Outdoor Learning Area | Earth, Environmental and Geographical Sciences

map showing where the outdoor learning areas are located

Overview of the OLA

Located just outside the doors of The Science Building and Weston Hall, the Outdoor Learning Area is the perfect place to come experience the natural beauty of the Upper Peninsula. The OLA boasts gorgeous examples of native vegetation and wildlife.

The OLA is managed by the EEGS Department, but for the use and enjoyment of all NMU students and faculty. This area can be used for ecological and biological studies, artistic inspiration, writing prompts, growing cultural understanding, or simply studying and lounging.

OLA Interactive Guide

1. Introduction

Learn more about the history and goals of the Outdoor Learning Area and understand the layout of our various garden beds by viewing the aerial maps of the GeoPark. If you've taken a walk through the GeoPark and are trying to identify a species you saw, use the maps below.

2. Plants

The OLA has a plethora of plant species. Navigate the categories of plant types within the park to find more information about specific plant species. Perennial Species are alphabetized by their common name. The Perennial Index has both common names and scientific names for each plant. Please note that plant names can vary greatly among people and these species may be listed under common names you're unfamiliar with.

A. Tree Index
- 1. Individual Tree Species
B. Shrub Index
- 2. Individual Shrub Species
C. Perennial Index
D. Grass Index
- 1. Individual Grass Species

3. Geology

The GeoPark has a variety of boulders representing geologic features found across the Upper Peninsula. Some information on the boulder types and each boulders' origin are listed below but check back soon for more details regarding the geological features in the GeoPark.

group of student standing in the outdoor learning area

The GeoPark: This area offers amazing floral displays, regional geologic formations, and the perfect picnicking spot.

four male students collecting plant samples

The Native Plant Park: This area provides a great spot for students to conduct research, plant native perennials, and see and smell beautiful native wildflowers.

students sitting around a fire with a Native American drum

Center for Native American Studies’ Fire Site: In the red pine forest next to Whitman Hall, the Center for Native American Studies holds classes and special events at their fire site.

The Native Plant Park: This area boasts a model of succession from a northern grassland to mature northern forest, and includes a beautiful pavilion that is perfect for gathering, studying, and even hammocking.

Life in the Native Plant Park: The OLA is home to numerous small animals, but once in a while, we also gain the company of some larger friends. In summer 2020, this fawn was spotted many times hanging around the Native Plant Park, waiting for its mother. Don't worry, though, this is normal and the mother was always nearby.

five trees growing in a field of long grass

The EcoPark: provides important ecosystem services such as preventing pollution from reaching Lake Superior.

a mother fox watching over her pups as they play near their den

Fox Family in the EcoPark: A mother fox watches over her pups as they play near their den in the EcoPark in spring 2021. The utmost care is taken by NMU to protect these foxes and allow them to remain unbothered by people while growing up on-campus.