Public Programs

For-Mar offers a variety of free and low cost public programs during all seasons designated to reach a wide variety of people, of all ages and abilities.

Our regular public programs include guided hikes, workshops, pop-up events, festivals, and nature story times. We also have public programming at locations around Genesee County, and partner with other community groups to bring you a variety of knowledge!

All public programs can be found on the For-Mar Events Calendar.

Pre-registration is often required. Fees vary. Payment is due in full at time of registration for public programs.

Self Guided Resources

Borrow Discovery Backpacks & Outdoor Gear

Michigan Wildlife Backpack	Features pocket guides for mammals and birds, as well as binoculars, activity sheets and checklists.
Basic Birding Backpack	Contains adult and child sized binoculars, beginner’s guides, an electronic bird song identifier, activity sheets and checklists.
Botanist Backpack	Includes tree and plan identification guides, magnifying glass, activity sheets and checklists.
Insect Investigator Backpack	Includes a magnifying jar, a port-a-bug barn, pond net, easy to use identification guides, activity sheets and checklists.
Active Living Backpack	Comprised of animal yoga guide, jump rope, exercise band, trail map, hand weights, and activity sheets. Walking sticks and yoga mats are available for check out with the active living backpacks
Winter Backpack	Contains field guides on animal tracks, winter activity books, binoculars, activity sheets, and checklists.
Literacy Backpacks	Choose from four different reading/activity leveled literacy backpacks. Each backpack contains two specialized seasonal nature books and three activities to do with your child along the trail.
Additional Items to Borrow	Walking sticks, binoculars, snowshoes, and yoga mats.

Borrow a Discovery Backpack and other additional items, including walking sticks, yoga mats, binoculars, and snowshoes free of charge when you check them out for up to two hours with an adult’s valid driver’s license or State ID every day of the week 9am-4:30pm.