Lancaster County Parks Department
Spring 2016 Program List
Note: Each of these sessions is currently full. Check in to see if spaces open or ask to be added to the
waiting list. If we have sufficient interest, we may add an additional afternoon session.
Jump into Even More Science Fun!
Wed., Mar. 2
Wed., Mar. 16
Wed., Apr. 6
Wed., Apr. 20
10:00 - 11:00 a.m.
or
11:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.
Maple Sugaring
Welcome Spring!
Early Spring Wildflowers
Birds and Their Nests
Ages 3 to 8
Pavilion 11
Environmental Center
Environmental Center
Environmental Center
Jump into Even More Science Fun continues with seasonal change as we head into spring this time. Along
with lengthening days and warming temperatures, children will explore snow, maple sugaring, evergreens,
rain, early spring wildflowers and other topics with Naturalist Mary Ann Schlegel. Actual activities vary
from class to class but will include crafts, books, games, and as much outdoor time as possible. Dress for
crafts indoors and for the weather outdoors. Younger children with parents are welcome to attend if
accompanying older siblings. Call (717) 295-2055 to register by noon on the day prior to the program.
$3.00 per Child age 3 & up; $1.00 per Adult
March Forth!
Fri., Mar. 4
10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
All Ages
Environmental Center
The date commands us to venture forth and so we will! Naturalist Mary Ann Schlegel will lead a hike to savor
the end of winter and approaching spring along some favorite Central Park trails. Dress for the weather. We will
hike several miles on some rocky and possibly wet trails. Call (717) 295-2055 to register by noon on March 3.
$2.00 per Person
Great Day for UP: Happy Birthday, Dr. Seuss!
Sat., Mar. 5
10:00 - 11:00 a.m.
All Ages
Environmental Center
Celebrate the legacy of Dr. Seuss with the joyous and whimsical Great Day for UP. After talking about the life
of Theodor Seuss Geisel, aka Dr. Seuss, and reading the story, we will head outdoors. We will walk to discover
what is UP in the natural world with Naturalist Mary Ann Schlegel. Call (717) 295-2055 to register by noon on
March 4.
$1.00 per Person
Registration is required for all Lancaster County Parks’ programs. Unless otherwise noted
children must be accompanied by an adult and children 3 & under are free. To register or for
more information, please call the Parks’ Environmental Center at 717-295-2055. Please visit
our website at www.lancastercountyparks.org.
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Many Marvelous Mammals
Wed., Mar. 9
Wed., Mar. 23
Wed., Apr. 13
Wed., Apr. 27
10:00 - 11:30 a.m.
Rabbits & Bats
Marsupials
Primates
Whales
Ages 7 to 12
Environmental Center
The Mammal Class includes a fascinating diversity of common and less familiar animals. With Naturalist Mary
Ann Schlegel, children will delve into an exploration of mammals focusing on local species but including
whales and our primate relatives. Activities may include outdoor habitat exploration, games, and dissection as
well as examination of skulls and pelts. Dress for the weather. Younger children with parents are welcome to
attend if accompanying older siblings. Call (717) 295-2055 to register by noon on the day prior to the program.
$4.00 per Child; $1.00 per Adult
Learning to Draw from Nature
Sat., Mar. 12
Sat., Apr. 16
Sat., May 14
2:00 - 3:00 p.m.
Ages 8 & Up
Environmental Center
Join Naturalist Christina Schwindinger for an interactive workshop series geared toward beginning artists who
have an interest in improving their artistic abilities. Sketchbooks are available for a fee, but orders must be
placed at least 1 week in advance. If time and weather permit the workshop will conclude with a short nature
walk and participants will be encouraged to stop and sketch along the way; dress appropriately.
A Study of Spring Blossoms (March 12) - Artists will study the contours and shapes found within early spring
blossoms and learn some tricks in making their drawings both realistic and pleasing to the eye.
Capturing Colors on the Wing (April 16) - Artists will study the form and figure of birds from both photo
references and posed specimens and learn how to distinguish different species of backyard birds from their
coloration, shape and size.
Bringing Skulls to Life (May 14) - Artists will study the use of shading and shadows to create the illusion of
three dimensions in their drawings using the park's collection of animal skulls, bones, antlers, and turtle shells
as drawing references.
