Climate Classroom
Climate Classroom
The Climate Classroom connects people to climate education through hands-on learning in our parks and communities. Here you can explore Metroparks programs that focus on climate-related topics, along with resources for educators, and blog content, all to support meaningful learning about our changing environment.
Climate Education & Resources
Blog Series – Read the Metroparks environment and climate blog series. Click here to explore.
Michigan Climate Educators Hub – A curated set of teacher-reviewed and scientist-approved interdisciplinary resources designed to empower Michigan educators to integrate climate education across all grades and subjects.
Metroparks Climate-Related Programs
April 15 - Science Club Jr. – Planting Seeds for Clean Water: Saline District Library
Participants will discover the world of plants by learning about different plant parts, their life cycles, and how they can help keep our water clean. We’ll use hands on activities to explore these concepts and learn the importance of native plants in the water cycle. Each child will then plant a seed to take home, fostering a connection with nature and a hands-on understanding of environmental care. Joint the Huron-Clinton Metroparks for a fun and educational journey into the world of plants and water conservation!
To sign up please visit Events – Saline District Library or call 734-429-5450.
Ages: Children 5 – 7.
Time: 4:30 p.m. – 5:30 p.m.
Cost: Free!
Location: Saline District Library, 555 N. Maple Road Saline, MI 48176
April 15 - Science Club – A Stormwater Journey Through Your Watershed: Saline District Library
Participants will discover the world of plants by learning about different plant parts, their life cycles, and how they can help keep our water clean. We’ll use hands on activities to explore these concepts and learn the importance of native plants in the water cycle. Each child will then plant a seed to take home, fostering a connection with nature and a hands-on understanding of environmental care. Join the Huron-Clinton Metroparks for a fun and educational journey into the world of plants and water conservation!
To sign up please visit Events – Saline District Library or call 734-429-5450.
Ages: Children 8 – 12.
Time: 6:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.
Cost: Free!
Location: Saline District Library, 555 N. Maple Road Saline, MI 48176
April 23 - Intro to Rain Gardens: West Bloomfield Township Public Library Westacres Branch
In this one-hour class you will learn about rain gardens and how you can solve local water problems by installing one. Throughout the class we will cover how a rain garden works and how it is different from other gardens. We will also go over the environmental benefits a rain garden provides, the beauty it can flaunt, and the maintenance that a rain garden needs to thrive. This class is an introduction to a five-week course, Master Rain Gardener Class, that goes more in-depth and explains the process of installing a rain garden.
This project has been funded wholly or in part through Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy’s Nonpoint Source Program by the United States Protection Agency
Pre-registration is not required. For more information click here!
Ages: Adults 18 and up.
Time: 6 p.m. – 7 p.m.
Cost: Free!
Location: West Bloomfield Township Public Library Westacres Branch location at 7321 Commerce Rd, West Bloomfield Township, MI 48324
April 24 - Earth Week Trivia Night: HOMES Campus Beer Garden & Tap Room
Rally your friends and put your eco-knowledge to the test at the Metroparks Earth Week Trivia Night!
Form a team and compete in one or both fast-paced rounds at 6pm and 7pm—it’s free to play, but the bragging rights (and prizes!) are priceless. Grab a slice from Campo Pizza or sip a cold brew from HOMES Brewery while you strategize with your crew.
Whether you’re a trivia master, a nature nerd, or just looking for a fun night out, this is the perfect way to celebrate Earth Week, challenge your friends, and have a blast on a lively, social evening.
Ages: Adults 18 and up.
Time: 6. p.m. – 7 p.m. OR 7 p.m. – 8. p.m.
Cost: Free!
Location: HOMES Campus, 112 Jackson Plaza, Ann Arbor, MI 48103
May 2 - Intro to Rain Gardens: Clinton Macomb Main Library
In this one-hour class you will learn about rain gardens and how you can solve local water problems by installing one. Throughout the class we will cover how a rain garden works and how it is different from other gardens. We will also go over the environmental benefits a rain garden provides, the beauty it can flaunt, and the maintenance that a rain garden needs to thrive. This class is an introduction to a five-week course, Master Rain Gardener Class, that goes more in-depth and explains the process of installing a rain garden.
This project has been funded wholly or in part through Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy’s Nonpoint Source Program by the United States Protection Agency.
Pre-registration is not required. For more information click here or call (586) 226-5020.
Ages: Adults 18 and up.
Time: 1 p.m. – 2 p.m.
Cost: Free!
Location: Clinton-Macomb Main Library, 40900 Romeo Plank Clinton Township, MI 49286
May 6-June 3 - Master Rain Gardener Class: Ecorse Public Library
In this five-week class, you will learn how to design your own rain garden! Rain Gardens filter and cool stormwater so that our streams and rivers run clean. Join us to receive step-by-step instructions to create your garden, protecting your home against flooding and helping the birds and butterflies. And in the process, you will become a neighborhood expert!
