Ramsdell Park Expands Outdoor Learning Features
Visitors to Ramsdell Park now have two new ways to connect with nature and observe the environment in real time. A Bird Monitor and a Weather Station have officially been installed at the park, offering interactive tools for residents, students, educators, and nature enthusiasts to explore local wildlife activity and weather conditions as they happen.
The project was led by Thomas Wassmer, PhD, professor of biology at Siena Heights University, whose work emphasizes hands-on learning and community engagement through environmental science. By bringing live ecological data directly into a public park setting, the initiative transforms a simple visit outdoors into an educational experience grounded in real-world observation.
Funding for the installation was provided through a grant from the Oaks Foundation, continuing a long-standing collaboration between the foundation and Ramsdell Park. Over time, that partnership has supported numerous park improvements requested by the Foundation, including trail markers, educational signage, and visitor kiosks. The addition of the Bird Monitor and Weather Station represents the latest milestone in this ongoing effort to enrich the park’s accessibility, educational value, and environmental stewardship.
Park visitors can access both tools online through links provided on the Ramsdell Park webpage, allowing anyone to check in on bird activity or local weather conditions from anywhere. Together, these features strengthen the park’s role not only as a recreational destination but also as a living outdoor classroom for the entire community.