Call (717) 295-2055 to register by noon on the day prior to the program.
$3.00 per Person per Class
Build a Bluebird Box
Mon., Mar. 14
6:00 - 7:30 p.m.
All Ages
Environmental Center
Wildlife sometimes needs help to find a home and to raise young. Join Naturalist Lisa J. Sanchez at the
Environmental Center to build bird houses to attract wildlife to your own backyard. Call (717) 295-2055 to
register by noon on March 11.
$10.00 per Box Builder; $1.00 per Helper
March Winds Bring…Kites!
Sat., Mar. 19
2:00 - 3:30 p.m.
All Ages
Environmental Center
Celebrate both the last winds of March and the arrival of spring! Naturalist Mary Ann Schlegel will assist as
participants assemble, personalize, and test-fly simple sled kites. Please register with the number of kites your
party will make. Call (717) 295-2055 to register by noon on March 18.
$5.00 per Kite-maker; $1.00 per Helper
Registration is required for all Lancaster County Parks’ programs. Unless otherwise noted
children must be accompanied by an adult and children 3 & under are free. To register or for
more information, please call the Parks’ Environmental Center at 717-295-2055. Please visit
our website at www.lancastercountyparks.org.
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Natural Egg Dying: A Rainbow of Options
Thur., Mar. 24
1:30 - 2:30 p.m.
6:30 - 7:30 p.m.
All Ages
Environmental Center
Throughout history coloring eggs has become an enjoyable spring activity. Join Naturalist Lisa J. Sanchez for a
natural time dying eggs. By dying eggs with natural materials you will learn about natural pigments and their
uses for more than just eggs. Please bring along hard-boiled or blown out eggs and a creative imagination. Call
(717) 295-2055 to register by noon on March 23.
$2.00 per Person
Gardener Badge for Junior Girl Scouts
Mon., Mar. 28
10:00 - 11:30 a.m.
Junior Girl Scouts
Environmental Center
This is the perfect time to think about gardens! Naturalist Mary Ann Schlegel will assist girls in completing
badge requirements as they explore the Environmental Center vicinity, make a Zen garden, and plant seeds for
home observation and enjoyment. Badges are not included. Please register and prepay by Wednesday, March
23. Each girl will need to bring an egg carton.
$5.00 per Scout; $1.00 per Adult
Family Fun: Speedwell in the Spring
Wed., Mar. 30
10:00 - 11:30 a.m.
All Ages
Speedwell Forge County Park
Speedwell Forge has wonderful Hammer Creek lowlands as well as wooded uplands to explore, perfect for
children and adults alike. Naturalist Mary Ann Schlegel will lead a walk from floodplain to upland habitats
looking and listening for signs of spring. Dress for a walk of 1-2 miles on trails that could be wet. Call (717)
295-2055 to register by noon on March 29.
$2.00 per Person
Beginner Knitting Workshop
Sat., Apr. 2
9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
Ages 7 & Up
Environmental Center
Learn to knit, or brush-up on the basic stitches. Members of the Red Rows Knitting Guild will teach participants
the cast-on, garter and bind-off stitches. Students will work towards completing a mug rug. This hands-on
program will feature a sufficient number of instructors so all participants receive personalized attention.
Participants must bring size 8 knitting needles and worsted weight yarn. Call (717) 295-2055 to register by
noon on April 1.
$3.00 per Knitter; $1.00 per Helper
Fire Starting & Tending
Sat., Apr. 2
4:00 - 5:00 p.m.
All Ages
Campsite #3 near Env. Ctr.
The ability to start and keep a fire going can provide you with potable water, heat, cooked food and a signaling
device. Join Naturalist Tina Mark to learn the basics of preparing for a campfire, getting it started and keeping
it going. Safety issues for outdoor fires will also be addressed. Please dress for the weather. Call (717) 2952055 to register by noon on April 1.
$1.00 per Person
Registration is required for all Lancaster County Parks’ programs. Unless otherwise noted
children must be accompanied by an adult and children 3 & under are free. To register or for
more information, please call the Parks’ Environmental Center at 717-295-2055. Please visit
our website at www.lancastercountyparks.org.
