Spring Outdoors 2017 Sponsored by Southbridge Savings Bank · 2017-06-01 · Spring Outdoors connects you to lands, waters, and trails in The Last Green Valley National Heritage Corridor,

Spring Outdoors connects you to lands, waters, and trails in The Last Green Valley National Heritage Corridor, 35 towns in eastern Connecticut and south central Massachusetts. Sponsored by Southbridge Savings Bank.

Phone: 860-774-3300 Email: [email protected] thelastgreenvalley.org

203B Main Street (2nd floor), P.O. Box 29, Danielson, CT 06239-0029 P.O. Box 186, Southbridge, MA 01550

Predation & the Ecosystem at Goodwin Wednesday, March 22, 2017, 1 - 2:30 pm Difficulty: Easy. Key(s):Pre-registration recommended 860-455-9534 or [email protected] . Address: 23 Potter Rd., Hampton, CT. Off Route 6 Expect this! The relationship between prey and predator is a delicate balance in our complex and ever changing world. In this program, we’ll take a look at these relationships to determine risks to and potential damage to the balance of our local ecosystem structure. Conservation Educator Michael Grady returns with a brand new program that discusses the state of our ecosystem and includes hands on experience outdoors to discover how nature is letting us know the problem. Take a self-guided hike on any of the trails available in the Goodwin State Forest (including a portion of the Air Line Trail, too) after this presentation to enjoy this environment. Then attend the Book Club at 3pm. Questions? 860-455-9534 Time/Distance: 1.5 hours, n/a Sponsored by: Friends of Goodwin Forest. www.friendsofgoodwinforest.org Goodwin Book Club featuring Edwin Way Teale Wednesday, March 22, 2017, 3 - 4 pm Difficulty: Easy. Key(s):Pre-registration recommended 860-455-9534 or [email protected] . Address: 23 Potter Rd., Hampton, CT. Off Route 6 Expect this! Do you like reading about the environment and nature? Do you wish you could discuss your favorite books with other people? Join other like minded folk who want to talk about their favorite books and find suggestions for new and wonderful reads. The book we will be continuing with is A Naturalist Buys an Old Farm by Edwin Way Teale. This book chronicles Edwin’s experiences at his farm in Hampton, CT. Please come to the club having read as much of the assigned book as possible. Take a self-guided hike on the Goodwin Forest Trails before or after the book club gathering to enjoy what Edwin & Nellie did! Questions? 860-455-9534 Time/Distance: 2 hours, n/a Sponsored by: Friends of Goodwin Forest. www.friendsofgoodwinforest.org

Spring Outdoors 2017 Sponsored by

Southbridge Savings Bank

mailto:[email protected]


http://www.friendsofgoodwinforest.org/






Stories, Songs, Arts & Nature at Trail Wood Saturday, 3/25/2017, 9 - 10:30 am Difficulty: Easy. Address: Edwin Way Teale Sanctuary at Trail Wood, 93 Kenyon Rd., Hampton, CT. Off Route 97 Expect this! As a summer of 2016 Artist in Residence at the Trail Wood Memorial Sanctuary, owned and managed by CT Audubon, Maria Sangiolo wishes to share the trails and her creative experience there as a writer. Maria has songs and stories to share and a love of the place that the Teales inhabited in Hampton for over 40 years. We will start with a short talk and then hike for about an hour. This tour will repeat on Saturday, May 20 at 2 pm, so you can enjoy later in the spring. For local entertainment, see what Maria lines up at the Vanilla Bean Cafe in Pomfret, another proud supporter of TLGV. Questions? 860-208-5284 Time/Distance: 1.5 hours, 1 +/- miles Sponsored by: CT Audubon Center at Pomfret, The Vanilla Bean Café. http://www.ctaudubon.org/center-at-pomfret & http://www.thevanillabeancafe.com Organic Lawns Workshop Saturday, March 25, 2017, 10 - 11: 30 am Difficulty: n/a. Key(s):Pre-registration by 3/23/17 to 860-429-3333 or [email protected] . Address: 4 S. Eagleville Rd., Storrs (Mansfield), CT. Expect this! The Town of Mansfield is offering a series of free workshops focused on landscaping techniques that reduce storm water pressure, soil erosion, pesticide, herbicide and synthetic fertilizer use and support a healthy environment around our homes. Residents from other communities are welcome to attend. Learn how to create a lush, healthy yard without the use of pesticides, herbicides and synthetic fertilizers from accredited organic land care professional Rick Brosseau of Milrick Lawn Service. Questions? 860-429-3333 Time/Distance: 1.5 hours, n/a Sponsored by: Town of Mansfield, CT. www.mansfieldct.org Medicinal Weeds of Connecticut and Their Use Saturday, March 25, 2017, 10:30 - 12 pm Difficulty: Easy. Key(s):Pre-registration recommended 860-455-9534 or [email protected] . Address: 23 Potter Rd., Hampton, CT. Off Route 6 Expect this! This workshop will emphasize the identification and use of our wonderful weeds. Example plants will be shared and a weed walk will be included to help participants recognize plants. Recipes will be shared and demonstrated. Debra Hultgren is a retired public school educator and administrator. In retirement she is a practicing community herbalist and master gardener. She grows, harvests and prepares foods and medicines and teaches others how to include these healing traditions in their own lives. Questions? 860-455-9534 Time/Distance: 1.5 hours, n/a Sponsored by: Friends of Goodwin Forest. www.friendsofgoodwinforest.org TLGV Ranger Marcy's Acorn Adventure - Is it Spring yet on the Air Line Trail in The Last Green Valley? Sunday, March 26, 2017, 1 - 2:30 pm Difficulty: Easy. Key(s): Leashed dogs, Especially for families with children. Address: Chewink Rd., Chaplin, CT. Rte. 6 to Chewink Rd., park at lot where the Air Line Trail crosses road. Expect this! Trek the Air Line Trail in The Last Green Valley! Our feet will take us west to find Joshua's Trust Two Sisters Preserve as we search for signs of Spring - Like Skunk Cabbage! Snacks, Acorn Adventure stickers and lots f FUN always included! Dress for the weather, and bring a friend! FREE! All ages welcome. Questions? 860-774-3300 Time/Distance: 1.5 hours, 2 miles Sponsored by: The Last Green Valley & Putnam Bank. www.thelastgreenvalley.org, www.putnambank.com


http://www.ctaudubon.org/center-at-pomfret

http://www.thevanillabeancafe.com/


http://www.mansfieldct.org/


http://www.thelastgreenvalley.org/

http://www.putnambank.com/




Climate Change 101 Sunday, March 26, 2017, 2 - 3 pm Difficulty: Easy. Key(s):Pre-registration recommended 860-455-9534 or [email protected] . Address: 23 Potter Rd., Hampton, CT. Off Route 6 Expect this! Goodwin’s naturalist, Jasper Sha will lead a discussion about climate change. He will discuss how climate change works, how humans are impacting global changes, and will answer some commonly asked questions and misconceptions. Come learn, ask questions, and find out a little bit more about something often talked about but rarely examined clearly. Stay after the talk and hike or stroll some of the beautiful trails around the Goodwin Forest. Breathe in the fresh air. Questions? 860-455-9534 Time/Distance: 1 hour, n/a Sponsored by: Friends of Goodwin Forest. www.friendsofgoodwinforest.org Spring Along the Willimantic River Sunday, March 26, 2017, 2 - 3:30 pm Difficulty: Easy-Moderate. Key(s):Pre-register to [email protected]. Especially for families with children, NO dogs please. Address: 30 Silver Falls Lane, Storrs (Mansfield), CT. Park at the end of Commerce Dr. Expect this! Come look for spring along the Willimantic River - plants and reptiles - and learn about this property long-held by the Potter family of Windham. Rain or snow cancels. No dogs, please. Suitable for children ages 4 and up. Easy to moderate. Mud boots recommended and appropriate weather gear. Questions? 860-429-9023 Time/Distance: 1.5 hours, 1 mile Sponsored by: Joshua's Trust. http://joshuastrust.org Climate Change and Its Effect on Human Health Sunday, 3/26/2017, 2 - 4 pm Difficulty: Easy. Key(s): Free to CAS members, $7 for non-members. Address: 218 Day Rd., Pomfret Center, CT. Expect this! In addition to sea level rise, we are experiencing more frequent extremes in our weather which in turn impacts our health, food and water supplies. Sharon Diamen, M.D. retired Internist will discuss the implications of global climate change on human health and well-being, as well as provide simple steps we all can take to help fight it. Feel free to walk our sanctuary before or after the program. Questions? 860-928-4948 Time/Distance: 2 hours, n/a Sponsored by: CT Audubon Society Center at Pomfret. http://www.ctaudubon.org/center-at-pomfret

Spring Rains Story on Top of the Dam Sunday, March 26, 2017, 5 - 6:30 pm Difficulty: Easy. Key(s): Especially for families with children, NO dogs please.

Address: Hodges Village Dam, 30 Howarth Rd., Oxford, MA. Expect this! Do you like reading about the environment and learning about water? Want to read as a family and get a flood control tour of the dam? Drop in for a short, easy walk on top of the dam. FREE, family-fun event! Questions? 508-248-5697 Time/Distance: 1.5 hours, < 0.3 miles Sponsored by: US Army Corps of Engineers, Hodges Village Dam. http://www.nae.usace.army.mil/Missions/Recreation/Hodges-Village-Dam/




http://joshuastrust.org/


http://www.nae.usace.army.mil/Missions/Recreation/Hodges-Village-Dam/

http://www.nae.usace.army.mil/Missions/Recreation/Hodges-Village-Dam/




Keep Killingly Clean Month-Long Town-Wide Cleanup April 1 - April 30, 2017 Difficulty: n/a. Address: throughout the town, Killingly, CT. Expect this! Beginning April 1st, SIGN UP to participate! Pick up green trash bags at the Economic Development Office on the 2nd floor of the Town Hall (172 Main Street.) COLLECT trash in your neighborhood, streets & open spaces. Trash PICK UP by the town will be on Mondays April 10th, 17th and 24th. For more information contact Elsie or Judy at [email protected] or call 860-779-5350. Questions? 860-779-5350 Time/Distance: Entire month of April, Sponsored by: Town of Killingly, CT. www.killinglyct.gov Clean Up Lebanon Month-Long Town-Wide Cleanup April 1 – April 30, 2017 Address: throughout the town, Lebanon, CT. Expect this! In commemoration of Earth Day Lebanon's Conservation & Agricultural Commission remind residents that there are plenty of ways to celebrate the earth. Free blue garbage bags are available prior to Earth Day in the Office of the First Selectman to be used to pick up roadside rubbish during the month of April. Leave your bags by the side of the road, call 860-642-6100 and town crews will pick them up. Be sure to wear bright-colored clothes and watch out for traffic. Lebanon is home to many trails for walking and biking. Clean up and then enjoy them! Questions? 860-642-6100 Sponsored by: Town of Lebanon, CT. www.lebanontownhall.org Thompson Together's Month-Long Town-Wide Cleanup April 1 - April 30, 2017 Difficulty: n/a. Address: throughout the town, Thompson, CT. Expect this! Thompson Together, Inc. will be doing their annual month-long town-wide cleanup in the Town of Thompson. The Town of Thompson will provide a dumpster designated for the cleanup. Questions? 860-928-1742 Time/Distance: Entire month of April, Sponsored by: Thompson Together, Inc. http://www.thompsonct.org NFA Students Cleanup Norwich Select Days in April & May Difficulty: n/a. Address: from NFA to Howard Brown Park & at the Marina at America's Wharf, Norwich, CT. Expect this! Norwich Free Academy Marine & Environmental Sciences students will be doing cleanups from NFA to Howard Brown Park and the Marina at Americas Wharf on select dates in April and May. Toot and give them a thumbs up when you see them at work! Questions? 860-887-2505 Sponsored by: Norwich Free Academy. http://www.nfaschool.org



http://www.killinglyct.gov/

http://www.lebanontownhall.org/

http://www.thompsonct.org/

http://www.nfaschool.org/




Vernal Pool Inventory Training Session Saturday, 4/1/2017, 9 am - 12 pm Another training session is offered Friday 4/7/17, 9 am. Difficulty: Easy. Key(s): FEE: $10 for CAS members, $15 for non-members Address: 218 Day Rd., Pomfret, CT. CT Audubon Society Center at Pomfret Expect this! With spring rains and snowmelt, pools that typically are dry throughout summer, become breeding habitat for woodland amphibians. Peepers, wood frogs and spotted salamanders congregate at these vernal pools. Our trained volunteers search vernal pools for these breeding amphibians and their egg masses. If you would like to learn more about vernal pools and become a volunteer, attend one of the two training sessions with Citizen Science Coordinator, Paula Coughlin at the Center at Pomfret. Questions? 860-928-4948 Time/Distance: 3 hours, n/a Sponsored by: CT Audubon Society Center at Pomfret. http://www.ctaudubon.org/center-at-pomfret/ Rapoport/Spalding Preserve Walk Saturday, April 1, 2017, 10 - 11 am Difficulty: Moderate. Key(s): Leashed dogs. Address: Dead end of Calkins Rd., Woodstock, CT. Park respectfully on road by #129 Calkins Rd. Expect this! Hike the fields, woods, and wetlands of this scenic 154-acre Wyndham Land Trust Property, the Spalding/Rapoport Preserve. Questions? 860-928-4715 Time/Distance: 1 hour, 2 miles Sponsored by: Wyndham Land Trust. www.wyndhamlandtrust.org History of Making Charcoal in Connecticut Saturday, 4/1/2017, 10 am - 12 pm Difficulty: Easy. Address: Goodwin Forest, 23 Potter Rd., Hampton, CT. Off Route 6 Expect this! This presentation is open to everyone interested in learning about the history of making charcoal in Connecticut. Master Naturalist Lance Hansen will present his research and discuss his project of creating a demonstration charcoal mound along the red/white trail in the Goodwin State Forest. After the presentation, we invite participants to take a hike to see the charcoal mound demonstration first hand. Lance Hansen is a Master Naturalist graduate, trail manager, Master Wildlife Conservationist, Farmington River Steward, representative for the Farmington River Coordinating Committee, and an employee in the Wildlife Division at the Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (amongst many other things). Questions? 860-455-9534 Time/Distance: 2 hours, n/a Sponsored by: Friends of Goodwin Forest. www.friendsofgoodwinforest.org Leffingwell House Museum Season Opening & Unveil of 13-Star Flag Saturday, April 1, 2017, 11 am - 4 pm Difficulty: Easy. Address: 348 Washington St., Norwich, CT. Expect this! After a self-guided Walk Norwich stroll (walknorwich.org), visit the museum for opening day, including the unveiling of an amazing preserved and framed Centennial 13-Star Flag! Cocoa being served, too. $5 entry fee. Questions? 860-889-9440 Time/Distance: 5 hours, n/a Sponsored by: Leffingwell House Museum. www.leffingwellhousemuseum.org


http://www.ctaudubon.org/center-at-pomfret/

http://www.wyndhamlandtrust.org/


http://www.leffingwellhousemuseum.org/




Long Distance Guided Hike Sunday, 4/2/2017, 12 - 3 pm Difficulty: Difficult. Key(s): Leashed dogs. Address: Goodwin Forest, 23 Potter Rd., Hampton, CT. Off Route 6 Expect this! Enjoy the company of fellow hikers and get some great outdoor exercise. Expect a 5-7 mile hike. Goodwin Guide Kat Gayson, will be taking you on this long distance hike as she points out nature tidbits here and there. All are welcome, including friendly dogs. Questions? 860-455-9534 Time/Distance: 3 hours, 5-7 miles Sponsored by: Friends of Goodwin Forest. www.friendsofgoodwinforest.org Informational Evening: The Coverts Project Monday, 4/3/2017, 6:30 - 7:30 pm Difficulty: Easy. Address: Goodwin Forest, 23 Potter Rd., Hampton, CT. Off Route 6 Expect this! Are you a woodland owner or property manager who wants to learn more about your woods and the animals that call it home? You may be interested in the Coverts Project. In this seminar, Dr. Tom Worthley will inform you about the Coverts Project and how you can become a part of this group of landowners who are interested in managing and enhancing their forested land. Tom Worthley is an Assistant Extension Professor at UConn and has written many scholastic articles while also teaching courses in Forest Ecology and Management and Dendrology. He also has worked extensively with forested tracts in the UConn forest. Questions? 860-455-9534 Time/Distance: 1 hour, n/a Sponsored by: Friends of Goodwin Forest. www.friendsofgoodwinforest.org The Audacity of Migration Tuesday, 4/4/2017, 6:30 - 7:30 pm Difficulty: Easy. Key(s):Pre-registration to [email protected] FEE: $5 for Friends of Goodwin Forest & CFPA members, $10 for nonmembers. Address: Goodwin Forest, 23 Potter Rd., Hampton, CT. Off Route 6 Expect this! In the struggle for existence, migration is one of nature’s great events. Birds do it. Whales do it. Even some insects move thousands of miles in spring or fall. Reporting from the frontiers of migration, writer and naturalist Dr. Bryan Pfeiffer will reveal the secrets of migration from the perspective of a bird (blackpoll warbler), a butterfly (monarch) and a dragonfly (wandering glider). With Bryan’s images, stories and humor, you’ll discover what new and innovative research tells us about how animals move to survive. Dr. Bryan Pfeiffer has been published in NY Times, Aeon Magazine, Orion, Northern Woodlands, and Field & Stream. He also teaches at University of Vermont and runs insect seminars at Maine’s Eagle Hill Institute. Learn more about him at www.bryanpfeiffer.com Questions? 860-455-9534 Time/Distance: 1 hour, n/a Sponsored by: Friends of Goodwin Forest. www.friendsofgoodwinforest.org









