How to Collect Your Nature Items
We encourage families to collect nature treasures responsibly and respectfully. Whenever possible, choose items that have already fallen from trees, been left behind by animals, or are found in abundance. Avoid disturbing living plants or wildlife.
You can collect your items in a small basket, loose backpack, or reusable bag for safekeeping until you return home. Treasures can come from anywhere your family enjoys the outdoors — your own backyard, local trails, parks, or even while on vacation.
Please remember to follow the rules of any park or protected area. Most state and national parks prohibit collecting natural materials, and some local parks or private lands may have restrictions as well. Be a good steward of the earth by respecting these boundaries.
As you collect, take time to observe and learn. Use a field guide or nature app to identify your finds, write down their names, and include any fun facts or notes to share with your pen pals. This adds an educational and personal touch to your exchange!
How to Set Up Your Package for Mailing
Each participant is responsible for their own shipping costs.
We recommend storing your items in a recycled egg carton for a simple and creative way to organize your treasures. A standard 12-count carton works beautifully, but you can use an 18-count carton or two 12-count cartons if you’d like to send a larger variety. To save on shipping costs, one 12-count carton is usually perfect.
Once your items are placed inside:
- Cover them gently with a few layers of paper towels to cushion them.
- Label each item by tracing the carton lid on paper, cutting it out, and creating a “key” that matches the layout of your carton. Write the names of each item in their corresponding position.
- If you have flat or delicate items such as feathers or leaves, place them carefully on top or in a separate protective sleeve.
A single 12-count egg carton will fit inside a large bubble mailer, while multiple cartons can be shipped in a small box.
Protecting Local Ecology
To protect native ecosystems and prevent the spread of invasive species, please keep these important tips in mind when preparing your package:
- Contact your local DNR (Department of Natural Resources) or USDA before mailing questionable items. Some natural materials may be considered invasive or prohibited.
- Do not send or plant seeds unless you have verified that they are non-invasive and sterilized.
- Press and dry flowers before mailing to help preserve their color and prevent breakage.
- To sterilize seeds (if permitted), place them in a paper bag and bake them on a cookie sheet at 300°F for 30 minutes.
- When you’re finished enjoying your exchange treasures, dispose of them responsibly — burning is preferred, especially for natural items that might not belong to your local ecosystem.
Many families, however, choose to keep their nature treasures as keepsakes — and that’s perfectly fine too!
Fun & Creative Additions
Want to make your package extra special? Here are a few optional, family-friendly ideas:
- Decorate your egg carton or mailing box with drawings, paint, or stickers
- Include a postcard from your hometown with a short note introducing your family and your region
- Add a family photo to make your connection more personal
- Create a watercolor or nature drawing inspired by your area or the items you’re sending
- Include a favorite nature poem or quote with your own artwork
- Share a small nature booklet, printout, or resource your family enjoys (or created!)
- Add a tiny handmade item like a pressed-flower bookmark or nature-inspired craft
These thoughtful touches make your exchange memorable and help build lasting friendships between pen pals — something we’ve loved seeing happen again and again!
Final Thoughts
Every exchange is an opportunity to slow down, connect, and share the beauty of nature from your corner of the world. Thank you for helping us keep the spirit of NPPE kind, educational, and environmentally mindful.
Happy collecting and connecting! 💌
Jen Wilmoth