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Native American Stories around a Campfire
Sat., Apr. 2
5:00 - 7:30 p.m.
All Ages
Campsite #3 near Env. Ctr.
Come gather around the campfire to hear stories that have been told for hundreds of years by Native American
grandmothers and grandfathers. Find out how bear lost his tail, why 7 boys dance everynight across the sky and
much more. Many of these stories aren't just entertaining, they can share truths about life and teach valuable
lessons. Join Naturalist Tina Mark for this wonderful storytelling experience. Bring a chair and marshmallows
for toasting over the fire. Call (717) 295-2055 to register by noon on April 1.
$2.00 per Person
Spring Senses Scavenger Hunt
Sun., Apr. 3
3:00 - 4:00 p.m.
All Ages
Environmental Center
Meet Naturalist Karen Waltemyer to frolic through the Environmental Center field in search of signs, sounds,
and smells of spring! Call (717) 295-2055 to register by noon on April 1.
$1.00 per Person
Celebrate Spring Wildflower Walks
Tue., Apr. 5
Sat., Apr. 16
10:00 - 11:30 a.m.
3:30 - 5:00 p.m.
All Ages
Covered Bridge Parking Lot
The Wildflower Trail in the Kiwanis Natural Area is a good place to see the succession of early blooms!
Naturalist Mary Ann Schlegel will lead walks to savor these spring ephemerals as well as other signs of the
season. Dress for the weather and for walking 1-2 miles on woodland and floodplain trails. Meet at the Kurtz
Mill Covered Bridge on Kiwanis Drive in Central Park. Call (717) 295-2055 to register by noon on the day
preceding each program.
$2.00 per Person
Legends of the Night Sky
Fri., Apr. 8
Weather Make-Up Day: Fri., May 6
8:00 - 9:00 p.m.
8:30 - 9:30 p.m.
All Ages
Environmental Center
Every night we look up and marvel at the mythical creatures and ancient heroes who dance across the darkened
sky, but who are these legendary characters and what are their stories? Join Naturalist Christina Schwindinger
as we travel back in time to learn how these familiar constellations came to be named and why they their shapes
continue to capture our attention when we look beyond the city lights. Please dress for the weather as we will
spend time stargazing at the end of our program. Call (717) 295-2055 to register by noon on April 7.
$1.00 per Person
Spring GPS Bingo at Speedwell Forge
Sat., Apr. 9
9:00 - 11:00 a.m.
All Ages
Speedwell Forge County Park
Use a handheld GPS unit to follow coordinates and clues to geocaches. Naturalist Mary Ann Schlegel will
provide instruction before participants begin. Participants will receive a bingo template and a list stamps to
arrange on the cards before searching for geocaches. First party back with bingo stamped on their card wins!
Dress for outdoor activity and wear shoes appropriate for covering 1 to 3 miles on varied terrain. When
registering, please indicate number of GPS units required; plan to leave keys or driver’s license if borrowing a
unit. Adults must accompany children. Call (717) 295-2055 to register by noon on April 8.
$2.50 per Person
Registration is required for all Lancaster County Parks’ programs. Unless otherwise noted
children must be accompanied by an adult and children 3 & under are free. To register or for
more information, please call the Parks’ Environmental Center at 717-295-2055. Please visit
our website at www.lancastercountyparks.org.
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Shenk’s Ferry Wildflowers
Fri., Apr. 15
10:00 - 11:30 a.m.
All Ages
Shenk’s Ferry Wildflower Preserve
Shenk’s Ferry Wildflower Preserve holds regional notoriety for spectacular spring wildflowers. Join Naturalist
Mary Ann Schlegel for a memorable walk in this lovely glen. Dress for the weather, and wear shoes appropriate
for walking on woodland trails. Meet at the gate by the bridge at the start of the trail. Call (717) 295-2055 to
register by noon on April 14.
$2.00 per Person
GO!: Spring Twilight Hike at Speedwell Forge
Sun., Apr. 17
7:00 - 8:00 p.m.
All Ages
Speedwell Forge County Park
Get Outdoors PA wants everyone to connect with outdoor activities year-round. As part of their "GO Days"
initiative, join Naturalist Francine Praught to celebrate spring’s rebirth at Speedwell Forge County Park.
