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ardship. At this forum, you will hear a short presentation, MARCH 20 meet local landowners, engage with conservation ex- perts, and share knowledge with your neighbors. Curious A Special “Vernal Equinox” TLGV Member Hike: 11:30 about growing mushrooms? Backyard sugaring? What am – 1 pm. Join us for a special Vernal Equinox hike at your neighbors are up to? Don’t miss out! Beverages and West Thompson Dam as we celebrate the Vernal Equinox snacks will be served! Please RSVP: bbernard@ctwood- and first day of Spring 2018 at 12:15 pm. We’ll meet up lands.org. For more information, contact Beth Bernard, at the US ARMY Corps of Engineers parking lot on West Program Director at Goodwin Conservation Center: 860 Thompson road adjacent to the dam. From there we’ll 455-9534. hike the Ramsdell Woods Trail to the West Shelter. At the • Sponsored by Connecticut Forest & Park Association, DT shelter we’ll enjoy lunch and the first moments of Spring Department of Energy & Environmental Protection, and the 2018. From there we’ll hike back the Shoreline Road and Friends of Goodwin Forest enjoy the views of beautiful West Thompson Lake. The hike is just over 2 miles round trip. Bring a bag lunch and TLGV will pack in cider and cookies for all to enjoy. • Registration required. Call Chief Ranger Bill Reid at 860- MARCH 23 774-3300 or via e-mail at [email protected] • Sponsored by The Last Green Valley Bark ID for Goodwin Trees: 3:30 -5:30 pm, James L. • Moderate; 2 miles, leashed dogs only Goodwin Conservation Center, 23 Potter Road, Hampton. Ever wanted Woods Forum: 6:30 – 8 pm, Good- to learn how to identify a tree by win Conservation Center, 23 Potter Check Often for the bark and not by the leaves? Join Rd., Hampton, CT. Please join CFPA Master Naturalist Caroline Driscoll as we bring together Connecticut Updates on our as you learn all about bark. Learn woodland owners and conservation about how it’s made, why it’s so professionals to share information website: important, and what it does for the and experiences and create an tree. You will get to go outside and informal, local network of contacts thelastgreenvalley.org identify a few trees of your own. to help provide support for healthy Caroline Driscoll has served on the woodland management and stew- CFPA Board of Directors since 2005.

She has taught at both preschool and college levels. Her • For Information, call Jsaper Sha at 860-455-9534 or email love of the outdoors and teaching led to a position at the [email protected] or visit http://www.friendsofgoodwinfor- Connecticut College Arboretum where she continues to est.org/current-programs.html consult while she works toward a certificate in horticul- tural illustration at the New York Botanical Garden and her Youth Series: Discover Goodwin Forest-Lichen: 1 to 3 Master Naturalist certification at the Goodwin Conserva- p.m., James L. Goodwin Conservation Center, 23 Potter tion Center. Road, Hampton. Join Master Naturalist Lynn Kochiss and • For Information, call Jasper Sha at 860-455-9534 or email guest Master Naturalist Regan Stacey as we explore the [email protected] or visit http://www.friendsofgoodwinfor- wonderful world of lichen! Come discover the patches est.org/current-programs.html of green that grow on trees and rocks, the beards that hang from branches, and the soft pillows tucked along stone walls. A talk and touch session will introduce the MARCH 24 three basic kinds of lichen you can find among our forests. Candlewood Ridge Trail Building: 10 am to noon, Larch- We’ll then take a discovery walk to find as many as we mont Terrace, Groton, CT. Family friendly trail building can! Regan Stacey is a participant in the Master Naturalist work party to enhance a half mile section of trail crossing II Program at Goodwin Forest. She is a practicing artist rugged terrain by removing new growth and building who holds a B.S. in biology, an M.F.A in visual studies, and brush pikes to improve habitat. Hand tools and light pow- is a self-proclaimed forest whisperer. Lynn Kochiss is an er tools will be provided. Organizations, service and youth environmental educator who has been a CFPA volunteer group welcome. Free event. since 2007. She is a certified elementary teacher, a Project • Please register at: 860 536-9811 or dsmith0705@sbcglobal. Learning Tree Facilitator, and a Master Naturalist. Lynn net was recognized as a National PLT Outstanding Educator in • Sponsored by Groton Open Space Association, www.gosa- 2013 for her work in environmental education. online.org • All children must be accompanied by an adult for this • Moderate; .5 mile, NO dogs please program. • Registration is Required Gardener’s Roundtable: 10 – 11:30 a.m., James L. Good- • For Information, call Jasper Sha at 860-455-9534 or email win Conservation Center, 23 Potter Road, Hampton. This [email protected] or visit http://www.friendsofgoodwinfor- workshop is intended for gardeners of all experience est.org/current-programs.html levels. We share best practices and pitfalls for gardening in eastern Connecticut. These monthly workshops cover a wide-range of topics, so please come with your questions, MARCH 25 your expertise, and your own stories of success and failure in your gardens. The Last Green Valley’s Acorn Adventure: Treasure Hunting on the Trails; 1 -3 p.m., Camp Laurel, 175 Club- house Road, Lebanon CT. The Last Green Valley is teaming up with the Girl Scouts of Connecticut to hold a letterboxing Acorn Adventure. Do you like to be outside? Do you like to search for treasure? Letterboxing is a family-friendly hobby that gets you outside to follow the clues and find the treasure, a hand-carved stamp that you can add to your personal log book. Acorn Adventurers will get an introduction to letterboxing and their own letterboxing kits, which will include a starter logbook, an inkpad and the chance to make a personal stamp. The group will then hike the trails of Camp Laurel, following the clues to find a series of four letterboxes. The program is open to all kids and their families. To learn more about letterboxing, visit www.letterboxing.org.

• Please register by calling Fran at 860-774-3300, email fran@ Brook, plus some scenic vistas and a historic farm. tlgv.org or message us through facebook. Registering will Planned for March before the leaves pop out on trees, ensure we have enough materials for everyone! the stone ruins of old mills are more visible. Join bus tour • Primary leader: Kim McLean guides from Killingly Conservation Commission to learn how Killingly developed during the Industrial Revolution Buffumville Dam Tour: 1 – 2 pm, Buffumville Dam, 48 Old and how some mills have been repurposed. Oxford Rd., Charlton, MA. Would you like to know why the • Limited seating; reservations are required by March 21, with lake is lower in the winter months? Have you ever won- name, phone and number attending, and find out where to dered what the Park Rangers do in the winter and in other meet. Call 860-779-5311 or email [email protected] seasons? Do you like to learn about weather and perhaps learn a little about flood water storage and protection? Then join Park Ranger Jamie to learn all about it. Meet MARCH 30 at the gate house doors (48 Old Oxford Road, Charlton) for an exclusive tour, inside and out. Rain or shine. Please The Art of the Sit Spot: 4 to 5:30 p.m., James L. Goodwin Note: There are many stairs within the tour. Questions? Conservation Center, 23 Potter Road, Hampton. Join Beth 508-248-5697. Free tour. Bernard, Program Director at the James L. Goodwin Con- • Sponsored by: US Army Corps of Engineers http://www.nae. servation Center in a unique journey to discover the lost usace.army.mil/Missions/Recreation/Buffumville-Lake/ art of the sit spot. This observation tool increases aware- • Moderate; restrooms nearby, especially for families with ness, calms the body and mind, and opens up a world of children; NO dogs please awesome nature sightings! We will be taking a short hike and participating in exercises that awaken our senses. New Bus Tour -- “Mills and Beyond”: 1 p.m., Killingly During our sit spot, we will stay in one spot and let nature Conservation Commission is offering a new event in its come to us. Be dressed for the weather and bring a small ‘Back Roads of Undiscovered Killingly’ series.This Back mat or towel to sit on if you desire. Age 12-adult. Roads Tour will focus on the mills along the Whetstone

• For Information, call Jasper Sha at 860-455-9534 or email • Please RSVP to Chief Ranger Bill Reid at [email protected] or call [email protected] or visit http://www.friendsofgoodwinfor- 860 774-3300. est.org/current-programs.html • Sponsored by The Last Green Valley and McLean Research Elevator and Restrooms available. Children 6 and older welcome.

MARCH 31 Colonial Gardens: 1-3 p.m., James L. Goodwin Conserva- Wildflower Walk: 9:30 – 11:00 am, Joshua’s Trust Hubbard tion Center, 23 Potter Road, Hampton. The Europeans who Sanctuary/Agnes’ Pasture in Chaplin. Accompany natu- settled the colonies had substantial knowledge of how to ralist Deb Field as we look for spring wildflowers. Walk is use plants in cooking and healing. They brought seeds approximately 2 miles, moderate difficulty. Wear appro- and plants with them and saw other favorites come over priate clothing for weather. Please register at activities@ with each new ship. Their gardens developed from their joshuastrust.org. Limited to 12 participants. Please no own knowledge and from the new information obtained dogs or children under age 12. No rain date. This is the by the natives they encounter. Their gardens and their first of 5 spring wildflower walks – each one should -un medicines emerged as a blend of old and new. This work- cover different flower species depending on how spring shop will illustrate early gardens and plant uses from the unfolds this year. You are welcome to join us on all or on colonial period of North America with specific emphasis any one of them. Please register for each one individually. on New England. Debra Hultgren is a retired public school • Sponsored by Joshua’s Trust educator and administrator. She is a practicing commu- • Moderate; 2 miles, NO dogs please, no children under 12 nity herbalist and a master gardener. She grows, harvests and prepares plant foods and medicines and teaches Dark Sky in The Last Green Valley – Light Pollution others how to include these healing traditions in their 101: 1 - 3 pm, The Last Green Valley Office, 203B Main St. own lives. (2nd Floor), Danielson, CT. Light pollution is the unwant- • For Information, call Jasper Sha at 860-455-9534 or email ed intrusion of light into our night sky, landscapes, and [email protected] or visit http://www.friendsofgoodwinfor- homes. Light Pollution 101 reveals how light pollution est.org/current-programs.html affects human beings, kills tens of thousands of animals annually, and actually makes us less secure in our neigh- Spring/Easter Saturday Full Moon Walk: 7 pm – 8 pm, borhoods. The Last Green Valley is blessed with minimal Hodges Village Dam, 30 Howarth Rd., Oxford, MA. This is light pollution as seen from outer space but light pol- your best opportunity over the holiday weekend, to bring lution is expanding up the I-395 corridor. This program the family down for a leisurely, springtime stroll under the focuses on how to improve light fixtures and reduce moon. Please meet the Ranger on Saturday, March 31st at lighting costs while at the same time providing a more 7 pm at Hodges Village Dam (30 Howarth Road, Oxford). secure and eco-friendly environment for animals, plants, No registration required, just show up. Cancelled if very and humans. This program is appropriate for all ages 6+. rainy. (Sunset 7:11 pm, Moon Rise 7:30 pm). Free event. This program is offered by TLGV Ranger Geoff McLean. Please visit our website at: http://www.nae.usace.army. mil/Missions/Recreation/Hodges-Village-Dam/ • Sponsored by US Army Corps of Engineers • Easy; 1 mile, restrooms nearby, especially for families with children

Blue Moon Night Hike: 7:30 – 8:30 pm, James L. Good- win Conservation Center, 23 Potter Road, Hampton. Let the full moon guide your path as you take a night hike at Goodwin State Forest. Goodwin Guide Kat Gayson will be taking you on a moonlit journey through the forest to bear witness to the changes in nature from day to night. Bring a headlamp or flashlight if desired, they are not necessary. Please dress appropriately for the weather.

For Information, call Jasper Sha at 860-455-9534 or email vational messages along the route and/or little rewards). [email protected] or visit http://www.friendsofgoodwin- No need to register, come to one or all! Free event. April forest.org/current-programs.html 4th, 6th, 9th, 11th, 13th, 16th, 18th, 20th, 23rd, 25th, 27th and 30th. For more information, please call Jamie at 508- 248-5697, x399. APRIL 2 Sponsored by US Army Corps of Engineers Easy; restrooms nearby, especially for families with chil- A Mile in My Shoes Walk: 6:30 - 7:15 pm, Buffumville dren Lake office, 48 Old Oxford Rd., Charlton, MA. Spring is here and Park Ranger Jamie wouldn’t mind the company on Woodcock Watch: Connecticut Audubon Society, Grass- a mile walk (gentle, into shape walk on top of the dam), land Bird Conservation Center, 218 Day Road, Pomfret each Monday, Wednesday and Friday evening in April. A Center, CT 06259. Wednesday, April 4, 7:00 p.m. A sure walking club where there will be a surprise each time (na- harbinger of spring, this fascinating little bird puts on a ture themed informational tidbits, inspirational/motiva- riveting mating display at dusk. As long as the weather tional messages along the route and/or little rewards). No cooperates, we should hear & see them in action. Meet at need to register, come to one or all 13! Free event. April the Center, 218 Day Rd in Pomfret. 2nd, 4th, 6th, 9th, 11th, 13th, 16th, 18th, 20th, 23rd, 25th, • Fee: $5 CAS members; $10 non-members. 27th and 30th. For more information, please call Jamie at • (860)928-4948 www.ctaudubon.org/pomfret-home 508-248-5697, x399. • Sponsored by CT Audubon Pomfret Center • Sponsored by US Army Corps of Engineers • Easy; restrooms nearby, especially for families with children APRIL 6 Mellow Mondays: Mountain Bike Ride: 5:45-7:45 pm, Goodwin State Forest, 22 Potter Road, Hampton, CT A Mile in My Shoes Walk: 6:30 pm – 7:15 pm, Buffumville 06247. Quiet Corner NEMBA’s Mellow Monday Mountain Lake office, 48 Old Oxford Rd., A Mile in My Shoes Walk: Bike Ride at Goodwin State Forest in Hampton is designed 6:30 – 7:15 pm, April 4, Buffumville Lake office, 48 Old as a recovery ride or for those that like a slower paced Oxford Rd., Charlton, MA. Spring is here and Park Ranger ride. Novice riders are always welcome! This is always a Jamie wouldn’t mind the company on a mile walk (gen- “No Drop” ride (no one is left behind) and route/distance tle, into shape walk on top of the dam), each Monday, to fit the groups. Bikes, helmets required. Be ready to roll Wednesday and Friday evening in April. A walking club at 6PM. Weekly details can be found in the posted event where there will be a surprise each time (nature themed within the Chapter’s Group Forum on Facebook. www. informational tidbits, inspirational/motivational messages Facebook.com/groups/QuietCornerNEMBA along the route and/or little rewards). No need to register, • Contact Glenn Tourtellot at (401) 450-1596 come to one or all! Free event. April 6th, 9th, 11th, 13th, • http://www.nemba.org/chapters/qcnemba 16th, 18th, 20th, 23rd, 25th, 27th and 30th. For more infor- • Restrooms nearby mation, please call Jamie at 508-248-5697, x399. • Bring bike & helmet Sponsored by US Army Corps of Engineers • Sponsored by Quiet Corner NEMBA Easy; restrooms nearby, especially for families with children APRIL 4 A Mile in My Shoes Walk: 6:30 – 7:15 pm, Buffumville APRIL 7 Lake office, 48 Old Oxford Rd., Charlton, MA. Spring is here Long Pond Bird Walk: Grassland Bird Conservation Cen- and Park Ranger Jamie wouldn’t mind the company on ter, 218 Day Road, Pomfret Center, CT 06259. 8 am. Meet a mile walk (gentle, into shape walk on top of the dam), at the Center, 218 Day Rd in Pomfret and we’ll carpool each Monday, Wednesday and Friday evening in April. to this new Wyndham Land Trust preserve in Thompson. A walking club where there will be a surprise each time This property contains early successional habitat, mature (nature themed informational tidbits, inspirational/moti- conifer forest, a secluded 20 acre lake, and acres of sub-

merged shrub lands. Bring a spotting scope or share with selection, efficient hiking, lightweight alternatives, and the group. more drawn from Mat’s personal experience out on the • Fee: $7 CAS members; $12 non-members. trails. Mat Jobin, is the founder, owner, and guide for the • (860)928-4948 www.ctaudubon.org/pomfret-home adventure travel company Reach Your Summit. As a guide • Sponsored by CT Audubon Pomfret Center since 2010, Mat has led hundreds of trips for individuals, business groups, and families. He has hiked considerable Survival 101- Fire Making: 10 am to noon, Grassland distance trails such as the Appalachian Trail, Long Trail, Bird Conservation Center, 218 Day Road, Pomfret Center, New England Trail, Pacific Crest, and many others with CT 06259. Learn how to build a fire using both ancient extensive backpacking experience. For more information and modern techniques (with or without matches) in this on trips with Mat, please visit Reach Your Summit. • For more information or to register: 860-455-9534 or jasper. continuing survival course taught by the Baranski broth- [email protected], or visit http://www.friendsofgoodwinforest.org/ ers. Meet at the Center, 218 Day Rd in Pomfret. current-programs.html or www.ct.gov/deep/goodwin • Fee: $3 CAS members; $7 non-members. • (860)928-4948 www.ctaudubon.org/pomfret-home Leffingwell House Museum Opening Day: 11 am to 4 • Sponsored by CT Audubon Pomfret Center pm, 348 Washington St. Norwich, CT. Join us for the 2018 Backpacking for Spring, Summer, and Fall with Mat Season Opening of the Leffingwell House Museum on Jobin: 10 am to noon. James L. Goodwin Conservation Saturday, April 7, 11-4pm. During your tour of the 343 Center, 23 Potter Road, Hampton CT. Join Goodwin year old building, talk with the Revolutionary sailors of Conservation Center and Reach Your Summit for a spe- the Crew of the Raven--recreators of Naval History. In the cial interactive backpacking fundamentals presentation. new Colonial Cottage Craft Room, see the home indus- Whether you are new to backpacking or a seasoned tries done by the hardworking colonial housewife. Appre- trekker, you’ll learn what is necessary to pack physically ciate the fine art of spinning wool to thread demonstrated and mentally for 3-season trips. Enjoy a show-and-tell by Janice Steinhagen . Look inside the new display cases of gear and learn tips on packing a backpack, campsite filled with early reticules in the Norwich Exhibit Room.