Earn your certification – including a t-shirt and sign – by building your own rain garden or adopting a public rain garden. One optional off-site field trip to an existing rain garden is included.
This project has been funded wholly or in part through Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy’s Nonpoint Source Program by the United States Environmental Protection Agency. Program recipients are required to participate in a pre and post survey. A unique Response ID to maintain anonymity. Survey results will help to make recommendations and improvements for future programming.
Ages: Adults 18 and up.
Dates: Wednesdays May 6, 13, 20, 27 and June 3
Time: 5:30 p.m. – 7 p.m. Office hours 5 p.m. – 5:30 p.m.
Cost: Free!
Location: Ecorse Public Library at 4184 W Jefferson Ave, Ecorse, MI 48229.
Pre-registration is required. You must attend all five classes. To register please visit https://ecorselibrary.org/events or call 313.389.2030.
May 7 - Intro to Rain Gardens: Royal Oak Public Library
In this one-hour class you will learn about rain gardens and how you can solve local water problems by installing one. Throughout the class we will cover how a rain garden works and how it is different from other gardens. We will also go over the environmental benefits a rain garden provides, the beauty it can flaunt, and the maintenance that a rain garden needs to thrive. This class is an introduction to a five-week course, Master Rain Gardener Class, that goes more in-depth and explains the process of installing a rain garden.
Ages: Adults 18 and up.
Time: 6 p.m. – 7 p.m.
Cost: Free!
Location: Royal Oak Public Library, 222 E 11 Mile Rd, Royal Oak, MI 48067
Pre-registration is required. To register please visit: https://royaloak.librarycalendar.com/event/raingardens
May 13 - Intro to Rain Gardens: Campbell Library
In this one-hour class you will learn about rain gardens and how you can solve local water problems by installing one. Throughout the class we will cover how a rain garden works and how it is different from other gardens. We will also go over the environmental benefits a rain garden provides, the beauty it can flaunt, and the maintenance that a rain garden needs to thrive. This class is an introduction to a five-week course, Master Rain Gardener Class, that goes more in-depth and explains the process of installing a rain garden.
This project has been funded wholly or in part through Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy’s Nonpoint Source Program by the United States Environmental Protection Agency.
Ages: Adults 18 and up.
Time: 6 p.m. – 7 p.m.
Cost: Free!
Location: Campbell Branch, Detroit Public Library, 8733 W Vernor Hwy, Detroit, MI 48209
Pre-registration is required. Link coming soon!
May 16 - Native Plant Swap: Sherwood Forest Library
Join the Huron-Clinton Metroparks for a Native Plant Swap. Have an abundance of native plants or too many of one kind? Bring your extras to the plant swap! Whether you’ve started them from seed, have leftovers from your garden, or just need to make space, this potluck-style event is a great chance to trade and discover new native varieties.
No plants to swap? No worries — you’re still welcome to come and pick up a few native plants for your garden or yard!
Discover more about native plants, invasive species, and how you can become a Master Rain Gardener. Staff will be on hand to answer questions and offer tips on enhancing your garden, saving money, supporting local wildlife, and more!
This project has been funded wholly or in part through Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy’s Nonpoint Source Program by the United States Environmental Protection Agency.
Ages: Fun for all ages!
Time: 2 p.m. – 4 p.m.
Cost: Free!
Location: Detroit Public Library Sherwood Forest Branch at 7117 W. 7 Mile Rd., Detroit, MI 48221.
Pre-registration is not required. For more information visit https://www.eventbrite.com/o/sherwood-forest-detroit-public-library-66587884063 or call 313-481-1840.
May 16 & 17 - Native Plant Sale: Kensington
Get your yard and garden ready for the season with native plants, trees, and shrubs. All plants for sale are Michigan native genotypes, which means they are more likely to thrive in our area and will be more beneficial to local wildlife.
The Annual Native Plant Sale is a great way to get Michigan genotype native plants for your yard. The sale is two days; best selection is on Saturday. The plants are from the Wildtype Native Plant Nursery, which has an agreement with the Metroparks to gather seed throughout the various parks. So, you could be planting a Metropark wildflower in your own yard!
Staff will be on-site to answer questions about native plants and how they can help you beautify your yard, save money and time, support local wildlife, and more! So, bring your questions and join us for this native plant sale. Some boxes and bags may be available, but it is helpful if you bring your own or a cart. Species availability is not guaranteed.
Pre-registration is not required.
Ages: Fun for all ages!
Time: 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Cost: Free! Plants are various prices.