Participants will hike the wetland meadow, field edge and forest of this beautiful park while learning about the
history and wildlife of the area. There is a great chance that frogs, toads and owls may be calling. Please dress
for the weather and trail conditions. Bring water and a snack. There are no bathroom facilities at the park. Call
(717) 295-2055 to register by noon on April 15.
$2.00 per Person
Compost Happens . . . Naturally
Mon., Apr. 18
6:30 - 7:30 p.m.
All Ages
Environmental Center
Join Naturalist Lisa J. Sanchez for a program on composting. We will explore several ways to compost to help
you choose the best method for your location and needs. Learn about the proper mix of browns and greens to
make the best black gold possible, then learn how to use the wonderful end result. Call (717) 295-2055 to
register by noon on April 15.
$1.00 per Person
Earth Day Garlic Mustard Pull
Fri., Apr. 22
9:30 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
All Ages
Pavilion #22
Celebrate Earth Day and give back by reducing an invasive plant along the Wildflower Trail in Central Park.
Garlic mustard, native in Europe, flowers in early spring and is a prolific seed-producer. An Earth Day pulling
allows removal of plants before new seeds have a chance to mature and spread. Naturalist Mary Ann Schlegel
will provide background information on garlic mustard before leading participants outdoors to identify and
remove these plants. Dress for the weather and bring garden gloves if desired. Call (717) 295-2055 to register
Free
by noon on April 21.
Earth Day Full Moon Hike
Fri., Apr. 22
All Ages
8:30 - 9:30 p.m.
Environmental Center
Join Naturalist Lisa J. Sanchez for a hike under the full moon. Experience the sights and sounds of the Central
Park at night while we walk through the woods. Call (717) 295-2055 to register by noon on April 21.
$1.00 per Person
Registration is required for all Lancaster County Parks’ programs. Unless otherwise noted
children must be accompanied by an adult and children 3 & under are free. To register or for
more information, please call the Parks’ Environmental Center at 717-295-2055. Please visit
our website at www.lancastercountyparks.org.
Page 5
A Walk on the Wild Side: Wild Edibles
Sat., Apr. 23
10:00 - 11:30 a.m.
All Ages
Environmental Center
Liven up your spring diet with fresh wildflowers. Meet Lisa J. Sanchez to discover spring’s wild edible plants.
Learn what is sprouting and flowering in the woodlands and backyards of Lancaster County. Bring your
adventurous appetite for sampling and learning about wild, healthy foods. Liability wavers will need to be
signed. Call (717) 295-2055 to register by noon on April 22.
$2.00 per Person
Scout Orienteering
Sat., Apr. 30
10:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.
Boy and Girl Scouts
Pavilion #1
The Susquehanna Valley Orienteering Club and the Lancaster County Department of Parks and Recreation
Environmental Center are hosting a Spring Orienteering Day. New white (beginner), yellow (advanced
beginner), and orange (intermediate) courses will be available. Course design, course setting, and maps will be
provided by the Susquehanna Valley Orienteering Club and instruction will be available. Cost for the event is
$5.00 per map and $2.00 per scout with no charge for accompanying adults. Start any time between 10:00 AM
and 1:00 PM. Please call 717-295-2055 by Tuesday April 26 to preregister with your preferred start time. For
more information contact Mary Ann Schlegel at 717-209-3234 or [email protected].
$5.00 per map; $2.00 per Scout
Into the Woods: A Webelos and Arrow of Light Adventure
Sat., Apr. 30
9:30 a.m. - 11:30 a.m.
Webelos Scouts
Environmental Center
Spring is a great time to head Into the Woods! With Naturalist Mary Ann Schlegel, scouts will explore trees, shrubs, and
plants of the forest floor, examine "tree cookies," and discover the many uses of wood. Participants will leave with a
stronger appreciation of our forested ecosystems as well as a native woodland plant to nurture at home. Requirements for
this Adventure will be completed. Dress for the weather and for walking on woodland trails. Call (717) 295-2055 to
register by noon on April 29.
$5.00 per Scout; $1.00 per Adult
Stories from the Front Porch: Campfire Program
Sat., Apr. 30
7:30 - 9:30 p.m.
