Fontenelle Forest's Leaflet - January / February 2016

2January and February 2016

GREETINGS!GREETINGS! FROM THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTORFROM THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Happy New Year! Happy New Year! 2016 begins with exciting things here at Fontenelle Forest. Raptor Woodland Refuge is just about ready to open, the animals and birds in the Forest are well into their winter season habits, and Fontenelle Forest Membership and One-Day Memberships will be changing a bit. Thank you to many of our members and visi-tors who gave us feedback regarding these changes.

Starting February 1 membership prices will better reflect the large community Fontenelle Forest has become. Individual, Two Individuals, and Household levels will each increase $10.

We’re also excited to announce the availability of a new member-ship add-on called FF Plus One! This allows for a member to bring one guest with them every time they visit the Forest. This could be a friend, a neighbor, grandmother, ANYONE, and it can be a different person each visit. FF Plus One brings versatility as well as convenience to any level of membership. The cost is $25.

Once Raptor Woodland Refuge opens, our One-Day Member-ships will be $9.50 for Adults, $8.50 for Seniors (62+), $7.50 for Children (2-17), and free for the wee ones under 2. Thanks to you, and all of our donors, we have not needed to increase our daily admission in almost 15 years! That’s awesome fantastic.

We encourage you to join the Fontenelle Forest community as 2016 begins. Your membership or admission dues do not just give you access to amazing miles of trails, they make you a donor and a member of a much larger Fontenelle Forest community. A donor who can be proud that in 2015:

• Over 550 birds were rescued throughout the state of Nebraska by Fontenelle Forest’s Raptor Recovery• Raptor Woodland Refuge plans finalized and started building• Over 100,000 people visited the Nature Center• Over 40,000 school-age children received important environmental education• The “Save the Oaks” project to restore and preserve the Forest’s centuries-old oak savannas began• An all new innovative website was launched• …and much more!

You are the reason Fontenelle Forest, a private non-profit, nature preserve flourishes. Thank you and may the new year bring you much joy and success. We hope to see you on the trails! Happy hiking.

- Joanie Soverns, Manager of Donor Relations and Membership

Field NotesField NotesGreetings and Happy New Year Fontenelle Forest members and friends! We are excited about some of Fontenelle Forest’s recent happenings and look forward to a banner year in 2016 for the Forest.

At this writing, Fontenelle Forest’s Raptor Recovery treated 555 birds of prey in 2015. This is the second largest number of injured, sick and orphaned raptors cared for in the nearly 40-year history of the Raptor Recovery rehabilitation hospital located near Elmwood, Nebraska.

Fontenelle Forest’s Raptor Recovery recently celebrated the December release of two young bald eagles who were treated at the rehab center for injuries and lead poisoning. More than 100 people were on hand to observe the release of both of the majestic raptors at the Desoto National Wildlife Refuge near Blair. Eagles are quite social birds and the Desoto release venue increased the likelihood that the two juvenile bald eagles would mix in with some of the numerous adult eagles at the Wildlife Refuge. Desoto also provided close proximity to abundant fish and waterfowl – two primary sources of food for the raptors.

As we look toward 2016, excitement is building at the Forest as the new Raptor Woodland Refuge exhibit adjacent to the Fon-tenelle Forest Nature Center in Bellevue nears completion. The new interpretive raptor exhibit will feature more than twenty live birds of prey in outdoor enclosures (called mews). The grand opening of the new exhibit is planned for April 2016. In the

Janet Stander, Assistant Manager of Raptor Rehabilitation, and Susan Nemer-Haddix, Fontenelle Forest Board of Directors, before the release of one of the juvenile bald eagles on December 12.

January and February 20163

meantime, numerous activities are underway to ready the exhibit for its feathered raptor inhabitants. Most of the heavy ‘hammer and nails’ construction activities will be wrapped up in early January. Perches will be installed in the mews in January. Inter-pretive signage is currently being designed and will be installed in February. Raptors will move into the mews in late winter. Landscaping will be completed in early spring. Once plans are finalized, details about the grand opening celebration of the new one-of-a-kind Raptor Woodland Refuge at Fontenelle Forest will be published on the Forest’s website.

