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About Us

 

There's lots to learn from the Thumb Nature Areas.  Please click on the drop down tabs for more information.

Thumb Nature Areas Core Values

1.

We value Advocacy for Environmental Stewardship & Education...

because we believe that through education, personal discovery, and transformational experiences, we foster a conservation ethic in current and future generations.  We are committed to advancing a non-political advocacy platform for our work and to connect people with nature to inspire everyone to be good stewards of the environment.

2.

We value Justice, Equity, Diversity & Inclusiveness in all that we do...

because we believe that every person has something to contribute towards a better future.  We are welcoming and respectful to everyone seeking diverse perspectives, talents and contributions. By creating opportunities and eliminating barriers for the outdoor world to be accessible to people, regardless of their educational, ethnic, or social background, we believe we will have a greater impact on creating a more sustainable planet.  We work on ensuring that our policies/procedures and offerings are equitable and available to all.

3.

We value Collaboration & Partnerships...

because we know that no one organization can solve all problems. We believe in the value of creating meaningful connections as a solution to the environmental challenges we all face.

4.

We value Organizational Effectiveness and are committed to Continual Improvement in all that we do...

because we want the best organization and experience for our members.  We seek to always improve the way we work and we look through the lens of our members, being open to feedback.  We seek new and innovative ways to run our programs and services.

Bob Tallman Awarded the Thumb Nature Areas Recognition and Dedication Award


 

 

Thumb Nature Areas was established in the late 1990’s as a nonprofit organization.  Bob Tallman, a retired educator, was a founding member of a core group of individuals who decided to join together and called themselves the “Environmental Research Planning Committee.  This group of individuals shared the vision of conserving our natural spaces through education and outreach.  Bob helped organize former educators and other volunteers that had a shared goal of increasing opportunities for school-aged youth to learn more about nature by engaging in hands-on, outdoor activities.

 

Mapping their Dreams

 

They began mapping sites and collecting inventories of trees, plants and wildlife on these sites.  Lessons and activities were developed for use with groups using these sites.  One of those initial sites is now the Exchange Club Forest site which is still used today.

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From the beginning, Bob Tallman and countless volunteers have dedicated their time, energy, resources, expertise, and passion for bringing quality outdoor education opportunities to students, teachers, adults and the community. The name has changed several times over the years, and we are now called Thumb Nature Areas.

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Bob’s leadership and endless energy over the past 30 + years has made it possible for many generations of students to learn about nature through lessons and field trips to several local parks and forest areas.  His input and expertise helped develop lesson plans that can be used in the classroom and in outdoor settings.  One of his goals for this organization was to help schools and educators get the funding needed for the cost of transportation for outdoor field trips.  He was passionate about giving opportunities for students to be out in nature.  He believes that there is always value in learning about our environment and how to conserve our natural resources.  His devotion to this work has left a lasting and positive impact for many generations of students, educators and the community in Tuscola County.

 

Through Bob’s dedication, Thumb Nature Areas is proud of the continued development of our organization over the years.  We are committed to growing so the most valuable outdoor educational programs and experiences are made available for the teachers, students and community members that depend on us.  Please visit our webpage at https://thumbnatureareas.wixsite.com/thumb-nature-areas-1 for more information about us.

 

Thank you Bob for having the vision and enthusiasm for this organization!

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