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CalendarJanuary4 “Our Native Bees” TWC Readers10 Wine and Wilderness, Troutman Vineyards, Wooster11 Breakfast with the Birds25 Wildflowers and Butterflies TWC Botanizers25 Ohio Geology and Fossils25 Great Smoky Mountains Photography SUMMIT TWC Nature Photo

February1 Ohio Lights Out7 Explore the Night Sky – Constellations8 Bee School11 Nature Study Series David YMCA, Jackson TWP13 Nature Study Series Local Roots, Wooster14 Wine and Wilderness Troutman Vineyards, Wooster15 Nature Journal: Phenology intro15 Great Backyard Bird Count18 Nature Study Series David YMCA, Jackson TWP20 Nature Study Series Local Roots, Wooster21 Backpacking the Canadian Rockies TWC Backpackers and Dayhikers22 Preparing and Mounting Prints for Photo Contests TWC Nature Photo25 Nature Study Series David YMCA, Jackson TWP27 Nature Study Series Local Roots, Wooster29 Identifying Trees of Ohio TWC Botanizers

March1 Explore the Night Sky – Constellations6 Explore the Night Sky – Binoculars and Telescopes6 Nature Nerd Night3 Nature Study Series David YMCA, Jackson TWP5 Nature Study Series Local Roots, Wooster7 “The Overstory” TWC Readers10 Nature Study Series David YMCA, Jackson TWP12 Nature Study Series Local Roots, Wooster14 Learn Bird Song17 Woodcock Walk17 Nature Study Series David YMCA, Jackson TWP19 Nature Study Series Local Roots, Wooster20 Wine and Wilderness Troutman Vineyards, Wooster20 Teddy Roosevelt TWC Backpackers21 Shreve Migration Sensation28 Introduction to Mushrooms and Their Ecological Role 28 Night Sky Photography TWC Nature Photo

april3 Explore the Night Sky – Finding Stuff3 Wine and Wilderness Troutman Vineyards, Wooster 4 Astronomy Day - Black Holes 11 Nature Journal: Spring Observations11 Breakfast with the Birds17 Dayhiking Maine & Vermont 18 Native Plant Celebration with Doug Tallamy25 Native Plant Sale and Gardening Seminars25 Wildflower Walk26 Native Plant Sale

May1 Explore the Night Sky – Constellations2 Plastics 101 – Origins of Plastic2 “Before They’re Gone” TWC Readers2 Foto Fest3 Foto Fest6 Luncheon in the Garden8 Nature Nerd Night9 Plastics 101 - Human and Environmental Health15 Wine and Wilderness Troutman Vineyards, Wooster16 Plastics 101 – Real World Solutions

June5 Explore the Night Sky – The Solar System5 Wine and Wilderness Troutman Vineyards, Wooster8, 10, 12, Ohio Certified Volunteer Naturalist 15, 17, 19 20 Nature Journal – Summer Observations

July3 Explore the Night Sky – The Deep Sky8 Luncheon in the Garden10 Communication for Civic Engagement10 Nature Nerd Night11 Field Day – Telling Time17 Wine and Wilderness Troutman Vineyards, Wooster24 Nature Nerd Night

Advance registration is required for many OAKS programs.

Call 330.359.5235 to register or with any questions.

Calendar

august5 Social Marketing Matters7 Explore the Night Sky – Constellations14, 15 OCVN 2.0 - Botany21 Movie Night “A Walk in the Woods” TWC Backpackers 28 Nature Nerd Night

septeMber2 Luncheon in the Garden4 Explore the Night Sky – Stars 1015 Nature Journal –Fall Observations12 “Braiding Sweetgrass” TWC Readers12 Forest, Farm and Fork19, 20 Woodcarving Show26 Wild Edibles: Fall Mushrooms and More26 The Rock Cycle26 Nature Sketching with Cheryl Miller

OctOber2 Explore the Night Sky – Imaging 10116 Hiking Maine TWC Backpackers30 Nature Nerd Night

nOveMber6 Explore the Night Sky – Constellations7 Nature Fest Arts and Crafts show13 Wine and Wilderness Troutman Vineyards, Wooster14 Mushrooms in Review14 “The Feather Thief ” TWC Readers14 Breakfast with the Birds

DeceMber5 Nature Journal – Winter Observations and Wrap-up Party12 Botanizer Brag Program

