Watercolor Hike at Mountain Park Environmental Center

Mountain Park Environmental Center (MPEC) offers classes and guided hikes. MPEC is located at the Pueblo Mountain Park, in Beulah Colorado and opened its doors in 2000. The MPEC promotes societal ecological literacy through environmental education. The Pueblo Mountain Park was purchased in 1920 by the City of Pueblo, for $6,000. It is one of the City of Pueblo's largest parks at 611 acres, and is one of the first areas developed for recreational use. There is a program for 5th graders in Pueblo called Earth Studies to teach about insects, birds, wildflowers, and mammals. Individuals and groups can stay in camp.

The buildings, bridges and sheds were built by the Work Projects Administration (WPA). The WPA provided jobs and income for 3 million unemployed men and women during the Great Depression, it was started in 1935 and was disbanded in 1943.

Helene and Dave Van Manen welcome visitors at Pueblo Mountain Park. Dave Van Manen is the founder

and special projects coordinator at Mountain Park Environmental Center.

Henry Pounds instructed the class in watercolor techniques, provided supplies, and then led a hike with instruction on wild flowers. "I have been interested in art and painting my whole life", said Pounds. Right now his main medium is acrylic painting featuring nature scenes especially trees and flowers. He studied art education at Colorado State University at Pueblo. He reports an interest in edible plants. He will exhibit his art at the Beulah Valley Arts & Crafts Show.

Taryn, Lexie, Margery and Laura listen to instruction.

Pounds teaches wet in wet watercolor technique and goes on to instruct in wet in dry technique and others.

Pounds points out wildflowers in bloom.

Margery Painting on Path

Lexie intent on Painting

Back to Campground. A fall watercolor hike is planned