Blog

Welcome to Our Blog!

Discover stories from the woods, fields, and classrooms of Pierce Cedar Creek Institute. Here, we share behind-the-scenes insights, upcoming events, research highlights, and reflections on nature, sustainability, and community. Whether you're a regular visitor or just discovering us, we invite you to explore, learn, and connect with the natural world.

Spring Brunches Return to the Institute

By PCCI | February 17, 2026

Spring brunches return to PCCI with seasonal menus, inspiring guest programs, art exhibits, and meaningful time together. Join us March through May to celebrate food, nature, and community.

Tasting the Landscape: An Introduction to Honey Sensory Analysis Workshop

By PCCI | February 13, 2026

Discover how honey expresses landscape, season, and stewardship in this immersive sensory workshop. Taste varietal honeys, explore flavor through science, and celebrate spring with a rich, hands on learning experience.

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Winter Festival at PCCI: Celebrate the Season, Together

By PCCI | February 6, 2026

Embrace winter together at PCCI’s free Winter Festival with outdoor fun, community connection, and a taste of honey sensory science.

Call for Vendors: 2026 Holiday Gift Show

By PCCI | February 5, 2026

Celebrate local makers at our 2026 Holiday Gift Show. Apply now to vend handmade goods in a festive, community-centered event at PCCI.

Native Plant Sale From Seed to Stewardship

By PCCI | February 3, 2026

From seed to soil, stewardship at PCCI protects native landscapes, supports biodiversity, and is made possible by dedicated volunteers and community generosity.

Spring Calendar of Events

By PCCI | February 3, 2026

| Photo by Amy Seymour | Spring Calendar of Events Our Spring Calendar of Events is here! And yes, so is Naturally Speaking, the Pierce Cedar Creek Institute newsletter. From Storybook Walks…

A Fond Farewell to Dr. Ellen Holste

By PCCI | November 25, 2025

After nine remarkable years at Pierce Cedar Creek Institute, Dr. Ellen Holste is stepping into a new chapter shaped by the passions she discovered here – public speaking, writing, and deepening connections to the natural world. From leading beloved community programs to inspiring curiosity in learners of all ages, Ellen’s impact is woven into the heart of PCCI. We are grateful for all she has brought to the Institute and excited to see where her journey leads next.

Meet Dr. Sara Parr Syswerda, Education Director at Pierce Cedar Creek Institute

By PCCI | November 17, 2025

If you’ve ever taken part in a ScienceStrong classroom activity, attended a field trip to Pierce Cedar Creek Institute, or seen a spark of wonder in a child discovering something new about…

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Plein Air Painters at Pierce Cedar Creek Institute

By PCCI | November 7, 2025

Pierce Cedar Creek Institute attracts a diverse range of people. This is just part of the magic of PCCI and the land we are fortunate to protect. One group that doesn’t get…

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Winter Upcoming Events Flyer

By PCCI | October 30, 2025

| Photo by Robert Meppelink| Our Winter Upcoming Events flyer is here! Check it out and click the button below to learn more. There’s a little something for everybody at PCCI! See…

Sustainable Gifts from Pierce Cedar Creek Institute

By PCCI | August 1, 2025

With a heart of sustainability, who would Pierce Cedar Creek Institute be if we didn’t offer ways to reduce waste and have more environmentally friendly options in store for Barry County? We…

FREE Open House with Moo-Ville Ice Cream, Hotdogs, and More!

By PCCI | August 1, 2025

Looking for a fun, free, and family-friendly way to explore the outdoors this summer? Mark your calendar and join us for Pierce Cedar Creek Institute’s Open House on Friday, August 9, from…

Welcome to the Pierce Cedar Creek Institute Blog!

By PCCI | July 28, 2025

We’re excited to welcome you to the brand-new blog for Pierce Cedar Creek Institute! Whether you’re a longtime supporter, a curious visitor, or someone discovering us for the first time, we’re glad…