Enjoy the taste of the official drink of Norwich: Leffingwell Long Distance Guided Hike: noon to 3 pm, James L. Cocoa as well as other chocolate treats in honor of Chris- Goodwin Conservation Center, 23 Potter Road, Hampton topher Leffingwell’s cocoa mill located in 1790 Norwich. CT. Enjoy the company of fellow hikers and get some Watch and Learn about the candle making process. Meet great outdoor exercise. Expect a 5-7 mile hike. Goodwin Christopher Leffingwell, Patriot and entrepreneur. Guide Kat Gayson, will be taking you on this long distance • Fee: $5 hike as she points out nature tidbits here and there. All are welcome, including friendly dogs. Medicinal Weeds of Connecticut: 2-3 pm, James L. • For more information or to register: 860-455-9534 or jasper. Goodwin Conservation Center, 23 Potter Road, Hampton [email protected], or visit http://www.friendsofgoodwinforest.org/ CT. This workshop will emphasize the identification and current-programs.html or www.ct.gov/deep/goodwin use of wonderful weeds. Sample plants will be shared and weather permitting, a weed walk will be included to The Porter Farm – the Barns and Beyond: 1 – 2:30 pm, help participants recognize local ‘weeds’. Recipes will be Apr. 8, 2382 South St., Coventry, CT. Take a walk with shared and demonstrated. the Coventry Historical Society through the Porter Farm • For more information or to register: 860-455-9534 or jasper. behind our Museum the Strong Porter House and its Barn, [email protected], or visit http://www.friendsofgoodwinforest.org/ and see the recently rediscovered system of ponds, dams, current-programs.html or www.ct.gov/deep/goodwin cart path and enclosures. We are actively trying to understand how the Porter family used this part of their farm perhaps for certain steps in the production of cloth. Free APRIL 8 event. • Sponsored by Coventry Historical Society. Spectrum of Sports: 10 am to noon, Killingly High • Moderate; ½ mile; restrooms nearby; age 12+ only, rain School, Killingly. An inclusive sports clinic and resource date, April 22. fair for children of all abilities between the ages of 7 -15. • Primary Leader: Susan Way, email [email protected] Sport stations include: soccer, yoga, nutrition obstacle or call 860 712-4278 course, basketball, running and more. Parents are encouraged to stay throughout the event to check out the Favorite Hikes of CT with Jim Giana - Case Moun- Resource Vendors. Hosted by The Arc Quinebaug Valley tain-Yellow Trail: 1 -2 pm, James L. Goodwin Conserva- & NOW – Northeast Opportunities for Wellness. Register tion Center, 23 Potter Road, Hampton CT. Looking for new online at www.NOWinMotion.org. Click on Events & scroll trails in Connecticut to explore, but want to hear some to Spectrum of Sports. For more information, please con- reviews? Jim Giana has hiked all of the blue-blazed trails tact Mallory Moreau/Crystal Simonson at The Arc at 860 in Connecticut and then some. Learn what makes the 774-2827 or Kelsey Quinn/Sarah Wolfburg at NOW at 888 Yellow Trail on Case Mountain his favorite. Learn about 940-4669. Free event. the maps of the area, see photos of the view, the unique geology, interesting sights (and sites), and all the things Candlewood Hill Wildlife Management Area Hike: 10 you’ll find along the way. Jim Giana has footprints all over am to 1 pm, 1245 Gold Star Highway, Groton, CT. Look Connecticut. He turned hiking into his hobby and now for special event signs. State’s newest Wildlife Manage- is a member of the CT AMC’s 400 club, a CFPA Blue Trails ment Area, featuring scenic rock formations, cliffs, historic Challenge 400-miler, a Steep Rock 36’er, a volunteer trail quarries, granite ridges and hollows. Rare and imperiled monitor and a property steward. 44-acre pitch pine/scrub oak forest. Challenging, steep, • For more information or to register: 860-455-9534 or jasper. difficult, rocky terrain. Good balance and endurance are [email protected], or visit http://www.friendsofgoodwinforest.org/ needed. Bring hiking boots, water and snack. Unmarked current-programs.html or www.ct.gov/deep/goodwin trails cover a large area. This is a 4.5-mile hike. Heavy rain cancels. • Registration requested at [email protected]. Free event. • Sponsored by Groton Open Space Association, www. APRIL 9 gosaonline.org Mellow Mondays: Mountain Bike Ride: 5:45-7:45 pm, • Difficult; 4.5 miles, NO dogs please. Goodwin State Forest, 22 Potter Road, Hampton, CT

06247. Quiet Corner NEMBA’s Mellow Monday Mountain A Mile in My Shoes Walk: 6:30 – 7:15 pm, Buffumville Bike Ride at Goodwin State Forest in Hampton is designed Lake office, 48 Old Oxford Rd., Charlton, MA. Spring is here as a recovery ride or for those that like a slower paced and Park Ranger Jamie wouldn’t mind the company on ride. Novice riders are always welcome! This is always a a mile walk (gentle, into shape walk on top of the dam), “No Drop” ride (no one is left behind) and route/distance each Monday, Wednesday and Friday evening in April. to fit the groups. Bikes, helmets required. Be ready to roll A walking club where there will be a surprise each time at 6PM. Weekly details can be found in the posted event (nature themed informational tidbits, inspirational/moti- within the Chapter’s Group Forum on Facebook. www. vational messages along the route and/or little rewards). Facebook.com/groups/QuietCornerNEMBA No need to register, come to one or all! Free event. April • Contact Glenn Tourtellot at (401) 450-1596 13th, 16th, 18th, 20th, 23rd, 25th, 27th and 30th. For more • http://www.nemba.org/chapters/qcnemba information, please call Jamie at 508-248-5697, x399. • Restrooms nearby Sponsored by US Army Corps of Engineers • Bring bike & helmet Easy; restrooms nearby, especially for families with chil- • Sponsored by Quiet Corner NEMBA dren A Mile in My Shoes Walk: 6:30 – 7:15 pm, Buffumville Lake office, 48 Old Oxford Rd., Charlton, MA. Spring is here and Park Ranger Jamie wouldn’t mind the company on APRIL 14 a mile walk (gentle, into shape walk on top of the dam), Wildflower Walk: 9:30 – 11:00 am, Joshua’s Trust Hubbard each Monday, Wednesday and Friday evening in April. Sanctuary/Agnes’ Pasture, Chaplin. Accompany natural- A walking club where there will be a surprise each time ist Deb Field as we look for spring wildflowers. Walk is (nature themed informational tidbits, inspirational/moti- approximately 2 miles, moderate difficulty. Wear appro- vational messages along the route and/or little rewards). priate clothing for weather. Please register at activities@ No need to register, come to one or all! Free event. April joshuastrust.org. Limited to 12 participants. Please no 9th, 11th, 13th, 16th, 18th, 20th, 23rd, 25th, 27th and dogs or children under age 12. No rain date. This is the 30th. For more information, please call Jamie at 508-248- second of 5 spring wildflower walks – each one should 5697, x399. uncover different flower species depending on how • Sponsored by US Army Corps of Engineers spring unfolds this year. You are welcome to join us on • Easy; restrooms nearby, especially for families with children all or on any one of them. Please register for each one individually. • Sponsored by Joshua’s Trust APRIL 11 • Moderate, 2 miles, NO dogs please, no children under 12 A Mile in My Shoes Walk: 6:30 – 7:15 pm, Buffumville Lake office, 48 Old Oxford Rd., Charlton, MA. Spring is here Bull Hill Scenic View Hike: 10 am to 2 pm, 401 Ravenelle and Park Ranger Jamie wouldn’t mind the company on Rd., N. Grosvenordale, CT, Park on the grass shoulder on a mile walk (gentle, into shape walk on top of the dam), the east side of the road. Join TLGV Board member Janet each Monday, Wednesday and Friday evening in April. A Blanchette and Wyndham Land Trust Board member Jeff walking club where there will be a surprise each time (na- Stefanik on a hike to Bull Hill property owned by WLT ture themed informational tidbits, inspirational/motiva- in Thompson. We will hike from Ravenelle Road north tional messages along the route and/or little rewards). No through Army Corps property and then, partially along need to register, come to one or all! Free event. April 11th, roads, hike up to a scenic viewing area for lunch. Be 13th, 16th, 18th, 20th, 23rd, 25th, 27th and 30th. For more prepared for stream crossings, hills, and rocky, rooty, wet information, please call Jamie at 508-248-5697, x399. trails. Free event. • Sponsored by US Army Corps of Engineers • Sponsored by: The Last Green Valley and Wyndham Land • Easy; restrooms nearby, especially for families with children Trust. • Moderate – Difficult; 6 miles; leashed dogs welcome; bring water, lunch or a snack • Rain date: April 15 APRIL 13 • Primary Leader: Janet Blanchette, email: blanchettejanet@

Spring Outdoors is a program of The Last Green Valley and is made possible with the help our partners and members! 203B Main Street (2nd Floor), P.O. Box 29, Danielson, CT 06239-0029 P.O. Box 186, Southbridge, MA 01550 860-779-3300 Spring Outdoors 2018 gmail.com, phone: 860 923-2920 Come on out and enjoy what the great outdoors has to offer! Free event. This tour is led by Zechariah Stover, Vice Chair of the Greeneville Neighborhood Revitalization Zone Committee, and will start at the river access lot right NHS Second Saturday Tour - Nature Walk on the off the end of the 8th St. Bridge. Shetucket: 10:30 am to noon, Apr. 14, 10 Roosevelt Ave., • Especially for families with children. Norwich, CT. We will be meeting at the parking lot at the • Sponsored by: Greeneville Revitalization Zone. www.face- east end of the 8th St. Bridge. The walk is about a 1.5 mile book.com/GreenevilleNRZ round trip along the eastern bank of the Shetucket River. It is a rocky and at times wet trail so dress for hiking in the woods. We will be in the woods most of the time as it APRIL 15 only opens up at the boat portage around the Greeneville Dam. We will be focusing on the plant and animal life of Long Distance Guided Hike: Sunday, April 15th noon to the region, in the river, on the shore, and in the air above. 3 pm James L. Goodwin Conservation Center, 23 Potter Please bring your favorite ID books and an adventurous Road, Hampton CT. Enjoy the company of fellow hikers spirit. Recently we have had sightings of Salmon, Bald and get some great outdoor exercise. Goodwin Guide Eagles, and Great Blue Herons along the Shetucket River. Elaine Koza has completed all the New England 4000+ foot elevation hikes, and has hiked all the highest peaks in the 48 contiguous states. Elaine hikes with her Austra- lian Sheppard, Shalee. All are welcome, including friendly leashed dogs. • For more information or to register: 860-455-9534 or jas- [email protected], or visit http://www.friendsofgoodwinforest. org/current-programs.html or www.ct.gov/deep/goodwin

Living in Harmony - West Direction: 1-2:30 pm, James L. Goodwin Conservation Center, 23 Potter Road, Hamp- ton CT. Mohegan tribal member Chris Harris “Turtle” returns to present the third part of this series on living in harmony with Mother Earth. During this presentation, we will look at the west direction. How does the west relate to our life? Turtle will do a quick overview of the previous directions and explain how the west correlates to the medicine wheel and cycles of life and ceremony. You will learn about balance between the elements, plants and humans as represented by the symbols which Mother Earth shares with us. • For more information or to register: 860-455-9534 or jas- [email protected], or visit http://www.friendsofgoodwinforest. org/current-programs.html or www.ct.gov/deep/goodwin APRIL 16 Mellow Mondays: Mountain Bike Ride: 5:45-7:45 pm, Goodwin State Forest, 22 Potter Road, Hampton, CT 06247. Quiet Corner NEMBA’s Mellow Monday Mountain Bike Ride at Goodwin State Forest in Hampton is designed as a recovery ride or for those that like a slower

Spring Outdoors is a program of The Last Green Valley and is made possible with the help our partners and members! 203B Main Street (2nd Floor), P.O. Box 29, Danielson, CT 06239-0029 P.O. Box 186, Southbridge, MA 01550 860-779-3300 Spring Outdoors 2018 paced ride. Novice riders are always welcome! This is ter storage and protection? Then join Park Ranger Jamie always a “No Drop” ride (no one is left behind) and route/ at the gatehouse doors at 48 Old Oxford Road, Charlton distance to fit the groups. Bikes, helmets required. Be for an exclusive tour, inside and out. Rain or shine. Please ready to roll at 6PM. Weekly details can be found in the Note: There are many stairs within the tour. Questions? posted event within the Chapter’s Group Forum on Face- 508-248-5697. Free tour. book. www.Facebook.com/groups/QuietCornerNEMBA • Sponsored by: US Army Corps of Engineers http://www.nae. • Contact Glenn Tourtellot at (401) 450-1596 usace.army.mil/Missions/Recreation/Buffumville-Lake/ • http://www.nemba.org/chapters/qcnemba • Moderate; restrooms nearby, especially for families with • Restrooms nearby children; NO dogs please • Bring bike & helmet • Sponsored by Quiet Corner NEMBA A Mile in My Shoes Walk: 6:30 – 7:15 pm, Buffumville Lake office, 48 Old Oxford Rd., Charlton, MA. Spring is here A Mile in My Shoes Walk: 6:30 – 7:15 pm, Buffumville and Park Ranger Jamie wouldn’t mind the company on Lake office, 48 Old Oxford Rd., Charlton, MA. Spring is here a mile walk (gentle, into shape walk on top of the dam), and Park Ranger Jamie wouldn’t mind the company on each Monday, Wednesday and Friday evening in April. a mile walk (gentle, into shape walk on top of the dam), A walking club where there will be a surprise each time each Monday, Wednesday and Friday evening in April. A (nature themed informational tidbits, inspirational/moti- walking club where there will be a surprise each time (na- vational messages along the route and/or little rewards). ture themed informational tidbits, inspirational/motiva- No need to register, come to one or all! Free event. April tional messages along the route and/or little rewards). No 18th, 20th, 23rd, 25th, 27th and 30th. For more informa- need to register, come to one or all! Free event. April 16th, tion, please call Jamie at 508-248-5697, x399. 18th, 20th, 23rd, 25th, 27th and 30th. For more informa- • Sponsored by US Army Corps of Engineers tion, please call Jamie at 508-248-5697, x399. • Easy; restrooms nearby, especially for families with children Sponsored by US Army Corps of Engineers Easy; restrooms nearby, especially for families with children APRIL 19 Senior Walk: 10 am to 12:30 pm, James L. Goodwin APRIL 18 Conservation Center, 23 Potter Road, Hampton CT. These are easy to moderate walks taken on forest trails. They are Senior Walk: 10 am to 12:30 pm, James L. Goodwin a great opportunity to get outside, learn something new Conservation Center, 23 Potter Road, Hampton CT. These and maybe even meet a few new friends. These walks are are easy to moderate walks taken on forest trails. They are very popular, and not just for seniors! All are welcome. a great opportunity to get outside, learn something new Hiking sticks are available to borrow. and maybe even meet a few new friends. These walks are • For more information or to register: 860-455-9534 or jasper. very popular, and not just for seniors! All are welcome. [email protected], or visit http://www.friendsofgoodwinforest.org/ Hiking sticks are available to borrow. current-programs.html or www.ct.gov/deep/goodwin • For more information or to register: 860-455-9534 or jasper. [email protected], or visit http://www.friendsofgoodwinforest.org/ current-programs.html or www.ct.gov/deep/goodwin APRIL 20 School Vacation Buffumville Dam Tour: 10:30 am to A Mile in My Shoes Walk: 6:30 – 7:15 pm, April 4, Buffum- noon, Buffumville Dam, 48 Old Oxford Rd., Charlton, ville Lake office, 48 Old Oxford Rd., Charlton, MA. Spring MA. Attention Families with kids: Are you home with the is here and Park Ranger Jamie wouldn’t mind the compa- children, a daycare and/or homeschool group? We have ny on a mile walk (gentle, into shape walk on top of the tours of Buffumville Dam during School Vacation week. dam), each Monday, Wednesday and Friday evening in Would you like to know why the lake is lower in the winter April. A walking club where there will be a surprise each months? Have you ever wondered what the Park Rangers time (nature themed informational tidbits, inspirational/ do in the winter and in other seasons? Do you like to learn motivational messages along the route and/or little re- about weather and perhaps learn a little about flood wa- wards). No need to register, come to one or all! Free event.