Vernal Pool Inventory Training Session Friday, 4/7/2017, 9 am - 12 pm Difficulty: Easy. FEE: $10 for CAS members, $15 for non-members Address: 218 Day Rd., Pomfret, CT. CT Audubon Society Center at Pomfret Expect this! With spring rains and snowmelt, pools that typically are dry throughout summer, become breeding habitat for woodland amphibians. Peepers, wood frogs and spotted salamanders congregate at these vernal pools. Our trained volunteers search vernal pools for these breeding amphibians and their egg masses. If you would like to learn more about vernal pools and become a volunteer, attend this training session with Citizen Science Coordinator, Paula Coughlin at the Center at Pomfret. Questions? 860-928-4948 Time/Distance: 3 hours, n/a Sponsored by: CT Audubon Society Center at Pomfret. http://www.ctaudubon.org/center-at-pomfret/ Alien Invaders!!! Invasive Species of Connecticut Saturday, 4/8/2017, 10 - 11:30 am Difficulty: Easy. Address: Goodwin Forest, 23 Potter Rd., Hampton, CT. Off Route 6 Expect this! Aliens are all around us. From fish to plants to worms, invasive plants and animals have entered the United States in many ways, some intentionally and some not. Join Judy Rondeau, Natural Resource Specialist with the Eastern Connecticut Conservation District and former Goodwin naturalist, for a survey of some of the alien species that now call the United States home. We will talk about how these species were brought here, impacts that they have on native species and the economy, and how to get rid of them. Then we will take a short stroll to identify some common invasive plant species and discuss methods for control Questions? 860-455-9534 Time/Distance: 1.5 hours, n/a Sponsored by: Friends of Goodwin Forest. www.friendsofgoodwinforest.org Families on Foot (A Family Hike at Mashamoquet Brook State Park) Saturday, 4/8/2017, 10 am - 12 pm Rain date Sun. 4/23, 10 am Difficulty: Moderate. Key(s):Pre-registration to [email protected] or call 860-315-9622. Restrooms nearby, Especially for families with children, Leashed dogs. Address: Route 44, Pomfret Center, CT. Please park close to the entrance and meet at the bridge leading to the trails. Gates do not open until after Memorial Day. Expect this! Hiking with your family is the perfect way to discover the wonders of spring. Meet YMCA Instructor, Grace Syriac for a guided hike of Mashamoquet Brook Trail. This 4.2 mile moderately trafficked loop trail located near Pomfret Center, Connecticut that offers the chance to discover spring and see wildlife. Make sure everyone has good walking shoes. Pack enough water (and then pack extra), remember sunscreen and bug spray. Dogs are also able to use this trail but must be kept on leash. Questions? 860-315-9622 Time/Distance: 2 hours, 4.2 miles Sponsored by: Hale YMCA Youth & Family Center. http://www.ghymca.org/branch.cfm?bid=11





http://www.ghymca.org/branch.cfm?bid=11




NHS - Second Saturdays: Civil War History of Yantic Cemetery Saturday, April 8, 2017, 10:30 am - 12 pm Difficulty: Easy. Address: 68 Lafayette St., Norwich, CT. Expect this! One of the NHS Second Saturday guides walk/talks offered. 150 years ago, about 1,300 Norwich men marched off to fight in the Civil War. Three hundred eighty-three of those men rest here. We don't know all of their stories, but come with us on this pleasant walk and we will tell you some of their best ones. Questions? 860-886-1776 Time/Distance: 1.5 hours, 1 mile Sponsored by: Norwich Historical Society. www.norwichhistoricalsociety.org NHS - Second Saturdays: Norwich Notables of the Yantic Cemetery Saturday, April 8, 2017, 1 - 2:30 pm Difficulty: Easy. Key(s): . Address: 68 Lafayette St., Norwich, CT. Expect this! One of the NHS Second Saturday guides walk/talks offered. The Yantic Cemetery is the final resting place of many Norwich Notables including millionaires, politicians, painters and abolitionists. Please join local cemetery expert Dave Oat as he details Norwich's past illustrious citizens and dicusses Victorian era funerary practices. Dave sheds new meaning on "being buried alive" and other burial practices. Please dress for the weather and wear comfortable shoes. FREE. If you want more information on Yantic Cemetery, please consider purchasing local author Melodye Whatley's book "Stories from Yantic Cemetery" - https://www.amazon.com/Stories-Yantic-Cemetery-Melodye-Whatley/dp/1517481287. Please consider donating to the Norwich Historical Society via Amazon Smile. Questions? 860-886-1776 Time/Distance: 1.5 hours, 1 mile Sponsored by: Norwich Historical Society. www.norwichhistoricalsociety.org Blue Slope Country Museum Presents Stew & Stories Saturday, 4/8/2017, 1 - 3 pm Difficulty: Easy. Key(s):Pre-registration recommended - call 860-642-6413 by 4/3/17. Ages 12+, $5 donation recommended. Address: 138 Blue Hill Rd., Franklin, CT. Expect this! Learn the stories of farming in southern, CT from the 'experts'. These are not 'how to' stories, rather stories rich in character, history and the 'I remember when' stories. Learn how some inventions were instrumental to farming, yet how many of the inventions fall under the category 'everything old is new again.' As visitors gather at Blue Slope Country Museum in Franklin, CT they will enjoy some fresh stew as your special Yankee farmers share their own personal fun and informative stories not found in history books: like haying by hand and haymaker's switchel, seeding and harvesting, hand milking as they attempt to provide a glimpse into the family dynamics and the value of hard work and play. Questions? 860-642-6413 Time/Distance: 2 hours, n/a Sponsored by: Blue Slope Country Museum. www.blueslope.com


http://www.norwichhistoricalsociety.org/


http://www.blueslope.com/




Vernal Pools Saturday, 4/8/2017, 8 - 9:30 pm Difficulty: Easy. Key(s):Pre-registration to [email protected] Address: Goodwin Forest, 23 Potter Rd., Hampton, CT. Off Route 6 Expect this! Vernal pools are fishless ephemeral spring ponds that form in the forest. So what is so special about them? Vernal pools are essential to the life cycles of many amphibians and other aquatic creatures. During this program, Naturalist Juan Sanchez, Master Naturalist Brad Robinson, and Goodwin Naturalist Jasper Sha will discuss the importance of vernal pools. After a presentation, we will go out into the night to visit a vernal pool to see what kinds of creatures we can find! Questions? 860-455-9534 Time/Distance: 1.5 hours, 1 mile Sponsored by: Friends of Goodwin Forest. www.friendsofgoodwinforest.org Messing About in a Vernal Pool Sunday, 4/9/2017, 2 - 4 pm, Rain date Sun. 4/16/17, 2 pm Difficulty: Moderate. Key(s): NO dogs please. Address: Border Woods Preserve, Eastford Rd., Woodstock, CT. On Rte. 198, about 1 mile north of the Rtes 198 & 197 intersection. Kiosk sign will be on your right if you are headed north. Expect this! Our springtime temporary pond is as full of life as a tidepool. We'll introduce you to live and lively amphibian, crustacean, and insect denizens of this fast-paced, short-lived environment. Wear watershoes if you want to help catch, but there will be plenty to see if you want to stay dry. Interested children are welcome. No dogs, this time, sorry. Moderate hike to get to the site. Questions? 860-928-3047. Time/Distance: 2 hours, 2 miles. Sponsored by: New Roxbury Land Trust. www.nrlt.org Hodges Village Dam Full Moon Vernal Pool Walk Sunday, April 9, 2017, 7 - 8:30 pm Difficulty: Moderate. Key(s): NO dogs please. Address: Hodges Village Dam, 30 Howarth Rd., Oxford, MA. Expect this! NO dogs please, we'll be looking for "critters" and need to be quiet. This should be the perfect time & place to look for salamanders. Dress for the weather, and bring a flashlight. FREE! All ages welcome. Questions? 508-248-5697 Time/Distance: 1.5 hours, 1+ mile Sponsored by: US Army Corps of Engineers, Hodges Village Dam. http://www.nae.usace.army.mil/Missions/Recreation/Hodges-Village-Dam Hike & Seek at the Groton Public Library Monday, 4/10/2017, 4 - 5 pm Difficulty: Easy. Address: 52 Newtown Rd., Groton, CT. Expect this! The Groton Public Library is pleased to host a program by Beth Sullivan, who will unveil the new “Hike & Seek” program available on the Avalonia website. The new interactive project encourages families to get out and hike Avalonia's trails. Using smart phone technology, hikers can click on the targets and clues provided on the website to learn fun facts and scientific information about Avalonia's many properties and enhance their hiking experience. Great for families and “kids” of all ages! Hikers are encouraged to post their images to instagram or facebook using the hashtags-- #avaloniahikeandseek and/or #avalonialandconservancy. This program is free and open to the public. For more information, please call the Library at 860-441-6750. Questions? 860-441-6750 Sponsored by: Avalonia Land Conservancy, Inc.. www.avalonialandconservancy.org




http://www.nrlt.org/

http://www.nae.usace.army.mil/Missions/Recreation/Hodges-Village-Dam


http://www.avalonialandconservancy.org/




CANCELLED (possible thunder showers) Senior Walk (not just for Seniors) Wednesday, 4/12/2017, 12 - 2 pm Difficulty: Easy - moderate. Address: Goodwin Forest, 23 Potter Rd., Hampton, CT. Off Route 6 Expect this! These are easy to moderate but casual walks taken on forest trails. They are a great opportunity to get outside, learn something new and maybe even meet a few new friends. These walks are very popular, and not just for seniors! All are welcome. Hiking sticks are available to borrow. Questions? 860-455-9534 Time/Distance: 2 hours, 2 miles Sponsored by: Friends of Goodwin Forest. www.friendsofgoodwinforest.org Owl Visit & Iron Mine Walk during school vacation! Thursday, April 13, 2017, 10 am - 12 pm Difficulty: Easy. Key(s): Especially for families with children. Address: 9 Sand Hill Rd., Ashford, CT. Expect this! On Thursday, April 13th, at 10:00 AM, kids and adults alike can join Joshua's Trust and Horizon Wings Raptor Rescue for a special program on owls and a walk at nearby Iron Mine Valley Preserve in Ashford for a special April Vacation outing. The program will begin at Horizon Wings where attendees will meet and learn about some of the rescue's resident owls. Following the program, there will be a walk at Iron Mine Valley, just five minutes up the road. The walk will focus on owls' natural habitat and springtime habits. Learn more about Iron Mine Preserve here: http://joshuastrust.org/iron-mine-valley Questions? 860-429-3338 Time/Distance: 2 hours, 1 mile Sponsored by: Joshua's Trust & Horizon Wings. www.joshuastrust.org & www.horizonwings.org Senior Walk (not just for Seniors) Thursday, 4/13/2017, 10 am - 12 pm Difficulty: Easy - moderate. Address: Goodwin Forest, 23 Potter Rd., Hampton, CT. Off Route 6 Expect this! These are easy to moderate but casual walks taken on forest trails. They are a great opportunity to get outside, learn something new and maybe even meet a few new friends. These walks are very popular, and not just for seniors! All are welcome. Hiking sticks are available to borrow. Questions? 860-455-9534 Time/Distance: 2 hours, 2 miles Sponsored by: Friends of Goodwin Forest. www.friendsofgoodwinforest.org Nature Immersion: The Art of Sit Spot Friday, 4/14/2017, 10 - 11:30 am Difficulty: Easy. Address: Goodwin Forest, 23 Potter Rd., Hampton, CT. Off Route 6 Expect this! Join Beth Bernard, Program Director at the James L. Goodwin Conservation Center in a unique journey to discover the lost art of the Sit Spot. This observation tool increases awareness, calms the body and mind, and opens up a world of awesome nature sightings! We will be taking a short hike and participating in exercises that awaken our senses. During our Sit Spot, we will stay in one spot and let nature come to us. Be dressed for the weather and bring a small mat or towel to sit on if you desire. Age 12-adult. Questions? 860-455-9534 Time/Distance: 1.5 hours, < 1 mile Sponsored by: Friends of Goodwin Forest. www.friendsofgoodwinforest.org



http://joshuastrust.org/iron-mine-valley

http://www.joshuastrust.org/

http://www.horizonwings.org/






Where is Hop River Friday, April 14, 2017, 11 am - 1 pm Difficulty: Moderate. Key(s): Leashed dogs, Especially for families with children. Address: Hop River Rd., Coventry, CT. Park at Trail Head Expect this! Walk the rails and learn about Hop River Village, once an important mill village. See two factory sites and the dam. This is a scenic walk on the Hop River Rail Trail to enjoy with your leader, Ray Axelrod. Questions? 860-617-3308 Time/Distance: 2 hours, 2 miles Sponsored by: CT Eastern Railroad Museum. www.cteastrrmuseum.org Get the Scoop on Pluto Friday, 4/14/2017, 7 - 8:30 pm Difficulty: Easy. Key(s):Pre-registration email [email protected] Address: TLGV office, 203B Main St., Danielson (Killingly), CT. Park behind Key Bank and enter through the side door. Expect this! Join Ranger Geoff at the Last Green Valley's headquarters for a presentation on the latest Pluto findings. The New Horizons explorer has completed sending it’s data about Pluto and scientists are still discovering more information about the minor planet. Learn more about this bizarre little planet that defies all preconceptions. The talk is for all age groups but most appropriate for 10 year olds and older. Reservations are required as we only have room for 50 attendees. Questions? 860-774-3300 Time/Distance: 1.5 hours, n/a Sponsored by: The Last Green Valley and McLean Research Associates. www.thelastgreenvalley.org & http://mcleanresearch.com TLGV April Member Program at Horizon Wings Saturday, April 15, 2017, Time TBD Difficulty: Easy. Key(s):Pre-registration 860-774-3300 or [email protected] Address: 9 Sand Hill Rd., Ashford, CT. Expect this! Enjoy the monthly TLGV member program with Chief Ranger Bill and Mary-Beth & her Horizon Wings Team. More details to come or contact [email protected]. Questions? 860-774-3300 Time/Distance: TBD, TBD Sponsored by: The Last Green Valley & Horizon Wings. www.thelastgreenvalley.org & www.horizonwings.org


http://www.cteastrrmuseum.org/



http://mcleanresearch.com/



http://www.horizonwings.org/




Town-Wide Chaplin Cleanup Saturday, April 15, 2017, 9 am - 1 pm Difficulty: Easy. Address: Chaplin Public Spaces, Chaplin, CT. Expect this! Chaplin Conservation Commission will hold a town-wide cleanup of public spaces (roads, parks, cemeteries) on Saturday, April 15th from 9 am – 1 pm. The goal is to cleanup as much of the town as possible while raising awareness of the litter problem, environmental awareness and improve aesthetics. Volunteers will chose a section of road or other area to be responsible for ahead of time, clean the area, and bring trash to dump truck or dumpster near Town Hall and Garrison park. Food and beverages will be provided after the cleanup. Please contact [email protected] or 860 455-9839 to sign up or for more information. Questions? 860-455-9839 Time/Distance: 4 hours, n/a Sponsored by: Chaplin Conservation Commission. www.chaplinct.org Gardeners Roundtable Saturday, 4/15/2017, 10 - 11:30 am Difficulty: Easy. Address: Goodwin Forest, 23 Potter Rd., Hampton, CT. Off Route 6 Expect this! This workshop is intended for all 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. Questions? 860-455-9534 Time/Distance: 1.5 hours, n/a Sponsored by: Friends of Goodwin Forest. www.friendsofgoodwinforest.org



