Kaysville, Utah — July 22, 2025 —  Families visiting the USU Botanical Center this summer can enjoy more than just a walk in nature. Thanks to a unique partnership between Utah State University Extension and Waterford.org, children’s books now line the trail, turning a stroll into an adventure through reading.

Each month, a new story is featured through the Story Walk Program, a literacy and wellness initiative launched in 2024 with support from the Expanded Food and Nutrition Education Program (EFNEP). Permanent signs along the trail display pages from a selected children’s book, helping families combine physical activity with early learning.

In June, families followed The Pizza Book by Waterford.org—a playful story that explores the history of pizza and connects ingredients to the USDA’s MyPlate food groups. The guided walks and themed picnics, led by USU Extension’s Create Better Health team, brought nutrition lessons to life in a way children could understand and enjoy.

“Partnering with Waterford.org has been such a meaningful addition to our Create Better Health programming,” said Emma Parkhurst, Professional Practice Extension Assistant Professor at USU. “As a Utah-based organization, their local connection and commitment to early literacy make them an ideal collaborator for showcasing monthly featured books along the trail at the USU Botanical Center.”

Waterford.org, an early education nonprofit, has partnered with USU Extension to provide children’s books for the trail. The collaboration supports Waterford’s mission of bringing early learning to families wherever they are—at home, in schools, and in the community.

In August, families can look forward to Mela’s Water Pot, another book from Waterford.org. This illustrated tale encourages problem-solving and empathy, offering families a window into another culture while promoting reading skills and life lessons.

The Story Walk trail is free and open to the public during daylight hours at the USU Botanical Center in Kaysville.

About Waterford.org
 Waterford.org is a national early education nonprofit that provides research-backed PreK through 2nd grade reading, math, and science programs that children can use wherever they learn. Our tailored programs help children reach critical milestones by third grade, laying the foundation for future success for every child.