Nature Journal Tracking Change

Do you enjoy nature, but find yourself with lots of questions about what you are seeing? Then this is the class for you. Nature journaling can be a wonderful way to connect with nature. The skills involved - slowing down, careful observation and questioning - serve to bring nature into sharper focus. Today nature journaling takes on new importance, as we strive to understand the effects of climate change, landscape use, and disturbance. This series will use the Naturalist’s Notebook: An Observation Guide and 5-year Calendar-Journal for Tracking Changes in the Natural World Around You by Nathaniel T. Wheelwright and Bernard Heinrich as a template for your explorations. Each class will meet at TWC from 10-noon.Cost: $95 includes The Naturalist Notebook, journal, and all curriculum materials. Past participants: $40 includes class, activities, and new materials.

introduction to Journals and phenologySaturday, February 15, 10:00Join us for an introduction to Phenology and a look at how ecosystems and individuals adapt. You’ll receive your book, journal and ideas for getting started.

spring ObservationsSaturday, April 11, 10:00

summer ObservationsSaturday, June 20, 10:00

Fall ObservationsSaturday, September 5, 10:00

Winter Observations and Wrap-up partySaturday, December 5, 10:00

nature sketching with cheryl MillerSaturday, September 26, 10:00-3:00In this one-day workshop, taught by local botanical artist Cheryl Miller, learn how to render some of nature’s beauties in a realistic manner. We will use graphite pencils to draw trees, twigs and bark in the morning and flowers and leaves in the afternoon with a catered lunch in between. We will end our day with an optional “Inspiration Hike.” Cost: $50 includes materials and lunch. Registration deadline is Sept. 1st.

.Nature Study Series Nature’s Master ClassMasters of courtshipTuesday, February 11, 11:00 at David YMCA, Jackson Twp.Thursday, February 13, 6:30pm at Local Roots, WoosterPlants and animals go to great lengths to secure the survival of their species. Explore the incredible ways life begets life.

Masters of nightTuesday, February 18, 11:00 at David YMCA, Jackson Twp.Thursday, February 20, 6:30pm at Local Roots, WoosterMost of us spend the nighttime dreaming away, but many of our plants and animals are truly masters of the night life. Investigate the adaptations and strategies that make the night life possible.

Masters of sleepTuesday, February 25, 11:00 at David YMCA, Jackson Twp.Thursday, February 27, 6:30pm at Local Roots, WoosterWho doesn’t love a good, long nap? Meet the critters that have truly mastered the art of the long winter’s nap.

Masters of hoardingTuesday, March 3, 11:00 at David YMCA, Jackson Twp.Thursday, March 5, 6:30pm at Local Roots, WoosterExplore the role hoarding plays in local ecosystems, from jays planting oak trees to moles paralyzing their prey for easy storage.

Masters of FlightTuesday, March 10, 11:00 at David YMCA, Jackson Twp.Thursday, March 12, 6:30pm at Local Roots, WoosterFrom Icarus to the Wright Brothers, flight has long fascinated humans. Explore the graceful and unlikely masters of the sky.

Masters of camouflageTuesday, March 17, 11:00 at David YMCA, Jackson Twp.Thursday, March 19, 6:30pm at Local Roots, WoosterNow you see them, now you don’t: for many animals, the key to survival is to simply not be seen. Meet the masters of hiding in plain sight. Cost: classes are $10 each or enjoy the entire 6-part series for $45. Call TWC to pre-register and get your ticket, or pay at the door.

OCVN at The Wilderness Center

Ocvn trainingJune 8, 10, 12, 15, 17, 19 - 8:30-5:00Learn about Ohio’s Natural History! The Ohio Certified Volunteer Naturalist Program (OCVN) is a training program run through OSU Extension. Participants complete training in geology, plants, insects, birds, mammals, reptiles and amphibians, ecology, stewardship and interpretation.Cost: $195/person includes instruction, books, snacks, and curriculum materials. Limited to 20 participants.

Field Day – time Will tellSaturday, July 11, 8:30-4:00From the formation of the universe to the hatching of an egg, time plays a crucial role in nature’s activities. We’ll examine these time scales and how they help us interpret the world we live in. Watch the newsletter and website for itinerary and registration information. Cost: $30, includes lunch

Ocvn 2.0 – botanyFriday, August 14, 9:00-2:00Friday, August 15, 9:00-2:00This OCVN refresher course will review and build on your plant skills. On day one, we’ll focus on tree id and how plants adapt to their environment. Day two will focus on plant families and wildflowers. You do not need to be an OCVN to take this course. Cost: $25 members/$30 nonmembers

nature nerd nightsFriday, March 6, 6:00-8:00Friday, May 8, 6:00-8:00Friday, July 10, 6:00-8:00Friday, August 28, 6:00-8:00Friday, October 30, 6:00-8:00Join other nature lovers for a low-key evening of nerdiness. There is no set agenda for these meet-ups, just bring a snack to share and whatever fun nature nerdiness you are working on. Watch TWC’s Facebook page for reminders and updates. (You do not have to be an OCVN to attend these programs - you just need to be a nature nerd!)