April 20th, 23rd, 25th, 27th and 30th. For more informa- Canterbury Town-wide Cleanup: 9 am to 1 pm, Can- tion, please call Jamie at 508-248-5697, x399. terbury Town Hall, Route 14, Canterbury, CT. To brighten • Sponsored by US Army Corps of Engineers up one of the best parts of Connecticut’s Quiet Corner, • Easy; restrooms nearby, especially for families with children organizations, individuals and families are asked to participate in this opportunity to help clean-up trash along Canterbury’s roads. Trash bags will be provided, APRIL 21 please bring your own gloves. Anyone with a pickup truck or trailer (with working flashers) is asked to bring that Windham-Tolland 4-H Camp Camper Scamper 5K along. People will be designated areas to walk and collect Race/Walk and 1 Mile Kid Run: 326 Taft Pond Rd., Pom- trash alongside the road, bagging it and throwing it into fret, CT. Registration begins at 8 am, Kids Race at 9:30, the back of the truck or trailer safely. The vehicles then Adult Race starts at 10 AM, walkers start immediately after bring the trash and other items to the transfer station for runners. Professionally timed by Last Mile Race Manage- disposal. Point of contact for any questions call the Can- ment. terbury Town Hall at 860 546-9693 or Ray Shinkiewicz at • Register by April 1 to receive discount and free t-shirt. 860 546-0576. Students participating in this cleanup may • Go to www.4hcampct.org for more details and registration request Community Service Credits. Pizza and soda will be forms. provided to participants after the cleanup. Webster Recreation Cleanup: 8 am to noon, throughout •Sponsored by Canterbury Lions Club and The Last Green Webster. Join Webster Recreation as they collect trash Valley around town. Volunteers will enjoy pizza at the conclu- • Primary Leader: Ray Shinkiewicz, phone: 860 546-0576 sion of the cleanup. For more information contact Carole 2nd Annual Let’s Clean Up Holland: 9 am to noon, Hol- Marchand, Recreation Director at 508 949-3800 x 1023. land Elementary School, Holland, MA. The main objective • Sponsored by the Webster Recreation Department and The for “Let’s Clean Up Holland” event is to clean up the five Last Green Valley main roads coming in and going out of this pretty town. With greater participation, side roads can also be ad-

Spring Outdoors is a program of The Last Green Valley and is made possible with the help our partners and members! 203B Main Street (2nd Floor), P.O. Box 29, Danielson, CT 06239-0029 P.O. Box 186, Southbridge, MA 01550 860-779-3300 Spring Outdoors 2018 dressed. The second objective is to increase morale and and capable of invading high-quality, mature forests. To spirit in this community wide event and build awareness the detriment of spring wildflowers, garlic mustard quick- of the Opacum Land Trust and The Last Green Valley. The ly monopolizes resources. Its alleopathic compounds third objective is to have a fun pizza party after the clean- inhibit seed germination of other species. Pull while you up at Diane’s Villanova. learn, and help Goodwin continue its ongoing eradication • Sponsored by Opacum Land Trust and The Last Green efforts. Valley • For more information or to register: 860-455-9534 or jasper. • Primary Leader: Anne Hall, email: [email protected], [email protected], or visit http://www.friendsofgoodwinforest.org/ phone: 413-245-4197 current-programs.html or www.ct.gov/deep/goodwin

Town of Brooklyn Cleanup: 9 – 11 am, throughout Earth Day Weekend Trail and Property Clean Up: 10 Brooklyn. The Town of Brooklyn, in conjunction with its a.m. to noon and 1-3 p.m., Wolf Den Land Trust Otsby residents, is hosting a cleanup day on April 21st, begin- Memorial Forest, Opposite 83 East Old Route 6, Hamp- ning at 9 am. The cleanup will include local parks, the ton, CT. Join The Last Green Valley as we team up with center green, and several local roads. Trash bags, gloves Wolf Den Land Trust (WDLT) and members of the Eastern and pickers are available to a limited number of volun- Connecticut Forest Landowners Association to clean up teers. All are welcome. Snacks and water will be provided. the hiking trails at the Otsby Memorial Forest in Hampton. Participants will be supplied with some helpful everyday The strong winds and heavy snows of this past winter ideas to maintain Earth friendliness daily. dropped many branches on the trails and property and • Please contact Melissa Bradley at 860 779-3411 for addi- there is also considerable brush to be removed near the tional information. trail head. Two clean up sessions are being organized • Sponsored by the Town of Brooklyn and The Last Green with the first from 10 a.m. to noon, and the second from Valley 1-3 p.m. Participants are welcome to bring a lunch and stay for both sessions. We’ll supply water and snacks as Chaplin Cleanup Day: 9 am to 1 pm, throughout Chaplin. well. We’ll have people operating chainsaws and pow- The Chaplin Conservation Commission is sponsoring our ered brush cutters. Hand tools including rakes and brush annual town cleanup day. We hope you will participate cutters will be available, but you’re encouraged to bring and encourage your friends and neighbors to participate your own. Make sure to bring work gloves, wear heavy in making Chaplin an even better place to live. For the boots, and bring tick repellant. RSVP is suggested but not most up to date information, please view our web site at required. E-mail Bill Reid at [email protected] or call 860-774- http://chris.komuves.org/cleanup/ Our goal is to have as 3300. Rain Cancels. Directions: The Otsby Memorial Forest many people as possible clean up a section of road or oth- is located on East Old Rote 6 in Hampton. It is a half mile er public area in Chaplin. Sign up for at street at: http:// northwest of Route 6 in Hampton. There is a Wolf Den chris.komuves.org/misc/cleanup2018/ Land Trust sign for the tract opposite 83 East Old Route 6. • Sponsored by the Town of Chaplin and The Last Green Park along side of the road. Valley. • Sponsored by The Last Green Valley and Wolf Den land Trust

Spring Cleaning - Trail Wood Work Day: 9 a.m. 93 Phenological Walk with Carrie Crompton: 10 am to Kenyon Road, Hampton, CT 06247. Come on out to help noon, James L. Goodwin Conservation Center, 23 Potter “spruce up” Trail Wood. Bring work gloves/rakes etc. Road, Hampton CT. It’s exhilarating to hear the first return- 860-928-4948 www.ctaudubon.org/trail-wood-home ing migrant birds in our area, to see the first fiddleheads • Sponsored by CT Audubon, Pomfret Center unfurling, and the first ephemeral wildflowers blooming. Come out to Goodwin to discover the “firsts” of the Garlic Mustard Pull - Edible and Invasive with Ed season. We’ll be looking for fresh wildflower blooms, bud McGuire: 9 - 11:30 am, James L. Goodwin Conservation break in various trees and shrubs and bird arrivals on a Center, 23 Potter Road, Hampton CT. DEEP Forester Ed Mc- weekly basis. Carrie Crompton is a Master Naturalist and a Guire is here to teach you all about the edible and inva- volunteer at the Goodwin Conservation Center. sive garlic mustard while you help out Goodwin in return. • For more information or to register: 860-455-9534 or jasper. Join him as he teaches you all about this plant and will [email protected], or visit http://www.friendsofgoodwinforest.org/ guide you in an important forest management practice – current-programs.html or www.ct.gov/deep/goodwin invasive removal. Garlic mustard is highly shade-tolerant

Gardener’s Roundtable: 10 - 11:30 am, James L. Goodwin Conservation Center, 23 Potter Road, Hampton CT. This workshop is intended for gardeners of all experience levels. We share best practices and pitfalls for gardening in eastern Connecticut. These monthly workshops cover a wide-range of topics, so please come with your questions, your expertise, and your own stories of success and failure in your gardens. • For more information or to register: 860-455-9534 or jasper. [email protected], or visit http://www. friendsofgoodwinforest.org/ current-programs.html or www. ct.gov/deep/goodwin

Sprague “Clean and Green” Cleanup: 10 am to 2 pm, Grist Mill Parking Lot, Sprague, CT. The Town of Sprague will be Windham-Tolland 4-H Camp Open House: 2 – 4 pm celebrating Earth Day. We are looking for volunteers to at 326 Taft Pond Road, Pomfret, CT. Meet the director & adopt a road for cleanup. Bags and gloves will be avail- other camp staff, take a camp tour, registration materials able. Pizza will be served to all participants following the available. On Saturday the 21st, join us from 1:30pm-2pm cleanup. The Town will be offering free “Dump Day” in for an informational Parent Panel on the benefits of Wind- ham-Tolland 4-H Camp for you and your child, hosted by conjunction with this cleanup with the hope of bringing Heather Logee, Camp Director. the community together and encouraging a sense of “ownership” in keeping a cleaner town and respecting our Bicentennial Pond Universal Access Trail Official private and public property. Opening and Guided Hike: 2-4 pm, Bicentennial Pond • Sponsored by The Town of Sprague and The Last Green Recreation Area, 230 Clover Mill Rd. Mansfield, CT. Join us Valley as we celebrate the official opening of Mansfield’s Univer- • Primary Leader: Catherine Osten, phone: 860 822-3000 sal Access Trail around Bicentennial Pond. A brief ribbon cutting ceremony will be followed by a guided hike led Movie Screening - Plight of the Grassland Birds: 1 - by naturalists Sue and Tom Harrington. Funded by a CT 2:30 pm, James L. Goodwin Conservation Center, 23 Pot- DEEP Recreational Trails Program Grant, this new 0.7 trail ter Road, Hampton CT. Come watch a movie about grass- allows people of all abilities to access the natural areas land birds and their situation in our changing landscape. and fitness opportunities in Schoolhouse Brook Park. The Grassland birds are in fast decline throughout the country. Bicentennial Pond Recreation Area is situated in Mans- This movie explores efforts to protect the birds and their field’s 455- acre Schoolhouse Brook Park and is the site of habitats. Joanne Warren, a Goodwin Master Naturalist, will numerous recreational and educational activities including swimming, hiking, nature study, and Camp Mansfield. briefly discuss her efforts to help protect bobolinks in our In addition to the trail, there are two outdoor classroom local area. areas, a fishing pier, and an accessible playground. • For more information or to register: 860-455-9534 or jasper. • For more information, contact the Mansfield Parks and [email protected], or visit http://www.friendsofgoodwinforest.org/ Recreation Department at 860-429-3015 current-programs.html or www.ct.gov/deep/goodwin

Healthy Kids Day: 2-5 pm, Hale YMCA, Youth & Family [email protected] Center, 9 Technology Park Drive, Putnam. Are the kids in your life already dreaming about summer? When Kids are Trees on Woodstock Hill: 10:30 to noon, Palmer Arbore- inspired, they can do anything. Let’s awaken their imagi- tum, 523 Scenic Rte. 169, Woodstock, CT. Tour the beauti- nation so they can explore new activities and healthy hab- ful trees, shrubs and flowers of historic Palmer Arboretum its. Activities include a bounce house, baby lambs, water (1914) and discover what’s new as the restoration of this safety demos, martial arts demos, chair massages, vision small park continues. Walk up the road to see the variety screening and healthy snacks. of trees planted on the Woodstock Common starting with • Sponsored by Hale YMCA, Youth and Family Center Roseland Cottage’s Mr. Bowen and then the Woodstock Beautification Committee. • 860-974-2770, website www.townofwoodstock.com/ thingstodo APRIL 22 • Time/Distance: 1.5 hours, 1 mile Wood Works Fair: 10 am to 4 pm, 28 Bridge St. Williman- • Sponsored by: Palmer Arboretum, Town of Woodstock. tic, CT. This will be a fun and fund-raising event. Commer- www.townofwoodstock.com cial, conservation, education, recreational, creative efforts • Difficulty: Moderate. Key(s): Restrooms nearby. Leashed dogs ok. with forests, trees, wood as follows: Portable sawmill, children using tools, “How to Build a Campfire”, axe throw- The Last Green Valley’s Acorn Adventure, Sun Spots ing, “Beavers as woodcutters”, two-man saw competition, and More!: April 15, 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., West Thomp- build a bat or bird house, Windham County’s Charter son Dam. Spend some time with Geoff McLean, a volun- Oak history, hybrid chestnut seedlings for sale and more. teer TLGV Ranger and NASA Solar System Ambassador, Demonstrations of woodworking of all kinds including examining our closest star. We will view the Sun in normal chain saw carving, representatives from tree farms/land light looking for currently elusive sun spots and also in trusts/ nature groups. Also, vendors/crafters selling a the Hydrogen Alpha spectrum where you can see flares, variety of wood-related products. Free event with items prominences, Ellerman bombs, and other phenomena. available for purchase. Geoff will speak on safety concerning solar viewing, the •Sponsored by Willimantic Whitewater Partnership. www. life of our star, what it does, how it compares to other willimanticwhitewater.org stars, and how it will end. What is Earth’s future going to • Easy; restrooms nearby; wheelchair accessible; NO dogs, be like? If there are sunspots (and the sun is currently especially for families with children • Primary Leader: Faith Kenton, phone: 860 456-0817, email: at its sunspot minimum) make a drawing of it and learn about Greenwich Mean Time and Universal Time as well as latitude and longitude — i.e. where you are on the Earth. We’ll also talk about NASA’s solar projects and space tele- scopes. • Email [email protected] or call 860-774-3300 with questions. • Sponsored by The Last Green Valley and McLean Research.

“Spring Outdoors” Salamander Story Walk led by TLGV Ranger Marcy Dawley: 1 – 2:30 at Windham County 4-H Outdoor Center, 326 Taft Pond Rd., Pomfret, CT. Meet at the lodge and listen to the book “Big Night for Salamanders”. Then walk the blue trail and look for live squirmy salamanders too! Return for snacks, Acorn stickers , talking about what we love about being outside, and a craft to take home. Dress for the weather and bring a friend, free, all ages welcome, but no dogs please. • Call 860-377-5652 for questions.

