Buttonwood Nature Center is launching a new series of outdoor programs geared for families. Summer Saturdays begin on June 21 and continue every week through August 9 from 9–11 a.m. at Pine Hill Recreation Area near Waynesboro, Pa.
“Each Saturday for eight weeks, we will explore a different nature topic as we enjoy the outdoors together,” said Shawna Kauffman, Buttonwood’s director of education. “The programs are designed to be fun-filled, family-friendly adventures.”
Led by Buttonwood educators, each program spotlights a different aspect of nature or wildlife, and families will gain skills for enjoying the outdoors, from tracking animals to spotting birds to learning about trees and more.
The eight Summer Saturdays programs are as follows:
June 21– Herp Hike: Discovering the Hidden World of Reptiles and Amphibians
Head out on a hike through the woods to look for “herps”—reptiles and amphibians—like frogs and lizards. Learn about different adaptations that these types of animals have made to survive in the wild. Wear clothing and footwear that can get dirty.
June 28– Birding for Beginners
Are you new to birding but want to learn? Join Buttonwood educators as we delve into the basics of birding. You’ll learn how to use binoculars properly when birding and maybe spot some of our fine feathered friends like common warblers, finches or other birds.
July 5– Tree Trek: Uncovering Nature’s Green Giants
Have you ever wondered about the names of trees while you are on a hike or just outdoors? Experience first-hand how to identify trees by looking at leaves, bark and seeds. Then join a hike to test your tree ID skills in spotting oaks, poplars, pines, and others.
July 12– Pollinator Palooza
Discover why pollinators like bees and butterflies are essential to the survival of life on Earth, and what you can do at home to attract pollinators to your backyard. Plant some pollinator-friendly plants in a small pot to take home and start your own pollinator garden.
July 19– Nature’s Canvas: Journaling the Great Outdoors
Connect with nature on a stress-relieving hike and let nature’s stories unfold. Create your own nature journal to record the sights and sounds of the beautiful world around you. Explore and discover the variety and benefits of nature journaling. Materials provided to make and decorate your own nature journal.
July 26–Tracks, Scat, and Signs
Who is walking in the woods? Learn about different animal tracks, scat, and other signs you might find in the woods. Put that knowledge to the test on a hike as we search for evidence of the critters living at Pine Hill such as deer, birds and insects.
August 2– Skull Detectives
Become a skull detective. You might be surprised what you can learn about animals just by looking at their skull. For example, you can learn about a coyote’s diet, or how a beaver makes its lodge. Grab your magnifying glass as we use our detective skills to identify different animals and their adaptations to their environment.
August 9– Smokey Bear’s Birthday Celebration
Since 1944, Smokey Bear has taught millions of Americans about their role in preventing wildfires. Join the 81st birthday celebration and experience his story. Learn about the importance of fire safety as you enjoy some birthday s’mores around the campfire.
The fee for each Summer Saturday program is $5 per person, adult or child. Kids age 2 and under free. Registration is required in advance. Find more information and register at www.buttonwoodnaturecenter.org.
Underwriting support for this program is provided by Today’s Horizon Fund Contributors: The Nora Roberts Foundation; Marge Kiersz; APX Enclosures; Don Gibe and Nancy Erlanson; and the family of the late Carolyn Terry Eddy, with daughters Connie Fleagle & Kim Larkin. Facility support courtesy of Washington Township.
