Field trips to the Ranch are designed to engage students in fun, hands-on outdoor learning experiences. We offer a variety of programs for different audiences, including:
- K-12 school groups
- Youth groups
- Scout troops
- Clubs
- Special events, including Monarch Madness
Monarch Madness
Once a year, the riparian woodlands and flowering meadows of Fennessey Ranch come alive with the sights and sounds of native butterflies and hands-on coastal ecology learning. Hosted by the Mission-Aransas National Estuarine Research Reserve, Monarch Madness is a one-day educational event that occurs every fall for local elementary schools that celebrates the remarkable migration of the Monarch butterfly.
Facing challenges from habitat loss, pesticide and herbicide use, and other human-driven impacts, migrating Monarchs may travel more than 2,500 miles along the Eastern Flyway to reach their overwintering grounds in Mexico. This epic, multi-generational journey serves as a powerful gateway for teaching conservation and stewardship to young learners.
Through hayrides, insect hunts, trail walks, and engaging presentations and activities led by our partners, students and teachers explore the diversity and importance of coastal ecosystems and the wildlife that depend on them. Designed specifically for 4 and 5th-grade students, Monarch Madness takes on a field day–style experience, where small groups rotate through activity stations to completion. Additionally, a picnic lunch, group photo, and butterfly release give students a memorable way to celebrate their day of exploration and hands-on learning.
Inquiring teachers and partners who would like to participate in a future event, please contact msi-edureserve@utlists.utexas.edu and msi-nerr@utlists.utexas.edu.
For More Information
To request a field trip please complete and submit the Visiting Group Request Form. Once submitted, someone from the Mission-Aransas Education staff will contact you to begin the registration process. For questions please contact Michelle McCumber at Michelle.McCumber@austin.utexas.edu.