Explore the Night Sky

This program series, by TWC Astronomy Club members, will be offered at 7:00 pm on the first Friday of the month February to November. Each program is followed by TWC Astronomy Club’s Star Watch at 8:00. These programs are also appropriate for interested middle/high school students. Cost: $5/per program/ five programs for $20. Series tickets are transferable to any of the 10 programs.

seasonal constellationsFriday, February 7, May 1, August 7, November 6, 7:00 pmThis consists of four sessions in the planetarium where we orient you to the naked-eye night sky and introduce you to the constellations and brighter objects in the heavens. The goal is to provide a working knowledge of the sky, how to navigate around it, and how and why it changes with the seasons. Led by Dave Gill

binoculars and telescopesFriday, March 6, 7:00 pmThis session introduces you to using optical aid to observe the sky. We explain what optical aid does for you and explain light gathering, resolution and magnification. We introduce the benefits of using binoculars to scan the sky and discuss different types and specifications. Then we discuss common types of telescopes that new stargazers will encounter and explain the advantages and disadvantages of each. Led by Dave Gill.

Finding stuffFriday, April 3, 7:00 pmOnce you have a pair of binoculars or a telescope, you become bewildered with how to find the objects you hear about. We will explore how to use star charts, star hopping, reference guides, and the increasingly popular “go to” computer controlled telescopes. We will also give you some perspective on what objects will look like in your telescope. (Hint – forget those Hubble photos…). Led by Phil Creed.

The solar systemFriday, June 5, 7:00 pmSolar system observing is easy – the objects tend to be bright and easy to find (many are; many are not). Solar system observing is challenging – objects tend to be small and high magnification requires much patience. We will discuss the challenges of seeing detail, understanding what to look for, and how to find harder objects like asteroids and comets. Led by Brian Gray.

The Deep skyFriday, July 3, 7:00 pmWelcome to the world of faint fuzzies! We will discuss the different classes of objects in the deep sky – clusters, nebulae and galaxies. We’ll talk about their catalogs, nicknames and how to go about finding them and seeing detail in them. Led by Phil Creed.

stars 101Friday, September 2, 7:00 pmIn this session we will concentrate on stars – how they work, what makes them different from each other, how we classify them and what about them is interesting to observe. We will talk about double and multiple star systems and about variable stars. Led by Brian Gray.

imaging 101Friday, October 2, 7:00 pmTaking pictures of the night sky has never been easier or less expensive (no film, no darkroom…) We will introduce you to several kinds of photography from the simple stuff you can do with your camera phone or DSLR to more sophisticated photography through a telescope. Led by Phil Hoyle.

TWC Astronomy ClubThe Astronomy Club also offers programs at each of their monthly meetings. These meetings are open to all who are interested. Meetings are at 7:30p.m. in TWC Astronomy Education Building

Jan 31 Sky Events for 2020 Feb 28 Bigger and Better, Part II Mar 27 Connecting the Dots: Origins of Constellations Apr 24 Processing Software for Astrophotography May 29 LIGO Jun 26 Big Astronomy Planetarium Show Jul 31 Astro Trivia Aug 28 Shorts Sep 25 Mars Tour Oct 30 Travels Nov 27 All About Orbits

Short Course

plastics 101This series will cover everything you want to know about plastics from the initial development and widespread adoption of plastics into our lives to the current worldwide problem with plastic pollution. It will also look at the solutions to curtailing the plastic crisis. Dr. Randi Pokladnik has a doctorate degree in environmental studies and volunteers with the Ohio Valley Environmental Coalition. Cost: $20/series. Pre-registration required.