The Apiary Series - Spring to Fall Hive: Sunday, April

22nd, 1 - 2:30 pm, James L. Goodwin Conservation Center, Goodwin State Forest, 22 Potter Road, Hampton, CT 23 Potter Road, Hampton CT. Continuing on with what 06247. Quiet Corner NEMBA’s Mellow Monday Mountain you learned in the winter ones, learn “what’s next” for your Bike Ride at Goodwin State Forest in Hampton is designed hive. This program is part of a year-long series that will as a recovery ride or for those that like a slower paced teach you all you need to know about keeping bees. Dave ride. Novice riders are always welcome! This is always a Gilbert joins us again as he teaches you spring and fall “No Drop” ride (no one is left behind) and route/distance management of your hive. to fit the groups. Bikes, helmets required. Be ready to roll • For more information or to register: 860-455-9534 or jasper. at 6PM. Weekly details can be found in the posted event [email protected], or visit http://www.friendsofgoodwinforest.org/ within the Chapter’s Group Forum on Facebook. www. current-programs.html or www.ct.gov/deep/goodwin Facebook.com/groups/QuietCornerNEMBA • Contact Glenn Tourtellot at (401) 450-1596 Windham-Tolland 4-H Camp Open House: from 2 – 4 • http://www.nemba.org/chapters/qcnemba PM at 326 Taft Pond Road, Pomfret, CT. Meet the director • Restrooms nearby & other camp staff, take a camp tour, registration materi- • Bring bike & helmet als available. On Saturday the 21st, join us from 1:30pm- • Sponsored by Quiet Corner NEMBA 2pm for an informational Parent Panel on the benefits of Windham-Tolland 4-H Camp for you and your child, A Mile in My Shoes Walk: 6:30 – 7:15 pm, Buffumville hosted by Heather Logee, Camp Director. Lake office, 48 Old Oxford Rd., Charlton, MA. Spring is here and Park Ranger Jamie wouldn’t mind the company on a mile walk (gentle, into shape walk on top of the dam), APRIL 23 each Monday, Wednesday and Friday evening in April. A walking club where there will be a surprise each time Mellow Mondays: Mountain Bike Ride: 5:45-7:45 pm,

(nature themed informational tidbits, inspirational/moti- • Easy; restrooms nearby, especially for families with children vational messages along the route and/or little rewards). No need to register, come to one or all! Free event. April 23rd, 25th, 27th and 30th. For more information, please APRIL 28 call Jamie at 508-248-5697, x399. • Sponsored by US Army Corps of Engineers Andover Conservation Cleanup: 9 – 11:30 a.m., through- • Easy; restrooms nearby, especially for families with children out Andover. The Town of Andover will be holding an annual cleanup of the roadsides and Rail Trail on April 28th beginning at 9 am. Groups of volunteers will spread out APRIL 25 throughout town to collect trash. Families are welcome to come and help out. A Mile in My Shoes Walk: 6:30 – 7:15 pm, Buffumville • Sponsored by the Town of Andover and The Last Green Lake office, 48 Old Oxford Rd., Charlton, MA. Spring is here Valley and Park Ranger Jamie wouldn’t mind the company on a mile walk (gentle, into shape walk on top of the dam), Nature Sketchbook Journaling: 9 am to noon, Grassland each Monday, Wednesday and Friday evening in April. A Bird Conservation Center, 218 Day Road, Pomfret Center, walking club where there will be a surprise each time (na- CT. Spend time outdoors on the sanctuary, sketching ture themed informational tidbits, inspirational/motiva- and painting nature. Roxanne Steed will teach drawing tional messages along the route and/or little rewards). No and watercolor techniques. Fee: $10 CAS members; $20 need to register, come to one or all! Free event. April 25th, non-members. Call 860-928-4948 to register and for list of 27th and 30th. For more information, please call Jamie at materials to bring. • (860)928-4948 www.ctaudubon.org/pomfret-home 508-248-5697, x399. • Sponsored by CT Audubon Pomfret Center • Sponsored by US Army Corps of Engineers. • Easy; restrooms nearby, especially for families with children Wildflower Walk: 9:30 – 11 am, Joshua’s Trust Hubbard Sanctuary/Agnes’ Pasture, Chaplin. Accompany naturalist Deb Field as we look for spring wildflowers. Walk is APRIL 27 approximately 2 miles, moderate difficulty. Wear appro- Virginia Rail Bird Walk: 6 pm, Grassland Bird Conser- priate clothing for weather. Please register at activities@ vation Center, 218 Day Road, Pomfret Center, CT 06259. joshuastrust.org. Limited to 12 participants. Please no We will set out with the goal of hearing and observing a dogs or children under age 12. No rain date. This is the Virginia Rail, along with other bird species. Meet at the third of 5 spring wildflower walks – each one should un- Center, 218 Day Rd in Pomfret. cover different flower species depending on how spring • Fee: $5 CAS members; $10 non-members. unfolds this year. You are welcome to join us on all or on • (860)928-4948 www.ctaudubon.org/pomfret-home any one of them. Please register for each one individually. • Sponsored by CT Audubon Pomfret Center • Sponsored by Joshua’s Trust • Moderate, 2 miles, NO dogs please, no children under 12 A Mile in My Shoes Walk: 6:30 – 7:15 pm, Buffumville Lake office, 48 Old Oxford Rd., Charlton, MA. Spring is here Groton Open Space 21st Annual Cleanup Day: 10 am and Park Ranger Jamie wouldn’t mind the company on to 2 pm, Haley Farm State Park, Groton, CT. Groton Open a mile walk (gentle, into shape walk on top of the dam), Space Association will hold its 21st annual cleanup day each Monday, Wednesday and Friday evening in April. event at Haley Farm State Park with additional cleanups A walking club where there will be a surprise each time at Veeb Cove Vista, Candlewood Hill State Wildlife Man- (nature themed informational tidbits, inspirational/moti- agement Area, Candlewood Ridge, Avery Far, Sheep Farm, vational messages along the route and/or little rewards). and the Merritt Family Forest. Come and help with this No need to register, come to one or all! Free event. April huge undertaking to clear trails and remove trash, inva- 27th and 30th. For more information, please call Jamie at sive vines and pet waste. Food and drink will be provided 508-248-5697, x399. after the cleanup. • Sponsored by US Army Corps of Engineers • Sponsored by Groton Open Space Association and The Last

Green Valley lake is lower in the winter months? Have you ever won- • Primary Leader: Joan Smith, email: dsmith0705@sbcglobal. dered what the Park Rangers do in the winter and in other net, phone: 860 536-9811 seasons? Do you like to learn about weather and perhaps learn a little about flood water storage and protection? Earth Day at Horizon Wings: 10 am to 3 pm, 9 Sand Hill Then join Park Ranger Jamie to learn all about it. Rd, Ashford, CT 06278. Join Horizon Wings to celebrate Meet at the gate house doors (48 Old Oxford Road, Charl- Earth Day. We will have tours of the aviaries, 2 formal ton) for an exclusive tour, inside and out. Rain or shine. programs with our eagles and newest ambassadors. Meet Please Note: There are many stairs within the tour. Ques- a porcupine, a little brown bat and more! We will offer kids tions? 508-248-5697. Free tour. crafts, owl pellet dissection at our education station and • Sponsored by: US Army Corps of Engineers http://www.nae. music by local artist Bruce John. Food and drink available usace.army.mil/Missions/Recreation/Buffumville-Lake/ also. For more information see our website www.horizon- • Moderate; restrooms nearby, especially for families with wings.org. children; NO dogs please • Fee: $7 Adults $4 Children and seniors Under 4 free • On street parking Youth Series - Discover Goodwin’s Vernal Pools: 1 -3 • Restrooms nearby pm, James L. Goodwin Conservation Center, 23 Potter • Especially for families with children Road, Hampton CT. Join Master Naturalists Lynn Kochiss • NO dogs please and guest expert Jim Bancroft on a vernal pool quest! Af- • For information call (860) 429-2181 or visit https://www. ter a brief indoor introduction on frogs, salamanders, fairy horizonwings.org shrimp and their habitats, we’ll venture outside to explore • Sponsored by Horizon Wings the vernal pools at Goodwin. Equipped with nets, buck- ets, and magnifiers, we’ll collect and examine a variety of Phenological Walks with Carrie Crompton: 10 am to critters. noon, James L. Goodwin Conservation Center, 23 Potter • All children must be accompanied by an adult. Road, Hampton CT. It’s exhilarating to hear the first return- • Registration is Required ing migrant birds in our area, to see the first fiddleheads • For more information or to register: 860-455-9534 or jasper. unfurling, and the first ephemeral wildflowers bloom- [email protected], or visit http://www.friendsofgoodwinforest.org/ ing. Come out to Goodwin to discover the “firsts” of the current-programs.html or www.ct.gov/deep/goodwin season. We’ll be looking for fresh wildflower blooms, bud May Pole Celebration: 2 – 4 pm, Atwood Farm, 624 break in various trees and shrubs and bird arrivals. Carrie Wormwood Hill Road, Mansfield Center, CT. May Pole cel- Crompton is a Master Naturalist with the Goodwin Con- ebration. Come join the Mansfield Middle School fiddlers servation Center. and the community as the headquarters of Joshua’s Trust, • For more information or to register: 860-455-9534 or jasper. Atwood Farm, as we celebrate May. We’ll dance around [email protected], or visit http://www.friendsofgoodwinforest.org/ the May Pole, make May baskets and wind socks. Families current-programs.html or www.ct.gov/deep/goodwin APRIL 29 Beginners Bird Walk: 8 am, Grassland Bird Conservation Center, 218 Day Road, Pomfret Center, CT. If you are new to bird watching this is a good weekend to start! Some of the colorful spring birds are back and the leaves aren’t out yet. Meet at the Center, 218 Day Rd in Pomfret. • Fee: $5 CAS members; $10 non-members. • (860)928-4948 www.ctaudubon.org/pomfret-home • Sponsored by CT Audubon Pomfret Center

Buffumville Dam Tour: 1 – 2 pm, Buffumville Dam, 48 Old Oxford Rd., Charlton, MA. Would you like to know why the

Spring Outdoors is a program of The Last Green Valley and is made possible with the help our partners and members! 203B Main Street (2nd Floor), P.O. Box 29, Danielson, CT 06239-0029 P.O. Box 186, Southbridge, MA 01550 860-779-3300 Spring Outdoors 2018 welcome. Free event. • Sponsored by Joshua’s Trust and Mansfield Middle School MAY 1 • Easy, especially for families with children Early Morning Bird Walks: 8 am, Grassland Bird Con- servation Center, 218 Day Road, Pomfret Center, CT. With access to over 1,650 acres of land, we will seek out a vari- APRIL 30 ety of bird species. Wear drab colored clothing and bring Mellow Mondays: Mountain Bike Ride: 5:45-7:45 pm, binoculars. Meet at the Center, 218 Day Rd in Pomfret. Goodwin State Forest, 22 Potter Road, Hampton, CT • Information: 860-928-4948, www.ctaudubon.org/pom- 06247. Quiet Corner NEMBA’s Mellow Monday Mountain fret-home Bike Ride at Goodwin State Forest in Hampton is designed • Free to CAS members; $5 non-members. as a recovery ride or for those that like a slower paced • Sponsored by Connecticut Audubon – Pomfret Center ride. Novice riders are always welcome! This is always a 8th Grade Riverside Park Cleanup: 11:30 am to 2 pm, “No Drop” ride (no one is left behind) and route/distance Riverside Park, Thompson, CT. Each Spring the 8th grade to fit the groups. Bikes, helmets required. Be ready to roll students and their teachers from Thompson Middle at 6PM. Weekly details can be found in the posted event School volunteer a half day to help with the park cleanup. within the Chapter’s Group Forum on Facebook. www. St. Joseph’s students may also join in. The students focus Facebook.com/groups/QuietCornerNEMBA on Riverside Park and Heritage Way Park along the French • Contact Glenn Tourtellot at (401) 450-1596 River. These two parks are heavily used by area residents • http://www.nemba.org/chapters/qcnemba • Restrooms nearby and usually by Spring are in need of a good sprucing up. • Bring bike & helmet • Sponsored by Thompson Recreation Department • Sponsored by Quiet Corner NEMBA • Primary Leader: Angela Newell, email: recreationdirector@ thompsonct.org, phone: 860 923-8440 A Mile in My Shoes Walk: 6:30 – 7:15 pm, Buffumville • Rain Date: May 3. Lake office, 48 Old Oxford Rd., Charlton, MA. Spring is here Toddler Trails and Tales: 1 – 2 pm, Grassland Bird and Park Ranger Jamie wouldn’t mind the company on Conservation Center, 218 Day Road, Pomfret Center, CT. a mile walk (gentle, into shape walk on top of the dam), Volunteer and mom of three, Melissa Telford will entertain each Monday, Wednesday and Friday evening in April. A your toddlers with stories, activities and fun along our walking club where there will be a surprise each time (na- trails. Wear clothes and boots appropriate for the weather. ture themed informational tidbits, inspirational/motiva- All children must be accompanied by an adult. Meet at tional messages along the route and/or little rewards). No the Center, 218 Day Rd in Pomfret. need to register, come to one or all! Free event. For more • Information: 860-928-4948, www.ctaudubon.org/pom- information, please call Jamie at 508-248-5697, x399. fret-home • Sponsored by US Army Corps of Engineers • Fee per child/per day: $5 CAS members; $7 non-members • Easy; restrooms nearby, especially for families with children • Sponsored by Connecticut Audubon – Pomfret Center Full Pink Moon Night Hike: 7:30 - 8:30pm, James L. Goodwin Conservation Center, 23 Potter Road, Hamp- ton CT. Let the full moon guide your path as you take a MAY 2 night hike at Goodwin State Forest. Goodwin Guide Kat Wednesday Noon Walks: Noon, Grassland Bird Conser- Gayson will be taking you on a moonlit journey through vation Center, 218 Day Road, Pomfret Center, CT. Join the forest to bear witness to the changes in nature from our volunteers for fresh air, exercise, good company and day to night. Join us for hot chocolate afterwards. Bring naturalist lessons along the way. Seniors and parents with a headlamp or flashlight if desired, they are not necessary. babes in backpacks welcome. Meet at the Center, 218 Day Please dress appropriately for the weather. Rd in Pomfret. • For more information or to register: 860-455-9534 or jasper. • Information: 860-928-4948, www.ctaudubon.org/pom- [email protected], or visit http://www.friendsofgoodwinforest.org/ fret-home current-programs.html or www.ct.gov/deep/goodwin • Free to CAS members; $3 non-members. • Sponsored by Connecticut Audubon – Pomfret Center

Preserve, Lebanon. Accompany birders Mike Curtis and MAY 3 Dave Parry as we look for potential breeding and migrat- ing species in this habitat. Walk is approximately 2 miles, Invasives in Your Yard/What to Plant Instead: 6:30 – easy. Bring binoculars. Wear appropriate clothing for the 7:30 pm, 30 Howarth Rd., Oxford, MA. Would you like to weather. Please no dogs or children under age 10. Please know more about non-native species of plants, shrubs register at [email protected]. Limited to 12 par- and trees and why some of them are not good for your ticipants. backyard? We can then help you to choose indigenous • Easy, 2 mile, No dogs please, no children under 10. shrubs and how to create a wild area for the birds, bees • Sponsored by Joshua’s Trust and butterflies (pollinators). Join Park Rangers Nicole and • Primary Leader: Mike Curtis, email: activities@joshuastrust. Jamie at Hodges Village Dam at 6:30 pm. Seating is limit- org ed to 20, so please R.S.V.P- 508-248-5697 or nicole.c.giles@ • Rain date May 6. usace.army.mil . There will be light refreshments and door prizes. Families with children encouraged and welcome. Trail Wood Bird Walks: 8 am, 93 Kenyon Road, Hampton, Free event. CT. Join Andy as he points out various birds at Trail Wood • Sponsored by US Army Corps of Engineers http://www.nae. and a nearby preserve. Meet in the parking lot at 93 Ken- usace.army.mil/Missions/Recreation/Hodges-Village-Dam/ yon Rd in Hampton. • Easy; restrooms nearby, wheelchair accessible, especially for • 860-928-4948 www.ctaudubon.org/trail-wood-home families with children, NO dogs please • Free to CAS members; $5 non-members. • Sponsored by Connecticut Audubon – Pomfret Center