Along with the grand opening of the Forest’s new outdoor raptor exhibit, in 2016 we plan to also celebrate both the 40th anniver-sary of the founding of Raptor Recovery and the centennial of the international Migratory Bird Treaty. The members of our state-wide Fontenelle Forest’s Raptor Recovery volunteer net-work labor tirelessly to rescue and transport injured, sick, and orphaned raptors via a modern day, pony express-style relay pro-cess. Several outstate volunteers also use non-releasable live rap-tors to educate the public about birds of prey conservation. Plans are underway to recognize the more than 70 dedicated Raptor Recovery volunteers across the state of Nebraska during 2016.The Migratory Bird Treaty between the United States and Great Britain (on behalf of Canada) was signed on August 16, 1916. This treaty, along with three treaties that followed, forms the

basis of U. S. efforts to protect birds that migrate across interna-tional borders. According to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, the goal of the Migratory Bird Treaty centennial is to create awareness, promote key actions, increase support, and expand opportunities for engagement in the conservation of migratory birds. As you may know, Fontenelle Forest is a favorite stop-over for migrating birds in the spring and fall. Approximately 275 species of migratory birds have been identified in the Forest during migration season. Thus, it seems appropriate that we’ll be celebrating the Migratory Bird Treaty in 2016.

Finally, this is a reminder that Fontenelle Forest is a four-season destination. The more than 25 miles of hiking trails at Fontenelle Forest and Neale Woods are open all winter for hiking and snow-shoeing. In fact, one of the best times to visit the Forest is right after a new snowfall. When hiking the snow-covered trails, it’s not unusual to observe the fresh tracks of deer, turkeys, and even fox along with those of human visitors. Snowshoes are available for rental at the Forest for a nominal fee. That said plan to visit our own winter wonderland right here in metro Omaha. See you on the trails!

- Tad Leeper, Interim Executive Director

FEATHER OUR NESTFRIDAY, APRIL 22, 2016HILTON OMAHA

SAVE THE DATE


Fontenelle Forest welcomes you to a summer of discovery and learning in a place where the quiet wild of nature offers an un-paralleled opportunity for your child to learn. Nature Discovery Day Camps feature science based learning through play taught by our year-round professional educators. Our staff is committed to providing your child with high quality, positive experiences.

Visit fontenelleforest.org/camps for more information and to register. Space is limited. Registration begins January 15th. Proof of age is required.

Discovering Nature’s Little CreaturesDiscovering Nature’s Little CreaturesJoin your toddler in natural play as they search for and examine little critters such as snails, roly polys and ladybugs. Each morning includes outside play, time for a short walk, a snack and a craft.

Each session is limited to 10 toddler / adult teams. Snacks provided. Cost: $90 / $155 non-members

Stories and PuppetsStories and PuppetsBuild wonderful memories of natural adventures with your grandchild/children. Link favorite stories to the natural world. Each day camper teams will enjoy a good book and then head out to the prairie, pond or forest that surrounds Camp Brew-ster to engage in trail activities related to the book. After a theme related snack, the campers will create a puppet to help them retell the story at home.

Each session is limited to 10 camper/grandparent teams. Campers should bring their own lunches. Snacks provided. Cost: $90 / $155 non-members

The World of PoohThe World of PoohCome play in the “Hundred Aker Woods” (Camp Brewster). Meet one of Rabbit’s relations and Owl himself. Join Pooh in his search for honey bees. Help Pooh and Piglet track a Woozle. Build a house for Eeyore. Make Pooh snacks and crafts.

Each session is limited to 12 campers. Snacks provided. Cost: $90 / $150 non-members

June 6-79a.m. - 11a.m.Camp Brewster

OR

July 11-129a.m. - 11a.m.Camp Brewster

June 20-219a.m. - 1p.m.Camp Brewster

OR

July 7-89a.m. - 1p.m.Camp Brewster

June 8-108:30a.m. - 11:30a.m.Camp Brewster

OR

July 13-158:30a.m. - 11:30a.m.Camp Brewster

Wetlands WondersWetlands WondersHere’s an opportunity to jump feet-first into the wetlands. Come discover the wet-lands habitat with us as we learn all about the water-loving beasts that call our marsh and streams home, from frogs and turtles to crawdads and dragonflies. We will dip in the pond, look for evidence of beaver and muskrats and explore the marsh trails. We might get muddy so bring your old clothes!