Origins of plasticSaturday, May 2, 10:00-12:00 health and environmental impactsSaturday, May 9, 10:00-12:00 real World solutionsSaturday, May 16, 10:00-12:00

social Marketing MattersWednesday, August 5, 9:00-3:00How do you keep people engaged once they leave your park or nature center? Social media is one of the best tools organizations can use to bring the natural world into people’s homes and keep them engaged even after they head home. Join Danae Wolfe, owner of Chasing Bugs, for a hands-on workshop on social media marketing. This workshop is designed for communications and marketing staff as well as front-line representatives like park naturalists. Participants will have the opportunity to team up and create a social media marketing strategy for their organization that will keep audiences engaged and entertained. Cost: $25 includes lunch. Pre-registration required.

Danae Wolfe is a digital engagement specialist, photographer, and conservation storyteller. She has over 10 years’ experience designing and facilitating learning opportunities that span natural resources, horticulture, digital engagement, leadership, and her personal passion of photography. In 2018, she was invited to speak at TEDxColumbus on the power of photography in fostering appreciation and conservation of insects and spiders and her talk has since been featured on TED.com.

communication for civic engagementFriday, July 10, 10:00-2:00Are you a nature lover who wants to make a difference in your community? Are you also worried that raising the topic of climate change might get you kicked out of a family dinner? In today’s hyper-partisan world of culture wars and political nastiness, sharing your concerns about the environment and the importance of conservation can be a scary proposition. TWC’s new OAKS course, Civic Engagement Communication, can help you open conversational doors and share your convictions without losing friends and alienating family members. In this course, taught by PR pro and Walsh faculty member Jeff Dafler, we will review the current public discourse landscape and learn key communication concepts and techniques that will help you establish common ground and help others appreciate the importance of conservation and sustainability. Cost: $25 includes lunch. Pre-registration required.

Jeff Dafler is Founder and Chief Strategist at The Dafler Company and an adjunct faculty member in the Department of Communication at Walsh University. With more than 25 years of leadership in the public and private sectors, Jeff is dedicated to helping clients and communities navigate an increasingly complex public landscape. Drawing on his experience as a U.S. diplomat and corporate public affairs executive, Jeff delivers the strategic insights, public policy advocacy and distinctive communication you need to build a more prosperous and sustainable future.

TWC Clubs are groups of TWC members sharing special interests. Most clubs meet

monthly at TWC and are happy to welcome visitors and new members. Learn more and

discover meeting times at wildernesscenter.org.

TWC Clubs

Native Plant Month

native plant celebration with Dr. Doug tallamySaturday, April 18, 12:30-7:00“Because nearly 85% of the U.S. is privately owned, our private properties are an opportunity for long-term conservation if we design them to meet the needs of the life around us.” — Dr. Doug Tallamy

nature’s best hope, Dr. Tallamy —1:00-2:00 Recent headlines about global insect declines, the impending extinction of one million species worldwide, and three billion fewer birds in North America are a bleak reality check about how ineffective our current landscape designs have been at sustaining the plants and animals that sustain us. Tallamy will discuss simple steps that each of us can- and must- take to reverse declining biodiversity and will explain why we, ourselves, are nature’s best hope. are “alien” plants “bad”?, Dr. Tallamy — 2:30-3:30The expense of fighting introduced plant invasions has encouraged the argument that if an introduced plant helps a particular butterfly, bird, or bee, why not embrace it? Using data from several studies, Tallamy answers this and related questions, showing that we can determine the overall impact of introduced plants on our ecosystems only by comparing what is gained from their use with what is lost when they replace native plant communities. book signing, native plant sale, buffet Meal — 3:30-5:30 The Wildlife in My garden, Lynda Price — 5:45-6:15Learn about the different types of insects, birds, mammals and more that are attracted to an ecologically diverse backyard. Discover why it is important to live with animals whose lifestyles don’t affect us and those whose actions we may not appreciate! intrigue & espionage in the garden, Carrie Elvey — 6:30-7:00Enjoy a light-hearted look at how plants and animals in your backyard employ a whole range of James Bond-style gadgets, weapons, disguises and international intrigue. Cost: $40.00 for members, $50.00 non-members. Limited to 100 participants.

native plant sale and gardening seminarsSaturday, April 25, 9:00-4:00Sunday, April 26, 1:00-4:00The choices we make in our yards and gardens can literally have an impact on the wildlife diversity of our local ecosystems. Come to the native plant sale to discover the wide variety of native plants available for landscaping. Attend the gardening seminars on Saturday to learn more about how to use native plants and take a guided walk to see spring wildflowers and mushrooms. Cost: $5 per session, payable at the door

edible native plantsSaturday, April 25, 11:15-12:15Rudy Moyer, Stark County Master GardenerJoin Rudy as he shares which weeds are favorites to eat along with tips on harvesting, how to prep for cooking and easy to make recipes that you are certain to enjoy. If the weather permits and Rudy can find some tasty weeds, he’ll even cook up one of his favorite recipes for a tasting!