Bird & Habitat Program at Morneau Farm: 8 a.m., MAY 4 Southbridge, MA; prompt start; private property; pre-registration required. Forester and Opacum Land Trust Board 64th Annual Windham County 4-H Auction & Tag Sale: member Scott Gerrish will lead this tour of 120-acre at Windham County 4-H Outdoor Center, 326 Taft Pond managed forest on a private property in Southbridge. Rd, Pomfret, CT. Auction starts at 6 PM both nights, pre- Scott will highlight key features of the property, especially view at 5 PM, unique and antique goods and services, live the diversity of habitat being created through Opacum’s plants, tickets to events and venues for the whole family. management practices. Scott is trained in the Forest- Early bird buy to 3,500 square feet of bargains at the Tag ers For The Birds Program, a program originating from Sale - $5.00/person from 10:30 – 12:00 on Friday, May 4 Vermont Audubon, which trains foresters to assess the ($5/person). Tag Sale open to all from 12:00 – 5:00 on existing bird habitat in a forest, make recommendations Friday and 9:00 – 5:00 on Saturday. Mary’s Kitchen open for improvement, and plan out bird-friendly management during all open hours both days. strategies. Empowering landowners to manage for birds is important because about 75% or our forests are privately First Fridays Mill Town Mosaics - Polish-American Heri- owned. Therefore, enabling management on these lands can greatly impact the conservation of our forest birds. tage: 6-9 p.m., Downtown Putnam, CT. For the 8th season Opacum’s goal with the Morneau woodlands is to demon- of First Fridays, The Putnam Business Association invites strate how to effectively manage wooded land to improve the public to celebrate the mosaic of diverse local history the quality of habitat for birds and other wildlife, while and culture with a celebration of Northeastern Connecti- improving the value of the timber at the same time. cut’s mill towns. Eat, shop, stroll, listen to live music and • The tour will cover a couple miles of woods roads, including meet artists all while celebrating the mosaic of cultures hills and some moderately rough terrain. Please plan accord- the mill towns attracted! May’s theme is Polish-American ingly. Heritage. • No restrooms; no dogs please, children welcome if they are • Sponsored by the Putnam Business Association capable of handling terrain; not wheelchair accessible. • Sponsored by Opacum Land Trust, OpacumLT.org, 508-347- 9144 • Directions to the property will be provided to registrants MAY 5 only. Please call or email us with your contact information at Bird Walk: 8 – 10 am, Joshua’s Trust Pigeon Swamp [email protected].

10th Annual Putnam Beautification Day: 8:30 am to ing migrant birds in our area, to see the first fiddleheads noon, Rotary Park, Putnam, CT. If you LOVE Putnam, help unfurling, and the first ephemeral wildflowers blooming. us clean our parks, streets and public places. School Come out to Goodwin to discover the “firsts” of the sea- groups, business organizations, fraternal clubs, civic clubs, son. On a weekly basis we’ll be looking for fresh wildflow- sports teams, families and individuals. EVERYONE IS NEED- er blooms, bud break in various trees, and bird arrivals. ED AND WELCOME. TROPHIES AWARDED TOO! Volunteers Carrie Crompton is a Master Naturalist and a volunteer at please meet at Rotary Park at 8:30 am to get trash bags, Goodwin Conservation Center. gloves, water, snacks and maps of their assigned area. • For more information or to register: 860-455-9534 or jasper. Town trucks and/or dumpsters will be strategically locat- [email protected], or visit http://www.friendsofgoodwinforest.org/ ed throughout the downtown area. Trash will be collected current-programs.html or www.ct.gov/deep/goodwin in the downtown area of Putnam, and brush cleared. The Opening Day at the Connecticut Eastern Railroad Mu- cleanup will be followed by a picnic lunch. For any ques- seum: 10 am to 3 p.m., Bridge Street, Willimantic CT (Drive tions on volunteering, or to RSVP please contact Delpha down the gravel road). Enjoy displays, demonstrations, Very at [email protected] or 860 963-6834. handcar rides, photo opportunities, picnic area a chil- • Sponsored by Putnam Business Association and The Last dren’s play area and more. There will also be the opportu- Green Valley. • Primary Leader: Karen Osbrey, email: kareno@winyradio. nity to take a 1.5-mile train ride for an additional fee. com, phone: 860 928-1350 • Admission is $7 for adults, $3 children 8-12; under 8 free. • Train ride is $3 for adults and $2 for children Community Cleanup Day: 9 am to 1 pm, Historic Down- • Sponsored by the Connecticut Eastern Railroad Musuem, town Norwich, Norwich, CT. The cleanup will take place www.cteastrrmuseum.org on from 9am to 1pm followed by a volunteer outdoor Opening Day at Huntington Homestead Museum: picnic. Local civic groups will be involved with the clean- 11:30 am, Huntington Homestead Museum, 35 Hunting- up. The Community Rotary Core, Dime Bank Blue Crew, ton RD (Route 14), Scotland, CT. Enjoy cider donuts on Norwich Creates and the Mayor’s Office will be amongst Opening Day. New sign will be unveiled with TLGV thanks the volunteers. Youth engagement will include the Bully to their grant. Free. Busters of Norwich. Come and join them. • www.huntingtonhomestead.org • Sponsored by Norwich Community Development, Foundry • Sponsored by Huntington Homestead Museum 66, Norwich Creates, First Friday Commission and The Last Green Valley The Provision State During the American Revolution: • Primary Leader: Jill Fritzsche, email: jfritzsche@askncdc. 1 pm am, Huntington Homestead Museum, 35 Hunting- com, phone: 860-908-2497 ton RD (Route 14), Scotland, CT. Despite being one of the Candlewood Ridge Trail Building: 10 am to noon, Larch- smaller states, Connecticut played a huge role in our War mont Terrace, Groton, CT. Family friendly trail building for Independence. Inventiveness of our people, industry, work party to enhance a half mile section of trail crossing and government helped pave the way to a remarkable rugged terrain by removing new growth and building victory against the superpower of the 18th century. A 45 brush pikes to improve habitat. Hand tools and light pow- minute power point presentation by Dragoon member, er tools will be provided. Organizations, service and youth Eric Chandler. Hearth popped corn and tours of the 1720 group welcome. Free event. birthplace available afterward. • $4 per person, children 12 and under free, members free. • Please register at: 860 536-9811 or dsmith0705@sbcglobal. • www.huntingtonhomestead.org net • Sponsored by Huntington Homestead Museum • Sponsored by Groton Open Space Association, www.gosaonline.org 64th Annual Windham County 4-H Auction & Tag Sale: • Moderate; NO dogs please at Windham County 4-H Outdoor Center, 326 Taft Pond Phenological Walk with Carrie Crompton: 10:00am to Rd, Pomfret, CT. Auction starts at 6 pm both nights, pre- noon, James L. Goodwin Conservation Center, 23 Potter view at 5 PM, unique and antique goods and services, live Road, Hampton CT. It’s exhilarating to hear the first return- plants, tickets to events and venues for the whole family. Early bird buy to 3,500 square feet of bargains at the Tag

Sale - $5.00/person from 10:30 – 12:00 on Friday, May 4 Road, Hampton, CT. Alison Davis will lead this workshop. ($5/person). Tag Sale open to all from 12:00 – 5:00 on The group will explore the amazing natural life at Trail Friday and 9:00 – 5:00 on Saturday. Mary’s Kitchen open Wood and write about their experiences. Bring a note- during all open hours both days. book and pencil. Meet in the parking lot at 93 Kenyon Rd in Hampton. Explore the Dark Side: 8 -11 p.m. Holton Rd., Franklin, CT. • 860-928-4948 www.ctaudubon.org/trail-wood-home Sprague Land Trust property on Holton Road in Franklin. • Fee: $10 CAS members; $20 non-members. Directions/Parking: From Baltic take 207 West, right onto • Sponsored by Connecticut Audubon – Pomfret Center Holton Rd. (before the Franklin School), drive almost to end. Parking on left in mowed field/marked areas. Expect this! Join Rangers Kim and Geoff for a night observing some far distant objects like galaxies, clusters of stars, Red MAY 7 Giants, Nebulae. We might be able to view Jupiter. If you Mellow Mondays: Mountain Bike Ride: 5:45-7:45 pm, have a telescope - bring it. If you don’t know how to use Goodwin State Forest, 22 Potter Road, Hampton, CT it come early and we’ll help get you get started. (We’ll be there about 7PM.) Learn how to find the North Star. We 06247. Quiet Corner NEMBA’s Mellow Monday Mountain talk about - and answer - all kinds of astronomical trivia Bike Ride at Goodwin State Forest in Hampton is designed while we observe. This is a family friendly event. Please - as a recovery ride or for those that like a slower paced no lanterns and flashlights should be only be red lights. ride. Novice riders are always welcome! This is always a No white lights. Questions? 860-774-3300. “No Drop” ride (no one is left behind) and route/distance • Sponsored by: The Last Green Valley and McLean Research to fit the groups. Bikes, helmets required. Be ready to roll Associates. at 6PM. Weekly details can be found in the posted event • www.thelastgreenvalley.org & http://mcleanresearch.com within the Chapter’s Group Forum on Facebook. www. Facebook.com/groups/QuietCornerNEMBA • Contact Glenn Tourtellot at (401) 450-1596 MAY 6 • http://www.nemba.org/chapters/qcnemba • Restrooms nearby A Connecticut Medicinal Herb Garden: Growing and • Bring bike & helmet Using Plants for Home Grown Health: 1-3 pm, James L. • Sponsored by Quiet Corner NEMBA Goodwin Conservation Center, 23 Potter Road, Hampton CT. This presentation will focus on gardening with plants that have medicinal uses. In Connecticut we can grow MAY 8 a large number of perennial herbs in small and large spaces, including pots. Using herbs for nutrition, illness Early Morning Bird Walks: 8 am, Grassland Bird Con- prevention and intervention at home can be easy and is servation Center, 218 Day Road, Pomfret Center, CT. With something families have done for generations. Debra will access to over 1,650 acres of land, we will seek out a vari- illustrate some of the safest and easiest ways to use the ety of bird species. Wear drab colored clothing and bring plants we grow and that also grow around us as “weeds”. binoculars. Meet at the Center, 218 Day Rd in Pomfret. Examples will be provided both through visual media, • Information: 860-928-4948, www.ctaudubon.org/pomfret-home plants and products. Handouts will be available. Debra • Free to CAS members; $5 non-members. Hultgren is a retired public school educator and admin- • Sponsored by Connecticut Audubon – Pomfret Center istrator. She is a practicing community herbalist and a master gardener. She grows, harvests and prepares plant Toddler Trails and Tales: 1 – 2 pm, Grassland Bird foods and medicines and teaches others how to include Conservation Center, 218 Day Road, Pomfret Center, CT. these healing traditions in their own lives. Volunteer and mom of three, Melissa Telford will entertain • For more information or to register: 860-455-9534 or jasper. your toddlers with stories, activities and fun along our [email protected], or visit http://www.friendsofgoodwinforest.org/ trails. Wear clothes and boots appropriate for the weather. current-programs.html or www.ct.gov/deep/goodwin All children must be accompanied by an adult. Meet at the Center, 218 Day Rd in Pomfret. A Long Stillness – Writing Workshop: 2 pm, 93 Kenyon • Information: 860-928-4948, www.ctaudubon.org/pom-

fret-home lies! Come join Master Naturalist Lynn Kochiss to see the • Fee per child/per day: $5 CAS members; $7 non-members Goodwin garden waking up! We will see what is bloom- • Sponsored by Connecticut Audubon – Pomfret Center ing and learn about the pollinators helping our garden. Inclement weather cancels. Please call if the program is in question. MAY 9 • To register, visit: www.friendsofgoodwinforest.org/homeschool Bird Watch for Folks with Limited Mobility: 8 am, • $10 per child for non-members/$5 per child FGF and CFPA Grassland Bird Conservation Center, 218 Day Road, Pom- member fret Center, CT. Andy will lead the group by car, from the • Registration and payment due 1 week prior to each pro- Center at 218 Day Rd in Pomfret, to various locations to gram. observe numerous bird species from the road. If you’ve • Sponsored by Friends of Goodwin Forest and Connecticut been reluctant to go on a bird walk due to limited mobili- Forest and Park Association ty, this is your opportunity. He will call the birds to you! • Register at 860-928-4948. • Fee: $5 CAS members; $10 non-members. Wednesday Noon Walks: Noon, Grassland Bird Conser- • Sponsored by Connecticut Audubon – Pomfret Center vation Center, 218 Day Road, Pomfret Center, CT. Join Homeschool Program - Spring Flowers & Pollinators: our volunteers for fresh air, exercise, good company and naturalist lessons along the way. Seniors and parents with 10 am to noon, James L. Goodwin Conservation Center, 23 babes in backpacks welcome. Meet at the Center, 218 Day Potter Road, Hampton CT. Calling all homeschool fami- Rd in Pomfret.

• Information: 860-928-4948, www.ctaudubon.org/pom- Sheep Farm Hike: 10 am to noon, 255 Hazelnut Hill Rd., fret-home Groton, CT. Look for special event signs. Family friendly • Free to CAS members; $3 non-members. 1.5-mile hike through scenic fields and forest featuring • Sponsored by Connecticut Audubon – Pomfret Center diverse wildlife habitats, rocky outcroppings, waterfalls, historic foundations and grist mill site. Some hill climbing. Bring sturdy shoes, water and snack. Free event. MAY 12 • Registration requested: 860 536-9811 or dsmith0705@ sbcglobal.net Bird Walk: 8 am, Grassland Bird Conservation Center, 218 • Sponsored by Groton Open Space Association www.gosa- Day Road, Pomfret Center, CT. Peak migration is near this onine.org time. Meet at the Center, 218 Day Rd in Pomfret. • Easy; 1.5 mile, especially for families with children; NO dogs • Information: 860-928-4948, www.ctaudubon.org/pom- please. fret-home • Fee: $5 CAS members; $10 non-members. Aaron Dwight Stevens Norwichtown Green Walk: 10- • Sponsored by Connecticut Audubon – Pomfret Center 11 am, Norwichtown Green on East Town Street, Norwich CT. The walk reoccurs May 19 and 26. In October of 1859, Mountain Bike Ride at Goodwin State Forest: 9 am to Norwich raised, Aaron Dwight Stevens, along with John noon, 23 Potter Rd, Hampton, CT 06247. Quiet Corner NEMBA will lead guided mountain bike rides through Brown, led an historic raid at Harper’s Ferry, Virginia, and Goodwin State Forest’s trails in Hampton, CT. These rides woke the Nation up to a new day in our history which was are open to all levels. Groups will be divided to cater to the impetus to put an end to slavery. That, however, was various experience levels. All welcome, including families only a part of Dwight’s adventurous life. He fought in the & beginners. Bike & helmet required. For more info: find War against Mexico, with the elite Dragoons in New Mexi- us on Facebook, visit www.nemba.org/chapters/qcnemba co, and against the pro-slavery factions in “Bloody Kansas.” or contact [email protected]. Those adventures, along with the love of two beautiful • Easy women, made his short life an almost unbelievable but • Moderate very true story. Tom Coletti and Vic Butsch, authors of A • Difficult Journey to the Gallows, would be pleased to share some • Restrooms nearby • NO dogs please of Dwight’s amazing story with you. The tour is complete- • Bring bike & helmet ly centered close to young Dwight’s home, church and • (860) 983-6551 school at the Norwichtown Green, and will take one hour. • Sponsored by Quiet Corner NEMBA, http://www.nemba. Feel free to bring a portable folding chair if you wish. org/chapters/qcnemba • Restrooms nearby • Wheelchair accessible Wildflower Walk: 9:30 – 11 am, Joshua’s Trust Hubbard • Sponsored by The Norwich Historical Society Sanctuary/Agnes’ Pasture, Chaplin. Accompany naturalist Deb Field as we look for spring Phenological Walk with Carrie Crompton: 10 am to wildflowers. Walk is approximately 2 miles, moderate noon, James L. Goodwin Conservation Center, 23 Potter difficulty. Wear appropriate clothing for weather. Please Road, Hampton CT. It’s exhilarating to hear the first return- register at [email protected]. Limited to 12 par- ing migrant birds in our area, to see the first fiddleheads ticipants. Please no dogs or children under age 12. No rain unfurling, and the first ephemeral wildflowers bloom- date. This is the fourth of 5 spring wildflower walks – each ing. Come out to Goodwin to discover the “firsts” of the one should uncover different flower species depending season. We’ll be looking for fresh wildflower blooms, bud on how spring unfolds this year. You are welcome to join break in various trees and shrubs and bird arrivals on a us on all or on any one of them. Please register for each weekly basis. Carrie Crompton is a Master Naturalist and a one individually. volunteer at Goodwin Conservation Center. • Sponsored by Joshua’s Trust • For more information or to register: 860-455-9534 or jasper. • Moderate, 2 miles, NO dogs please, no children under 12 [email protected], or visit http://www.friendsofgoodwinforest.org/ • Primary Leader: Deb Field, email: activities@joshuastrust. current-programs.html or www.ct.gov/deep/goodwin org.

