Support the CenterEcology Research Center
at Miami University
Education/Outreach
The ERC provides exceptional educational opportunities for students of all ages. There is a large weather station, a bird-watching area, numerous beehives, and nature trails. Visitors can take a guided tour of the center facilities or participate in exciting field research projects. The ERC is a site for field exercises that are part of many Miami University classes and new activities are always welcome.
Unique Opportunities
The Ecology Research Center is unique because it provides opportunities for real manipulative research that are typically not possible at environmental education facilities. For example, landscape manipulation and collection of plants, insects and other invertebrates can be done without the need for special permits. The ERC has a variety of habitats that are close to one another, providing many opportunities for comparisons among various terrestrial and aquatic habitats.
[Learn more about our research habitats and facilities.]
Visitors Welcome
The ERC staff will assist educators, group leaders at all levels in developing age-appropriate exercises for their class or group. The staff are happy to identify and help to implement activities, when appropriate relying on the expertise at the Miami University's Center for Environmental Education.
The center regularly hosts the bi-monthly meeting of the Butler County Beekeepers Association. The ERC has hosted environmental awareness and 4-H groups, residents of local nursing homes, the Butler and Preble County Water Association, as well as various student groups.
Take a Tour
If you just want to learn about the ERC and what happens on the site, call Rodney Kolb, the manager, (513 529-5634), and schedule a visit. Tours can be customized to meet the needs of a specific age or interest level. Tours can be as brief as 1 hour or as long as a half of a day.