Each session is limited to 24 campers. Snacks provided. Campers bring their own lunches. Cost: $225 / $290 non-members

June 13-178:30a.m. - 3p.m.Wetlands

In the Air, Water, Ground, Under Logs - In the Air, Water, Ground, Under Logs - What Have We Found?What Have We Found?This camp will be a week of scientific exploration, discovering the forest, the prairie, the pond and the living things around us. We will be doing experiments and looking for clues, becoming Nature Detectives as we do.

Each session is limited to 24 campers. Snacks provided. Campers bring their own lunches. Cost: $225 / $290 non-members

June 27-July 18:30a.m. - 3p.m.Camp Brewster

Toddlers (Ages 3 and under with adult)Explore the wonders of nature with your toddler. These sessions are geared for children ages 3 and under accompanied by an adult.

Grands and Me (Ages 4-8 with grandparent)Give your grandchild wonderful memories of special times with you in the great outdoors. We will learn about nature through games, hikes, animal visitors, and more.

Discoverers (Preschool, Ages 4-5)Let your four or fi ve year old discover Camp Brewster. These three day sessions are for those not entering kindergarten in the fall of 2016.

Adventurers (Ages 5-8)These camps are designed for children who are ages 5 – 8 years on June 1, 2016. From exploring the wetlands and forest to learning about our animals, everyone will fi nd a learning adventure this summer.

Visit fontenelleforest.org/camps to register today!


Fantastic Pollinators - Butterfl ies, Fantastic Pollinators - Butterfl ies, Bees,Wasps, and More!Bees,Wasps, and More!We will roam the forest and the wild flower garden to find these very important insects. We will look at them up close and far away. Why are they so important? How do they pollinate? We will learn about this and much more through explo-ration, activities, games and songs.

Each session is limited to 24 campers. Snacks provided. Campers bring their own lunches. Cost: $225 / $290 non-members.

Crazy about CrittersCrazy about CrittersIf you love animals, this is the camp for you! From reptiles and amphibians to mammals, birds, and insects…you will look at all of them up close. Learn how these critters, move, eat, and spend their days. Campers will have a chance to meet some of our resident educational animals during this informative week.


July 6-88:30a.m. - 3p.m.FFNC3 Day Camp3 Day Camp

Creativity CampCreativity CampThis camp is where creativity and nature collide! Beginners are welcome! This camp is for anyone between the ages of 9 and 12 who loves to be creative, no matter what your prior experience may be! We’ll explore the forest and let it inspire us to write, draw, paint, and more! Come enjoy the great outdoors with fun games and activities that will give you the opportunity to create something wonderful!


June 27 - July 18:30a.m. - 3p.m.FFNC

July 25-298:30a.m. -3p.m.Camp Brewster

Nature’s EngineersNature’s EngineersWe will explore the prairie and forest at Camp Brewster to find what nature’s engineers have done there. From the bee’s honeycombs and the bird’s nests to the spider’s webs, we will discover the wonders of nature’s ingenuity. Be prepared to add your own touches to the environment.


June 13-178:30a.m. - 3p.m.Camp Brewster

Open the Door, Let’s ExploreOpen the Door, Let’s ExploreThere are exciting secrets hidden in nature around Camp Brewster. If you love the idea of exploring both the forest and the prairie, this is the camp for you. Each day you’ll explore a different natural concept from life cycles to adaptations. Outdoor games, songs, and art activities are in-cluded. What will you discover?


August 1-58:30a.m. - 3p.m.Camp Brewster

Challenge CampChallenge CampYour adventure will begin with the chal-lenge of completing a ropes course taught by trained instructors. Then practice your outdoor skills and stretch your knowledge during this fun camp. The adventure continues as you learn proper fishing techniques and explore our wetlands. We will spend time hiking some of the less-traveled trails. Stories, crafts, and games are also a part of this adventure.


July 6-88:30a.m. - 3p.m.Wetlands3 Day Camp3 Day Camp

Explorers (Ages 9-12)Explore more! We are off ering children who are ages 9 – 12 years on June 1, 2016 a chance to spend more time honing their science skills as they enjoy a week of exciting explorations, activities and games.

