Harris Nature Center Foundation fun run/walk June 5 weaves through forest, nature 

The deadline to register and guarantee a t-shirt is Friday, May 10.

Live music, refreshments greet participants at finish line; 
proceeds benefit Harris Nature Center educational programs  

MERIDIAN TOWNSHIP, MICH. — Harris Nature Center Foundation and Playmakers are presenting “Motivated by Nature,” a fun run/walk through the mixed forest of Harris Nature Center, Wednesday, June 5, 6-8 p.m. The 48-acre park is located at, 3998 Van Atta Rd., Okemos.

“This run/walk is unique because it’s about the journey — enjoying the abundant nature that surrounds the 2.25 mile-trail loop through Harris Nature Center,” said Nicky Dudgeon, Harris Nature Center Foundation board member and event organizer. “It’s perfect for individuals of all ages, and it’s ideal for families.”

After “Motivated by Nature” participants cross the finish line, there will be refreshments and live music by rising country singer/songwriter Jessey Adams, a mid-Michigan native. She just returned from recording in Nashville. Bill Warren of Bluegrass Today says of Adams, “Remember her name. You will see it in lights before long.”

Registration is $25. Details are at https://bit.ly/HNC-MBN-2024.

Proceeds go to the foundation to help fund the Harris Nature Center’s Nature Exploration Area expansion and for bus scholarships that enable students in Greater Lansing to attend HNC educational programs.

Harris Nature Center, 3998 Van Atta Rd., Okemos, comprises 48 acres of the Meridian Riverfront Park. HNC offers environmental activities and outdoor recreation opportunities that focus on protecting, promoting and interpreting the Red Cedar River. 

Park amenities include a half-mile of paved trail, several miles of natural trails, the River Overlook, Nature Exploration Area and the new handicapped-accessible observation deck with three commercial binocular stands. The Nature Building provides interpretive exhibits, nature murals by local artists, and displays of live, native Michigan wildlife. A pavilion is available for event rental. Meridian Township staff offer environmental programs for Lansing-area students and the public. 

Harris Nature Center Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that was founded in 2006 to provide a source of funding for special projects to enhance the facilities and programs of Harris Nature Center, a 48-acre park operated by Meridian Township. More information is at http://hncfoundation.weebly.com/. 

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Photo captions

Harris Nature Center 1-path.jpg – Participants of the Motivated by Nature fun run/walk will enjoy nature on the 2.25-mile trail that loops through the 48-acre Harris Nature Center. The trails are multi-use: one-half mile is paved; the remainder is natural.

Harris Nature Center 2-Motivated by Nature 2024.jpg – Registration for the Motivated by Nature fun run/walk is $25. Proceeds benefit Harris Nature Center educational programs.

Harris Nature Center 3-Turtle.jpg — The most iconic structure of the HNC Nature Exploration Area is the 8 foot long, 6 foot high, brightly colored cement turtle that young and old can climb over, under and through. It is by sculptor Doug DeLind of Mason.