What's New at NOS! February 2026

February was filled with hands-on learning, creativity, and meaningful outdoor connections for Nevada Outdoor School programs across the region. From STEM fairs and classroom visits to family programs, cultural celebrations, and community events, NOS educators engaged youth and families in experiences that encouraged curiosity, collaboration, and time spent outdoors, even during the winter months. Throughout the month, participants explored science, nature, storytelling, and outdoor safety while building skills, confidence, and a deeper connection to the world around them. Here’s a look back at the many ways our communities learned, explored, and grew together this February.

February 5 | Sage Elementary Stem Fair

On February 5, Nevada Outdoor School participated in the Sage Elementary STEM Fair, engaging nearly 198 participants at its activity booth. Educators brought straws, cups, playdough, and LEGO® bricks and challenged students to build the tallest tower possible. The creativity and problem-solving on display were impressive, with the tallest structure reaching an incredible 52 inches. NOS staff enjoyed watching students experiment, collaborate, and approach the challenge with different strategies and competitive spirit, making it a fun and inspiring evening of hands-on STEM learning.

February 6 | Nature Investigators Wrap

During this season’s Nature Investigators program, Nevada Outdoor School participants explored habitats from around the world, including the Arctic, oceans, jungles, deserts, and forests. Youth ages 5–12 increased their time spent outdoors by more than 60 hours while learning how animals and plants survive in different environments.

Participants brought their learning to life by designing their own habitats, creating Pokémon-style animal cards, and “battling” species based on habitat traits and adaptations. They also tested their knowledge through a fun, interactive game of habitat-themed Jeopardy.

The CTIC has been a wonderful partner location, giving Nevada Outdoor School the flexibility to move lessons indoors when winter weather made outdoor learning challenging, while still keeping hands-on education at the heart of the experience.

February 10 | Northside Stem Fair

February 13 | Adventure Buddies

On February 13, Nevada Outdoor School hosted Adventure Buddies with 12 enthusiastic participants for an afternoon of learning and fun. The group shared a pizza-themed story together, sparking imagination and conversation, before diving into a hands-on pizza craft that encouraged creativity and fine motor skills. The program wrapped up with an interactive group game that had everyone engaged and laughing. Adventure Buddies continues to provide meaningful opportunities for youth to learn, create, and connect through positive outdoor-inspired experiences.

February 17 | Lanterns & Luck

Nevada Outdoor School’s Lanterns & Luck program was a wonderful celebration of culture and community, even with cold, snowy weather. Despite winter conditions, 17 participants joined the festivities, bringing warm energy and excitement to the day.

Participants discovered their Chinese zodiac sign and learned about the traditions and meaning behind Lunar New Year before taking a walk around the park loop to find their prediction for the year ahead. The event also featured hands-on crafts, including paper lanterns, dragons, and red envelopes that participants could create and share with friends and loved ones. Through learning, creativity, and a bit of winter adventure, Lanterns & Luck offered a meaningful and memorable experience for all who attended.

February 20 | Bookworm Hike Elko

Nevada Outdoor School’s February Bookworm Hike was a creative and engaging success, bringing families together around the beloved book The Lorax. With a total of 16 participants, the program blended storytelling, crafts, and interactive exploration for a memorable experience.

With winter weather still cold and snowy, the event was thoughtfully held indoors, where activity stations were set up throughout the space leading to the reading area. Participants began by coloring bookmarks, then created their own Lorax characters using paper, glue, and googly eyes, and even took part in a book exchange to share their love of reading. Truffula trees were hidden throughout the building, adding a scavenger hunt element that encouraged families to explore each station.

To bring the story to life, Bayley dressed as the Once-ler and read his portions of the book, while Ayla dressed as the Lorax and read the Lorax’s lines, creating an immersive and playful storytelling experience. The event beautifully combined literacy, environmental themes, and hands-on fun—hallmarks of Nevada Outdoor School programming.

February 27-28 | Sportsman’s Expo

Nevada Outdoor School participated in the Sportsman’s Expo, sharing our Ride Safe, Ride Smart program and engaging with youth about making positive choices while riding. The booth was especially popular with younger participants, providing an opportunity to discuss the importance of always wearing a helmet, choosing appropriate protective clothing, and practicing safe riding habits. Over the course of the event, Nevada Outdoor School connected with 699 people, spreading safety education and promoting responsible outdoor recreation.

February NIMW

In February, Nevada Outdoor School taught Zoom In, Zoom Out, a nature journaling lesson designed to help students observe the world around them both up close and from a distance. The program highlighted how scientists use this skill to study everything from animal behavior and rock formation to human skin cells. Between Elko and Winnemucca, NOS educators visited nearly 50 classrooms, engaging with close to 1,000 students and inspiring them to see the natural world in new and detailed ways.