My ever changing Wild gardenSaturday, April 25, 10:00-11:00Lynda Price, TWC Senior NaturalistTake a pictorial tour through Lynda’s home gardens to discover how native plants are used for structure and show. Learn about the transition from maintaining perfectly weeded and mowed areas to allow for a more natural, diverse groundcover.

Wildflower Walk Saturday, April 25, 1:00-2:00Tim and Paula Lavey, TWC BotanizersLearn the names and lore of spring wildflowers on a walk along TWC trails.

spring Mushroom identification WalkSaturday, April 25, 2:30-3:30Don King, themushroomhunter.comMid-April through May is prime mushroom hunting season in Ohio.Join us for an introduction to the techniques that will help you locate, identify, and harvest wild mushrooms in a sustainable manner. Don has been studying and collecting edible mushrooms and other foraged edibles for more than ten years. Free for members, $5 donation nonmembers.

OCVN at The Wilderness CenterOcvn trainingJune 7, 8, 14, 15, 21 & 22, 8:30 - 5:00 Learn about Ohio’s Natural History! The Ohio Certified Volunteer Naturalist Program (OCVN) is a training program run through OSU Extension. Participants complete training in geology, plants, insects, birds, mammals, reptiles and amphibians, ecology, stewardship and interpretation. Cost: $195/person includes instruction, books and curriculum materials. Limited to 20 participants.

project WilD For small groups Friday, July 12, 10:00 - 4:00The new and improved Project WILD guide is here! Get the new guide and learn to adapt the classes for smaller audiences. Perfect for OCVNers, Scout leaders and homeschool parents. Free, registration deadline June 25.

Field Day: tiny lives, big impacts Saturday, July 13Learn to appreciate the tiniest inhabitants of our world. From soil microorganisms to earthworms, we’ll explore the fascinating dramas playing out under our feet. Watch newsletter and website for details Cost: $30 members/$35 nonmembers, includes lunch. Registration deadline June 25.

Ocvn 2.0 – Ornithology Friday, August 16, 9:00 - 2:00Saturday, August 17, 9:00 - 2:00This OCVN refresher course will review and build on your bird identification skills. On day one, we’ll focus on common birds found in backyards and fields with an emphasis on bird behavior and adaptations. On day two, we’ll look at bird-related citizen science projects and conservation efforts. You do not need to be an OCVN to take this class. Cost: $25 members/30 nonmembers.

Wine & Wilderness at Troutman VineyardsJoin us at Troutman Vineyards south of Wooster and discover Ohio’s wildlife. Relax in front of the fire with a glass of wine and enjoy the program. Cost: $10/program, includes one glass of wine. Buy a series ticket for $65. Seating is limited, please call The Wilderness Center to reserve a seat.

The secret lives of salamandersFriday, January 10, 6:30 pmAlthough they are among our most numerous forest denizens, their lives often go unnoticed. Explore their lives and discover their role in the forest system.

bird Dating profilesFriday, February 14, 6:30 pmBirds go to amazing lengths to attract a mate. Explore the antics of birds from around the world.

Ohio’s natural landscape with Deborah Fleming and buckeye book FairFriday, March 20, 6:30 pm Deborah Fleming is the author of Resurrection of the Wild: Meditations on Ohio’s Natural Landscape. This series of inter-related essays about natural and human histories covers topics like fox hunting, the impacts of the mining and drilling industries, life on Fleming’s farm, and Ohio’s Amish community, all set against the backdrop of the Allegheny Plateau.

gardening with native plantsFriday, April 3, 6:30 pmApril is Native Plant Month in Ohio! From the first blossoms of spring to the last blooms of fall, learn about the Ohio native plants you can use in your gardens. Presented by TWC naturalist Lynda Price.

The World of Wetlands with ian adams and buckeye book FairFriday, May 15, 6:30 pmJoin renowned Ohio photographer Ian Adams for a look at the importance of wetlands. Researchers estimate that since 1780, agricultural, urban and industrial development has destroyed more than 50 percent of the 250 million acres of wetlands…marshes, swamps, bogs and fens…that existed in the United States in pre-settlement days. Yet over 100 million acres of wetlands remain, teeming with animal and plant life and home to over one-third of the endangered and threatened species in the U.S. This program showcases some of these last remaining wilderness areas in the eastern U.S., from the quaking bogs of the North Woods and Midwest to the coastal marshes and vast cypress swamps of the Southeast.

