The Gerald E. Eddy Discovery Center has announced its spring programs for 2009. The programs are geared toward connecting families with nature, and are offered free of charge. The center is located at Waterloo State Recreation Area near Chelsea.

The programs include:

• Spring In to Gardening. At 11 a.m. Saturday, April 18, participants can discover about spring gardening with Master Gardener Sharon Sohoza. Sohoza will discuss soil preparation, the ins and outs of seed starting, new and old garden beds, plant structure and tips on spring cleaning. Participants will start an herb seed to take home.

• What's Hip, Hot and Green. At 2 p.m. on Saturday, April 25, participants can learn about alternative energy resources, and discover how your family can incorporate alternative energy resources in everyday life. A hands-on activity for the whole family will demonstrate the use of solar power.

• Brunch With the Bluebirds. Families are encouraged to visit on Saturday, May 2, to learn more about bluebird conservation and predators, including nesting and food sources. Participants will take a walk around the park to check some bluebird nesting sites. Binoculars will be provided, along with refreshments. This program starts at 11 a.m.

• Pressed Flowers. On Saturday, May 9, at 11 a.m., participants can learn the art of flower pressing using domestic flower varieties that park staff will provide (picking flowers in the park is prohibited). Children can learn to make a craft project, such as a bookmark or a picture frame, which makes a perfect Mother's Day gift.

• Where the Wild Things Live. On Saturday, May 16, a day-long spring festival will take place at the Eddy Center. There will be a live animal program, a celebration of Michigan Week, a stewardship presentation, bog walk, nature photography on display, beehive and bird viewing and more. Refreshments will be available to purchase. Activities run from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

• Guided Tour for Shutterbugs. On Saturday, May 30, anyone interested in learning more about nature photography opportunities at Waterloo State Recreation Area is invited to join this driving tour to three sites within the park known for great photography opportunities. The tour is from 1 to 5 p.m.

• Birding Adventure. On Saturday, June 6, there will be ongoing activities to celebrate birds at Waterloo State Recreation Area. Activities will be offered from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.

There is no charge for the programs offered at the Eddy Discovery Center this spring; however, all visitors must display a Motor Vehicle Permit when entering a state park or recreation area. Permits are available at the entrance to Waterloo for $6 for a daily and $24 for an annual. Permits for out of state residents are $8 for a daily and $29 for an annual.

All programs, with the exception of Birding Adventure on May 30, are universally accessible. To register or for more information on these programs, call the Eddy Discovery Center at (734) 475-3170. The center is located at 17030 Bush Rd. between Pierce and McClure roads in Chelsea.