NHS Second Saturday Tour- Firearm Factories of Nor- (1914) and discover what’s new as the restoration of this wich: 10:30 am to 1 pm, May 12, City Hall 100 Broadway small park continues. Walk up the road to see the variety Norwich, CT. Please park at parking garage next to City of trees planted on the Woodstock Common starting with Hall. Visit the factories where firearms were manufactured Roseland Cottage’s Mr. Bowen and then the Woodstock from the mid 1800’s to 1931. Learn about the interesting Beautification Committee. • 860-974-2770, website www.townofwoodstock.com/ history of the firearms industry in the Rose City. 2 miles. thingstodo • Free event. • Time/Distance: 1.5 hours, 1 mile • Sponsored by the Guns of Norwich Historical Society. • Sponsored by: Palmer Arboretum, Town of Woodstock. • Difficult www.townofwoodstock.com • Difficulty: Moderate. Key(s): Restrooms nearby. Leashed Colonial Women of Norwich at the Leffingwell: 11 am dogs ok. to 4 pm, Leffingwell House Museum, 348 Washington St. Norwich. Join us at the Leffingwell House Museum on Sat- Living in Harmony - West Direction: 2:30 – 4 pm. James urday, May 12, 11-4pm and get a glimpse into the lives of L. Goodwin Conservation Center, 23 Potter Road, Hamp- some of the women who were part of Leffingwell House ton CT. Mohegan tribal member Chris Harris “Turtle” History. During your tour of the museum, you will see the returns to present the third part of this series on living in house from their perspective. Hear them speak about the harmony with Mother Earth. During this presentation, we time when they lived in Norwich and discover their story. will look at the west direction. How does the west relate See history come alive at the Leffingwell. Light refresh- to our life? Turtle will review the previous directions and ments. Visit 10 Rooms of History at the Leffingwell. explain how the west correlates to the medicine wheel • Fee: $5 and cycles of life and ceremony. You will learn about • For more information, 860-889-9440 balance between the elements, plants and humans as represented by the symbols which Mother Earth shares Historical Happenings in The Last Green Valley: 1-3 with us. p.m., Roseland Cottage, 556 Route 169, Woodstock, Con- • The program will be meeting at the Goodwin Pavilion. necticut 06281. Join The Last Green Valley staff, Muse- • For more information or to register: 860-455-9534 or jasper. ums of Northeast Connecticut members and the staff of [email protected], or visit http://www.friendsofgoodwinforest.org/ Roseland Cottage for a tour of the museum followed by current-programs.html or www.ct.gov/deep/goodwin an informative program and workshop on Marketing for Small Museums and Historic organizations. After the tour, we’ll explore two staples of good marketing — writing effective press releases and using social media. Please be MAY 13 prepared to share your experiences writing press releases and bring samples, if you wish. We’ll also explore how to Mother’s Day Bird Walk: 8 am, Grassland Bird Conserva- effectively use social media, such as Facebook and Ins- tion Center, 218 Day Road, Pomfret Center, CT. Bring your tagram, for marketing your organization and programs. mother or grandmother out to see the assorted colorful Please RSVP to Bill Reid by e-mail at [email protected] or calling birds of spring. Meet at the Center, 218 Day Rd in Pomfret. 860-774-3300. • Information: 860-928-4948, www.ctaudubon.org/pom- • Sponsored by The Last Green Valley, The Savings Institute, fret-home Roseland Cottage and Museums of Northeast Connecticut • Fee: $5 CAS members; $10 non-members; Mothers Free! • Sponsored by Connecticut Audubon – Pomfret Center The Three bridges of Downtown Willimantic: 1-2:30 p.m. Jillson Square, Main Street, Willimantic CT. Park in the Long Distance Guided Hike: noon to 3 pm, James L. lot by the First Baptist Church. Stroll downtown Williman- Goodwin Conservation Center, 23 Potter Road, Hampton tic, visiting each of its three iconic bridges, while discuss- CT. Celebrate Mother’s Day as you enjoy the company of ing the history of the city. fellow hikers and get some great outdoor exercise. Expect • About 2 miles, easy. Good for families. a 5-7 mile hike. Goodwin Guide Kat Gayson, will be taking • Sponsored by the Eastern Connecticut Railroad Museum. you on this long-distance hike as she points out nature tidbits here and there. All are welcome, including friendly Trees on Woodstock Hill: 2:30 - 4 pm, Palmer Arboretum, 523 Scenic Rte. 169, Woodstock, CT. Tour the beautiful dogs. trees, shrubs and flowers of historic Palmer Arboretum • For more information or to register: 860-455-9534 or jasper.

[email protected], or visit http://www.friendsofgoodwinforest.org/ • Fee: $15 CAS members; $30 non-members. current-programs.html or www.ct.gov/deep/goodwin • Sponsored by Connecticut Audubon – Pomfret Center

Hodges Village Dam Mother’s Day Tea & Walk: 2 – 3 pm, Mellow Mondays: Mountain Bike Ride: 5:45-7:45 pm, Hodges Village Dam, 30 Howarth Rd., Oxford, MA. Bring Goodwin State Forest, 22 Potter Road, Hampton, CT your friends, family- especially the kids, and wear your 06247. Quiet Corner NEMBA’s Mellow Monday Mountain loveliest bonnet/sunhat or handsomest cap to our beau- Bike Ride at Goodwin State Forest in Hampton is designed tiful pollinator gardens. Tea and light refreshments will as a recovery ride or for those that like a slower paced be served, yet feel free to bring a picnic for your family or ride. Novice riders are always welcome! This is always a cookies to share. A ground cloth or picnic blanket is also “No Drop” ride (no one is left behind) and route/distance recommended. For all ages! Questions, call Jamie at 508- to fit the groups. Bikes, helmets required. Be ready to roll 248-5697, X399. Free event. at 6PM. Weekly details can be found in the posted event • Sponsored by US Army Corps of Engineers http://www.nae. within the Chapter’s Group Forum on Facebook. www. usace.army.mil/Missions/Recreation/Hodges-Village-Dam/ Facebook.com/groups/QuietCornerNEMBA • Moderate; restrooms nearby, especially for families with • Contact Glenn Tourtellot at (401) 450-1596 children, NO dogs please • http://www.nemba.org/chapters/qcnemba • Restrooms nearby • Bring bike & helmet MAY 14 • Sponsored by Quiet Corner NEMBA 20 Warbler Day: 6 am to 2 pm, Grassland Bird Conser- vation Center, 218 Day Road, Pomfret Center, CT. We are MAY 15 going to attempt to find 20 species of warblers in one day. We’ll be travelling to numerous locations. Meet at the Early Morning Bird Walks: 8 am, Grassland Bird Con- Center, 218 Day Rd in Pomfret. servation Center, 218 Day Road, Pomfret Center, CT. With • Register at 860-928-4948. access to over 1,650 acres of land, we will seek out a vari-

Spring Outdoors is a program of The Last Green Valley and is made possible with the help our partners and members! 203B Main Street (2nd Floor), P.O. Box 29, Danielson, CT 06239-0029 P.O. Box 186, Southbridge, MA 01550 860-779-3300 Spring Outdoors 2018 ety of bird species. Wear drab colored clothing and bring • Fee: $7 CAS members; $12 non-members. binoculars. Meet at the Center, 218 Day Rd in Pomfret. • Sponsored by Connecticut Audubon – Pomfret Center • Information: 860-928-4948, www.ctaudubon.org/pomfret-home Senior Walk: 10 am to 12:30 pm, James L. Goodwin • Free to CAS members; $5 non-members. Conservation Center, 23 Potter Road, Hampton CT. These • Sponsored by Connecticut Audubon – Pomfret Center are easy to moderate walks taken on forest trails. They are a great opportunity to get outside, learn something new Toddler Trails and Tales: 1 – 2 pm, Grassland Bird and maybe even meet a few new friends. These walks are Conservation Center, 218 Day Road, Pomfret Center, CT. very popular, and not just for seniors! All are welcome. Volunteer and mom of three, Melissa Telford will entertain Hiking sticks are available to borrow. your toddlers with stories, activities and fun along our • For more information or to register: 860-455-9534 or jasper. [email protected], or visit http://www.friendsofgoodwinforest.org/ trails. Wear clothes and boots appropriate for the weather. current-programs.html or www.ct.gov/deep/goodwin All children must be accompanied by an adult. Meet at the Center, 218 Day Rd in Pomfret. Trail Running/Walking 101: 5-7 p.m. at the Airline State • Information: 860-928-4948, www.ctaudubon.org/pom- Park Trailhead in Pomfret (the intersection of Route 44 fret-home Route 169). Meet in the parking lot. Join experienced trail • Fee per child/per day: $5 CAS members; $7 non-members runner Monique Wolanin, of Tackle the Trail, as she helps • Sponsored by Connecticut Audubon – Pomfret Center beginners learn the basics of trail running/walking. No experience is necessary. All you need is the desire to learn and a decent pair of sneakers. MAY 16 • Sponsored by the QVCC Foundation and Tackle the Trail, Oct. 20, 2018 Senior Walk: 10:00 am to 12:30 pm, James L. Goodwin Conservation Center, 23 Potter Road, Hampton CT. These Third Thursday Street Fest: 6-9 p.m., Downtown Willi- are easy to moderate walks taken on forest trails. They are manitc. Every 3rd Thursday from May through Septem- a great opportunity to get outside, learn something new ber, thousands of people from far and wide stroll along and maybe even meet a few new friends. These walks are Main Street Willimantic amid a background of musical, theatrical, visual and olfactory delights. There are clowns very popular, and not just for seniors! All are welcome. and bands and jugglers to entertain you as you meander Hiking sticks are available to borrow. through the fest. Four stages simultaneously host a wide • For more information or to register: 860-455-9534 or jasper. variety of music and entertainment while more than 100 [email protected], or visit http://www.friendsofgoodwinforest.org/ local and regional crafters and vendors showcase the current-programs.html or www.ct.gov/deep/goodwin wealth of goods produced in Connecticut. Willimantic’s diversity really shines through in the delicious authentic Wednesday Noon Walks: Noon, Grassland Bird Conser- international cuisine. Enjoy locally produced artwork, vation Center, 218 Day Road, Pomfret Center, CT. Join beer, music, and soda. Free children’s activities abound! our volunteers for fresh air, exercise, good company and • Free Admission; Free Parking naturalist lessons along the way. Seniors and parents with • Sponored by Willimantic Renaissance babes in backpacks welcome. Meet at the Center, 218 Day Rd in Pomfret. • Information: 860-928-4948, www.ctaudubon.org/pomfret-home MAY 18 • Free to CAS members; $3 non-members. Migration Madness: The Big Weekend Bird Challenge: • Sponsored by Connecticut Audubon – Pomfret Center May 18 – 20, Connecticut Audubon Center, 218 Day Rd., Pomfret Center, CT. A variety of bird walks and programs all weekend long in celebration of peak spring bird migra- MAY 17 tion. Go to our website for listings. www.ctaudubon.org/ Bull Hill Bird Walk: 8 am. Meet at the Center, 218 Day Rd pomfret. in Pomfret and carpool to this large forest in Thompson. • Sponsored by Connecticut Audubon Society • Information: 860-928-4948, www.ctaudubon.org/pom- • NO dogs please. fret-home

Afternoon Bird Walk: 5 pm, Grassland Bird Conserva- • Easy tion Center, 218 Day Road, Pomfret Center, CT. This time • Moderate of year is typically the peak of the spring bird migration. • Difficult Meet at the Center, 218 Day Rd in Pomfret. • Restrooms nearby • Information: 860-928-4948, www.ctaudubon.org/pom- • NO dogs please fret-home • Bring bike & helmet • Fee: $5 CAS members; $10 non-members. • (860) 983-6551 • Sponsored by Connecticut Audubon – Pomfret Center • Sponsored by Quiet Corner NEMBA, http://www.nemba. org/chapters/qcnemba

Paddling Putnam to Pomfret: 10 a.m. to noon, The MAY 19 Douglas Cutler Boat Launch, Putnam. Join Chief Ranger Migration Madness: The Big Weekend Bird Challenge: Bill Reid and TLGV Volunteer Rangers for a morning pad- May 18 – 20, Connecticut Audubon Center, 218 Day Rd., dle. We’ll launch at the new Douglas Cutler boat launch Pomfret Center, CT. A variety of bird walks and programs on Kennedy Drive and paddle this beautiful 5-mile stretch all weekend long in celebration of peak spring bird migra- of the river to the boat landing on Route 101 in Pomfret. tion. Go to our website for listings. www.ctaudubon.org/ This section of the river has some current with stretch- pomfret. es of quick-water as well as flat-water. It is an excellent • Sponsored by Connecticut Audubon Society two-hour outing for paddlers who are comfortable and • NO dogs please. familiar with moving water. • There is a limit of 20 boats 13th Annual 90 Bird Day: 6 am to 3 pm. The goal is to •RSVP is required. Please contact Bill Reid at [email protected] or by calling 860-774-3300 to register. hear or see at least 90 species of birds in nine hours or less. We’ll be visiting many locations within a 10-mile radi- • You must provide your own boat and personal floatation us. Bring a lunch, drinks, and a snack. Meet at the Center, device (life preserver). 218 Day Rd in Pomfret. • Sponsored by The Last Green Valley • Call 860-928-4948 to register. • Fee: $20 CAS members; $35 non-members. Forest Walk: 10 am to noon., Joshua’s Trust Pigeon • Sponsored by Connecticut Audubon – Pomfret Center Swamp Preserve, Lebanon. We will meet and greet the forest community on this moderate 2 mile walk and Nature Sketchbook Journaling: 9 am to noon, Grassland search for spring plants, animal life and talk about the Bird Conservation Center, 218 Day Road, Pomfret Center, forest dynamics. Please wear appropriate clothing for the CT. Spend time at the Bafflin Sanctuary in Pomfret, 218 weather, boots, and bring tick spray. Dogs on leash and Day Rd, sketching and painting nature using pencil, pen children over age 10 are welcome. No rain date. Please and watercolor. register at [email protected]. Limited to 20 • Information: 860-928-4948, www.ctaudubon.org/pom- participants. fret-home • Fee: $10 CAS members; $20 non-members. Register at 860- • Sponsored by Joshua’s Trust 928-4948 and for list of materials to bring. • Dogs on leash, children over age 10 • Sponsored by Connecticut Audubon – Pomfret Center Horizon Wings - Birds of Prey at Goodwin: 1 - 2:30 pm, James L. Goodwin Conservation Center, 23 Potter Road, Mountain Bike Ride at Goodwin State Forest: 9 am to Hampton CT. Ever wish you could experience the thrill noon, 23 Potter Rd, Hampton, CT 06247. Quiet Corner of being up close to a magnificent eagle, hawk, falcon, NEMBA will lead guided mountain bike rides through or owl? Well, this is your opportunity! Horizon Wings will Goodwin State Forest’s trails in Hampton, CT. These rides bring these extraordinary birds right to the Goodwin are open to all levels. Groups will be divided to cater to pavilion. All of the program birds in their care are unable various experience levels. All welcome, including families to survive in the wild, but have overcome their individual & beginners. Bike & helmet required. For more info: find challenges and have learned to adapt to their new lives us on Facebook, visit www.nemba.org/chapters/qcnemba as feathered ambassadors. Be inspired by their individual or contact [email protected]. stories of survival, explore fascinating facts about each

