Calvin Faculty and Students

Ecosystem Preserve / Calvin Faculty and Students

Calvin is one of only three higher education institutions in Michigan that have a full-scale nature preserve on their main campus. The Ecosystem Preserve & Native Gardens is a 104 acre area comprised of forest, wetlands and gardens, and is host to our educational building, the Bunker Interpretive Center. In addition, you may prearrange access to our 68 acre Flat Iron Lake Preserve; this area is just a half hour drive from campus to Greenville, and hosts the Flat Iron Lake House. Take advantage of our distinctive resources!

Academics

Calvin Ecosystem Preserve & Native Gardens and Flat Iron Lake Preserve are two of Calvin's most unusual and beautiful places to teach and conduct research. You can also use our outdoor and indoor teaching spaces for classes to connect what your students are learning in the classroom to the real world. If you're interested in reserving space for teaching, or in conducting research at the Preserve, please contact preserve@calvin.edu.

Read the Research Protocols  

Download Research Application Form  

Download Research Summary Form  

Meetings

The Bunker Interpretive Center, Venema Plaza, Prince Pond Dock, and Flat Iron Lake House are some of Calvin's most unusual and beautiful places to hold a meeting, department retreat or workshop. If you're interested in reserving space, please contact preserve@calvin.edu.

Students

When you’re not enjoying your favorite study spot in the Calvin Ecosystem Preserve & Native Gardens, take advantage of the many opportunities available to students.

Career development

Join our team of student staff.

Hold a student organization retreat or workshop

Ecosystem Preserve spaces like Venema Plaza, Prince Pond Dock, the Bunker Interpretive Center, and Flat Iron Lake House are available to be reserved by students for events related to our mission (educating for creation care, restoring the land and renewing spirits)! If you're interested in reserving space, please contact preserve@calvin.edu.

Be part of our team

Join the governing board and/or volunteer!