People have always depended on nature for their survival. From early hunting and gathering societies, to modern agricultural ones, the same processes have occurred. Photosynthetic organisms have captured the sun's energy and made it available for heterotrophs, such as ourselves; decomposers have recycled nutrients. Interactions among predators and prey have kept populations in check. Symbiosis has ensured that organisms will be able to survive in many different environments.

For the past century, ecologists have applied scientific principles to the study of organisms and their environment, or ecology. However, much is still unknown. As humans continue to change the environment, new interactions are observed and the fate of natural areas becomes more precarious throughout the world.

According to the National Park Service, parks, such as our 25 MetroParks, are reservoirs of scientific information. The parks offer us the opportunity to examine, explore and understand the patterns, structures and interactions of design in nature.

At Sugarcreek MetroPark, education staff members have created fun ways to explore chemistry in nature. Ja'net Graham, Education Apprentice and graduate of Sinclair Community College’s Environmental Engineering Technology program, has developed a series of programs designed to discover how things in our everyday life can teach us chemistry concepts

Graham says it’s easy to do your own nature science experiments, if not in the park then in your backyard or the empty lot across the street. “Try anything,” she says. “Nature is full of things that present a ‘why?’ in your head. Strive to find the answer!”