http://www.chaplinct.org/





Fly Fishing: How and Why? with Trout Unlimited Saturday, 4/15/2017, 2 - 3:30 pm Difficulty: Easy. Address: Goodwin Forest, 23 Potter Rd., Hampton, CT. Off Route 6 Expect this! Trout Unlimited members George Jacobi and John Preston will explain the anatomy of a Connecticut trout stream by exploring the practice of fly fishing. Learn about strategy and timing, insect identification basics, fly skills, casting, and reading the water. Artist and author George Jacobi was published in “Trout” magazine in 2016, and wrote a blog for the Grand Canyon National Park website. John Preston is a past President of Thames Valley Trout Unlimited. Both have been fly fishing for over 40 years. Questions? 860-455-9534 Time/Distance: 1.5 hours, n/a Sponsored by: Friends of Goodwin Forest. www.friendsofgoodwinforest.org Tea & Just Desserts featuring 40 Years of Creative Clothing Saturday, 4/15/2017, 4 - 6 pm Difficulty: Easy. Key(s):Pre-registration call (leave message) 860-456-2178 or email [email protected] $15 per person. Address: Windham Textile & History Museum, 411 Main St., Windham (Willimantic), CT. Expect this! A spring tea will be held at the Mill Museum at 4 p.m. Laura Crow, curator, will give a brief talk about the new clothing exhibit. “The Timeless Art of Dyllis: Forty Years of Creative Clothing” features apparel — wearable art. The tea is $15 per person and reservations are suggested due to limited seating. Call and leave a message at 860-456-2178 or email [email protected] Questions? 860-456-2178 Sponsored by: Windham Textile & History Museum/The Mill Museum. www.millmuseum.org Nature Tech Talk Monday, 4/17/2017, 4:30 - 5:30 pm Difficulty: Easy. Key(s): Bring your smartphone if you have one! Address: Goodwin Forest, 23 Potter Rd., Hampton, CT. Off Route 6 Expect this! Let’s encourage each other to get out into nature more by learning how to merge the outdoors with the technology we have at hand. Discover apps we can use on our phones that help connect us not only with nature, but also with different communities. Turn nature and the outdoors into an active game for the kids! Find out how you and your family can get involved in helping scientists too! Questions? 860-455-9534 Time/Distance: 1 hour, n/a Sponsored by: Friends of Goodwin Forest. www.friendsofgoodwinforest.org How Flowers are Affected by Climate Change Monday, 4/17/2017, 6:30 - 7:30 pm Difficulty: Easy. Address: Goodwin Forest, 23 Potter Rd., Hampton, CT. Off Route 6 Expect this! Join Tanisha Williams, Ph.D student at UConn, as she discusses how flowers and plants can be indicators of climate change. By studying physical floral responses to changes in the environment and examining them alongside modeling predictions and population genetics, we can better understand the “past, present, and future” of the mechanisms driving plant populations and changes for survival in an ever shifting climate. Tanisha is a Ph.D. candidate in the department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology studying how indigenous flora from South Africa respond to climate change. She is a Fulbright Scholar and has spent the past year in South Africa conducting research. Questions? 860-455-9534 Time/Distance: 1 hour, n/a Sponsored by: Friends of Goodwin Forest. www.friendsofgoodwinforest.org





http://www.millmuseum.org/






Every Day Earth Day Fair Tuesday, April 18, 2017, 6 am - afternoon Difficulty: n/a. Address: QVCC, 742 Upper Maple St., Danielson, CT. Expect this! Start out the day with The “On the Air Water Fair” from 6 - 9 am at WINY Radio, 45 Pomfret St., Putnam, listen in to hear how your local actions can positively impact our environment, visit with community partners to in parking lot at WINY Radio. CT DPH will distribute collection sample bottles that you can pick up to test your private well water for arsenic and uranium. (DPH is offering free testing for these elements. Tests typically costs between $150-$200 dollars! At 11 am, the event moves to the QVCC campus where you can visit even more partners at this awareness event; vendors, murals, art, music, conservation information, speakers and more fun! Expect great surprises! Questions? 860-774-7350 Sponsored by: CT Audubon Center at Pomfret, NDDH, QVCC, QVCC Foundation, WINY, CT DPH & TLGV. http://www.nddh.org/ KBA's Downtown Danielson Main Street Cleanup Wednesday, April 19, 2017, 9 - 11 am Difficulty: n/a. Address: 172 Main St., Danielson, CT. Meet at Town Hall Expect this! School vacation is a great time to involve your kids in the downtown Main Street cleanup. All businesses along Main Street are invited to chip in to Spring Outdoors and spruce up the area. Great for Scouts & Young Marines, too! Questions? 860-779-5350 Time/Distance: 2 hours Sponsored by: Killingly Business Association (KBA). https://www.killinglybusinessassociation.org/

Spring Bird Watching Wednesday, 4/19/2017, 11 am - 1 pm Difficulty: Easy. Key(s): Bring binoculars, do NOT wear bright colored clothing. Address: Goodwin Forest, 23 Potter Rd., Hampton, CT. Off Route 6 Expect this! With the arrival of spring, birds are returning to New England to nest, making this the ideal time of year to view a variety of bird species. Join Conservation Educator Michael Grady and take a walk along Goodwin trails in search of birds. Bring binoculars and do not wear bright colored clothing. Questions? 860-455-9534 Time/Distance: 1 hour, < 1 mile Sponsored by: Friends of Goodwin Forest. www.friendsofgoodwinforest.org


http://www.nddh.org/

https://www.killinglybusinessassociation.org/





Be a Citizen Environmentalist Friday, 4/21/2017, 7:00 PM Difficulty: Easy. Address: Eastford Town Office Building, 16 Westford Rd., Eastford, CT. Expect this! Free Hands-on Earth Day Program for all ages. The Last Green Valley’s Education Outreach Assistant Liz Ellsworth will lead activities. Learn how to explore nature and become engaging explorers and advocates of our natural world, improve our local and universal environment in our yards, gardens, streams, rivers, forests and urban places. Learn how to analyze what you find and participate in projects that support our natural world. What do ecological indicators (like birds, pollinators, plants) tell us about our rural communities? Learn to collect data, analyze findings & take part in collaborative science. Refreshments included. Questions? 860-377-1456 Sponsored by: Eastford Democratic Town Committee. CANCELLED - Deep Sky Observing - CANCELLED Friday, 4/21/2017, 8 - 11 pm Difficulty: Easy. Key(s): NO dogs except for guide dogs which are permitted. (FYI because guide dogs are well trained and pose little hazard to astronomical equipment). Address: Holton Rd., Franklin, CT. Sprague Land Trust property on Holton Road in Franklin. Directions/Parking: From Baltic take 207 West, right onto 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 Giants, Nebulae. If you have a telescope - bring it. If you don't know how to use 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 talk about - and answer - all kinds of astronomical trivia while we observe. This is a family friendly event. Please - no lanterns and flashlights should be only be red lights. No white lights. Questions? 860-774-3300 Time/Distance: 3 hours, n/a Sponsored by: The Last Green Valley and McLean Research Associates. www.thelastgreenvalley.org & http://mcleanresearch.com Story Walk at Cat Hollow Friday, 4/21/2017, 10 - 11:30 am Rain date: Fri., April 28 at 10 am Difficulty: Easy. Key(s):Pre-registration call 860-779-5383 or email [email protected] Especially for families with children, Strollers welcome. Address: Dog Hill Rd., Killingly (Danielson), CT. Rte. 12 to Dog Hill Rd. to Cat Hollow Rd. Expect this! Come and join us for a leisurely walk through Cat Hollow while enjoying a nature related story. Park at the Dog Hill Rd. entrance to the park. Strollers Welcome! Registration Required! Questions? 860-779-5383 Time/Distance: 1.5 hours, < 1 mile Sponsored by: Killingly Public Library. www.killinglypubliclibrary.org Paddle Trip Down the French River Saturday, 4/22/2017, Time TBD Difficulty: Easy. Key(s):Pre-register to Jay Wade at [email protected] Kayak/canoe, pfd, whistle. Address: Oxford to Webster, , MA. Expect this! Enjoy a paddle trip down the French River hosted by Jay Wade, from Oxford to Webster. This is the annual trip sponsored by the French River Connection (FRC) to kick off the season. Contact Jay for specific information and to register at [email protected] Sponsored by: French River Connection. www.frenchriverconnection.org





http://www.killinglypubliclibrary.org/



http://www.frenchriverconnection.org/




Earth Day Neighborhood Trash Pick Up Saturday, 4/22/2017, Runs all weekend, Sat & Sun, April 22 & 23 Difficulty: Easy. Address: throughout the town, Sturbridge, MA. Expect this! The Sturbridge Conservation office is again encouraging a town wide Earth Day Trash Clean Up event. To get involved, stop into the Conservation Office at the Center Office Building Tuesdays through Fridays 9:00 am to 3:00 pm to register. Heavy-duty MA Highway bags are available in the Sturbridge Conservation Office. Volunteers will be asked to provide their names, the location of their clean up, and the location where bags will be left for pick up. The office also asks that volunteers sign a release form and take a volunteer “Do’s and Don’ts” sheet. Volunteers can select the areas they would like to work in. Work can be done over the weekend of April 22nd and 23rd. It is encouraged that neighborhoods, school groups, individuals and volunteer organizations take advantage of this excellent volunteer opportunity. On Monday April 24th, the Sturbridge DPW will pick up bags at their designated locations. It is important to note that the bags should be used only to clean up litter and trash -- no household items or yard waste. For more information, call the Conservation Office at 508-347-2506 or email [email protected] Questions? 508-347-2506 Sponsored by: Sturbridge Conservation Commission. www.town.sturbridge.ma.us

Sturbridge Trails Committee Earth Day Spring Clean Up Saturday, 4/22/2017, 8 am - 12 pm Difficulty: Easy. Address: 277 New Boston Rd., Sturbridge, MA. Expect this! The Town of Sturbridge Trails Committee is sponsoring a spring cleanup Earth day on April 22, 2017. The volunteers will meet at the property entrance located at 277 New Boston Road at 8 am. The spring cleanup is focused on the newly acquired property and trails of the Plimpton Community Forest. Volunteers will walk the trails and property picking up trash along the way and cutting brush back. Pizza lunch will be provided to volunteers. Trash bags and gloves will be provided. Time/Distance: 4 hours, n/a Sponsored by: Town of Sturbridge Trails Committee, Friends of Sturbridge Trails (FRoST). www.town.sturbridge.ma.us & www.sturbridgetrails.org

Beautify Southbridge Saturday, 4/22/2017, 8:30 - 11:30 am Difficulty: Easy. Address: Southbridge Town Hall, 41 Elm St., Southbridge, MA. Expect this! The Center of Hope Foundation, Inc. in partnership with the Town of Southbridge is planning an Earth Day “Beautify Southbridge” event on April 22nd. Volunteers should meet at the Southbridge Town Hall 41 Elm Street at 8:30 am to be assigned an



http://www.town.sturbridge.ma.us/

http://www.town.sturbridge.ma.us/

http://www.sturbridgetrails.org/




area to clean and be supplied with trash bags, gloves and grabbers. Once dispersed to an area, volunteers will clean up the area, tie full trash bags and leave them at the curb for Town employees to collect. Volunteers will return at 11:30 to report on where trash was left and receive a snack and token of appreciation. Please contact Colleen Neely at [email protected] or call 508 764-4085 x 645 with any questions. Questions? 508-764-4085 ext 645 Time/Distance: 3 hours, n/a Sponsored by: The Center of Hope Foundation & Town of Southbridge. www.thecenterofhope.org & www.ci.southbridge.ma.us

Webster's Mill Brook Clean Up Saturday, 4/22/2017, 9 - 11 am Difficulty: Easy. Address: Rte. 12 & Mill Brook, Webster, MA. Meet just north of Price Chopper & before the cemeteries Expect this! Join in the continuing clean-up of this important inlet for the French River is directed by Glen Krevosky. This project has been ongoing and is nearly complete…just needs some help from our friends! Time/Distance: 2 hours, n/a Sponsored by: EBT Environmental. www.ebtenvironmental.com Beautify Holland Saturday, 4/22/2017, 9 - 11:30 am Difficulty: Easy. Address: Holland Community Center, 40 Brimfield Rd., Holland, MA. Expect this! Please join us on “Earth Day” for a day of cleaning up our beautiful town! This first effort will include the main roads in Holland. We will start at the Holland Community Center and then conclude there with pizza. Everyone is invited to participate! Please join us, feel good and have fun! Questions? 413-245-3163 Time/Distance: 3.5 hours Sponsored by: Holland Community Center. www.town.holland.ma.us/community-center West Dudley Pond Clean Up Saturday, 4/22/2017, 8:30 am - 12 pm Difficulty: Easy. Address: West Dudley Rd., Dudley, MA. Meet at the Quinebaug River Trail Head. Expect this! Town of Dudley Quinebaug Rail Trail Commission will host a cleanup of West Dudley Pond on April 22nd. Meet at West Dudley Road, Quinebaug River Trailhead at 8:30 am for a coffee and donut energizer and sign in. Cleanup will be from 9 am – noon with pizza to follow the cleanup. Gloves, trash bags and grabbers will be provided. Time/Distance: 3.5 hours, n/a Sponsored by: Town of Dudley, MA. www.dudleyma.gov



http://www.thecenterofhope.org/

http://www.ci.southbridge.ma.us/

http://www.ebtenvironmental.com/

http://www.town.holland.ma.us/community-center

http://www.dudleyma.gov/




Canterbury Lions Club Clean Up Saturday, 4/22/2017, 9 am - 12 pm

Difficulty: Easy. Address: Canterbury Town Hall, 1 Municipal Dr., Canterbury, CT. Off Route 14 Expect this! The Canterbury Lions Club will host a cleanup of Canterbury on April 22nd meeting at the Canterbury Town Hall at 9 am. Please bring gloves. Volunteers will be assigned areas that need attention. All available organizations, individuals and families are welcome to help. Please consider participating. It is a positive event to help to clean Canterbury’s scenic roadways. Your volunteering will brighten up part of the Last Green Valley. Refreshments will be provided around noon at the end of the cleanup. Questions? 860-546-6857 Time/Distance: 3 hours Sponsored by: Canterbury Lions Club. Cat Hollow Park Cleanup Saturday, 4/22/2017, 9:30 - 11:30 am Difficulty: Easy. Address: Cat Hollow Park, 25 Cat Hollow Rd., Killingly, CT. Off Dog Hill Rd. Expect this! Killingly Conservation Commission will host a cleanup of Cat Hollow Park on Dog Hill Rd in Killingly on Saturday, April 22, 2017 from 9:30 – 11:30 am. Volunteers will be removing trash and debris form the road, established trails and the old mill race way. Gloves and lunch will be provided to all volunteers. Please contact Donna Bronwell for more information at [email protected]. Time/Distance: 2 hours, n/a Sponsored by: Killingly Conservation Commission. http://www.killingly.org/conservation-commission Avalonia's Earth Day Guided Hike Saturday, 4/22/2017, 10 - 11:30 am Difficulty: Easy. Key(s): NO dogs please. Address: Swantown Hill Rd., N. Stonington, CT. Expect this! What better way to celebrate Earth Day than with a visit to one of Avalonia's newest acquisitions, Benedict Benson Preserve? Naturalist Bruce Fellman will be on hand to guide you and to help identify the some of the many species of rare and endangered birds that inhabit this beautiful 94-acre property. This is a songbird preserve, so please, no dogs. Questions? 860-884-3500 Time/Distance: 1.5 hours, 2 miles Sponsored by: Avalonia Land Conservancy, Inc. www.avalonialandconservancy.org Build Your Own Rain Barrel & Pre-order Sale Saturday, April 22, 2017, 10 – 11:30 am Key(s):Pre-registration by 4/14/17 to 860-429-3333 or [email protected] Address: Mansfield Public Library, 54 Warrenville Rd. (Rte. 89), Buchanan Auditorium, Mansfield, CT. Expect this! The Town of Mansfield is offering a series of free workshops focused on landscaping techniques that reduce storm water pressure, soil erosion, pesticide, herbicide and synthetic fertilizer use and support a healthy environment around our homes. Residents from other communities are welcome to attend. Save yourself a bunch of money by learning how to make your own rain barrel. Do-it-yourselfers Rick Brosseau and Shawn Santasiere will retrofit a food grade barrel during the presentation. To pre-order barrels, contact Recycling Coordinator, Virginia Walton at 860-429-3333 or [email protected] Questions? 860-429-3333 Time/Distance: 1.5 hours. Sponsored by: Town of Mansfield. www.mansfieldct.org