Adventurers (Ages 5-8) continued



Explorers (Ages 9-12) continued Seekers (Ages 12-14) continued


Canoe CampCanoe CampHave you always wanted to learn how to canoe? Then this is the camp for you! Ca-noe Camp is for campers who have never tried canoeing before, as well as those who want to get more practice. Come learn and review the basics of canoeing! You will also spend time exploring the Great Marsh and have a chance to practice team building skills through fun games and water activi-ties. On Thursday, pack your sleeping bag because we are going to camp out! On Friday morning we will get out in the canoes to watch the sun rise and discover the Great Marsh during a totally different time of day! This is a week of getting wet and muddy, so make sure you wear your old clothes.

Each session is limited to only 14 camp-Each session is limited to only 14 camp-ers, so register soon!ers, so register soon! Snacks provided. Includes dinner / breakfast for campout. Campers bring their own lunches. Cost: $240 / $305 non-members.

July 11-158:30a.m. - 3p.m.Wetlands

Canoe CampCanoe CampHave you always wanted to learn how to canoe? Then this is the camp for you! Ca-noe Camp is for campers who have never tried canoeing before, as well as those who want to get more practice. Come learn and review the basics of canoeing! You will also spend time exploring the Great Marsh and have a chance to practice team building skills through fun games and water activi-ties. Then on Thursday, pack your sleep-ing bag because we are going to camp out! On Friday morning we will get out in the canoes to watch the sun rise and discover the Great Marsh during a totally different time of day! This is a week of getting wet and muddy, so make sure you wear your old clothes.

Each session is limited to only 14 campers, Each session is limited to only 14 campers, so register soon!so register soon! Snacks provided. Camp-ers bring their own lunches. Cost: $225 / $290 non-members

July 25-298:30a.m. - 3p.m.Wetlands

Seekers (Ages 12-14)Here’s an opportunity for our oldest campers to continue to learn about the natural world through more adventures and exploration on our trails. Each session provides participants with a variety of hand-on learning experi-ences that go deeper into ecology, natural and cultural history and keep them on the move!

Trail BlazersTrail BlazersLooking for wilderness adventure? Want to learn new outdoor skills or improve your skills? Among other activities, you will trek many of Fontenelle trails (with backpacks if you desire), learn how to use a compass, read a topographic map, practice Leave No Trace techniques, design your own day hike, and learn a little history at the same time.


June 6-108:30a.m. - 3p.m.Wetlands

Remarkable Raptors and MoreRemarkable Raptors and MoreAre you a future naturalist, zookeeper or veterinarian? Join us as we explore the world of raptors. This camp will delve into the mysteries of how these incredible birds of prey live and hunt in our region. We will have behind-the-scenes access to animal care and the new Raptor Wood-land Refuge here at the Forest. Visits from Fontenelle Forest Raptor Recovery staff, Nebraska Wildlife Rehab, and a local vet-erinarian are included. We will also spend time outside looking for signs of these amazing animals!

Each session is limited to 10 campers, so Each session is limited to 10 campers, so register soon! register soon! Snacks provided. Campers bring their own lunches. Cost: $225 / $290 non-members.

August 1-58:30a.m. - 3p.m.FFNC


FOR PROGRAMS REQUIRING REGISTRATION - GO TO FONTENELLEFOREST.ORG

Members only, for ages 5-11. Registration Required.

Sunday mornings at 9:00 a.m. - snow, rain or shine!

Yoga in the ForestYoga in the ForestJoin us for an hour-long vinyasa style yoga class, surrounded by nature, designed to de-stress and relax you. This class is acces-sible for all levels of yogis, from beginner to experienced, and will feature the sounds of the forest as your soundtrack as you move towards complete wellness. A medi-tative walk will follow the class, ending with tea for those who can stay.

