MiPINES
Michigan Partners in Nature Education Space
MiPINES seeks to empower educators in practicing outdoor education by providing the location of greenspaces within a short distance of their school. Both teachers and students can discover Michigan’s numerous outdoor sites where fun, hands-on and educational activities can be used to explore nature. MIPines is a collaborative project between the MDNR and MAEOE.
What’s on the MiPINES map?
The MiPINES online map showcases nature spaces in your community. Many have been provided by teachers just like you. The map features various layers, which can be selected or de-selected to change what types of sites are shown. Each “drop point” may be left clicked on to reveal more information about that site, such as restroom availability, known accessibility measures, rules of use, site-specific contact information, and more.
Interpretive & Education Centers
Conservancies, Sanctuaries, & Parks
Features sites specifically designed to educate, often offering group programs and site-tailored activities
Features local and county parks, conservancies, and preserves. These often do not have dedicated on-site education programs and may have rules of use.
National Parks & Forests
School Forest Programs
Features Michigan schools which participate in the MDNR’s school forest program
Features all National parks, forests, lakeshores, and historical sites
Wheels to Woods
Trails
Features trails and trailhead sites in Michigan
Features unique Michigan forestry sites, all of which are eligible for the Wheels-to- Woods Grant Program
*Because this is a Google map, you will sometimes still see drop points for close by businesses and attractions. Look for uniquely hexagon-shaped drop points to see MiPINES locations
How to locate a nearby greenspace on the
MiPINES Map?
What resources & Activities
can I use at a MiPINES site?
Students on Their Own
As the COVID-19 pandemic continues into to 2020-2021 school year, teachers find themselves caught between providing quality education for their students, and ensuring the safety of themselves, their families, students, and communities. For classrooms that are fully or partially remote, providing an outdoor or environmental education experience is still possible. You may consider:
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Having students report on nature discoveries after walking through their neighborhood or local park
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Having students identify “back-yard nature”
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Having students use an activity or app from the resources list below
If sending students outside, it is important to emphasize safety precautions and educate on potential hazards. Wearing a mask, practicing social distancing, avoiding stinging insects and poisonous plants, and going outside with a parent or guardian are expectations that keep students of all ages safe.