LAKE COUNTY, Calif. – The Lake County Land Trust is pleased to announce the nature education program for children ages 7-12 at the trust’s Rodman Preserve Nature Education Center near Upper Lake is resuming on Saturday, May 19.

The trust plans to present the program on the third Saturday of each month through October 2012.

Leading the program will be well-known local naturalist and educator, Elaine Mansell.

Mansell is a retired teacher and is looking forward to continuing one of her greatest passions – educating children about nature.

She worked for the California State Parks for 15 years, starting out as a volunteer and eventually becoming the park’s interpretive specialist.

She led the Junior Ranger program at Clear Lake State Park, did campfire programs, hikes, and still leads school groups at the park.

Mansell's program will focus on all aspects of the Rodman Preserve, including the riparian habitats, birds, and upland oaks.

Students will walk down to the preserve’s wetland areas and “observe critters in the water, out of the water, and in the air,” she explained.

Mansell will draw on her experience and knowledge of what kids love. Students can become “Rodman Explorers,” complete with certificate.

The Land Trust is asking for reservations for this free and fun program.

Please call Elaine Mansell at 707-263-1637 to reserve a spot for your youngster and for more information.

The Rodman Preserve and Nature Education Center is located at 6350 Westlake Road, Upper Lake.

Take the Nice-Lucerne Cut-off off of Highway 29, between Lakeport and Upper Lake. Turn east onto the Nice-Lucerne Cut-off, then left on to Westlake Road. The preserve entry is to the immediate right after turning on to Westlake.

The preserve is owned and operated by the Lake County Land Trust.

For more information about the trust, go to www.lakecountylandtrust.org .