Every Sunday morning9:00a.m. - 10:30a.m.FFNCLeader: Julie McKeone

MUD PIESMUD PIES

NATURE EXPLORERSNATURE EXPLORERS

YOGA IN THE FORESTYOGA IN THE FOREST

Mud PiesMud Pies Drop by to explore nature activities with your child. One adult is required for every two children. A different natural science topic is introduced each week through in-teractive stations within “Habitat Hollow”.Check the calendar at fontenelleforest.org to learn the weekly topic. This program is for children ages 5 and younger.

Please note: Mud Pies resumes on Mon-day, January 4th. Older kids are permitted to join in the fun on January 4th and 5th until schools are back in session.

Monday - Thursday9:30a.m.-11:30a.m.FFNCLeader: Lindsay Cooley

Mud Pies in the AfternoonMud Pies in the Afternoon Unable to attend Mud Pies in the morn-ing? Drop by the Nature Center on Thurs-day afternoons to explore nature activities with your child. One adult is required for every two children. A different natural science topic is introduced each week through interactive stations within “Habitat Hollow”. This program is for children ages 5 and younger.

Every Thursday12:30p.m.-2:00p.m.FFNCLeader: Kate Murphy

Nature Explorers: Paws and ClawsNature Explorers: Paws and ClawsIn January, the Explorers will be search-ing for animal tracks in the snow or mud. Paint your own track to take home. For children ages 5-11, snacks provided. Please dress for the weather. Registration required. Space is limited!

Members OnlyMembers OnlyJanuary 231:00p.m. - 2:30p.m.FFNCLeader: Kathy Fischer

Nature Explorers: Under The IceNature Explorers: Under The IceExplorers will be amazed at what goes on under the ice. From frogs to muskrat and beavers how do they survive. Make an art project to take home. For children ages 5-11, snacks provided. Please dress for the weather. Registration required. Space is limited!

Members OnlyMembers OnlyFebruary 201:00p.m. - 2:30p.m.WLCLeader: Kathy Fischer

Celebrate SnowCelebrate SnowWhen/if the snow flies in February, bring your family to Camp Brewster for an afternoon of sledding, snowman building, s’mores and hot apple cider. Due to the unpredictably of snow in Nebraska, your family will be notified a day or two before the event. This program is limited to 12 families so register early to be on the “snow play” list.

Members OnlyMembers OnlyIn February1:00p.m. - 3:00 p.m.Camp BrewsterMembers OnlyLeader: Kate Murphy

Raptor Bird-Day Party!Raptor Bird-Day Party!Every January, we celebrate the birthday of all of our raptor ambassadors with a bird-day party! Join us as we honor these amazing birds for another year of provid-ing important educational opportunities to people of all ages. Learn more about the raptors, from their personal stories to facts about their species. Enjoy a snack and refeshments as well!

January 91:00p.m. - 3:00 p.m.FFNCLeader: Denise Lewis

MEMBERS ONLY PROGRAMSMEMBERS ONLY PROGRAMS

For ages 5 and younger.

Raptor Bird-Day Party!Raptor Bird-Day Party!


Little Stars AstronomyLittle Stars AstronomyDo you know a preschool-aged child who’d love to learn what’s up in the sky? This new program series is geared towards kids ages 3-5 and focuses on a different astronomy topic once a month from Janu-ary through May. Drop in anytime to learn through hands-on experiments, games, and going outside. Adults must accompany children.

January 309:30a.m. - 11:30a.m.FFNCLeaders: Ann Cole& Mary Lou Alfi eri

Snowshoe HikeSnowshoe HikeBring the whole family or just yourself and enjoy a walk through the woods! Try snow-shoeing if there’s enough snow - bring your own or rent ours at the front desk. And if there isn’t any snow? We’ll hike anyway! Dress for the weather. All ages welcome.

January 172:00p.m. - 4:00p.m.FFNCLeader: Jackie Sundberg

Seniors Understanding Nature: Seniors Understanding Nature: Save The Oaks - An Oak Woodland Save The Oaks - An Oak Woodland Restoration ProjectRestoration ProjectJeanine Lackey, Fontenelle Forest’s Director of Research & Stewardship, will talk about the project underway to restore oak savannah woodland using controlled burns.

January 129:45a.m. - 11:00a.m.FFNCLeader: Catherine KuperPrograms are listed in chronological order

PROGRAMSPROGRAMS

Bird ClubBird ClubMace Hack will present on the birds of Colombia and his recent travels there. Mace is the State Director of The Nature Conservancy of Nebraska, and a Fon-tenelle Forest Board Director.