http://www.killingly.org/conservation-commission








Putnam Nature Trail Cleanup Saturday, 4/22/2017, 10 am - noon Difficulty: Easy. Key(s): Sign up call Lyn 860-455-8144 or email [email protected] Address: 15 Keech St., Putnam, CT. Park at Putnam National Guard Armory, cleanup takes place on the trail behind the building. Expect this! Town of Putnam and the Greater Putnam Interfaith Council will host a cleanup of Putnam Nature Trail, located behind the Putnam National Guard Armory at 15 Keech St. The work will involve picking up trash and debris, cutting invasive vines, applying trail signage, widening of paths and planting of flowers. Please contact Lyn Tolar to sign up to help out at 860 455-8144 or [email protected]. Questions? 860-455-8144 Time/Distance: 2 hours, n/a Sponsored by: Town of Putnam & Greater Putnam Interfaith Council. www.putnamct.us & www.putnaminterfaith.com 4th Annual WT4H Camper Scamper 5k Road Race & Kids 1 miler Saturday, April 22, 2017, 10 am - 12 pm Difficulty: Moderate. Key(s):Pre-registration online at www.4hcampct.org . Address: 326 Taft Pond Rd., Pomfret, CT. Expect this! Help support our local youth by running, jogging or walking the 5k on the country road in Pomfret. 1 mile optional run for the younger kids, too! $20 for adults, $10 for the kiddos. Questions? 860-974-1122 Time/Distance: 2 hours, 1 mile or 3.1 miles Sponsored by: Windham-Tolland 4H Camp. www.4hcampct.org Dudley Dirt Day Saturday, 4/22/2017, 10 am - 12 pm Difficulty: Easy.. Address: Dudley Grange, 121 Center Rd., Dudley, MA. Expect this! Come join the Dudley Grange and the Dudley Conservation Land Trust for the first ever ‘DUDLEY DIRT DAY’. Dr. Stephen Hebert, Professor of Agronomy, University of Massachusetts Stockbridge School of Agriculture, will discuss the topography and general soil make up of our local area. He will also present how to maintain healthy soil for people interested in vegetable gardening, flower gardening, home landscaping and maintaining sustainable lawns. Dr. Hebert’s focus will be on how to maintain the best soil to meet individual needs. This event is FREE sponsored by a grant from the Massachusetts State Grange. Free soil tests will be conducted on site, so people are asked to bring small soil samples for that purpose. Coupons for more in depth mail-order soil analysis will be awarded as door prizes. Refreshments will be served and there will be time for questions and answers with Dr. Herbert. Join us for the first ever DUDLEY DIRT DAY!! Questions? 508-943-4850 Time/Distance: 2 hours, n/a Sponsored by: Dudley Conservation Land Trust & Dudley Grange. http://www.dudleyclt.org Soil Science Saturday, 4/22/2017, 10 am - 12:30 pm Difficulty: Easy. Key(s):Pre-registration to [email protected] Address: Goodwin Forest, 23 Potter Rd., Hampton, CT. Off Route 6 Expect this! Learn how Connecticut's past, present, and future are shaped by its soils! Join Consulting Conservation Scientist Kip Kolesinskas as he walks us through the world beneath our feet. Connecticut is home to a rich diversity of soil resources which impact our state in various ways from land use patterns to forest vegetation. Learn how the use and management of our soil resources will shape our future environment and economy. This is an indoor presentation followed by a short walk to explore the soils, land use history, and vegetation of Goodwin. Dress comfortably and in layers for indoor/outdoor learning. Questions? 860-455-9534 Time/Distance: 2.5 hours, < 1 mile Sponsored by: Friends of Goodwin Forest. www.friendsofgoodwinforest.org




http://www.putnamct.us/

http://www.putnaminterfaith.com/

http://www.4hcampct.org/

http://www.dudleyclt.org/






Sprague's Earth Day Town-Wide Cleanup Day Saturday, April 22, 2017, 10 am - 1 pm Difficulty: n/a. Address: 76 Main St., Baltic (Sprague), CT. Park at Grist Mill lot Expect this! Free bags & gloves available at the Grist Mill parking lot meeting place at 10 am. Cleanup and take advantage of the free dump day, accepted items will be taken in during regular hours free of charge. Meet back in the Grist Mill parking lot at 1 pm for some free pizza to celebrate. Questions? Give Cathy or Barbara a call 860-822-3000 ext 201. Questions? 860-822-3000 Time/Distance: 3 hours Sponsored by: Town of Sprague, CT. http://www.ctsprague.org

Amos Lake Association's 2017 Soil Testing Day Saturday, 4/22/2017, 10 am - 3 pm Difficulty: Easy. Address: , Preston, CT. Expect this! Preston residents are invited to have their lawn and/or garden soil tested for their benefit and that of Amos Lake Watershed. Simply participate in sampling day, and you’re on your way to a healthier lawn and environment; It’s smart, free, and easy! 4 simple steps: 1) Follow the directions contained on the town’s website at www.preston.org or 2) Pick up a soil kit at one of our partner locations; Flemings Feed 353 Route 165 Town Hall or Preston Public Library to pick up a soil kit. 3) Return soil samples on April 22 from 10 – 3 PM to the Preston Transfer Station at 108 Ross Road, or Flemings Feed 353 Route 165. 4) Receive results by mail within 2-3 weeks. This event is intended to raise awareness of the importance of testing one’s soil before fertilizing to ensure that it is necessary and appropriate to conditions, to provide the correct nutrient mix, and to ensure that it is properly applied. The net result will be healthier lawns and gardens and a healthier lake and watershed environment not subject to unnecessary or over-application of fertilizer. Reduced time, effort, and fertilizer expenses can likewise be expected by most participants. Sponsored by: Town of Preston, Amos Lake Association. www.preston.org The Three Bridges of Downtown Willimantic - and More! Saturday, April 22, 2017, 10:30 am - 12 noon Difficulty: Easy. Key(s): Especially for families with children. Address: Main St. (Rte. 66) at Jillson Square, Windham (Willimantic), CT. Park in lot by First Bapstist Church. Expect this! We will review the great historical photos at Liberty Bank downtown and then explore the Victorian Footbridge, Frog Bridge, and Bridge of Flowers. Lots of history and beauty to behold. Questions? 860-617-3308 Time/Distance: 1.5 hours, 2 miles Sponsored by: CT Eastern Railroad Museum. www.cteastrrmuseum.org


http://www.ctsprague.org/

http://www.preston.org/





Wyndham Land Trust's Salamander Search at the Lyon Preserve Saturday, April 22, 2017, 1 - 2:30 pm Difficulty: Easy. Key(s): Leashed dogs, Especially for families with children. Address: Wrights Crossing Rd., Pomfret, CT. Look for the Lyon Preserve sign, at the end of Wrights Crossing Rd, just off Rte. 101. Expect this! WALK the Lyon Preserve. READ the book “Big Night for Salamanders.” LOOK for live squirmy salamanders, too! This should be the perfect time & place to look for salamanders. We’re sure to learn & discover more! Snacks included! Dress for the weather, and bring a friend! FREE! All ages welcome. Questions? 860-774-3300 Time/Distance: 1.5 hours, 1 mile Sponsored by: Wyndham Land Trust. www.wyndhamlandtrust.org Stones, Ponds & Dams Saturday, April 22, 2017, 2 - 3:30 pm Rain date: Sunday, April 23 Difficulty: Moderate. Key(s):Pre-register to [email protected]. NO dogs please. Address: Rte. 275, Mansfield, CT. 0.2 miles west of Separatist Rd, park at Glen Ridge Fire Pond Expect this! Famed Author & UConn Professor Thor Thorson will lead the group on a walk to explore ponds, dams and walls. Rain postpones to Sunday 4/23. Kids in backpacks or school-age. Questions? 860-429-9023 Time/Distance: 2 hours, 1 mile Sponsored by: Joshua's Trust. http://joshuastrust.org Creating a Medicinal Herb Garden Saturday, 4/22/2017, 2 - 3:30 pm Difficulty: Easy. Address: Goodwin Forest, 23 Potter Rd., Hampton, CT. Off Route 6 Expect this! Participants will learn about the types of medicinal plants that can be grown in a dedicated garden. Garden design and plant requirements will be illustrated, and sources for medicinal plants will be provided. Weather permitting. The gardens at Goodwin may be explored for illustration. Debra Hultgren is a retired public school educator and administrator. She is a practicing community herbalist and a master gardener. She grows, harvests and prepares plant foods and medicines and teaches others how to include these healing traditions in their own lives. Questions? 860-455-9534 Time/Distance: 1.5 hours, n/a Sponsored by: Friends of Goodwin Forest. www.friendsofgoodwinforest.org Earth Day at the Mystic & Noank Library Saturday, 4/22/2017, 3 - 4:30 pm Difficulty: Easy. Address: 40 Library St., Mystic, CT. Expect this! Join us for an introduction to Avalonia's 'Hike & Seek', followed by a presentation on protecting our waters, including local watersheds and aquifers. what do we need to know about drinking water, pollutants, and our shoreline, as well as the plants and animals that make the water their home? Questions? 860-536-7721 Sponsored by: Avalonia Land Conservancy, Inc.. www.avalonialandconservancy.org










GOSA's Haley Farm Cleanup Day Saturday, April 22, 2017, Time TBD Difficulty: n/a. Address: Haley Farm Lane, Groton, CT. Expect this! Get to know the Groton Open Space Assocation (GOSA) through this clean up - a perfect example of just some of the good they do. Contact GOSA for more details at 860-572-5715 or [email protected] Questions? 860-572-5715 Sponsored by: Groton Open Space Association (GOSA). http://gosaonline.org



http://gosaonline.org/




Perspectives: Land, Streams & Photos Saturday, April 22, 2017, 5 - 6:30 pm, Rain Date: Wed, April 26 5:30-7 PM Difficulty: Moderate. Address: Dingle Dell Property, Brimfield, MA. (directions to be provided by Ed Hood, 508-347-9144, ext. 2) Expect this! Hitchcock Academy, Opacum Land Trust Executive Director Ed Hood, and Photographer Kevin Kopchynski are collaborating to bring you a special walk on the Brimfield property Opacum is working to acquire, Dingley Dell. Everyone sees things from their own perspective. Learn about the land Opacum is working to acquire, discover unique nooks and crannies on the property, bring your camera and join the photo shoot class with nature photographer Kevin Kopchynski who will help you to zoom in, or focus on the big picture as the evening light arrives. During the walk, participants will be led through the woods to focus their eyes to capture the special features of the woods. BONUS Photo Contest: Help Opacum raise awareness about the Brimfield parcel and the need for donations. Participants are requested to submit their best photos to be posted anonymously on line to be judged by the public. The top 3 prize winners will receive an Opacum T-shirt. Fee: $10 per person paid to Hitchcock. Questions? 508 347-9144 x2 Time/Distance: 1.5 hours, 2 mile Sponsored by: Opacum Land Trust & Hitchcock Free Academy. www.opacumlt.org & www.hitchcockacademy.org Sturbridge Lions All American River Race Sunday, April 23, 2017, 9 am registration starts, 11 am first boat starts Difficulty: Difficult paddling, easy event to attend. Key(s): Kayak/canoe, pfd for race, Event is family-friendly. Pre-registration suggested for paddle racers. Address: Westville Dam Recreation Area, 125 Wallace Rd., Southbridge, MA. Expect this! Register early to get an early starting time if you want to race! The Sturbridge Lions All American River Race is an annual event enjoyed by canoeing & kayaking enthusiasts & spectators alike. This is a timed race of over 6 miles, starting one craft each minute. The first craft leaves Turners Field at 11:01 am and heads for the finish line at Westville Dam Recreational Area in Southbridge. The Sturbridge & Charlton Emergency Rescue Teams use the race as a training event, man the route with spotters from the Radio Club, this is the safest race possible. Hundreds of vendors, participants & attendees enjoy. Medalions are given to the first 3 finishers in each class. The Westville Dam Recreational Area features food and entertainment as well as strategic viewing spots to see the craft negotiate the rapids area. A good time is had by all! Questions? 508-347-9636 Time/Distance: 6 mile paddle race Sponsored by: Sturbridge Lions Club http://www.angelfire.com/ma3/sturbridgelions/events.html Trees on Woodstock Hill Sunday, 4/23/2017, 10 - 11:30 am Difficulty: Moderate. Key(s): Restrooms nearby. Leashed dogs ok. Address: Palmer Arboretum, 523 Scenic Rte. 169, Woodstock, CT. Park behind brick Historical Society Building. Expect this! We will tour the 100 year old Palmer Arboretum, which is currently being restored and view the special trees on Woodstock Hill's Common. Questions? 860-928-9469, ext 322 Time/Distance: 1.5 hours, 1 mile Sponsored by: Palmer Arboretum, Town of Woodstock. www.townofwoodstock.com


http://www.opacumlt.org/

http://www.hitchcockacademy.org/

http://www.angelfire.com/ma3/sturbridgelions/events.html

http://www.townofwoodstock.com/




Creamery Brook's Old Iron Tractor Plow Day Sunday, 4/23/2017, 10 am - 2 pm Difficulty: Moderate. Key(s): NO dogs please, Great for families with children. Address: Creamery Brook Bison Farm, 19 Purvis Rd., Brooklyn, CT. Expect this! For kids of all ages! Visit the farm, stroll down to the corn field and past grazing BIG bison, to experience this unique plowing event. All shapes and sizes of old tractors & plows, and all ages of operators will be showing off their equipment as they plow the corn field. Great for kids of all ages that love tractors, antiques & farm machinery! Bring your camera, because photo ops will be a'plenty, too. Make the day complete with a McBuff ~ breakfast & lunch bison sandwiches will be available for purchase until 1:30pm. The bison-themed store will be open, so you can purchase locally raised protein. NOTE: this is a working farm, so may be muddy in spots. Wear appropriate footwear. Strollers will be able to make the trek to the field, and back. Total distance down & back is < 1 mile. Questions? 860-779-0837 Time/Distance: However long you want to stay, < 1 mile Sponsored by: Creamery Brook Bison Farm. www.creamerybrookbison.info

TLGV Ranger Marcy's Acorn Adventure Salamander Story Walk in Holland Sunday, April 23, 2017, 1 - 2:30 pm Difficulty: Easy. Key(s): Leashed dogs, Especially for families with children. Address: Lake Siog, Pond Bridge Rd., Holland, MA. Expect this! WALK Lake Siog Pass Trail. READ the book “Big Night for Salamanders.” LOOK for live squirmy salamanders, too! Last year we found so many salamanders at this location and Acorn Adventure, we could not wait to ome back for another visit! We’re sure to learn & discover more! Snacks, Acorn stickers & fresh air FUN always included! Dress for the weather, and bring a friend! FREE! All ages welcome. Questions? 860-774-3300 Time/Distance: 1.5 hours, 1 mile Sponsored by: The Last Green Valley & Putnam Bank. www.thelastgreenvalley.org, www.putnambank.com


http://www.creamerybrookbison.info/


http://www.putnambank.com/




Forest & Farm, LLC Woodland Tour Sunday, April 23, 2017, 1 – 3 pm Difficulty: Moderate. Key(s): Leashed dogs. Address: 105 Forest Rd., Mansfield, CT. From the intersection of RT 44 & RT 195, take RT 44, west for 1.25 miles, to a right on Baxter Rd., .5 miles to the first left, onto Forest Rd., go .5 miles to parking on the right across the street from #105, Forest Rd. Expect this! You are invited to tour newly completed wildlife habitat enhancement patch cuts on the Forest & Farm, LLC property, in