All Ages
Campsite #3
Most of us have sat down and listened to friends, relatives or complete strangers tell tales of their past exploits,
or shared odd happenings they may have encountered. Stories from the Front Porch by Joy Washington is a
collection of these types of stories and offers tales that may be appreciated by almost anyone. Join Naturalist
Francine Praught for a time of storytelling around the campfire in Central Park. Bring a chair to sit in,
marshmallows to toast and snacks to enjoy. Please dress for the weather as this program is entirely outdoors.
Call (717) 295-2055 to register by noon on April 29.
$2.00 per Person
Registration is required for all Lancaster County Parks’ programs. Unless otherwise noted
children must be accompanied by an adult and children 3 & under are free. To register or for
more information, please call the Parks’ Environmental Center at 717-295-2055. Please visit
our website at www.lancastercountyparks.org.
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DIY: Spring Stepping Stones
Sun., May 1
3:00 - 4:00 p.m.
All Ages
Environmental Center
Naturalist Karen Waltemyer will provide the mixed concrete and round pans for molds as well as various
embellishments for participants to decorate their stones. Feel free to bring your own mold if you want a
different shape and any decorations of your own. With Mother’s Day fast approaching these stones can make
wonderful gifts. Come enjoy the fun and leave the mess behind at the Environmental Center! Call (717) 2952055 to register by noon on April 29.
$5.00 per Stone-maker; $1.00 per Helper
Who's Emerging? Who's Hatching?
Wed., May 4
6:00 - 7:00 p.m.
All Age
Environmental Center
Meet Naturalist Karen Waltemyer for a hunt to see who is emerging and hatching first this spring season.
Participants will look at interesting homes of insects and birds before a short walk outside to see what might be
nearby. Call (717) 295-2055 to register by noon on May 3.
$1.00 per Person
Explore a Bluebird Trail
Sat., May 7
Mon., May 16
10:00 - 11:00 a.m.
10:00 - 11:00 a.m.
All Ages
Environmental Center
Join Naturalist Lisa J. Sanchez for a walk along the bluebird trail in Lancaster County Central Park. As we walk
the trail we will look, listen and learn about the life cycle of bluebirds and other cavity nesters living in the
boxes. The program will begin at the Environmental Center. If it rains the program will be inside as we learn
through beautiful pictures. Call (717) 295-2055 to register by noon on the Friday preceding the program.
$1.00 per Person
Money Rocks in May
Sat., May 14
9:30 - 11:00 a.m.
All Ages
Money Rocks County Park
Money Rocks in the month of May is a special place. Quartzite rocks provide dramatic topography and also
weather to produce more acidic soils than most other areas of the County. As a result, Money Rocks is host to
trees, wildflowers, and club mosses not commonly seen on more limey soils. Join Naturalist Mary Ann Schlegel
for a hike to explore and appreciate some treasures of Money Rocks. Trails are rough so wear shoes appropriate
for a rocky trail walk of 2-3 miles. Meet in the main parking lot on Narvon Road. Call (717) 295-2055 to
register by noon on May 13.
$2.00 per Person
Sounds of Spring Twilight Hike
Sat., May 21
6:30 - 7:30 p.m.
Environmental Center
All Ages
Participants can listen for sounds of the season with Naturalist Karen Waltemyer during the rise of the full
moon. As the sun sets, celebrate spring by standing still and let your senses come to life! What could we hear,
smell, touch or see? Call (717) 295-2055 to register by noon on May 20.
$2.00 per Person
Registration is required for all Lancaster County Parks’ programs. Unless otherwise noted
children must be accompanied by an adult and children 3 & under are free. To register or for
more information, please call the Parks’ Environmental Center at 717-295-2055. Please visit
our website at www.lancastercountyparks.org.
Page 7
Full Moon Hike: Adults Only
Sat., May 21
8:00 - 9:30 p.m.
Ages 18 & Up
Environmental Center
Enjoy an adult night out in the woods with Naturalist Karen Waltemyer while calling for owls and watching the
moon rise over the canopy of the trees. Hopefully we will hear birds, frogs and toads calling, and if we are
really lucky, we may get a chance to see one of our resident owls. Call (717) 295-2055 to register by noon on
May 20.