Spring Outdoors is a program of The Last Green Valley and is made possible with the help our partners and members! 203B Main Street (2nd Floor), P.O. Box 29, Danielson, CT 06239-0029 P.O. Box 186, Southbridge, MA 01550 860-779-3300 Spring Outdoors 2018 species, and learn what you can do to help them. Hori- pomfret. zon Wings was formed in 2001 by Mary-Beth Kaeser as • Sponsored by Connecticut Audubon Society a 501C3 non-profit organization for the rehabilitation of • NO dogs please. raptors. Mary-Beth has been a Wildlife Rehabilitator since 1985. Bird Banding Demonstration: 9 am, Grassland Bird Con- • $10 for non-members/$5 for FGF and CFPA members servation Center, 218 Day Road, Pomfret Center, CT. See • RSVP IS REQUIRED by 5/12/18 birds up close as we gently catch them, record measure- • Sponsored by Friends of Goodwin Forest and Connecticut ments and safely release them. Participants may release a Forest and Park Association bird. Meet at the Center, 218 Day Rd in Pomfret. KPRD Springtime Cornhole Tournament: 1-3 pm, Davis • Information: 860-928-4948, www.ctaudubon.org/pom- Park, 250 Main St. Killingly, CT. $20 for a team of 2. Tro- fret-home phies, gift cards, and glory go to the 1st place team. • Fee: $5 CAS members; $10 non-members. • Contact: [email protected] or call 860 779-5390 for • Sponsored by Connecticut Audubon – Pomfret Center registration information. • http://www.killingly.org/index.asp?Type=B_BASIC&SEC={B- Long Distance Guided Hike: 11 am to 3 pm, James L. CFE8444-20A4-4DC2-8E0C-4285FCF0E090} Goodwin Conservation Center, 23 Potter Road, Hampton • Sponsored by The Killingly Parks and Recreation Depart- CT. Enjoy the company of fellow hikers and get some ment great outdoor exercise. Goodwin Guide Elaine Koza has completed all the New England 4000+ foot elevation Baby Birds Up Close: 2 pm, at the Grassland Bird Conser- hikes, and has hiked all the highest peaks in the 48 con- vation Center, 218 Day Rd in Pomfret. Wildlife rehabilitator tiguous states. Elaine hikes with her Australian Sheppard, Kasha Breau will bring injured birds and demonstrate feeding and rehabilitation. Many songbirds are returning to nest and some sustain injuries. Learn what it takes to revive them. • Information: 860-928-4948, www.ctaudubon.org/pomfret-home • Fee: $3 CAS members; $7 non-members. • Sponsored by Connecticut Audubon – Pomfret Center

Supper with a Soldier: Breaking Bread with Joseph Plumb Martin. 4 pm, Huntington Homestead Museum, 35 Huntington RD (Route 14), Scotland, CT. Help prepare supper in the lean-to with Connecticut Revolutionary War veteran, Joseph Plumb Martin. Experience 18th century-style foods he recorded eating in his journal during the long war. • Hearth cooking event, $50 per person, members 10 percent- discount. • Reservations required by May 5. • 860-377-3252. MAY 20 Migration Madness: The Big Weekend Bird Challenge: May 18 – 20, Connecticut Audubon Center, 218 Day Rd., Pomfret Center, CT. A variety of bird walks and programs all weekend long in celebration of peak spring bird migration. Go to our website for listings. www.ctaudubon.org/

Shalee. All are welcome, including friendly leashed dogs. • For more information or to register: 860-455-9534 or jasper. MAY 22 [email protected], or visit http://www.friendsofgoodwinforest.org/ current-programs.html or www.ct.gov/deep/goodwin Early Morning Bird Walks: 8 am, Grassland Bird Con- servation Center, 218 Day Road, Pomfret Center, CT. With World of Painted Turtles: 1 - 2:30 pm, James L. Goodwin access to over 1,650 acres of land, we will seek out a vari- Conservation Center, 23 Potter Road, Hampton CT. Learn ety of bird species. Wear drab colored clothing and bring about Connecticut’s most abundant turtles including binoculars. Meet at the Center, 218 Day Rd in Pomfret. where they live, what they eat, what eats them, how they • Information: 860-928-4948, www.ctaudubon.org/pom- adapt for the winter, and the best times and places to see fret-home them. One of Goodwin’s Master Naturalists, Bill Powers, • Free to CAS members; $5 non-members. has been observing painted turtles and wants to share • Sponsored by Connecticut Audubon – Pomfret Center his observations with you. Learn about their movement Toddler Trails and Tales: 1 – 2 pm, Grassland Bird throughout the year and their relationship with red- Conservation Center, 218 Day Road, Pomfret Center, CT. winged blackbirds nesting in cattails. Volunteer and mom of three, Melissa Telford will entertain • For more information or to register: 860-455-9534 or jasper. [email protected], or visit http://www.friendsofgoodwinforest.org/ your toddlers with stories, activities and fun along our current-programs.html or www.ct.gov/deep/goodwin trails. Wear clothes and boots appropriate for the weather. All children must be accompanied by an adult. Meet at Live Birds of Prey: 2 pm, Grassland Bird Conservation the Center, 218 Day Rd in Pomfret. Center, 218 Day Road, Pomfret Center, CT. Wildlife rehabil- • Information: 860-928-4948, www.ctaudubon.org/pom- itators from Horizon Wings will introduce a variety of live fret-home • Fee per child/per day: $5 CAS members; $7 non-members raptors of the region, from our smallest falcon, the Amer- • Sponsored by Connecticut Audubon – Pomfret Center ican Kestrel, to Atka the Bald Eagle. Come meet these beautiful birds of prey in person at the Center, 218 Day Rd in Pomfret. • Information: 860-928-4948, www.ctaudubon.org/pom- MAY 23 fret-home Wednesday Noon Walks: Noon, Grassland Bird Conser- • Fee: $5 per person. vation Center, 218 Day Road, Pomfret Center, CT. Join • Sponsored by Connecticut Audubon – Pomfret Center our volunteers for fresh air, exercise, good company and naturalist lessons along the way. Seniors and parents with babes in backpacks welcome. Meet at the Center, 218 Day MAY 21 Rd in Pomfret. • Information: 860-928-4948, www.ctaudubon.org/pom- Mellow Mondays: Mountain Bike Ride: 5:45-7:45 pm, fret-home Goodwin State Forest, 22 Potter Road, Hampton, CT • Free to CAS members; $3 non-members. 06247. Quiet Corner NEMBA’s Mellow Monday Mountain • Sponsored by Connecticut Audubon – Pomfret Center Bike Ride at Goodwin State Forest in Hampton is designed as a recovery ride or for those that like a slower paced ride. Novice riders are always welcome! This is always a MAY 24 “No Drop” ride (no one is left behind) and route/distance to fit the groups. Bikes, helmets required. Be ready to roll Trail Wood Bird Walks: 8 am, 93 Kenyon Road, Hampton, CT. Join Andy as he points out various birds at Trail Wood at 6PM. Weekly details can be found in the posted event and a nearby preserve. Meet in the parking lot at 93 Ken- within the Chapter’s Group Forum on Facebook. www. yon Rd in Hampton. Facebook.com/groups/QuietCornerNEMBA • 860-928-4948 www.ctaudubon.org/trail-wood-home • Contact Glenn Tourtellot at (401) 450-1596 • Free to CAS members; $5 non-members. • http://www.nemba.org/chapters/qcnemba • Sponsored by Connecticut Audubon – Pomfret Center • Restrooms nearby • Bring bike & helmet Let’s Go Geocaching! 1 – 3 pm, James L. Goodwin Con- • Sponsored by Quiet Corner NEMBA

Spring Outdoors is a program of The Last Green Valley and is made possible with the help our partners and members! 203B Main Street (2nd Floor), P.O. Box 29, Danielson, CT 06239-0029 P.O. Box 186, Southbridge, MA 01550 860-779-3300 Spring Outdoors 2018 servation Center, 23 Potter Road, Hampton CT. Do you ty is located at http://joshuastrust.org/bradley-buchan- have an interest in geocaching or are already a geocach- an-woods. No rain date. The houses will stay on the Brad- er? Want to check out the hidden treasures scattered ley-Buchanan Trail until June 10, 2018, when all remaining across Goodwin? Join Goodwin’s Naturalist, Jasper Sha, as materials will be cleared. Attendees should note that he takes you on a long hike to Governor’s Island and back there may be poison ivy in the vicinity and precautions to find these little surprises along the hiking path. Read should be taken to avoid tick bites. Further, builders are through clues and use GPS coordinates to find the stashes asked not to pick anything growing along the trail to pre- so cleverly hidden in Goodwin Forest. Learn to incorpo- serve the ecosystem. Any sticks, stones, pinecones, fallen rate technology, adventure, and the outdoors in one great leaves, or other non-growing materials are suitable for activity for independent explorers and families! use. Persons with questions may call the Mansfield Public • For those with geocaching apps or GPS units. Library at 860 423-2501. Free event. • For more information or to register: 860-455-9534 or jasper. • Sponsored by Joshua’s Trust and Mansfield Public Library [email protected], or visit http://www.friendsofgoodwinforest.org/ • Easy, especially for families with children current-programs.html or www.ct.gov/deep/goodwin Gardener’s Roundtable: 10 - 11:30am, James L. Good- win Conservation Center, 23 Potter Road, Hampton CT. MAY 26 This workshop is intended for gardeners of all experience levels. We share best practices and pitfalls for gardening Boston Hollow Bird Watch: 8 am. Explore the Boston in eastern Connecticut. These monthly workshops cover a Hollow area of Ashford. Owned by Yale, it is a unique wide-range of topics, so please come with your questions, area with a Northern forest feel. We’ll bird from the road. your expertise, and your own stories of success and failure Carpool from the Grassland Bird Conservation Center, 218 in your gardens. • For more information or to register: 860-455-9534 or jasper. Day Rd in Pomfret. [email protected], or visit http://www.friendsofgoodwinforest.org/ • Information: 860-928-4948, www.ctaudubon.org/pom- current-programs.html or www.ct.gov/deep/goodwin fret-home • Fee: $7 CAS members; $12 non-members. 2nd Annual Plant for Pollinators: 10 am to 2 pm, May • Sponsored by Connecticut Audubon – Pomfret Center 26, 30 Howarth Rd., Oxford, MA. CALLING ALL SCOUTS Wildflower Walk: 9:30 – 11:00 am, Joshua’s Trust Hubbard AND FAMILIES: The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is re- Sanctuary/Agnes’ Pasture, Chaplin. Accompany natural- questing your help with planting as many 4’X4’ plots of ist Deb Field as we look for spring wildflowers. Walk is wildflowers. And for this, your plot will be posted with a approximately 2 miles, moderate difficulty. Wear appro- sign. (This will add more plots to the 11 that were created priate clothing for weather. Please register at activities@ in 2017.) Free event. Please, RSVP, so I can make the signs. joshuastrust.org. Limited to 12 participants. Please no Please, bring the soil amendments- top soil, humus, nat- dogs or children under age 12. No rain date. This is the ural fertilizer, peat, etc. Please bring gloves and your own last spring wildflower walk. You are welcome to join us drinking water. Snacks will be provided. The USACE will on all or on any one of them. Please register for each one supply the New England Wildflower mix and all the tools. individually. Group or club supplies the garden supplies. Register by • Sponsored by Joshua’s Trust 5/24/18 to 978-318-8399 or [email protected]. • Moderate, 2 miles, NO dogs please, no children under 12 mil. • Sponsored by US Army Corps of Engineers http://www.nae. Fairy House Building: 10 am to 2 pm, Bradley-Buchan- usace.army.mil/Missions/Recreation/Hodges-Village-Dam/ an Woods (next to the Mansfield Library). The Mansfield • Easy; restrooms nearby, especially for families with children, Public Library and Joshua’s Trust are teaming up to pres- NO dogs please ent a Fairy House building event at the Bradley-Buchanan Kayak or Canoe the Quinebaug: 10 a.m. to noon, 20 Woods, 54 Warrenville Road. Builders from all towns and Pond Bridge Rd., Holland, MA. Meet at the kayak/canoe of all ages are invited to bring any natural materials they launch by the bridge at 20 Pond Bridge Road in Holland. wish to the event; some starter materials will be available Bring your canoe or kayak. The paddle is from 10:00-12:00 for use. The event is free of charge. A map of the proper- and is 3.6 miles on flat water (downstream only). Meet at

9:00 to arrange transportation back to the launch. PFDs required. • For info: 413 245-7745. • Questions? 413-245-7745 • Time/Distance: 3 hours, 3.6 miles • Sponsored by: Holland Trails Committee. http://town.holland.ma.us/trails-committee

Acorn Adventure – Underwater Exploration: 11 a.m. to 12:30, 276 Mashamoquet Road, Pomfret, CT 06259. What lives under the water in a stream? Explore Mashamoquet Brook with a professional biologist looking for the critters who live there. Ranger Jean has been teaching our water quality monitoring volunteers how some of the bugs that live in our healthy streams help us to understand a lot about the water quality in them. She is inviting all our Acorn adventurers to help her with a stream assessment by catching and examining the squigglies living in the brook. Become a water quality detective for a day. Wear waterproof boots if you want to help collect the bugs. Meet at the Acorn Adventure sign after you pass the parking area for the swimming pond. • Sponsored by The Last Green Valley and Putnam Bank. MAY 27 Youth Series - Invasive Plants: 1 – 3 pm, James L. Good- win Conservation Center, 23 Potter Road, Hampton CT. Join Master Naturalist Lynn Kochiss and guest Michelle Poudrette as we examine invasive plants growing in Goodwin Forest. What makes a plant invasive? How did it get here? Why should we care? These are just a few of • Registration is Required. the questions that will be answered. There are a number • For more information or to register: 860-455-9534 or of invasive plant species currently found in Connecticut’s [email protected], or visit http://www.friendsofgoodwinfor- land and water ecosystems. We will focus primarily on est.org/current-programs.html or www.ct.gov/deep/good- those impacting Goodwin State Forest, such as Japanese win barberry, winged euonymus, and multiflora rose, and learn what control techniques have been used for these species. Discussion will be followed by a hike to identify invasives on the property. Michelle Poudrette became MAY 28 a certified Texas Master Naturalist for the Capital Area Mellow Mondays: Mountain Bike Ride: 5:45-7:45 pm, (Austin) chapter and after she returned to Connecticut Goodwin State Forest, 22 Potter Road, Hampton, CT two years ago has joined the Master Naturalist Program at 06247. Quiet Corner NEMBA’s Mellow Monday Mountain Goodwin and become a member of Eastford’s Conserva- Bike Ride at Goodwin State Forest in Hampton is designed tion Commission. She enjoys volunteering and broaden- ing her knowledge of our environment. Lynn Kochiss is an as a recovery ride or for those that like a slower paced environmental educator who has been a CFPA volunteer ride. Novice riders are always welcome! This is always a since 2007. She is a certified elementary teacher, a Project “No Drop” ride (no one is left behind) and route/distance Learning Tree facilitator, and a Master Naturalist. Lynn was to fit the groups. Bikes, helmets required. Be ready to roll recognized as a National PLT Outstanding Educator in at 6PM. Weekly details can be found in the posted event 2013 for her work in environmental education. within the Chapter’s Group Forum on Facebook. www. • All children must be accompanied by an adult. Facebook.com/groups/QuietCornerNEMBA

