LAKE COUNTY, Calif. – The children’s nature education program at the Rodman Preserve will be held on Saturday, Aug. 18 starting at 9 a.m. at the preserve near Upper Lake.

The program is presented by Lake County Land Trust volunteer and nature education specialist, Elaine Mansell and is free and open to youth age 7 to 12.

Mansell, who used to lead the Junior Rangers program at Clear Lake State Park, takes children on a “Rodman Explorer,” adventure.

They will use microscopes, hike, look through binoculars to observe birds and everything else interesting, and become more aware of their role in “the big picture,” and become stewards of the earth, Mansell explains.

The purpose of the program is to direct children to be observant, utilizing all of their senses rather than ambling through the woods aimlessly, Mansell says. They will learn, enjoy, and commit to “leaving no trace.”

Reservations are appreciated and can be made by calling Mansell at 707-263-1637.

Parents are welcome and can either take a hike on the Rodman Preserve property, or stay with their children.

For more information about the Lake County Land Trust and for directions to the preserve, go to www.lakecountylandtrust.org .