Dark MattersFriday June 5, 6:30 pmPlants and animals need dark skies. They rely on natural light cues for navigation, timing of major life events, and protection. Learn how you can help keep the skies dark for wildlife.

natural history of amish countryFriday, July 17, 6:30 pmOhio’s Amish Country is home to the largest inland wetlands complex in the state and sits along the state’s glacial boundary. Learn how these factors have shaped the communities that live here.

plants and the Making of americaFriday, November 13, 6:30 pmPlants played a pivotal role in the discovery and settling of America. Discover the resources that drew explorers and pioneers to the wild North American continent.

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Ohio geology and FossilsSaturday, January 25, 11:00Explore the geologic history of Ohio to understand why the rocks in our state are where they are. Learn the different sedimentary rocks that are used for Ohio industry. Fossil identification and collection sites will also be discussed. Bring your own rocks or fossils to show! This is an adult program but may be suitable for middle school and high school students. Cost: Free for members, $5.00 per person for non-members

Ohio lights Out programSaturday, February 1, 10:30Collisions with buildings are a leading cause of bird fatality during migration and it is estimated that up to half a billion birds die each year in North America from building collisions. There are several cities working with Ohio Lights Out: Cleveland, Columbus, Dayton, Toledo, Akron and Pittsburgh to reduce the number of bird collisions and to help rescue injured birds. Presenter Liz McQuaid, an avid birder, represents Lights Out Cleveland as their volunteer coordinator, belongs to several bird organizations and works as an electronic technician at NASA Glenn Research Center in Cleveland.

bee schoolSaturday, February 8, 9:30 – 4:30Have you thought about raising honey bees but don’t know how to begin? The Stark County Beekeepers’ beginning bee school will get you started! Speakers will cover bee biology, basic equipment, hive location, opening the hive and giving bees a good start. In case of inclement weather, the snow date will be February 15. Cost: $40.00 per person includes info packet, light breakfast and full lunch. Registration deadline Feb 1.

learn bird songsSaturday, March 14, 10:00-11:30This introduction to bird vocalizations will help you learn the most common bird calls of our area. We will learn the songs as well as “handles” and “groupings” to help distinguish between the species. Weather permitting we will take a short hike to hear the active callers. Cost: $5.00 per person.

Outdoor Enrichment

Wild edibles: Fall Mushrooms & More identification WalkSaturday, September 26, 10:00-12:00Enjoy a morning walk in the crisp, autumn air with chef and wild-food enthusiast Don King. We will be scouting the trails and identifying edible nuts, berries, plants and mushrooms. In this day and age, when we are far removed from our food sources, foraging is an excellent way to reconnect with our environment and our ancestors who obtained their food directly from the earth. Wild foods add new richness to our palette by adding colors, textures and tastes that simply can’t be bought at a store. Cost: Free for members, $5 donation from non-members.

The rock cycleSaturday, September 26, 1:00Rocks are constantly being weathered, formed, and deformed. They are constantly being recycled. Learn sedimentary, igneous, and metamorphic classifications and how to generally identify rocks. Bring your own rocks to show! Cost: Free for members, $5.00 per person for non-members

luncheon in the garden seriesWednesday, May 6, 11:30 – 1:30 Wednesday, July 8, 11:30 – 1:30 Wednesday, September 2, 11:30 – 1:30 Join Lynda Price at her home garden near Wooster for an identification tour of native plants. Learn about the sunlight, soil, and water conditions that help each plant type thrive or perish over time. Find out about the plants that move and those that stay put. After the tour, a luncheon buffet featuring local foods will be served. Cost: $20 per member; $25 per nonmember each day. Directions provided to registered participants. Limited to 20 participants.

Migration sensationSaturday, March 21This wonderful migration celebration takes place in the town of Shreve and the surrounding Killbuck Marsh Wildlife Area. Adult and family activities will be ongoing at various locations throughout the day. Visit wildernesscenter.org/migrationsensation for more details.

astronomy Day: black holesSaturday, April 4, 2:00 Our Astronomy Day topic this year is black holes. Our featured speaker is Dr. Keith Riles. Dr. Riles leads the University of Michigan Gravitational Wave Group and is a member of the LIGO Scientific Collaboration that made the September 2015 discovery of merging black holes. His presentation will be enjoyed by both adults and kids. Watch our newsletter and website for other Astronomy Day activities.

tWc Wilderness run Saturday, April 18, 8:30 - 12:30Celebrate Earth Day and support TWC at the same time! Choose between a family-friendly One-Mile Fun Run, a 5K for runners or walkers and a 10K. Register online at verticalrunnerrm.com.