Location: Kensington Metropark, Nature Center
May 23 - Native Plant Sale: Hudson Mills
Get your yard and garden ready for the season with native flowers, trees, and shrubs. All plants for sale are Michigan native genotypes, which means they are more likely to thrive in our area and will be more beneficial to local wildlife.
The Annual Native Plant Sale is a great way to get Michigan genotype native plants for your yard. The sale is two days; best selection is on Saturday. The plants are from the Wildtype Native Plant Nursery, which has an agreement with the Metroparks to gather seed throughout the various parks. So, you could be planting a Metropark wildflower in your own yard!
Staff will be on-site to answer questions about native flowers and trees and how they can help you beautify your yard, save money and time, support local wildlife, and more! Some boxes and bags may be available, but it is helpful if you bring your own or a cart. Species availability is not guaranteed.
Pre-registration is not required.
Ages: Fun for all ages!
Time: 9 a.m. – 1 p.m.
Cost: Prices vary by plant.
Location: Hudson Mills Metropark, Activity Center
June 6 - Native Plant Swap: Troy Public Library
Join us for our Native Plant Swap. Have an abundance of native plants or too many of one kind? Bring your extras to our plant swap! Whether you’ve started them from seed, have leftovers from your garden, or just need to make space, this potluck-style event is a great chance to trade and discover new native varieties.
No plants to swap? No worries — you’re still welcome to come and pick up a few native plants for your garden or yard!
Join us to discover more about native plants, invasive species, and how you can become a Master Rain Gardener. Our knowledgeable staff will be on hand to answer questions and offer tips on enhancing your garden, saving money, supporting local wildlife, and more!
This is a drop-in style program with no formal presentation. Please feel free to come and go throughout the timeframe.
This project has been funded wholly or in part through Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy’s Nonpoint Source Program by the United States Environmental Protection Agency.
Ages: Fun for all ages!
Time: 1 p.m. – 4 p.m.
Cost: Free!
Location: Troy Public Library, 510 W Big Beaver Rd, Troy, MI 48084
Pre-registration is not required. For more information click here: https://troypl.librarycalendar.com/ or call (248) 524-3538.
June 17 - Planting for Pollinators: Pinckney Community Public Library
Let’s buzz into the world of pollinators and plants. In this interactive program, we’ll explore how bees, butterflies, and other pollinators rely on native plants and how plants, in turn, depend on these creatures. Then, we’ll roll up our sleeves and make native seed balls filled with native wildflower seeds. Each participant will take one home to help support pollinators in their own outdoor space.
Ages: Preschool – Youth
Time: 12:30 – 1:30 p.m.
Cost: Free!
Location: Pinckney Community Public Library, 125 Putnam Street, Pinckney MI 48169
To sign up please visit Youth and Teen Events | Pinckney Community Public Library or call 734-878-3888.
June 17 - Intro to Rain Gardens: Saline District Library
In this one-hour class you will learn about rain gardens and how you can solve local water problems by installing one. Throughout the class we will cover how a rain garden works and how it is different from other gardens. We will also go over the environmental benefits a rain garden provides, the beauty it can flaunt, and the maintenance that a rain garden needs to thrive. This class is an introduction to a five-week course, Master Rain Gardener Class, that goes more in-depth and explains the process of installing a rain garden.
Ages: Adults 18 and up.
Time: 6 p.m. – 7 p.m.
Cost: Free!
Location: Saline District Library, 555 N Maple Rd, Saline, MI 48176
Pre-registration is required. Link coming soon!
June 24 - Intro to Rain Gardens: Howell Garden Club
In this one-hour class you will learn about rain gardens and how you can solve local water problems by installing one. Throughout the class we will cover how a rain garden works and how it is different from other gardens. We will also go over the environmental benefits a rain garden provides, the beauty it can flaunt, and the maintenance that a rain garden needs to thrive. This class is an introduction to a five-week course, Master Rain Gardener Class, that goes more in-depth and explains the process of installing a rain garden.
Ages: Adults 18 and up.
Time: 7 p.m. – 8 p.m.
Cost: Free!
Location: Howell Garden Club, Marion Township Hall. Coon Lake Road., Howell, MI, United States, 48843
June 25 -Planting for Pollinators: Springfield Township Library
Let’s buzz into the world of pollinators and plants. In this interactive program, we’ll explore how bees, butterflies, and other pollinators rely on native plants and how plants, in turn, depend on these creatures. Then, we’ll roll up our sleeves and make native seed balls filled with native wildflower seeds. Each participant will take one home to help support pollinators in their own outdoor space.
Ages: Preschool – Youth
Time: 2p.m. – 3p.m.
Cost: Free!
Location: Springfield Township Library, 12000 Davisburg Rd, Davisburg, MI 48350
To sign up please visit Springfield Township Library Events or call (248) 846-6550.