Mansfield, CT. There are three recently completed patch cuts that are 2-5 acres in size. Two large mammal brush piles have been built at each of the patch cuts. The patch cuts should develop into thick young growth which is needed for several species of migrant bird species whose populations are in decline due to the lack of what is commonly known as early successional habitat. We will see 25 acres of thinning to enhance growing conditions for the residual stand of oak. Consultant forester, Marc Tremblay, and Mike Bartlett, of

Hull Forest Products will be leading the tour along with landowner Chris Kueffner.. Questions? 860-774-3300 Time/Distance: 2 hours, 2 miles. Sponsored by: ECFLA/WDLT. http://www.ecfla.org/ No-Till Gardening Thursday, April 27, 2017, 7 - 8 pm Difficulty: . Key(s):Pre-registration by 4/25/17 to 860-429-3333 or [email protected] . Address: Mansfield Public Library, 54 Warrenville Rd. (Rte. 89), Buchanan Auditorium, Mansfield, CT. Expect this! The Town of Mansfield is offering a series of free workshops focused on landscaping techniques that reduce storm water pressure, soil erosion, pesticide, herbicide and synthetic fertilizer use and support a healthy environment around our homes. Residents from other communities are welcome to attend. Calling all gardeners or want-to-be gardeners interested in learning how to nourish the soil without disturbing it. Organic farmer, Brian O'Hara, will share no-till techniques that incorporate compost, mulch, cover crops and proper fertilization. Brian has experience growing large volumes of crops off of a small piece of land while building the soil. Questions? 860-429-3333 Time/Distance: 1 hour, n/a Sponsored by: Town of Mansfield, CT. www.mansfieldct.org Girl Scouts Celebrate Arbor Day Saturday, 4/29/2017, 9 - 11 am Difficulty: Easy. Address: Putnam River Trail, Kennedy Dr., Putnam, CT. Parking lot across from Riverview Landscaping Expect this! Troop 64007 from Putnam/Thompson's Arbor Day Celebration includes: o Information about trees in CT, how trees affect air quality, deforestation and how to plant a tree and where to plant it. o Free seedling give away (donations will be accepted) of Red Bud tree, Sugar Maple and Red oak trees. o Game for kids about animals and their habitats as they relate to forests o Hull Forest Products will share their knowledge about our woods. Wood is good! o CT Conservation Commission will have more great information o The Last Green Valley will also be on hand to support the good work of the Girl Scouts & talk about our National Heritage Corridor! Sponsored by: Girl Scouts of CT, Hull Forest Products, The Last Green Valley. www.gsofct.org www.hullforest.com www.thelastgreenvalley.org


http://www.ecfla.org/


http://www.gsofct.org/

http://www.hullforest.com/





Town of Brooklyn Clean Up Day Saturday, 4/29/2017, 9 am - 12 pm Difficulty: Easy. Address: Community Center, 39 Tiffany St., Brooklyn, CT. Expect this! The Town of Brooklyn is having a cleanup on April 29th beginning at 9 am. Please meet at the Community Center at 39 Tiffany St to get your cleanup assignment. Volunteers will be supplied with bags, gloves, pickers, snacks and water. Various areas pf town will be covered including public parks, streets and hiking trails. Come out and help make Brooklyn more beautiful. Questions? 860-779-3411 Time/Distance: 3 hours, Sponsored by: Town of Brooklyn. www.brooklynct.org Town Pride Town Wide Community Beautification Project Saturday, 4/29/2017, 9 am - 1 pm Difficulty: Easy. Address: Various Project Sites across town, Windham (Willimantic), CT. Expect this! Eastern Connecticut State University will host its tenth annual "Town Pride, Town Wide" community beautification event. The event will take place at various project sites all across Willimantic, CT from 9:00am-12:00pm with a community gathering at St. Joseph's Church from 12:00pm-1:00pm. Town Pride, Town Wide started many years ago as a means to give Eastern students the opportunity to work closely with local community members and community agencies to leave their mark on Willimantic. This event is a collaboration between Eastern Connecticut State University's Center for Community Engagement, the Windham Region Chamber of Commerce, and the Town of Windham. Working diligently to enlist campus-wide support from Eastern's administration, alumni, Resident Assistants from the Office of House and Residential Life, and student clubs and organizations, the Center for Community Engagement looks to send out over 200 Eastern student volunteers to more than 18 project locations on the day of the event. The impact that Town Pride Town Wide has on the community surpasses its overarching goal of beautification. Every year there will always be more weeds to pull, more flowers to plant, more mulch to spread, but the bonds and relationships that are built throughout the community last a lifetime. Town Pride Town Wide offers Eastern students and local community members alike the unique opportunity to take pride and ownership in our community. "The Annual Town Wide Town Pride event is really exceptional in the fact that it creates a truly special partnership between Eastern and the Willimantic community through beautifying the area in which we live," said Eastern alumna and former AmeriCorps VISTA Emily Cameron '15. "It could not be possible without the eager willingness and endless enthusiasm of our community partners and students." For more information regarding Town Pride Town Wide, please contact Kimberly Silcox by e-mail at [email protected] or by phone (860) 465-4426. Questions? 860-465-4426 Sponsored by: Eastern CT State University (ECSU). www.easternct.edu Wildflowers, Birds and Insects at Mt. Hope Park Saturday, April 29, 2017, 9:30 - 11:30 am Difficulty: Easy. Key(s): Leashed dogs, Especially for families with children. Address: Route 89, Mansfield, CT. From intersection of Rtes. 195 & 89, head east on Rte. 89 for 3.4 miles. Parking is on right. Expect this! Come take a guided nature walk through Mt Hope Park. This preserve has a wide variety of habitats and, throughout the years, many different species, birds, insects and wildflowers have been spotted. We will poke around in habitats ranging from upland and wetland forests to an early successional field with a stop to view the beautiful river. For the most part, walking is easy and paths are wide. Appropriate for families with children 5 and over. Questions? 860-429-3015 Time/Distance: 2 hours, 2 miles Sponsored by: Town of Mansfield, CT. http://www.mansfieldct.gov/content/1914/2861/7520/default.aspx


http://www.brooklynct.org/


http://www.easternct.edu/

http://www.mansfieldct.gov/content/1914/2861/7520/default.aspx




Paddle Killingly's Pine Acres Lake Paddle Saturday, April 29, 2017, 10 am - 12 pm Difficulty: Easy. Key(s):Pre-register https://www.meetup.com/PaddleKillingly/events/237300134 Kayak/canoe, pfd, 10-foot length of rope, whistle. Address: 23 Potter Rd., Hampton, CT. Off Route 6 Expect this! Nice flat-water paddling on a 190-acre lake in Hampton, CT. Time/Distance: 2 hours, n/a Sponsored by: Paddle Killingly. https://www.meetup.com/PaddleKillingly/events/237300134/ & https://www.facebook.com/paddlekillingly/ Charlton Earth Day Festival & All Day Cleanup Saturday, April 29, 2017, 11 am - 2 pm Address: 37 Main St., Charlton, MA. Expect this! Pitch in and help with the Town of Charlton's annual all day cleanup effort. The family-friendly festival takes place from 11 am - 2 pm, and is surely the best way to Spring Outdoors and meet the smiles of Charlton! Questions? 508-348-2200 Time/Distance: 3 hours, n/a Sponsored by: Town of Charlton, MA. www.townofcharlton.net Plant Identification for Beginners Sunday, April 30, 2017, 10 - 11:30 am Difficulty: Moderate. Key(s): . Address: Claire Birtz Sanctuary, Tipton Rock Rd., Southbridge, MA. off Rte. 169 on the Woodstock/Southbridge Line. Parking is tight, so consider carpooling with friends. Expect this! Join Opacum's Scott & TLGV Ranger Marcy as we walk around Claire Birtz Wildlife Sanctuary trying to identify plants and tree with our field guides. Bring your own guide or borrow one from your library, as we will be learning together. Plan to stay longer and explore the preserve and see what else you can discover. Questions? 508-765-3784 Time/Distance: 1.5 hours, 1 mile Sponsored by: Opacum Land Trust. www.opacumlt.org Survival Series: Fire Starting Sunday, 4/30/2017, 10 - 11:30 am Difficulty: Easy. Address: Goodwin Forest, 23 Potter Rd., Hampton, CT. Off Route 6 Expect this! Brothers Ed and Fran Baranski have been wandering into the wilderness for years, building their own canoes, doing some rigorous camping, and just learning how to survive in nature by their own skill. Now they want to teach you some of the skills they’ve learned. Staying warm in the wilderness is crucial and the brothers will show you how to start and maintain a fire. Dress to be outdoors. Questions? 860-455-9534 Time/Distance: 1.5 hours, < 1 mile Sponsored by: Friends of Goodwin Forest. www.friendsofgoodwinforest.org Geocaching 101: There's a hidden world waiting to be discovered Sunday, 4/30/2017, 10 am - 2 pm Difficulty: Easy. Key(s): Especially for families with children, NO dogs please. Address: E. Thompson Rd. & New Rd., Thompson, CT. Park in Air Line Trail lot Expect this! There's a hidden world waiting to be discovered in TLGV. Throughout the 35 towns there are more than 1000 geocaches hidden and waiting to be discovered by you. Learn the History of Geocaching, What is Geocaching, container examples, cache types, trackables, and equipment needed to Geocache. This event is perfect for Geocachers new & old and anyone who has questions or interest in having a cache placed at a specific location in TLGV. Presented by Geocaching brothers John and Steve Kochinskas ~


https://www.meetup.com/PaddleKillingly/events/237300134

https://www.meetup.com/PaddleKillingly/events/237300134/

https://www.facebook.com/paddlekillingly/

http://www.townofcharlton.net/






between the Kochinskas brothers they have over 2000 finds and 200 hides. Come on out and see what its all about. We will find caches during the event, lots of caches! HINT! Bring a GPS and or a GPS enabled smart phone. It would be a great help if attendees down load the FREE geocaching App. Cell service at the location is spotty at best. Android app: Geocaching® and Apple app: Geocaching®. There are paid apps for geocaching but all that is needed for event is the free app. You will have to create a free account. Questions? 508-523-3785 Time/Distance: 4 hours, < 2 miles Sponsored by: Thompson Trails Committee. http://www.thompsonct.org/index.php/boards-commissions-committees/committees/trails-committee.html Country Synagogue Tour and Talk Sunday, 4/30/2017, 1 - 3 pm Difficulty: Easy. Key(s):Pre-registration Call 860-887-8052 or email [email protected] . NO dogs please. Address: 142 Newent Rd., Lisbon, CT. Limited parking, please register to reserve your spot. Expect this! On the National Register of Historic Places,the Anshei Israel Synagogue is a "typical country New England House of Worship on the outside but the inside is straight from Czarist Russia. " Join us for a tour of the grounds and a presentation about this unique building, it founders and their culture. Questions? 860-887-8052 Time/Distance: 2 hours, n/a Sponsored by: Lisbon Historical Society. www.facebook.com/Lisbon-Historical-Society Maypole Celebration Sunday, 4/30/2017, 2 - 4 pm Rain cancels Difficulty: Easy. Address: Atwood Farm, 624 Wormwood Hill Rd., Mansfield, MA. Expect this! Celebrate the arrival of May with Joshua's Trust at their home base, Atwood Farm, with a Maypole Celebration. Live music, May baskets and more. Rain cancels. Questions? 860-429-9023 Time/Distance: 2 hours, n/a Sponsored by: Joshua's Trust. www.joshuastrust.org Thompson Recreation & Middle School Team Clean Up Tuesday, 5/2/2017, 11:45 am - 2 pm Difficulty: Easy. Address: Riverside Park, Route 12, Thompson, CT. Park by Gazebo Expect this! Thompson Recreation and Thompson Middle School Cleanup Tuesday, May 2nd (rain date May 4th) Each Spring the 8th grade students and their teachers from Thompson Middle School volunteer a half day to help us with our park cleanup. The invitation is also extended to the St. Joseph’s school and we often receive assistance from other local volunteers on the day of the event. The Students focus on Riverside Park and Heritage Way Park along the French River. These two parks are heavily used by area residents and usually by spring are in need of a good sprucing up. The students bag the trash and leave in designated areas and DPW staff and/or recreation staff collect it and dispose of it in a dumpster at the Highway garage. Pizza, drinks, gloves and trash bags provided. Questions? 860-923-7426 Time/Distance: 2.5 hours, 1 +/- miles Sponsored by: Thompson Recreation & Thompson Middle School. www.thompsonrec.org


http://www.thompsonct.org/index.php/boards-commissions-committees/committees/trails-committee.html

http://www.thompsonct.org/index.php/boards-commissions-committees/committees/trails-committee.html


http://www.facebook.com/Lisbon-Historical-Society


http://www.thompsonrec.org/




First Friday-Putnam Friday, May 5, 2017, 6 - 9 pm Difficulty: Easy. Address: Main St., Putnam, CT. Expect this! First First Friday of the Season and a great way to Discover Putnam. First Fridays feature films this year & invites the public to celebrate 6 distinct genres of film with this fun, interactive outdoor art festival. May 5th kicks off the seventh season with the fan favorite genre of film: Science Fiction and Fantasy. May’s event is subtitled “Revenge of the Fifth,” with a playful nod to the celebrated Star Wars films. As with previous seasons, the First Fridays committee encourages visitors of all ages to dress up and engage with the theme. The evening promises art projects and performances that reference the many celebrated science fiction and fantasy films of the past and present. Time/Distance: 3 hours, n/a Sponsored by: Putnam Business Association. www.discoverputnam.com & www.putnambusiness.org Cinco de Mayo- BIRDS! Friday, May 5, 2017, 7 - 8 pm Difficulty: Easy-Moderate. Key(s): NO dogs please. Address: Hodges Village Dam, 30 Howarth Rd., Oxford, MA. Expect this! Learn about the birds that enjoy the river and wetland area below Hodges Village Dam. Bring binoculars and alert senses. No dogs please. Questions? 508-248-5697 Time/Distance: 1 hour, 1 mile Sponsored by: US Army Corps of Engineers, Hodges Village Dam. http://www.nae.usace.army.mil/Missions/Recreation/Hodges-Village-Dam Pigeon Swamp Preserve Bird Walk Saturday, 5/6/2017, 6 - 8 am Difficulty: Easy. Key(s): No dogs please. Address: Pigeon Swamp Rd., Lebanon, CT. from South Windham Center cross Babcock Hill Rd. and head straight up hill, Pigeon Swamp Rd is first left, follow to end where there is parking and the start of the hike. Expect this! On Saturday, May 6 at 6 am, meet Dave Parry and Mike Curtis at the Pigeon Swamp Preserve in Lebanon, a spot where pigeons once flocked but on that day we will be looking for the birds of May. The Spring migrants should be there in full force. Bring binoculars and walking shoes. Kids welcome but please, no dogs. Questions? 860-429-9023 Time/Distance: 2 hours Sponsored by: Joshua's Trust. www.joshuastrust.org Bird Watching with the Bird Store's Bill Saturday, May 6, 2017, 7 - 10 am Difficulty: Moderate. Key(s): NO dogs please. Address: 910 Eastford Rd. (Rte. 198), Southbridge, MA. Expect this! Walk the trails through Opacum Land Trust's Thompson Family Forever Preserve and look for the birds that live in the diverse habitat that the trail crosses. Be ready to not only look, but listen. Binoculars suggested. Questions? 508-765-3784 Time/Distance: 3 hours, 1+/- miles Sponsored by: Opacum Land Trust. www.opacumlt.org