Forest, Farm & ForkSaturday, September 12, 5:30 - 9:30 pmThe Wilderness Center is excited to announce its third, annual farm-to-table dinner and fundraiser at Wholesome Valley Farms in Wilmot, Ohio. The evening’s menu will be crafted and prepared by notable, local chefs and served in a beautifully restored 19th century barn. For more information, please call Barb at (330) 359-5235 or email barb@wildernesscenter.org.

Woodcarving showSaturday, September 19, 10:00 - 5:00Sunday, September 20, 1:00 - 5:00This annual show will feature carving exhibits, demonstrations, People’s Choice award, raffle and door prizes.

nature Fest arts and crafts show Saturday, November 7, 9:00 - 4:00Support the education mission of The Wilderness Center while doing your holiday shopping among talented artisans using natural items or portraying nature in their work. Free admission.

Special Days & Nights TWC Bird Club

breakfast with the birdsSaturday, January 11, 9:00-11:00Saturday, April 11, 9:00-11:00Saturday, November 14, 9:00-11:00Join The Wilderness Center Bird Club in the observation room for coffee, juice and breakfast treats to watch/count birds from the warmth of the indoors – don’t forget your camera!

great backyard bird countSaturday, February 15, 9:00-2:00Stop by and visit with the TWC Bird Club as they participate in the Cornell Lab of Ornithology’s annual Great Backyard Bird Count. Come to the Wildlife Observation Room for as long or as short a time as you like, identify and count birds for this annual citizen-science project.

Woodcock WalkTuesday, March 17, 7:30pmJoin TWC Bird Club at dusk to listen for the American Woodcock’s vocal “Peent” preceding the most spectacular aerial courtship display. Dress warmly and meet in TWC parking lot to listen and watch.

bird club tripsThe Bird Club offers birding trips throughout the year for club members. If you are interested in joining them on any of these hikes, you can find information on their Facebook page (TWC Bird Club).

castalia/Medusa Marsh — Saturday, January 25

Killdeer plains — Saturday, February 8

Killbuck Marsh/Funk bottoms — Saturday, March 14

salt Fork — Saturday, April 25

cuyahoga valley national park — Saturday, May 23

shorebird trip — Saturday, September 5

Wake robin, Mentor headlands, conneaut — Saturday, October 3

Mohican state Forest — Saturday, November 7

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Wildflowers and butterflies programSaturday, January 25, 2:00By using native wildflowers you have greater opportunity to attract our lovely native butterflies to your backyard, like we do with birds & birdfeeders. We will discuss 20 of the most common butterflies and their favorite nectar and larva wildflower plants and which ones could be incorporated into a butterfly garden. Presented by Marvin & Sandy Smith

identifying trees of Ohio programSaturday, February 29, 2:00There are approximately 125 species of native trees that grow in Ohio. 79 native species and 5 common non-native species will be covered, focusing on identification, their uses, and interesting natural history information. Presented by Marvin Smith

introduction to Mushrooms and Their ecological roleSaturday, March 28, 2:00For much of the year, any walk through the woods reveals an assortment of fascinating mushrooms, each playing an important role in the forest ecosystem. The hope is that you develop a better understanding of the role they play in nature and inspire you to further explore the world of mushrooms. Presented by Dave Brumfield. Dave is a naturalist for the Summit County Metro Parks and leads many mushroom hikes through the seasons.

Mushrooms in reviewSaturday, November 14, 10:00Inspired by our March program on mushrooms and a follow up mushroom field hike in September, the Botanizers who photograph will present a few of their best photos of mushrooms and share their experience and knowledge they have learned about them.

botanizer’s brag programSaturday, December 12, 2:00The brag show has always been a great time to share some photos and stories of places Botanizers have visited the past year.

TWC Botanizers’ Club

TWC Botanizers’ WalksThe Botanizers also lead walks for their members throughout the year. If you would like to join them, contact woodfern.22@gmail for more information about the club and walks.

