Blue Sky dedicates amphitheater, sets Junior Ranger program

By Emily Sorensen

Blue Sky Ecological Reserve has a new outdoor space to play in, with the opening of the outdoor amphitheater and scenic outlook.

The 150-seat venue, which was made possible by the fundraising efforts of Blue Sky Community Foundation, will be available to host all kinds of nature programs for the public, community groups and school groups. The amphitheater is fully accessible by the disabled, and consists of five terraced rows of seating which face a 20-foot diameter circular stage.

The first event the amphitheater will be holding is the Junior Nature Ranger program, 9 - 11 a.m. Saturday, Feb. 16. This free event, which requires prior registration, is limited to 15 children ages 6 - 10, and will allow children to become junior nature rangers. Led by the docents of Blue Sky, small groups of kids will get to look for natural items along the trail, learn about the food chain and “the scoop on poop,” according to interpretive services coordinator Annie Ransom. They will also get to play wildlife detective, do nature painting and word searches, talk about the Poway Oak, and experiment with their five senses. Parents are encouraged to attend with their children.

At the end of the event, the kids will get their junior nature ranger certificate. “Our docents are super excited to run the program,” said Ransom.

For more information or to sign up for the junior nature ranger program, call 858-668-4781.