The Mohican Outdoor School has been educating area youth about the environment for a half-century now.

In recognition of the month’s holiday, the school will be holding their ‘Fall Festival’ day camp on Oct. 31.

“We will have apple cider making classes, natural dye and cooking classes, candle making and tomahawk throwing,” said James of the camp’s festival activities.

Founded in 1961 by area educator Ron Reed, the Mohican Outdoor School aims to give students a chance to appreciate Richland County’s natural landscape. The school offers one day trips to students, as well as resident experiences ranging from three to five days.

“We are a non-profit organization that is a curriculum enrichment program providing environmental education to primarily fifth and sixth grade students through central and northern Ohio,” said Mohican Outdoor Schoo Program Director Steve James.

The school’s permanent facility is located at the historic Hemlock Falls near Butler.

In 1999, the Mohican Outdoor School opened their Environmental Learning Center. Their newly constructed complex sits on 210 acres and houses a lodge, dorms, classrooms and office space. In 2002, the school opened the Red Apple Lodge, which is used by visiting classroom teachers.

“We have had over 200,000 students (at the school since opening),” said James. “Next week we will have 140 fifth-graders and 130 sixth-graders here.”

The outdoor school has been recognized by the Ohio Conservation and Outdoor Education Association as an outstanding resident outdoor education program.

The school operates from September to May every year offering a chance for schools from all over Ohio to experience the school’s educational opportunities. The staff has even expanded their programs to include adult participants.

The end of the month fall program is open for students in first through eighth grade. Pre-registration is required by Oct. 23. For more information contact the school at 419-938-6671.