Members OnlyMembers OnlyJanuary 77:00p.m.-9:00p.m.FFNCLeader: Rick Schmid

January Campfi re Program:January Campfi re Program:Cool CaninesCool CaninesJanuary is the month of the Wolf Moon. Join us for stories, songs, and fun facts about wolves and the current canines of the Fontenelle Forest - coyotes and foxes. These dog cousins share a lot of fun traits with “man’s best friend!” Bring your blanket and a buddy as we enjoy an indoor evening in the Camp Brewster Lodge warmed by the glow of a wood fireplace. Bring a mug for hot cocoa after the program.

January 87:00p.m. - 8:00p.m.CBLeader: Tracy Van Zee

Family Sundays in the Forest: Family Sundays in the Forest: Tracks and Scat DetectivesTracks and Scat DetectivesDrop by and learn how to match tracks and scat with the animal that left that “clue” from Teacher Naturalist Chris Robie. And don’t forget to pick up a great animal tracking tool before you head out to look for more wildlife clues left behind- each family will receive one!

January 101:00p.m. - 3:00p.m.FFNCLeader: Chris Robie

Family Sundays in the Forest: Family Sundays in the Forest: A Snowshoe ExcursionA Snowshoe ExcursionWhen there’s snow on the ground, the whole family can have fun! Two guided snowshoe hikes will take place, each lasting about 45 minutes - one around 1 pm and the other around 2:15 pm. Bring your own snowshoes, or rent adult- and child-sized snowshoes when you arrive. Remember - we can still hike if there’s no snow! Dress for the weather and bring water.

January 311:00p.m. - 3:00p.m.FFNCLeader: Kelly Propst

Family Sundays in the Forest: Family Sundays in the Forest: Craft TimeCraft TimeBring your little ones to the Forest for an afternoon of fun! Stop by the Craft Table in the Great Hall. Each person can make a cute White-tailed Deer craft to take home. Then head out to play and look for deer, or play inside if you choose!

January 171:00p.m. - 3:00p.m.FFNCLeader: Bonnie Newman

ALL PROGRAMS ARE FREE FOR FF MEMBERS OR WITH GENERAL ADMISSION UNLESS OTHERWISE NOTED

Fontenelle Forest Photography ClubFontenelle Forest Photography ClubFor January, members will share their photo destinations and have a swap meet. Visit fontenelleforestphotoclub.org for more info on the Photography Club.

Members OnlyMembers OnlyJanuary 217:00 p.m.FFNC


Bird ClubBird ClubFor February, the Forest’s own Catherine Kuper will enlighten us on the history of Fontenelle Forest.

Members OnlyMembers OnlyFebruary 47:00p.m.-9:00p.m.FFNCLeader: Rick Schmid

February Campfi re Program:February Campfi re Program:Who IS That?Who IS That?Bring a blanket and a buddy and grab a spot by the fire for an evening of owl lore! Learn some fun facts, and hear some interesting stories about these feathered friends. Meet an owl or two up close! We will be inside of Camp Brewster Lodge this month, and don’t forget to bring your cup for hot cocoa after the program.

February 57:00p.m. - 8:00p.m.CBLeader: Tracy Van Zee


Family Sundays in the Forest: Family Sundays in the Forest: Forest PhotosForest PhotosPhotography enthusiasts of all ages will love this workshop-style program focused on mindful hiking and photo composition. Kids, teens, and adults will have the oppor-tunity to learn what makes photos visually pleasing, and then take a guided hike and capture images themselves. Each partici-pant or family will need a camera of some type, whether it be a phone or a DSLR, but quality is not important. Those with digital images will have the opportunity to share their photos with the group for feedback. Dress for the weather.

February 71:00p.m. - 3:00p.m.FFNCLeader: Kris Chavez

Family Sundays in the Forest: Family Sundays in the Forest: Raptors... Live! Valentine’s EditionRaptors... Live! Valentine’s EditionStop by the Nature Center and fall in love with our raptor ambassadors on Valen-tine’s Day! Meet the live birds and their handlers, and learn all about their lives. Be sure to bring your camera for photos with your loved ones, both human and feathered.