http://www.discoverputnam.com/

http://www.putnambusiness.org/








Earth Day Webster & Dudley Cleanup Saturday, 5/6/2017, 8 am - 1 pm Difficulty: Easy. Key(s):Sign up to help email Jules at [email protected] Address: 350 Main St., Webster, MA. Meet at Webster Town Hall Expect this! Webster Arts/Recreation Committee is organizing an Earth Day Cleanup of Webster & Dudley on Saturday, May 6th from 8 am – 1 pm. Please meet at the Webster Town Hall at 350 Main St. Volunteers will be assigned an area to cleanup. Refreshments will be provided. A free concert by The Grey Whisker Pickers will be performed at French River Park later in the day. Please contact Jules Emerson to volunteer at [email protected] Time/Distance: 5 hours, n/a Sponsored by: Webster Arts/Recreation Committee. http://www.webster-ma.gov Putnam Beautification Day Saturday, May 6, 2017, 8:30 am – 12 pm Address: 328 Kennedy Dr., Putnam, CT. Meet at US Button parking lot Expect this! Beautify & clean up Putnam! Note one change this year. We'll meet in the US Button parking lot, since Rotary Park is being reseeded at the time of the cleanup. Arrive between 8-8:15 am, pick an area, got out and clean it up! Bags & gloves are provided, and town trucks are parked in various locations around town for you to toss in your work. Fun trophies awarded for "the most unusual thing found" and more. Meet back at US Button at 11am for a lunch cooked up by some of the Putnam Business Assocation team. We can't wait to have more participants than ever before! All ages! All groups are welcome. Sponsored by: Putnam Business Association & Town of Putnam. www.discoverputnam.com , www.putnambusiness.org, www.putnamct.us Nature Sketchbook Journaling at Trail Wood Saturday, 5/6/2017, 9 am - 12 pm Difficulty: Easy. Key(s): FEE: $10 for CAS members, $20 for non-members . Address: Trail Wood, 93 Kenyon Rd., Hampton, CT. Expect this! Spend time outdoors at Trail Wood sketching and painting from nature, using pencil, pen and watercolor. Learn new skills or develop ones you already have. Roxanne Steed will show you how to simplify what you see and teach basic drawing and quick intuitive watercolor techniques. Enhance your creativity, observe nature, record the day and enjoy the meditative qualities of sketching outdoors. Questions? 860-928-4948 Time/Distance: 3 hours, n/a Sponsored by: CT Audubon Society Center at Pomfret. http://www.ctaudubon.org/center-at-pomfret Backyard Composting Saturday, May 6, 2017, 10 - 11 am Difficulty: . Key(s):Pre-registration by 5/3/17 to 860-429-3333 or [email protected] . Address: 4 S. Eagleville Rd., Storrs (Mansfield), CT. Expect this! The Town of Mansfield is offering a series of free workshops focused on landscaping techniques that reduce storm water pressure, soil erosion, pesticide, herbicide and synthetic fertilizer use and support a healthy environment around our homes. Residents from other communities are welcome to attend. Learn about the inner workings of a compost pile and how it is an integral part of organic land care. This workshop will help you get started or improve what you already have going. Presented by Virginia Walton, Mansfield Recycling Coordinator. Questions? 860-429-3333 Time/Distance: 1 hour, n/a Sponsored by: Town of Mansfield, CT. www.mansfieldct.org




http://www.webster-ma.gov/



http://www.putnamct.us/







Paddle Killingly's Quinebaug River from Fayban to W. Thompson Dam Paddle Saturday, May 6, 2017, 9:30 am - 12:30 pm Difficulty: Difficult. Key(s):Pre-register https://www.meetup.com/PaddleKillingly/events/237300247 / Kayak/canoe, pfd, 10-foot length of rope, whistle. Address: Fabyan Rd., Quinebaug (Thompson), CT. Expect this! This trip requires a car shuttle. We will meet at launch point and shuttle cars to the finish at the West Thompson Dam boat ramp as needed. This trip should take about 3 hours. This paddle will involve some fast water sections with minimal rapids. Some paddling experience on rivers is recommended for this trip. Time/Distance: 3 hours, Sponsored by: Paddle Killingly. https://www.meetup.com/PaddleKillingly/events/237300247/ & https://www.facebook.com/paddlekillingly/ Snows Pond Family Fishing Festival in Charlton Saturday, May 6, 2017, 10 am - 2 pm Difficulty: Easy. Key(s): Especially for families with children. . Address: 12 Cemetary Rd., Charlton, MA. Expect this! This is a free, non-competitive, family friendly, learn to fish event. Bring your fishing equipment, or borrow ours - limited equipment and bait will be provided at Fay Mountain Farm, 12 Cemetary Rd in Charlton, 10:00 A.M. – 2:00 P.M. This event is in cooperation with the Charlton Conservation Department. *Open to the public. For more information, contact Todd Girard at 508-248-2247 or [email protected] Questions? 508-248-2247 Time/Distance: 4 hours, n/a Sponsored by: State of MA & Charlton Conservation Department. www.mass.gov/eea & www.townofcharlton.net Opening Day at the Railroad Museum Saturday, May 6, 2017, 10 am - 3 pm Difficulty: Easy. Key(s): Restrooms. Address: 55 Bridge St., Windham (Willimantic), CT. Follow the railroad tracks down a dirt road for about 1/2 mile to the parking area and entrance gate. Expect this! Choo-choo-choose to visit a hidden treasure, and a place that is great for kids of all ages. Climb on the trains, enter the roundhouse, see the restored turntable! Questions? 860-456-9999 Time/Distance: 5 hours Sponsored by: CT Eastern Railroad Museum. www.cteastrrmuseum.org






http://www.mass.gov/eea

http://www.townofcharlton.net/





Samuel's Hearty New England Breakfast Saturday, 5/6/2017, 11 am - 3 pm Difficulty: Easy. Key(s): $3.50 per person (children 12 + under are free), $10 for family of 4. Address: Huntington Homestead Museum, 35 Huntington Rd. (Rte. 14), Scotland, CT. Expect this! A hearty breakfast fit for young Samuel Huntington and his hard working family will be cooked over the fire beginning at 11:00 a.m.. This 1750's meal has English influence; collops and Egg Pie are on the menu. Children are invited to help set the table or do other old kitchen chores. Tours available. Sponsored by: Governor Samuel Huntington Trust. www.huntingtonhomestead.org

Walk the Cat Hollow & Smell Spring Saturday, 5/6/2017, 1 - 2:30 pm Difficulty: Moderate. Key(s): Leashed dogs. Address: Cat Hollow Park, 25 Cat Hollow Rd., Killingly, CT. Rte. 12 to Dog Hill Rd. to Cat Hollow Rd. Expect this! Participants will walk along the existing road of this delightful park and hidden treasure viewing stunning gardens and a 35 ft. high waterfall, view the old dam, and enjoy the sights & smells of spring's fragrant magnolia & flowers. After this walk, head to downtown Danielson for the architectural & history walk at 3pm! Questions? 860-779-5311 Time/Distance: 1.5 hours, 2 miles Sponsored by: Killingly Conservation Commission. www.killinglyconservation.org


http://www.huntingtonhomestead.org/

http://www.killinglyconservation.org/




Downtown Danielson Architectural & Historical Walk Saturday, May 6, 2017, 3 – 4:30 pm Difficulty: Easy. Key(s): Restrooms near. Address: 196 Main St., Danielson, CT. Meet at Killingly Historical Society, parking behind Key Bank across the street. Expect this! Stroll the sidewalks of downtown Danielson with TLGV Ranger Marcy & KHS Marilyn, gazing at the adornments and varied architecture. Learn when they were built & the different businesses that went on in each over the years. Many current business owners will welcome us in to see what they are up to now! KHS's Marilyn gathered all of this information and knows it like the back of her hand. Join us! Questions? 860-774-3300 Time/Distance: 2 hours, 1 mile Sponsored by: Killingly Business Association (KBA), Killingly Historical Society & The Last Green Valley. https://www.killinglybusinessassociation.org , https://www.killinglyhistorical.org , http://thelastgreenvalley.org

The River, Rail, Mills & Trails Sunday, May 7, 2017, 11 am - 12:30 pm Difficulty: Easy. Key(s): Restrooms, Especially for families with children. Address: 55 Bridge St., Windham (Willimantic), CT. Follow the railroad tracks down a dirt road for about 1/2 mile to the parking area and entrance gate. Expect this! Walk the new rail trail up to the Railroad Museum, talking & learning about railroad history & current service, and the river that powered the mills. Optional: Tour the museum or take a train ride after for an additional small cost. Questions? 860-617-3308 Time/Distance: 1.5 hours, 2 miles Sponsored by: CT Eastern Railroad Museum. www.cteastrrmuseum.org



https://www.killinglyhistorical.org/

http://thelastgreenvalley.org/





Bike Mansfield No-Drop Ride in Bike Month

Thursday, May 11, 2017, 5 - 7 pm

Difficulty: Easy. Key(s):Pre-register 860-429-3015 . Address: Mansfield Community Center, 10 S. Eagleville Rd., Storrs (Mansfield), CT. Expect this! May is Bike Month and we will have a no-drop ride from the Mansfield Community Center prior to the presentation “Commuting by Bike & Safe Riding in Traffic.” Everyone is welcome on the ride starting at 5 pm from the MCC, but all riders must sign a waiver. Ride at an easy pace for 15-20 miles to can get back for the presentation at 7 pm. Questions? 860-429-3015 Time/Distance: 2 hours, 15-20 miles Sponsored by: Bike Mansfield. www.bikemansfield.com Commuting by Bike & Safe Riding in Traffic Thursday, May 11, 2017, 7 - 8:30 pm Difficulty: n/a. Key(s):Pre-register 860-429-3015 . Address: Mansfield Community Center, 10 S. Eagleville Rd., Storrs (Mansfield), CT. Expect this! Presenter: Dave Waldburger, Certified League of American Bicyclists Instructor, assisted by other local LCI's and other experienced cyclists will talk about commuting by bike for work and daily errands. This workshop will describe ways to use your bike for commuting to work, shopping, and other daily tasks. It will also focus on safely riding it traffic, proper lane positioning, when to "Take the Lane", and other important skills taught by the League of American Bicyclists. Time for questions/discussion will follow the presentation. Questions? 860-429-3015 Time/Distance: 1.5 hours Sponsored by: Bike Mansfield. www.bikemansfield.com


http://www.bikemansfield.com/




Tackle the Trail for Beginners Saturday, 5/13/2017, 8 - 10 am Difficulty: Easy. Key(s):Pre-register to [email protected] . Address: Pomfret Station, intersection of Rtes. 44 & 169, Pomfret Center, CT. Meet in the parking lot for the Air Line Trail at 7:50am Expect this! Spring Outdoors and into a fun, easy & healthy way to enjoy the Air Line Trail! Tackle the Trail for Beginners is for beginners and YOU CAN DO IT! Learn the 4 P’s with the 2 M’s (Monique & Marcy) as we tackle a couple of miles! Learn the benefits of hitting the trail ~ mental & physical ~ like weight loss, nutrition, and quality time with family & friends! Train for upcoming local races (like #tacklethetrail) or just to spend time with your body & brain! ALL are welcome, and beginning is the best way to start anything! Pre-register with [email protected] to secure your fun spot! Be ready to smile, because we promise you will have a great time on your new trail to fun on the trails in The Last Green Valley! Co-hosted by Monique from The Quinebaug Valley Community College Foundation and Ranger Marcy from The Last Green Valley. (WE TOLD YOU IT WAS GOING TO BE FUN!) Questions? 860-774-3300 Time/Distance: 2 hours, 2.5 miles Sponsored by: QVCC Foundation & The Last Green Valley. http://qvcc.edu/foundation & www.thelastgreenvalley.org

Long Pond Bird Walk Saturday, May 13, 2017, 8 - 9 am Difficulty: Moderate. Key(s): NO dogs please. Address: TBD, Thompson, CT. Expect this! Learn about the birds, how to hear them and how to spot them on the Wyndham Land Trust's newest preserve, "Long Pond" with the steward, Andy. Bring binoculars and alert senses. No dogs please. Questions? 860-928-4948. Time/Distance: 1 hour, 1 mile

Sponsored by: CT Audubon Society Center at Pomfret. http://www.ctaudubon.org/center-at-pomfret/




http://qvcc.edu/foundation






Mansfield PUP Crawl Saturday, May 13, 2017, 9:30 - 11:30 am Difficulty: Easy. Key(s): Restrooms nearby, Leashed dogs. Address: 2 Dog Lane, Storrs (Mansfield), CT. Parking is available in the Storrs Center Parking Garage (free for first 2 hours, then just $1/hour thereafter) Expect this! Take a guided walk through Downtown Storrs with your four-legged friends! We'll have fun and educational stops along the way. Walk takes place rain or shine over varied terrain. Dogs of all ages, sizes, and breeds welcome. Dogs should be comfortable on leash and in large groups. Walkers without dogs also welcome! Questions? 860-429-2740 Time/Distance: 2 hours, 1.5 miles Sponsored by: Mansfield Downtown Partnership. http://www.mansfieldct.gov/pupcrawl

CANCELLED DUE TO WEATHER-A Militia Encampment of the New England Volunteers; A Living History Event Stay tuned for a possible new date! Saturday & Sunday, May 13 – 14, 2017, (Sat: 10 am - 5 pm and Sun: 10am - 1 pm) Address: Ashbel Woodward House, 387 Route 32, Franklin, CT. Take Plains Rd. (CT DEEP Franklin Swamp Management) for parking. Expect this! Experience the the American Civil War. Watch the battles, enjoy live music and history lectures. Use Morse Code. Learn about the roles of the US Navy & Marine Corps, and drill like an Army soldier. For more information email [email protected] Sponsored by: Friends of Ashbel Woodward. www.facebook.com/FriendsOfAshbelWoodwardMuseum


http://www.mansfieldct.gov/pupcrawl


http://www.facebook.com/FriendsOfAshbelWoodwardMuseum




Trees on Woodstock Hill Saturday, 5/13/2017, 10 - 11:30 am Difficulty: Moderate. Key(s): Repeats Saturdays June 3 & June 17. Restrooms nearby. Leashed dogs ok.. Address: Palmer Arboretum, 523 Scenic Rte. 169, Woodstock, CT. Park behind brick Historical Society Building. Expect this! We will tour the 100 year old Palmer Arboretum, which is currently being restored and view the special trees on Woodstock Hill's Common. Questions? 860-928-9469, ext 322 Time/Distance: 1.5 hours, 1 mile Sponsored by: Palmer Arboretum, Town of Woodstock. www.townofwoodstock.com Visit the Huguenot Steamer No. 1 Fire Station Museum Saturday, 5/13/2017, 10 am - 12 noon Difficulty: Easy. Address: 655 Main St., N. Oxford, MA. Expect this! Silsby Steamer, Jeffers Handtub, Colonel DeWitt, firetruck, collections and stories galore are to be discovered in this museum. Great for kids - of all ages, ready for you to stop in and visit during Spring Outdoors, and the 2nd & 4th Saturday of each month through October. Unassuming outside - AMAZING inside! Sponsored by: Oxford Firefighters Association. http://www.huguenotsteamer.com

TLGV Rangers Buffumville South Trail Loop Saturday, 5/13/2017, 10 am - 12:30 pm Difficulty: Moderate. Key(s): Trails may be muddy, so be prepared with proper footware. Address: Buffumville Park, 229 Oxford Rd., Charlton, MA. Meet at the boat ramp parking lot. Expect this! Lace up with The Last Green Valley volunteer Rangers Janet & Angela as they lead on the 4.2 mile loop trail hike around the southern portion of Buffumville Lake. See first hand how flood control is done at this USACE property. Plan to stay after the hike and attend the invasive species program at 1:00 offered by the Army Corps team. Some spots of the trail may be muddy, so be prepared with appropriate footwear. Questions? 860-774-3300 Time/Distance: 2.5 hours, 4.2 miles Sponsored by: J&D Civil Engineers. http://www.jdcivilengineers.com



http://www.huguenotsteamer.com/

http://www.jdcivilengineers.com/




Artillery School - Return to the 1700's! Saturday, 5/13/2017, 10 am - 3 pm Difficulty: Easy. Key(s): $6 per person, $4 students & seniors, $12 per family. Address: Huntington Homestead Museum, 35 Huntington Rd. (Rte. 14), Scotland, CT. Expect this! Observe Revolutionary War era artillery training school troops in actual training. Tactical demonstrations, field maneuver instruction, and cannon and equipment inspection presented by the United Train of Artillery. The public is encouraged to watch and learn from this authentic training. 18th century style artisans will be set up for demonstrations throughout and a hearth cooking program takes place inside the Homestead. Sponsored by: Governor Samuel Huntington Trust. www.huntingtonhomestead.org

