Educational Philosophy: 

It is the belief of Myrick Hixon EcoPark that environmental education should be a continuum of learning experiences that are infused into all subject areas. Programs for preschool and early elementary children emphasize awareness and sensory exploration of the environment. Elementary programs help children develop a basic understanding of ecology. Upper elementary and middle school programs help students acquire additional knowledge and skills needed to investigate environmental issues. In addition, all programs help the students set and clarify their values and feelings about the environment. Each level is the building block for the next level, preparing students to make individual environmental choices. Environmental education is an ongoing process.

MHEP School Programs:

To assist teachers in providing environmental education, MHEP offers hands-on experiential programs, and has done so for over 20 years. The programs have been developed by the EcoCenter's professional staff with local teacher input, and are geared to address a variety of science standards in different grade level curriculums. Each program emphasizes student participation and at least a portion of the programs takes place in a surrounding natural area, our own outdoor classroom.

Programs Offered:

Click here for school programs or custom built programs (daycares, scouts, birthday parties)!

Click here for Summer Adventure Programs!

****Please call prior to your scheduled visit to make accommodations for children with special needs!****

Our programs are lead by Volunteer Naturalists!  If you are interested in becoming one of these fabulous Volunteers, please email our Volunteer Coordinator at

Teacher Packets:

Packets including pre/post activities, background information, and resources are available for most programs, upon request.  Email Stephanie at for more information!

Myrick Hixon EcoPark serves as the gateway to La Crosse's nature areas, utilizing the unique resources of Hixon Forest, the La Crosse River Marsh, the blufftop prairies, and soon - live animal exhibits. The EcoCenter provides area schools and the community with quality, comprehensive, environmental education programs. Given our very small staff, we are only able to do this because of our dedicated and enthusiastic volunteers.

There are many volunteer opportunities at Myrick Hixon EcoPark!  Check out the Volunteer Page and get started right away!