February 141:00p.m. - 3:00p.m.FFNCLeader: Denise Lewis

Winter Tree HikeWinter Tree HikeHow do you identify trees during winter, when there are no leaves to be found? Join Teacher Naturalist Eric Scholar for a fun guided hike as you learn to identify trees by looking at their bark, buds, and twigs. Dress for the weather and for hiking on the trails. This hike is best suited for those aged 10 and up.

February 142:00p.m. - 3:30p.m.FFNCLeader: Eric Scholar

Home School Science Discoveries:Home School Science Discoveries:The Water Cycle in WinterThe Water Cycle in WinterThrough experiments and activities, students will discover how the water cycle works in winter. The group will create clouds, rain, snow and ice. A themed snack is included. Please dress for the weather as we will be spending some time outside. Registration is required and is limited to 12 students ages 5 - 11. There is a $5.00 materials fee per student.

February 810:00a.m. - 11:30a.m.CBLeader: Kate Murphy

Seniors Understanding Nature: Seniors Understanding Nature: The Stories Along Our History TrailThe Stories Along Our History TrailDen Hynes, one of our own Teacher Naturalists, will present a program about our History Trail including the Fontenelle Trading Post and the ancient people who once lived here.

February 99:45a.m. - 11:00a.m.FFNCLeader: Catherine Kuper

Fontenelle Forest Photography ClubFontenelle Forest Photography ClubDoug French and Pete Carbonell be giving a presentation on Lightroom software. Visit fontenelleforestphotoclub.org for more info on the Photography Club.

Members OnlyMembers OnlyFebruary 187:00 p.m.FFNC

Bird Banding at Aksarben AquariumBird Banding at Aksarben AquariumGet a people’s-eye-view of our feathered friends as we capture live birds, “tag” them with tiny light-weight leg bands and release them back into the wild. Drop by any time between 9:00am and 11:00am and stay as little or as long as you like. All ages are welcome, and anyone who wishes to may touch a live bird.

February 69:00a.m. - 11:00a.m.Schramm Park SRAnear GretnaLeader: Rick Schmid


ALL PROGRAMS ARE FREE FOR FF MEMBERS OR WITH GENERAL ADMISSION UNLESS OTHERWISE NOTED

Introductory Bird Identifi cation Class: Introductory Bird Identifi cation Class: Three Part Course Beginning March 12Three Part Course Beginning March 12With over 50 million ‘birders’ in the U.S., bird watching is the fastest growing out-door activity today. Led by Clem Klaphake and Justin Rink, both past presidents of the Audubon Society of Omaha, this class includes local field trips designed to teach you how to identify the birds in your back yard or places you go on vacation, and how to use binoculars and field guides properly.

No prior knowledge of bird identification is needed. Ages 12 and up. The class is limited to 15 participants. To sign up, con-tact Clem Klaphake at 402.292.2276 or at [email protected]. Part 2 will be held on April 16, and Part 3 will be held on May 7. A fee of $25 is due before the start of the firest class.

March 128:00a.m. - 12:00p.m.WLCLeaders: Clem Klaphake& Justin Rink

Audubon Society of Omaha speaker: Audubon Society of Omaha speaker: Snowy Owls with Denver HoltSnowy Owls with Denver HoltWell known Snowy Owl researcher, Den-ver Holt, will be giving a talk on his many years of research in Alaska. Mark your calendars for Thursday March 17th at 7:00 p.m. in the Forest Room. Admission is free. The Audubon Society of Omaha is the primary sponsor of this program and Fontenelle Forest is providing the facility. More information will be provided in the March/April Leaflet.

March 177:00 p.m.FFNCLeader: Clem Klaphake

Upcoming programs at Fontenelle Forest

SAVE THE DATESAVE THE DATE

Little Stars AstronomyLittle Stars AstronomyDo you know a preschool-aged child who’d love to learn what’s up in the sky? This new program series is geared towards kids ages 3-5 and focuses on a different astronomy topic once a month from Janu-ary through May. Drop in anytime to learn through hands-on experiments, games, and going outside. Adults must accompany children.