Apr 4 Golden Lily Preserve Apr 25 Spencer Lake May 16 Clear Creek Metropark Jun 6 Cedar Bog Jul 11 Tomlinson Run State Park (WVa) Aug 15 Resthaven Wildlife Area Sep 12 Munroe Falls Metropark Oct 17 Jefferson Lake State Park

TWC Backpackers’ Club

summer trip to the canadian rockiesFriday, February 21, 7:00 pmClub members will share about the Backpackers’ summer trip to the Canadian Rockies.

teddy roosevelt presentation Friday, March 20, 7:00 pm Ted Dudra from Akron, Oh is a retired teacher from Plain Local School District. He will portray Teddy Roosevelt in the first person sharing the unique achievements of his life: National Parks, soldier, president, numerous other offices held, cowboy and family man.

Dayhiking Maine and vermont Friday, April 17, 7:00 pm Club member Kim will talk about her summer trip to Vermont and Maine. Movie night: A Walk in the WoodsFriday, August 21, 7:00 pm

road scholar trip to MaineFriday, October 16, 7:00 pmClub members Adriana and Barb will share about their Road Scholar trip to Maine.

.TWC Nature Photography Club

TWC Readers Group is an informal gathering of people who like to read and talk about what they have read. Their theme is nature, the environment, and our participation in the natural world. There are no assignments, and drop-ins are welcome at any meeting they find to be of interest.

Our Native Bees: North America’s Endangered Pollinators and the Fight to Save Them by paige embrySaturday, January 4, 2:00Native pollinators are critical to our food and agriculture. These 4000 species of bees are not well-known or studied. As Embry interviews beekeepers, farmers, and scientists she aims to expand our understanding.

The Overstory by richard powersSaturday, March 7, 2:00Winner of the 2019 Pulitzer Prize in fiction. This novel brings together 9 life stories and their relationships to nature and environmental activism.

Before They’re Gone: A Family’s Year-long Quest to Explore America’s Most Endangered National Parks by Michael lanzaSaturday, May 2, 2:00Lanza takes his wife and 2 children to adventures in 10 National Parks that are being affected by climate change.

Braiding Sweetgrass: Indigenous Wisdom, Scientific Knowledge, and the Teaching of Plants by robin Wall KimmererSaturday, September 12, 2:00In a collection of essays the author weaves together the strands of her life as a Native American, a scientist, and a 21st Century woman.

The Feather Thief: Beauty, Obsession, and the Natural History Heist of the Century by Kirk Wallace JohnsonSaturday, November 14, 2:00A true crime story. A promising musician steals from a famous museum 299 rare bird skins to sell to a group of enthusiasts engaged in the art of Victorian salmon fly-tying.

TWC Readers Group

TWC Nature Photography Club meets the forth Satuday of the month at 9:30. You can find their monthly meeting topics, and additional information, on their website at twcnpc.com. The great smoky Mountains photography suMMit Saturday, January 25, 9:30 TWC Nature Photo Club member, Richard Patrick, will take us on a trip to Townsend, Tennessee, where he attended The Great Smoky Mountains Photography Summit. Rich will share his daily schedule where he heard many outstanding speakers and photographed in The Great Smoky Mountains with many top nature photographers. He will share his insights about the summit and his images of the Great Smoky Mountains.

preparing and Mounting prints for photo contestSaturday, February 22, 9:30Did you ever wonder how the judges of a photo contest make their decisions? TWC Nature Photo Club member Paul Keske will give a presentation entitled Preparing your Photos for a Contest from the Perspective of a Judge. It will present one judge’s ideas on what makes a winning photograph. Eliminating some common mistakes will ensure that your image does not get eliminated for something that is easy to correct. Learn what photos get noticed and which ones get passed by. night sky photography - creating Dazzling star trail images Saturday, March 28, 9:30Capturing the apparent movement of billions of stars as the Earth rotates can give you surreal and compelling images. Debbie DiCarlo has spent countless hours doing just that and will show many of her images while recounting trials and tribulations, settings and useful apps.

Foto FestSaturday, May 2, 9:00 - 5:00Sunday May 3, 1:00 - 5:00The Foto Fest’s goal is to showcase outstanding nature photography for the general public’s enjoyment. View the beautiful photographs and help choose the winners! Pick up a ballot at the door and then take your time meandering through the exhibit and voting for your favorite.

the Wilderness center9877 alabama ave. s.W.

Wilmot, Oh 44689 330.359.5235

programs@wildernesscenter.org

W i l De r n e s s c e n t e r . Org