Lafayette Open Space stretches the boundaries of traditional programming
30 Nov 2019
A High Bar for Environmental Education
By Lisa Truesdale Martin Ogle was never too fond of the term “nature center.” He likes what nature centers do, of course, but he explains that by calling them that, we’re distinctly separating out those “natural” things from everything else in our lives. This perpetuates the incorrect notion that nature is “over there” and people are “over here.” “If we are to truly honor and exemplify the basic concept of ecology — that everything is interrelated — then we must make sure to integrate all aspects of our lives with the life of our planet and our life on it,” he says. Ogle is in a position to do just that. He feels fortunate to be a contractor for the City of Lafayette Open Space department, working closely with superintendent Rob Burdine and the heads of other city departments, city committees and local organizations. Together, they create all-inclusive programs that reinforce the connection between the human community and the planet’s other living systems. “We have a master plan,” Burdine says, “and Martin and I allow this plan to guide us, and each year we add color to it, and ride the momentum of citizen interest. This plan, developed with and approved by a citizen committee, seeks to increase awareness and appreciation for the environment and its natural systems.” The way they do this, explains Burdine, is by stretching the boundaries of traditional open space programming so that it’s more than just nature walks.
Ogle also works with local youth, including Boulder County Youth Corps, to discuss how environmental principles can apply to their future careers. (photos courtesy Lafayette Open Space)
For an updated listing of winter/spring events, check www.cityoflafayette.com/openspace.