February 279:30a.m. - 11:30a.m.FFNCLeaders: Ann Cole& Mary Lou Alfi eri

Family Sundays in the Forest: Family Sundays in the Forest: A Snowshoe ExcursionA Snowshoe ExcursionWhen there’s snow on the ground, the whole family can have fun! Two guided snowshoe hikes will take place, each lasting about 45 minutes - one around 1 pm and the other around 2:15 pm. Bring your own snowshoes, or rent adult- and child-sized snowshoes when you arrive. Remember - we can still hike if there’s no snow! Dress for the weather and bring water.

February 281:00p.m. - 3:00p.m.FFNCLeader: Kelly Propst

Family Sundays in the Forest: Family Sundays in the Forest: Winter BirdsWinter BirdsDo you know the winter birds and their feeding habits? Bring the whole family and learn identifiable characteristics while playing a game and watching birds at the feeders. Then, if you head out for a hike, look for birds and see if you can tell who they are!

February 211:00p.m. - 3:00p.m.FFNCLeader: Holly Hofreiter

Insect ClubInsect ClubFor February, Brad Carlson, Insect Club member, will present on his recent insect seeking trip to Peru.

Members OnlyMembers OnlyFebruary 257:00p.m.-9:00p.m.FFNCLeader: Rick Schmid


January FebruaryYoga in the Forest

Members Only: Bird Club

Campfi re Program: Cool Canines

Raptor Bird-Day Party!

Yoga in the ForestFamily Sundays: Tracks and Scat Detectives

Seniors Understanding Nature: Save the Oaks

Yoga in the ForestFamily Sundays: Craft TimeSnowshoe Hike

Fontenelle Forest Photography Club

Members Only: Nature Explorers*

Yoga in the Forest

Little Stars Astronomy

Yoga in the ForestFamily Sundays: A Snowshoe Excursion

Members Only: Bird Club

Campfi re Program:

Bird Banding at Aksarben Aquarium

Yoga in the ForestFamily Sundays: Forest Photos

Home School Science Discoveries*

Seniors Understanding Nature: History Trail

Yoga in the ForestWinter Tree HikeRaptors... Live! Valentine’s Edition

Fontenelle Forest Photography Club

Members Only: Nature Explorers*

Yoga in the ForestFamily Sundays: Winter Birds

Members Only: Insect Club

Little Stars Astronomy

Yoga in the ForestFamily Sundays: A Snowshoe Excursion

AT A GLANCE

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Mud Pies meets Monday - Thursday mornings from Mud Pies meets Monday - Thursday mornings from 9:30 a.m. until 11:30 a.m. for children ages 5 and 9:30 a.m. until 11:30 a.m. for children ages 5 and younger. younger.

New for 2016: Mud Pies in the Afternoon meets on New for 2016: Mud Pies in the Afternoon meets on Thursday afternoons from 12:30 p.m. until 2:00 Thursday afternoons from 12:30 p.m. until 2:00 p.m. for children ages 5 and under.p.m. for children ages 5 and under.

* denotes program that requires registration* denotes program that requires registration


1111 Bellevue Blvd. NorthBellevue, NE 68005

www.fontenelleforest.org

Fontenelle Forest Nature CenterFontenelle Forest Nature Center

1111 Bellevue Boulevard North, Bellevue, NE 68005 • Hours: Open daily, 8:00a.m. - 5:00p.m.

Closed December 25 & January 1• Trails open dawn to dusk for FF members. Non-

members admitted before close have trail access until dusk

Admission: Fontenelle Forest members FreeOne Day Membership $7 Adult | $6 Senior (62+)| $5 Child (2-17)

Phone:Phone: 402.731.3140 Email:Email: [email protected] Web:Web: fontenelleforest.org Find us on:Find us on:

General Information

Neale WoodsNeale Woods

14323 Edith Marie Avenue, Omaha, NE 68112• Trails open year round, dawn to dusk• Nature center CLOSED for renovation

Admission:Fontenelle Forest members FreeOne Day Membership $5 Adult | $4 Senior (62+) | $3 Child (2-17)

Fontenelle Forest's Leaflet - January / February 2016

Documents

Transcript of Fontenelle Forest's Leaflet - January / February 2016