the following tours:

Plants Alive! - A springtime tour for K-2nd graders. Plants, Pollinators and You!-  A springtime tour for 3rd-5th graders. The Life of a Leaf – A fall tour for 3rd-5th graders. Meet a Tree – A fall tour for K-2nd graders.

All programs feature “hands-on” activities and are aligned with Washington State Essential Academic Learning Requirements or EALRs.  The common thread woven through all the programs is the interdependence of life on earth. 

Botany Adventure tours are available spring and fall, Monday through Friday from 10:00am to noon  or 12:30-2:30 pm.   Classes may choose to start or end their tour with a picnic lunch.  Group sizes range from 8 to 30 students, at a cost of $3.00 per student.   Teachers also have the option of a pre-tour or post-tour classroom visit from our horticultural staff to help students connect their field trip experience with their classroom activities and everyday lives.  The fee for this is $5.00 per student.

We believe that outdoor experiences are an important element in the health and well-being of children.  Financial assistance for student fees and class transportation is available.

To schedule a tour or become a Meerkerk Volunteer Guide:

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