Exhibits

Now open in KNC’s Exhibits Hall

The Kalamazoo Nature Center’s exhibit, Forest Mosaic: How Forests Transform and Sustain, is currently open, offering visitors an in-depth exploration of the vital role forests play in our world. This exhibit allows guests to discover the complex web of interactions among plants, animals, fungi, and microorganisms that make up the forests of Southwest Michigan.

Interactive displays engage visitors in various ways, including a touch-sensitive map that helps them locate different forest biomes along the KNC trails. Old-school view-masters offer an intimate look at ecological succession and forest changes over time, while manipulatives give younger visitors the chance to explore the relationships that form forest ecosystems.

As they explore, visitors learn firsthand how forests recycle nutrients, regulate water, and influence climate. They also gain insight into the impact of human actions, such as the spread of invasive species and conservation efforts across Southwest Michigan. The exhibit highlights the inspiring work of KNC’s Conservation Stewardship team and their sugarbush project to emphasize key concepts in forest conservation.

Forest Mosaic is engaging an estimated 18,000 visitors, including students from Kalamazoo County schools who visit on field trips. The exhibit also plays a role in large public events like Maple Sugar Fest and offers workshops for area teachers to help them integrate exhibit content into their classrooms. By visiting Forest Mosaic, guests deepen their understanding of forest ecosystems and consider their role in supporting forest health and sustainability.