$2.00 per Person
Registration is required for all Lancaster County Parks’ programs. Unless otherwise noted
children must be accompanied by an adult and children 3 & under are free. To register or for
more information, please call the Parks’ Environmental Center at 717-295-2055. Please visit
our website at www.lancastercountyparks.org.
Page 8
Astronomy Program for 2016
The Lancaster County Department of Parks & Recreation will again be hosting nighttime star watches
conducted by the Astronomy Enthusiasts of Lancaster County (AELC). As with last year the location will
alternate between the Lancaster County Parks’ Environmental Center and the Manheim Township Department
of Recreation & Park Planning’s Stoner Park. All the star watches will provide a science-oriented
understanding of the different types of objects to be found in the universe. These include the moon, planets,
stars and star clusters, galaxies, constellations, comets and different types of nebulae. These objects will be
viewed through telescopes set up by club members as well as by your naked eyes, so bring your interest and
questions and enjoy yourself under the night sky. The second date listed for each month is the rain date,
only to be used if the first night is cancelled. Please call 717-295-2055 for more information and visit the
AELC’s website (http://www.aelc.us/) for up-to-date weather related program changes.
Free: Donations Appreciated
Month
Date
Star Watch
Time
Location
March
4 or 5
7:00 – 9:00
p.m.
Lancaster County Central Park:
Environmental Center
May
27 or 28
9:00 – 10:00
p.m.
Lancaster County Central Park:
Environmental Center
July
29 or 30
9:00 – 10:00
p.m.
Lancaster County Central Park:
Environmental Center
September
23 or 24
8:00 – 10:00
p.m.
Lancaster County Central Park:
Environmental Center
November
25 or 26
6:00 – 9:00
p.m.
Lancaster County Central Park:
Environmental Center
Objects
Stars: Rigel, Betelgeuse and Sirius
Planets: Jupiter
Objects: The Orion Nebula & Pleiades star cluster
Constellations: Gemini and Orion
Stars: Polaris and Mizar
Planets: Jupiter and Mars
Objects: Star cluster M5
Constellations: Ursa Major and Ursa Minor
Stars: Izar and Alphecca
Planets: Mars and Saturn
Objects: Galaxies M81 and M82
Constellations: Hercules and Corona Borealis
Stars: Antares and Albireo
Planets: Mars and Saturn
Objects: Omega nebula and the Andromeda Galaxy
Constellations: Sagittarius and Delphinus
Stars: Capella and Aldebaran
Planets: Mars
Objects: Double star cluster & planetary nebula H18-4
Constellations: Perseus, Andromeda
Additional sessions will be held at Manheim Township’s Stoner Park.
Manheim Township Department of
Recreation & Park Planning:
Stoner Park
April
29 or 30
8:30 – 10:00
p.m.
June
24 or 25
9:00 – 10:00
p.m.
Manheim Township Department of
Recreation & Park Planning:
Stoner Park
August
26 or 27
8:30 – 10:00
p.m.
Manheim Township Department of
Recreation & Park Planning:
Stoner Park
October
21 or 22
7:00 – 9:00
p.m.
Manheim Township Department of
Recreation & Park Planning:
Stoner Park
Stars: Regulus, Castor and Pollux
Planets: Jupiter
Objects: Galaxies M65 and M66
Constellations: Leo and Auriga
Stars: Arcturus and Spica
Planets: Mars, Jupiter and Saturn
Objects: Star clusters M13 and M67
Constellations: Corvus and Hercules
Stars: Vega, Deneb and Altair
Planets: Mars and Saturn
Objects: Planetary nebulae M27 and M57
Constellations: Cygnus and Scorpius
Stars: Algol and Caph
Planets: Mars and Saturn
Objects: Andromeda Galaxy and star cluster M52
Constellations: Pegasus and Cassiopeia
Registration is required for all Lancaster County Parks’ programs. Unless otherwise noted
children must be accompanied by an adult and children 3 & under are free. To register or for
more information, please call the Parks’ Environmental Center at 717-295-2055. Please visit
our website at www.lancastercountyparks.org.
Page 9