NHS- Second Saturdays: Norwich's Millionaires' Triangle Saturday, May 13, 2017, 10:30 am - 12:30 pm Difficulty: Easy. Address: Chelsea Parade South, Norwich, CT. Park at Norwich Free Academy Expect this! One of the NHS Second Saturday guides walk/talks offered. Join us as local expert, Tricia Staley, introduces you to the families who lived in the mansions along Washington St. and Broadway - Norwich's Millionaires' Triangle - in the last half of the 19th century when Norwich was a wealthy manufacturing center whose residents drew the attention of people across the nation. We'll talk about who they were and how they lived during the most opulent era of the City's history. After the tour, please visit The Slater Memorial Museum open 1:00pm-4:00pm on the weekends and see the portraits of Norwich's Millionaires' in their Norwich gallery. For more information about Norwich in the Gilded Age, please consider purchasing Tricia Staley's book, "Norwich in the Gilded Age"- https://www.amazon.com/Norwich-Gilded-Age-Millionaires-Landmarks/dp/1626192472 Please consider donating to the Norwich Historical Society via Amazon Smile. Questions? 860-886-1776 Time/Distance: 2 hours, 1 mile Sponsored by: Norwich Historical Society. www.norwichhistoricalsociety.org Dinner in the Home of the Revolutionary War Activists Saturday, 5/13/2017, 11 am - 3 pm Difficulty: Easy. Key(s): $6 per person, $4 students & seniors, $12 per family. Address: Huntington Homestead Museum, 35 Huntington Rd. (Rte. 14), Scotland, CT. Expect this! A part of the "Artillery School" day, the price of this hearth demo is included in the price of entry, or you can just enjoy the hearth cooking demonstration and a tour! Inside the colonial homestead of a family who supports the rebellion finds them preparing for their nooning. With the sounds and odor of cannon and gunfire around them, Pease Porridge may be cold, not hot this day but a Molasses Pie will bake in the hot coals. The Huntington children may need to stand behind the adults to eat which children sometimes did. Visiting kids can help with some early American food prep. Tours available. Sponsored by: Governor Samuel Huntington Trust. www.huntingtonhomestead.org



https://www.amazon.com/Norwich-Gilded-Age-Millionaires-Landmarks/dp/1626192472






Leffingwell House Museum Special Tour Featuring Colonial Women of Norwich Saturday, May 13, 2017, 11 am - 4 pm Difficulty: Easy. Address: 348 Washington St., Norwich, CT. Expect this! After a self-guided Walk Norwich stroll (walknorwich.org), step back in time for a special museum tour, featuring the Colonial Women of Norwich. $5 entry fee. Questions? 860-889-9440 Time/Distance: 5 hours, n/a Sponsored by: Leffingwell House Museum. www.leffingwellhousemuseum.org Invasive Species Workshop - GET, THEE GONE! Saturday, May 13, 2017, 1 - 3 pm Difficulty: Easy. Key(s): . Address: Buffumville Park, 229 Oxford Rd., Charlton, MA. Expect this! You are invited to understand the importance of invasive species management for several common species found on your public lands. Learn how to identify invasive species, management tactics, and how to prevent the spread. All ages welcome. There is just a short walk from the parking lot. Questions? 508-248-5697 Time/Distance: 2 hours, n/a Sponsored by: US Army Corps of Engineers, Hodges Village Dam. http://www.nae.usace.army.mil/Missions/Recreation/Hodges-Village-Dam Birding with Mom (but mothers are not required!) Sunday, May 14, 2017, 7 - 9 am Difficulty: Easy. Key(s):Pre-registration Call 860-429-3015 or email [email protected] to register. Leashed dogs, Especially for families with children, Wheelchair accessible. Address: Schoolhouse Brook Park, off Clover Mill Rd., Mansfield, CT. Expect this! Bring your binoculars and join us for Mother’s Day birding watching! We will be hiking Schoolhouse Brook Park for our spring birds and listening to their songs. This should be the peak of the spring migration so we will be seeing many of the birds for the first time this year. Come and share a lovely spring morning. Dress for the weather and wear boots or sturdy shoes since there may some damp areas. Bringing your mom is encouraged but not required. Remember: Dress for the weather and wear boots or sturdy shoes since there may some damp areas. Questions? 860-429-3015 Time/Distance: 2 hours, 2 miles Sponsored by: Town of Mansfield, CT. http://www.mansfieldct.gov/content/1914/2861/7520/default.aspx










Artillery School - Return to the 1700's! Sunday, 5/14/2017, 10 am - 3 pm Difficulty: Easy. Key(s): $6 per person, $4 students & seniors, $12 per family. Address: Huntington Homestead Museum, 35 Huntington Rd. (Rte. 14), Scotland, CT. Expect this! Observe Revolutionary War era artillery training school troops in actual training. Tactical demonstrations, field maneuver instruction, and cannon and equipment inspection presented by The United Train of Artillery. The public is encouraged to watch and learn from this authentic training. Sponsored by: Governor Samuel Huntington Trust. www.huntingtonhomestead.org Mother's Day at the Railroad Museum Sunday, May 14, 2017, 10 am - 4 pm Difficulty: Easy. Key(s): Especially for families with children. Address: 55 Bridge St., Windham (Willimantic), CT. Drive in about 0.5 miles on the gravel road beside the tracks to the walk start point. Expect this! Take Mom for a walk on the new rail trail up to the Railroad Museum, then tour the museum, all the cars, the roundhouse, and turntable! Mom's take a train ride for FREE with regular admission. Entry fees apply to all. Sponsored by: CT Eastern Railroad Museum. www.cteastrrmuseum.org Paddle Killingly's Willimantic River From Mansfield River Park to Eagleville Dam Tuesday, May 16, 2017, 5:30 - 7:30 pm Difficulty: Moderate. Key(s):Pre-register https://www.meetup.com/PaddleKillingly/events/237301401 . Kayak/canoe, pfd, 10-foot length of rope, whistle, headlamp/flashlight. Address: Plains Rd., Mansfield, CT. From the intersection of Route 44 and Route 32 near Mansfield, travel south on Route 32 for 0.35 miles. Turn right onto Plains Road and travel 0.2 miles. Parking area is on the right. Expect this! We will launch at Mansfield River Park. The launch is a very easy put-in, easy grade, lots of shallow water. There is a relatively flat, 30-yard carry from car to put-in, so be prepared to offer and hand to others. And don't be afraid to ask for help if you need it. Time/Distance: 2 hours, Sponsored by: Paddle Killingly. https://www.meetup.com/PaddleKillingly/events/237301401/ & https://www.facebook.com/paddlekillingly/ Bull Hill Bird Walk Thursday, May 18, 2017, 8 - 9 am Difficulty: Moderate. Key(s): NO dogs please. Address: TBD, Thompson, CT. Expect this! Learn about the birds, how to hear them and how to spot them on this unique and beautiful property with local bird guru, Andy. Bring binoculars and alert senses. No dogs please. Questions? 860-928-4948 Time/Distance: 1 hour, 1 mile

Sponsored by: CT Audubon Society Center at Pomfret. http://www.ctaudubon.org/center-at-pomfret/











Willimantic's 3rd Thursday Street Fest Thursday, May 18, 2017, 6 - 9 pm Difficulty: Easy. Address: Main St. (Rte. 66), Windham (Willimantic), CT. Expect this! Enjoy this monthly street fest, starting every year in May. Vendors, tastes & sips, arts, music and the local businesses on Main Street, too! Questions? 860-450-0918 Time/Distance: 3 hours, n/a Sponsored by: Willimantic Renaissance, Inc. www.willimanticstreetfest.com

Light Pollution 101 Friday, 5/19/2017, 7 - 8:30 pm Difficulty: Easy. Key(s):Pre-registration email [email protected] . Address: TLGV office, 203B Main St., Danielson (Killingly), CT. Park behind Key Bank and enter through the side door. Expect this! Join Ranger Geoff at the Last Green Valley's headquarters for a presentation on the effects of light pollution in our area. The Last Green Valley is the sole remaining coastal area between Boston and Washington with dark skies. We need to preserve the dark and yet still feel safe. Discover what light pollution is, how to prevent it, what it does to the animals, and most important how it affects your health. And learn how by reducing light pollution you can save money at the same time. Dark skies are not just for astronomers, but for everyone. The talk is appropriate for 5 year olds and older. So Acorn Adventurers - you are welcome to join in! Reservations are required as we only have room for 50 attendees. Questions? 860-774-3300 Time/Distance: 1.5 hours, n/a Sponsored by: The Last Green Valley and McLean Research Associates. www.thelastgreenvalley.org & http://mcleanresearch.com


http://www.willimanticstreetfest.com/






Killingly Spring Fest

Saturday, May 20, 2017, 9 am - 4 pm Difficulty: Easy. Address: Davis Park, Main St., Danielson (Killingly), CT. Expect this! A festival inspired by a classic, The Spring Time Festival, touting yoga in the street, a road race, family events, beer tasting, and a downtown parade. Sponsored by: Killingly Business Association. https://www.facebook.com/pg/KSPRINGFEST & http://killinglyspringfes.wixsite.com/2017 Willimantic Riverfest 2017 Saturday, May 20, 2017, 9 am - ? Difficulty: n/a. Key(s): Kayak/canoe, pfd. Address: Bridge St. Plaza, Windham (Willimantic), CT. Expect this! Riverfest 2017 will be held in the parking lot of the Bridge Street Plaza. The river paddle will run from 10 am through 12 pm, and you can drop off your kayak/canoe at the Eagleville Dam starting at 9:15 am, then drive to Bridge St. Plaza to register and catch a bus back up to the dam. Stay after you paddle to enjoy vendors, food, musical arts. More details to come! Questions? 860-455-3611 Sponsored by: Willimantic Whitewater Partnership. www.willimanticwhitewater.org The Aspire Springtime Classic 5k Saturday, May 20, 2017, 8:15 - 10:30 am Difficulty: Easy. Key(s):Pre-registration suggested, but not required http://www.lightboxreg.com/event_1209_2017?func&mobile=0 . Address: Davis Park, Main St., Danielson (Killingly), CT. Parking available on Reynolds St., lot behind Key Bank, Killinglly Memorial School & Killingly Library Expect this! A family-friendly 5k on a family-friendly day in Killingly. Come run or walk the 5k, with all proceeds supporting the Westfield UCC's Aspire Campaign, then stay in town for Spring Fest and Harmonies & Hops. Packet pick up and registration open at 8:15 at the church. Race starts at 9:30. There is a registration fee for this race. Questions? 860-774-8438 Time/Distance: 1 hour, 3.1 miles Sponsored by: Westfield UCC. http://westfielducc.org/5k/ CHBSA Community & Family EXPO Saturday, May 20, 2017, 11 am – 3 pm Difficulty: n/a. Key(s): Especially for families with children. Address: Jillson Square, Corner of Main & Jackson Sts., Windham (Willimantic), CT. Expect this! The Family & Community Expo will bring together a wide variety of organizations & businesses that have programs, services or products for families. Questions? 860-465-2300 Sponsored by: Windham Public Schools. http://www.windhamps.org/apps/events


https://www.facebook.com/pg/KSPRINGFEST

http://killinglyspringfes.wixsite.com/2017

http://www.willimanticwhitewater.org/

http://www.lightboxreg.com/event_1209_2017?func&mobile=0

http://westfielducc.org/5k/

http://www.windhamps.org/apps/events




Harmonies & Hops in downtown Danielson Saturday, May 20, 2017, 1 – 4 pm Address: Commerce St., Danielson, CT. Expect this! Bigger than ever, offering over 25 brewers and lots of music, get your tickets now because this event sells out every year! Put together by local brewers at Black Pond Brews, they offer you a chance to enjoy downtown Main Street, Harmonies & Hops and all the local businesses as the fresh spring air greets us all. More details at http://www.blackpondbrews.com Questions? 860-207-5295 Time/Distance: TBD, TBD Sponsored by: Killingly Business Association. https://www.killinglybusinessassociation.org Stories, Songs, Arts & Nature at Trail Wood Saturday, 5/20/2017, 2 - 3:30 pm Difficulty: Easy. Address: Edwin Way Teale Sanctuary at Trail Wood, 93 Kenyon Rd., Hampton, CT. Off Route 97 Expect this! As a summer of 2016 Artist in Residence at the Trail Wood Memorial Sanctuary, owned and managed by CT Audubon, Maria Sangiolo wishes to share the trails and her creative experience there as a writer. Maria has songs and stories to share and a love of the place that the Teales inhabited in Hampton for over 40 years. We will start with a short talk and then hike for about an hour. For local entertainment, see what Maria lines up at the Vanilla Bean Cafe in Pomfret, another proud supporter of TLGV. Questions? 860-208-5284 Time/Distance: 1.5 hours, 1 +/- miles Sponsored by: CT Audubon Center at Pomfret, The Vanilla Bean Café. http://www.ctaudubon.org/center-at-pomfret & http://www.thevanillabeancafe.com Paddle the Quinebaug in Holland Sunday, 5/21/2017, 9 am - 12 pm Difficulty: Easy. Key(s): Kayak/canoe, pfd, whistle. Address: 20 Pond Bridge Rd., Holland, MA. Expect this! Meet at the kayak/canoe launch by the bridge at 20 Pond Bridge Road in Holland. Bring your canoe or kayak. The paddle is from 10:00-12:00 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 Spring Foraging with The 3 Foragers Sunday, 5/21/2017, 10 am - 12:30 pm Difficulty: Easy. Key(s):Pre-registration email [email protected] or call 860-455-9534 FGF members free, non-members $5 per person or $10 per family. Address: Goodwin Forest, 23 Potter Rd., Hampton, CT. off Route 6 Expect this! The 3 Foragers return to Goodwin State Forest for a spring foraging event. Plants are growing and blossoming and now is a great time for foragers to learn what grows in our wilderness. There will be a demonstration followed by a walk in the woods as they point out all the wild edibles in the Connecticut wilderness. The 3 Foragers are a family from southeastern Connecticut who have been identifying, photographing, and cooking with the edible plants and fungi of New England for more than 10 years. Their blog, Facebook page, and newly published book all focus on family-friendly, environmentally sustainable harvest of both our native and invasive species of plants, and ways to incorporate these foods into your diet with original recipes. This program is free for Friends of Goodwin Forest members, fee for non-members is $5 per person, $10 per family Questions? 860-455-9534 Time/Distance: 2.5 hours Sponsored by: Friends of Goodwin Forest. www.friendsofgoodwinforest.org




http://www.thevanillabeancafe.com/

http://town.holland.ma.us/trails-committee





Webster Lake Paddle Sunday, 5/21/2017, 11 am - 12:30 pm Difficulty: Easy. Key(s):Pre-registration to Angela at [email protected] or 508-461-6020. Bring: Kayak/canoe, pfd, whistle/horn. Address: Lakeview Marine, 311 Thompson Rd., Webster, MA. Expect this! Lakeview Marine & Webster Lake Association team up again to offer you a chance to get out on the water this spring and join others for a casual paddle on Webster Lake (the biggest natural lake in MA!) The paddle will launch from Lakeview Marine at 11 am, weather permitting, and take you for 1.5 hours on the lake. This event is free for paddlers with their own equipment. For those without their own equipment, kayaks or stand-up paddleboards are available to rent, complete with the safety items! To pre-register or to rent equipment, contact Angela at [email protected] or call 508-461-6020. This is a great way to give paddling a try. Try it, you'll LOVE it! Questions? 508-461-6020 Time/Distance: 1.5 hours Sponsored by: Lakeview Marine, Lakeview Paddlesports, Webster Lake Association. http://www.lakeviewwebster.com http://www.lakeviewwebster.com/custompage3.asp?pg=kayak_sup_rentals http://www.websterlakeassociation.org A Grace Full Village Sunday, 5/21/2017, 12 - 1 pm Difficulty: Easy. Key(s): Restrooms near, Wheelchair access. Address: Grace Episcopal Church, 6 Chapel Hill Rd., Yantic, CT. Expect this! Discover the historic Yantic church considered one of the handsomest copies of a rural English church in all of New England, built in 1902, without raising any debt. The interior contains fine examples of English stained glass, oak carvings, a manual 1908 hall pipe organ and four large bells. Enjoy photos of the 19th century Yantic Village. Questions? 860-887-2082 Time/Distance: 1 hour, 1 mile Sponsored by: Heritage Information Radio. www.am1700.org




http://www.lakeviewwebster.com/

http://www.lakeviewwebster.com/custompage3.asp?pg=kayak_sup_rentals

http://www.websterlakeassociation.org/

http://www.am1700.org/




TLGV Ranger Marcy's Acorn Adventure Pond & Field Discoveries at the Fish Hatchery