• Contact Glenn Tourtellot at (401) 450-1596 fret-home • http://www.nemba.org/chapters/qcnemba • Free to CAS members; $3 non-members. • Restrooms nearby • Sponsored by Connecticut Audubon – Pomfret Center • Bring bike & helmet • Sponsored by Quiet Corner NEMBA MAY 31 MAY 29 Bull Hill Bird Walk II: 8 am. Whip-poor-wills and Praire Warblers nest at the scenic vista of this large forest in Early Morning Bird Walks: 8 am, Grassland Bird Con- Thompson. Meet at the Grassland Bird Conservation Cen- servation Center, 218 Day Road, Pomfret Center, CT. With ter, 218 Day Rd in Pomfret and we’ll carpool. access to over 1,650 acres of land, we will seek out a vari- • Information: 860-928-4948, www.ctaudubon.org/pom- ety of bird species. Wear drab colored clothing and bring fret-home binoculars. Meet at the Center, 218 Day Rd in Pomfret. • Fee: $7 CAS members; $12 non-members. • Information: 860-928-4948, www.ctaudubon.org/pom- • Sponsored by Connecticut Audubon – Pomfret Center fret-home • Free to CAS members; $5 non-members. • Sponsored by Connecticut Audubon – Pomfret Center JUNE 1 Full Flower Moon Night Hike: 7:30 -8:30 pm, James L. First Fridays Mill Town Mosaics: African-American Her- Goodwin Conservation Center, 23 Potter Road, Hampton itage: June 1 6- 9 p.m. downtown Putnam CT. For the 8th CT. Let the full moon guide your path as you take a night season of First Fridays, The Putnam Business Association hike at Goodwin State Forest. Goodwin Guide Kat Gayson invites the public to celebrate the mosaic of diverse local will be taking you on a moonlit journey through the forest history and culture with a celebration of Northeastern to bear witness to the changes in nature from day to Connecticut’s mill towns. Eat, shop, stroll, listen to live night. Bring a headlamp or flashlight if desired, they are music and meet artists all while celebrating the mosaic of not necessary. Please dress appropriately for the weather. cultures the mill towns attracted! May’s theme is Afri- • For more information or to register: 860-455-9534 or jasper. can-American Heritage. [email protected], or visit http://www.friendsofgoodwinforest.org/ • Sponsored by the Putnam Business Association current-programs.html or www.ct.gov/deep/goodwin JUNE 2 MAY 30 Lebanon Farmers’ Market Opening Day: 9 am to noon, Killingly Bird Walk: 8 am. Forest interior birds should be Lebanon Town Hall. The first market of the season. Visitors found on a new preserve and nearby wetlands should get a free reusable bag with a $10 purchase. VIP buttons provide some exciting finds! We will carpool from the are available for $10 and offer year-round discounts. Live Grassland Bird Conservation Center, 218 Day Rd in Pom- music. fret. • Information: 860-928-4948, www.ctaudubon.org/pom- Goodwin/Natchaug State Forest Fun Ride: 9 am to fret-home 2 pm, 22 Potter Rd, Hampton, CT 06247. Quiet Corner • Fee: $7 CAS members; $12 non-members. NEMBA will host the Goodwin/Natchaug State Forest • Sponsored by Connecticut Audubon – Pomfret Center Fun Ride in Hampton on Saturday, June 2, 9AM. Three marked mountain bike loops for self-guided tour from 7 Wednesday Noon Walks: Noon, Grassland Bird Conser- to 25 miles. Pot-luck cookout at 12:30PM (chapter pro- vation Center, 218 Day Road, Pomfret Center, CT. Join vides burgers & hot dogs, BYO refreshments & a side dish our volunteers for fresh air, exercise, good company and to share). For more info: find us on Facebook, visit www. naturalist lessons along the way. Seniors and parents with nemba.org/chapters/qcnemba or contact QuietCorner- babes in backpacks welcome. Meet at the Center, 218 Day [email protected] Rd in Pomfret. • Fee: $10 NEMBA members/$15 not-yet-members/FREE ages • Information: 860-928-4948, www.ctaudubon.org/pom- 15 & under • 7-25 miles; Moderate to difficult

• Restrooms nearby avoid blocking driveways. Explore Poquetanuck Cove with • Bring bike & helmet the Thames River Basin Partnership. Poquetanuck Cove is • (860) 230-1237 a two-mile long brackish water tidal cove of the Thames • Sponsored by Quiet Corner NEMBA, http://www.nemba. River with a long history of conservation focused efforts. org/chapters/qcnemba The cove is a Connecticut Bird Sanctuary located between the Towns of Ledyard and Preston, CT. We will launch from Family Fishing Fun: 10 am to 1 pm, Buffumville Park, the Royal Oaks Drive car top boat launch in Ledyard just 229 Oxford Rd., Charlton Rd., Charlton, MA. Bring the kids before high tide and view properties owned by Avalonia to Buffumville Park for some outdoors fun! Lean about Land Conservancy, The Nature Conservancy and the CT boating safety, water safety, learn how to fish, catch a fly DEEP from the water. Preview a Poquetanuck Cove Canoe/ fishing demonstration, ask your questions to a wildlife Kayak Guide at http://thelastgreenvalley.org/wp-content/ uploads/2014/10/PoquetanuckCoveFS1.pdf. expert, and take a short hike! Stay after the event for a pic- • Contact: Jean Pillo at [email protected] or (860) 928- nic or a swim. Want to help out? Please call Park Ranger, 4948. Nicole at 508-248-5697, x411. • 2 miles; Easy • Sponsored by US Army Corps of Engineers http://www.nae. • Bring canoe or Kayak, PFD & whistle usace.army.mil/Missions/Recreation/Buffumville-Lake/ • Registration required • Easy; restrooms nearby, wheelchair accessible, especially for •Age 12 + only families with children, NO dogs please, bring canoe or kayak, PFD & whistle Early Local Native Tribes: 1 pm, Huntington Homestead Museum, 35 Huntington RD (Route 14), Scotland, CT. Bull Hill Forest Preserve Hike: 10 am to noon, Bull Hill Juan Arriola of Native American descent and Beth Regan, Rd., Woodstock, CT. Enjoy a 3-mile hike with Wyndham a member of the Mohegan Council will speak on early Land Trust’s Jeff Stefanik on the Bull Hill Forest Preserve. tribes in what became the Second and Third Societies This parcel of land is diverse, historic, and offers some of Windham. Some tribes may have been familiar to the wonderful views. Parking is available off Senexet Rd. Drive early Huntingtons. Hearth popped corn available. to the end of Bull Hill Road to the gate. Drive carefully and • FREE Scotland resident day or $4 per person, children 12 park cautiously. www.wyndhamlandtrust.org and under free, members free. • www.huntingtonhomestead.org • Please register at: [email protected]. Free event • Sponsored by Huntington Homestead Museum • Sponsored by Wyndham Land Trust. • Moderate; 3 mile

History & Nature Along Utley Brook: 12:45 – 2:45 pm, JUNE 4 60 Hennequin Rd., Columbia, CT (Drive to the rear lot at Mellow Mondays: Mountain Bike Ride: 5:45-7:45 pm, Columbia Recreation Area, meet at kiosk at far right.) The Goodwin State Forest, 22 Potter Road, Hampton, CT participants will visit Joshua’s Trust’s Utley Hill Preserve, 06247. Quiet Corner NEMBA’s Mellow Monday Mountain walking alongside Utley Brook past several old mill sites Bike Ride at Goodwin State Forest in Hampton is designed to a large former supply pond that is now an important as a recovery ride or for those that like a slower paced wildlife habitat and key element in the protection of ride. Novice riders are always welcome! This is always a Columbia Lake’s waters. Stops will be made to appreciate “No Drop” ride (no one is left behind) and route/distance both local history and the natural beauty of the area. This to fit the groups. Bikes, helmets required. Be ready to roll walk complements the Columbia Historical Society’s 2018 at 6PM. Weekly details can be found in the posted event exhibit - Columbia Lake – Through the Years. • Sponsored by the Columbia Historical Society. within the Chapter’s Group Forum on Facebook. www. • Moderate; 2 miles, restrooms nearby, NO dogs please. Rain Facebook.com/groups/QuietCornerNEMBA Date: June 9 • Contact Glenn Tourtellot at (401) 450-1596 • Primary Leader: Joan Hill, email: [email protected], phone: • http://www.nemba.org/chapters/qcnemba 860 228-2849 • Restrooms nearby • Bring bike & helmet Poquetanuck Cove Paddle: 1-3 pm, Royal Oaks Drive • Sponsored by Quiet Corner NEMBA Car Top Boat Launch, Ledyard, CT 06339. Street parking -

Spring Outdoors is a program of The Last Green Valley and is made possible with the help our partners and members! 203B Main Street (2nd Floor), P.O. Box 29, Danielson, CT 06239-0029 P.O. Box 186, Southbridge, MA 01550 860-779-3300 Spring Outdoors 2018 JUNE 9 JUNE 10 John E. Jackman Tour de Mansfield:7 a.m. to 1 p.m., 10 Trees on Woodstock Hill: 10:30 to noon, Palmer Arbore- S. Eagleville Rd., Storrs (Mansfield), CT. Expect this! The tum, 523 Scenic Rte. 169, Woodstock, CT. Tour the beauti- Town of Mansfield, Mansfield Community Center, and ful trees, shrubs and flowers of historic Palmer Arboretum Mansfield Downtown Partnership invite you to explore (1914) and discover what’s new as the restoration of this Mansfield by bike! The John E. Jackman Tour de Mans- small park continues. Walk up the road to see the variety of trees planted on the Woodstock Common starting with field features three different routes (7, 20, and 40 miles) Roseland Cottage’s Mr. Bowen and then the Woodstock through Mansfield’s historic districts, new downtown, Beautification Committee. and the UConn campus. Experience riding on open roads • 860-974-2770, website www.townofwoodstock.com/ is encouraged. NOTE: Rides take place on open roads; thingstodo Helmets required; • Time/Distance: 1.5 hours, 1 mile Registration materials will be available in May with fee to • Sponsored by: Palmer Arboretum, Town of Woodstock. be determined at that time. Questions? 860-429-3015 www.townofwoodstock.com • Time/Distance: 6 hours, 7/20/40 mile options • Difficulty: Moderate. Key(s): Restrooms nearby. Leashed • Sponsored by: Mansfield Downtown Partnership. http:// dogs ok. mansfieldct.gov/biketour • Difficulty: Moderate, Pre-register [email protected] or Lakeside Kids Event: 5 – 8 pm, Memorial Beach, Webster 860-429-3015 Restrooms nearby, Bring Bike & Helmet, Regis- MA. Have fun around the water. Touch-a-boat; fishing tration Required. demos; kayak demos, information tables. • Sponsored by Lakeview Marine Holland / Brimfield Trail Ride:10 a.m. to noon 20 Pond Bridge Road, Holland, MA 01521. The Holland Trails Com- mittee & Brimfield Trail Committee will be leading a Trail JUNE 11 Ride (rain or shine) on Sat., Jun. 9th. Meet at the kayak/ canoe launch by the bridge at 20 Pond Bridge Road in Mellow Mondays: Mountain Bike Ride: 5:45-7:45 pm, Holland. About 10 miles (options for a shorter ride) mostly Goodwin State Forest, 22 Potter Road, Hampton, CT on trails, though a small part will be on little-traveled 06247. Quiet Corner NEMBA’s Mellow Monday Mountain public roads. Flat terrain. Bike Ride at Goodwin State Forest in Hampton is designed • Helmets required. as a recovery ride or for those that like a slower paced • For info: 413-245-7745 ride. Novice riders are always welcome! This is always a • 10 miles, Easy • Restrooms nearby “No Drop” ride (no one is left behind) and route/distance • Bring bike & helmet to fit the groups. Bikes, helmets required. Be ready to roll at 6PM. Weekly details can be found in the posted event The River, Rail, Mills & Trails: 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., within the Chapter’s Group Forum on Facebook. www. Eastern Connecticut Railroad Museum, 55 Bridge Street Facebook.com/groups/QuietCornerNEMBA (follow the railroad track down a gravel road to meet at • Contact Glenn Tourtellot at (401) 450-1596 the parking area. Walk the rail trail to the museum and • http://www.nemba.org/chapters/qcnemba learn about railroad history, current railroad service and • Restrooms nearby the river that powered the mills that needed the railroad. • Bring bike & helmet Optional: tour the museum and take a short train ride for • Sponsored by Quiet Corner NEMBA a fee. The walk is free. • Easy; suitable for families with children • Restrooms nearby JUNE 16 • Optional admission to the museum is $7 for adults, $3 children 8-12; under 8 free. Lebanon Farmers’ Market Dog Day Costume Parade: 9 • Train ride is $3 for adults and $2 for children am to noon, Lebanon Town Hall. The parade is at 10 a.m. • For information call 860-617-3308 VIP buttons are available for $10 and offer year-round • Sponsored by the Eastern CT Railroad Museum discounts. Live music.

Camp Laurel Back Trails: 10 am to noon, Camp Laurel, • Sponored by Willimantic Renaissance 175 Clubhouse Rd., Lebanon, CT. Come to Camp Laurel enjoy this beautiful property as we hike the “Back Trails” of Solstice Music in the Forest: 7 – 8:30 pm, 30 Howarth the camp. See a part of camp most visitors do not take the Rd., Oxford, MA. CALLING ALL MUSICIANS, the musically time to explore and enjoy. Learn a little about the histo- inclined and anyone that just wants to ROCK-OUT. Singers ry of this Girl Scout camp that opened in 1955 and has and those who want to just listen, invited too! Let’s ring in served Girl Scouts for over 60 years. gsofct.org. summer with an evening concert. Please bring your gui- • Sponsored by: Girl Scouts of Connecticut. tar/keyboard (electricity on site)/violin/kazoo/etc. or feel • Moderate; restrooms nearby, NO dogs please free to bring your own nature-inspired instrument. Have • Primary Leader: Kim Mc Lean, email: kim@mcleanresearch. the kids make some hand-made percussion items utilizing com, phone: 860 501-8814 seeds/sticks/pinecones/etc. Prizes for the following instru- ments: Creative natural, largest, smallest, prettiest sound and more….! Free event. Please call Park Ranger Jamie JUNE 18 should you have any questions- 508-248-5697, X399. • Sponsored by US Army Corps of Engineers http://www.nae. Mellow Mondays: Mountain Bike Ride: 5:45-7:45 pm, usace.army.mil/Missions/Recreation/Hodges-Village-Dam/ Goodwin State Forest, 22 Potter Road, Hampton, CT • Easy; restrooms nearby, especially for families with children, 06247. Quiet Corner NEMBA’s Mellow Monday Mountain NO dogs please Bike Ride at Goodwin State Forest in Hampton is designed as a recovery ride or for those that like a slower paced ride. Novice riders are always welcome! This is always a “No Drop” ride (no one is left behind) and route/distance to fit the groups. Bikes, helmets required. Be ready to roll at 6PM. Weekly details can be found in the posted event CHECK BACK OFTEN FOR within the Chapter’s Group Forum on Facebook. www. Facebook.com/groups/QuietCornerNEMBA MORE UPDATES! • Contact Glenn Tourtellot at (401) 450-1596 • http://www.nemba.org/chapters/qcnemba www.TheLastGreenValley.org • Restrooms nearby • Bring bike & helmet • Sponsored by Quiet Corner NEMBA JUNE 21 Third Thursday Street Fest: 6-9 p.m., Downtown Willi- manitc. Every 3rd Thursday from May through Septem- ber, thousands of people from far and wide stroll along Main Street Willimantic amid a background of musical, theatrical, visual and olfactory delights. There are clowns and bands and jugglers to entertain you as you meander through the fest. Four stages simultaneously host a wide variety of music and entertainment while more than 100 local and regional crafters and vendors showcase the wealth of goods produced in Connecticut. Willimantic’s diversity really shines through in the delicious authentic international cuisine. Enjoy locally produced artwork, beer, music, and soda. Free children’s activities abound! • Free Admission; Free Parking