Sunday, May 21, 2017, 1 - 2:30 pm Difficulty: Easy. Key(s): Leashed dogs, Especially for families with children. Address: Quinebaug Valley Fish Hatchery, 141 Trout Hatchery Rd., Central Village (Plainfield), CT. Expect this! Tour the fish hatchery building, learn what happens here & where the trout go! Walk the trails to the pond, looking for turtles, frogs & tadpoles! Bring your fishing pole and barbless hooks! Bug spray and worms, too! Snacks, Acorn stickers & fresh air FUN always included! Dress for the weather, and bring a friend! FREE! All ages welcome. Questions? 860-774-3300 Time/Distance: 1.5 hours, 2 miles Sponsored by: The Last Green Valley & Putnam Bank. www.thelastgreenvalley.org

Langhammer Trail Connections Sunday, 5/21/2017, 1 - 3 pm Difficulty: Moderate. Key(s): Leashed dogs welcome. Address: end of Lustig Rd., Ashford, CT. From Rt 74 in Ashford follow Zaicek Rd 0.8 miles,turn left follow straight till end ("T 2.5 miles from Rt 74, turn left on Chatey Rd, continue 1.1 miles then left turn on Lustig Rd. go 0.9 miles to end of Lustig Rd, turn left to parking area in woods on l Expect this! Drs Gwen Haaland (botanist,) Charlotte Pyle(ecologist,) and Ashford Conservation Commission Chair Loretta Wrobel, will recount the historical and natural significance of the Langhammer town forest in Ashford and cooperative efforts with the Willington Conservation Commission as they showcase the recently finished trail system connecting Langhammer to Fenton-Ruby Preserve. Questions? 860-429-2629 Time/Distance: 2 hours, 1.5 miles Sponsored by: Ashford Conservation Commission. www.ashfordtownhall.org/government/land-use/conservation-commision Rocky Hill Refuge Dedication Sunday, May 21, 2017, 1 – 3 pm Address: Rocky Hill Rd., Woodstock, CT. Expect this! Come explore this spectacular Wyndham Land Trust preserve with your fellow open space supporters and hear the story of how the property was saved from development. Light refreshments will be served. Questions? 860-963-2090 Time/Distance: 2 hours, n/a Sponsored by: Wyndham Land Trust. www.wyndhamlandtrust.org



http://www.ashfordtownhall.org/government/land-use/conservation-commision





Bike Drive Donation Event Sunday, 5/21/2017, 1 - 4 pm Difficulty: Easy. Key(s): . Address: 1 Mechanic St., Southbridge, MA. Southbridge Town Common Expect this! We are holding a bike drive for Bikes Not Bombs. We prefer adults bikes, but will take kids bikes, they can't be heavily rusted, but we can use bikes for parts only. Any questions call the number below or go to https://bikesnotbombs.org/help-out/donate-bikes Questions? 508-765-3784 Time/Distance: 4 hour event, n/a Sponsored by: Town of Southbridge. http://www.ci.southbridge.ma.us/ World of Painted Turtles Sunday, 5/21/2017, 2 - 3:30 pm Difficulty: Easy. Address: Goodwin Forest, 23 Potter Rd., Hampton, CT. off Route 6 Expect this! Learn about Connecticut’s most abundant turtles: where they live, what they eat, what eats them, how they adapt for the winter, and the best times and places to see them. One of Goodwin’s Master Naturalists Bill Powers has been following painted turtles and wants to share his observations with you. Learn about their movement throughout the year and their relationship with Red-winged Blackbirds nesting in cattails. Questions? 860-455-9534 Time/Distance: 1.5 hours Sponsored by: Friends of Goodwin Forest. www.friendsofgoodwinforest.org Triple Cemetery Sunset Stroll ~ Spirits Optional! Wednesday, 5/24/2017, 6 - 7:30 pm Difficulty: Easy. Key(s):Pre-registration suggested, for snack prep! Email [email protected] or [email protected] Leashed dogs. Address: 157 Tucker District Rd., Dayville (Killingly), CT. Rte. 101 to North Rd., right on Tucker District Rd. Expect this! Walk the three Tucker District Cemeteries to learn who strolled here long before we did in this remote & peaceful area. Killingly Historical Society provided us the names. TLGV Ranger Marcy & Renee from Renee's Working Girl Catering Service will lead you among the stones and share many various burial traditions. Then we’ll stroll to Renee's and reenergize with a taste treat created by her talented team. Bring your favorite haunting story to share as we relax & welcome in the evening after our stroll. $5 covers the delicious snacks at Renee’s creative location, and spirits (beer & wine) will be available for purchase, too. RSVP recommended so we can have deliciousness for you! [email protected] or [email protected] Questions? 860-412-9365, 860-774-3300 Time/Distance: 1.5 hours, 2 miles Sponsored by: Renee's Working Girl Catering & The Last Green Valley. www.workinggirlcatering.com & www.thelastgreenvalley.org


https://bikesnotbombs.org/help-out/donate-bikes

https://bikesnotbombs.org/help-out/donate-bikes

http://www.ci.southbridge.ma.us/




http://www.workinggirlcatering.com/





Byles Sanctuary Historic Walk Saturday, 5/27/2017, 10 - 11:30 am Difficulty: Moderate. Key(s): Restrooms nearby, Leashed dogs. Address: 125 Ashford Center Rd., Ashford, CT. Park at trail head just across from North Vet Clinic on Rte. 44 (3/4 miles east of Rte. 89 intersection) Expect this! Connect past to present through the Byles Sanctuary Trail walk and short Open House at the historic Byles Homestead (now Henrietta House Bed and Breakfast), just off the trail. Enjoy the almost 2 mile long easy to moderate loop trail as you pass a meadowland, descend down a short steep section next to a stream, and then travel through a bio-diverse climax forest. We hope to be able to observe a beaver dam on the Mt. Hope River. After the hike, enjoy snacks, drinks, and few stories as you tour Henrietta House Bed and Breakfast. Book a stay at the Henrietta House B&B and get 10% off the regular price! Questions? 860-429-9023 Time/Distance: 1.5 hours, 2 miles Sponsored by: Joshua's Trust & Henrietta House B&B. www.joshuastrust.org & www.historichenriettahousebnbct.weebly.com Visit the Huguenot Steamer No. 1 Fire Station Museum Saturday, 5/27/2017, 10 am - 12 noon Difficulty: Easy. Address: 655 Main St., N. Oxford, MA. Expect this! Silsby Steamer, Jeffers Handtub, Colonel DeWitt, firetruck, collections and stories galore are to be discovered in this museum. Great for kids - of all ages, ready for you to stop in and visit during Spring Outdoors, and the 2nd & 4th Saturday of each month through October. Unassuming outside - AMAZING inside! Sponsored by: Oxford Firefighters Association. http://www.huguenotsteamer.com

Pitch Pine Preserve Hike Saturday, 5/27/2017, 10 am - 12 noon Difficulty: Difficult. Key(s):Pre-register call 860-536-9811. NO dogs please. Address: Poheganut Dr., opposite Women's Health Center, Groton, CT. I-95, Exit 88; road is immediately north of Mystic Marriott Expect this! A rigorous hike over a rocky ridge, through a dark hollow, with a stop at an old granite quarry. The 201 acre site features a 44-acre pitch pine ridge forest, one of Connecticut's 13 imperiled ecosystems. Wear sturdy hiking shoes and bring water and a snack. Uneven, sometimes steep, terrain, several stream crossings and a narrow foot bridge. Experienced hikers please. The site was newly acquired by the State in March 2017. We will traverse some private property, with permission. There are no signs, trail markers, restrooms or maps. This walk will be repeated on Saturday, June 17th, same time! Questions? 860-536-9811 Time/Distance: 2 hours, 3.5 miles Sponsored by: Groton Open Space Association (GOSA). www.gosaonline.org



http://www.historichenriettahousebnbct.weebly.com/


http://www.gosaonline.org/




RESCHEDULED TO Sat. 5/27 - Make a Fairy House ~ Fairies are Moving in on the Trail! (Original date was Saturday, 5/13/2017), 10 am - 3 pm Difficulty: Easy. Address: Bradley-Buchanan Woods, Mansfield Public Library, 54 Warrenville Rd., Mansfield Center, CT. Trail is located behind the library. Expect this! Mansfield Library and Joshua's Trust invite you to make a Fairy House. Please bring some natural materials (bark, pebbles, pine cones, leaves, feathers, etc.) to make your own little house on the trail. We will also have some materials on hand to help you get started. You may not pick anything growing along the trails, although you may use materials that are lying on the ground, such as twigs and dried leaves. Remember to wear clothing appropriate for spending time in the woods. The Fairy Houses will remain in place through June 3 so you can bring your friends and family and check for resident fairies. If you have any questions, please call Mansfield Library at 860 423-2501. Questions? 860-423-2501 Sponsored by: Mansfield Library & Joshua's Trust. www.mansfieldpubliclibraryct.org www.joshuastrust.org

Mansfield Public Library's Annual Plant Sale Saturday, 5/27/2017, 3 pm Difficulty: Easy. Address: Mansfield Public Library, 54 Warrenville Rd. (Rte. 89), Buchanan Auditorium, Mansfield, CT. Expect this! It's that time of year again! Come meet other gardeners, share information and swap plants! To participate, bring in one plant or many, a perennial, annual, shrub or vegetable in a container you are willing to give away. Please label your plants as best you can-name, light and soil requirements, and any unique characteristics they may have or a good story about them. Each plant you bring gives you the opportunity to exchange it for something new. You can start potting now, or bring in 'freshly dug plants from the morning garden' as well. This program is free and open to the public. For additional information or questions, please contact Peggy at [email protected] Questions? 860-423-2501 Sponsored by: Mansfield Public Library. www.mansfieldpubliclibraryct.org


http://www.mansfieldpubliclibraryct.org/



http://www.mansfieldpubliclibraryct.org/




Connecticut’s Naturalist: Edwin Way Teale Saturday, 5/27/2017, 7 - 8 pm Difficulty: Easy. Address: Goodwin Forest, 23 Potter Rd., Hampton, CT. off Route 6 Expect this! Come join us for a presentation by Richard Telford on natural history writer and long-time Hampton, Connecticut resident Edwin Way Teale. Teale wrote/edited over 30 books, winning both the Pulitzer Prize and the John Burroughs Medal for distinguished natural history writing. He was a mentor to Rachel Carson, Roger Tory Peterson, and many others. His long time Hampton home, Trail Wood, is now the 168-acre Edwin Way Teale Memorial Sanctuary owned and managed by the Connecticut Audubon Society. Richard Telford has taught at Woodstock Academy for twenty years and is currently on sabbatical for the 2016-2017 school year to draft the first fully researched biography of Teale. The University of Connecticut has currently published 3 chapters of his forthcoming book. Telford was a monthly contributing writer for The Ecotone Exchange from 2013 to 2016, where he wrote about natural history, environmental conservation, and sustainable living. Questions? 860-455-9534 Time/Distance: 1 hour, Sponsored by: Friends of Goodwin Forest. www.friendsofgoodwinforest.org

Next Stop: Hampton Station on the Air Line Trail Sunday, May 28, 2017, 11 am - 1 pm Difficulty: Moderate. Key(s): Leashed dogs. Address: Eastabrooks Rd., Hampton, CT. Rte. 6 to Potter Rd. (Goodwin Forest), right on 11th Section Rd to Estabrooks Rd. Expect this! Starting out in the beautiful Goodwin State Forest with wonderful foliage views, we will explore this section of the Air Line Trail, going to the Hampton Station Site. Lots of train tales will be told, including the tales of the Ghost Train. Questions? 860-617-3308 Time/Distance: 2 hours, 4 miles Sponsored by: CT Eastern Railroad Museum. www.cteastrrmuseum.org







Town of Hampton Annual Little River Ceremony Monday, May 29, 2017 (Memorial Day), 12 - 12:30 pm Difficulty: Easy. Address: Hammond Hill Rd., Hampton, CT. Event is at the bridge Expect this! Enjoy this short but sweet annual commemoration brought to you by the Town of Hampton. All are welcome. It is to honor those lost at sea through the centuries. At the culmination of the event, fresh flowers are cast upon the stream in the hope that some shall find their way to the sea, or at least to Long Island Sound. Questions? 860-455-9132 Sponsored by: Town of Hampton. www.hamptonct.org

Chaplin's Air Line Rail Trail Monday, May 29, 2017 (Memorial Day), 2 - 4 pm Difficulty: Easy. Key(s): Leashed dogs, Especially for families with children. Address: Chewink Rd., Chaplin, CT. Rte. 6 to Chewink Rd., park at lot where the Air Line Trail crosses road. Expect this! Enjoy a walk on this beautifully scenic piece of the Air Line Trail. Learn about the history of the trains in the northeast CT and about the route of the Ghost Train as you walk with railroad historian Ray Axelrod! Questions? 860-617-3308 Time/Distance: 2 hours, 3 miles Sponsored by: CT Eastern Railroad Museum. www.cteastrrmuseum.org First Friday-Putnam Friday, June 2, 2017, 6 - 9 pm Difficulty: Easy. Address: Main St., Putnam, CT. Expect this! Celebrating feature films this season, June's First Friday will leap into Action & Adventure films, celebrating “Iconic Heroes.” From the unlikely hero of a teenaged Marty McFly saving the future, to a resourceful Katniss Everdeen saving humanity, to the wisecracking Iron Man and his band of Avengers saving the world, heroes come in all shapes and sizes. The evening will give attendees a chance to channel their favorite heroes. Time/Distance: 3 hours, n/a Sponsored by: Putnam Business Association. www.discoverputnam.com & www.putnambusiness.org


http://www.hamptonct.org/







Enjoy the Trails of Sturbridge on National Trails Day! Saturday, June 3, 2017, 8 am - 3 pm Difficulty: Varied. Key(s): there are many activity choices!. Address: Leadmine Mtn. Trails, 10 Shattuck Rd., Sturbridge, MA. Expect this! Please park along Shattuck Rd. Partial List of activities all start at 10 Shattuck Rd. unless noted:

Trail Run, Moderate, (3 to 4 miles 8 a.m.) a trail run for geared for intermediate & experienced trail runners.

Advanced Mountain Bike Ride (10 Miles/9 a.m.) ride is geared towards advanced mountain bikers/racers interested in exploring the Leadmine Trail system (Elevation Gain 1000'+)

Kid's Mountain Bike Ride (5 Miles/9:30 a.m.) ‘Point to Point' ride designed for kids with mountain bike experience! Anticipated Ride Time: 1 hour. Helmet, water bottle, and spare tube mandatory. Preregistration is required. Ride starts at 197 Leadmine Rd. and ends at 10 Shattuck rd.

Official Leadmine Mt Trail Ceremony (10:30 a.m.) Join us as we “cut the ribbon” and celebrate the hard of work our trail volunteers in building the Leadmine Mt trail system Light drinks and refreshments will be served.

Kid's Bike Ride (1.6 Miles/10:45 a.m.) This adventure is designed for beginner cyclists! Adults must accompany children as we explore the Arbutus Park Trail (1.6 miles). Anticipated Ride Time: 30 minutes. Helmet required.

Introduction to Geo-Caching (11 a.m.) Want to learn about this fun family activity? Approx. .75 mile hike, easy.

Environmental Awareness Hike, (11:15 a.m. & 1 p.m.) Join our Student Conservation Crew on a short hike down to the ponds and back to learn about our environment and how we “leave no trace” as we enjoy our open space lands.

Trail building 101 (10:45 a.m. to 12 & 1 p.m. to 3 p.m.) Work alongside members of The Student Conservation Association as we build a section of the Sand Hill trail. Learn the techniques in building a sustainable trail.

For more information and to register for the Kid’s Mt Bike ride visit the Sturbridge Trails Website: WWW.Sturbridgetrails.org or email: [email protected] This National Trails Day® event sponsored by The Sturbridge Tourist Association and The Friends of Sturbridge Trails www.sturbridgetrails.org NEMBA Goodwin Fun Ride Saturday, 6/3/2017, 9 am Difficulty: Easy-Moderate. Key(s): $10 for NEMBA members, $15 for not-yet-members, ages 15 & under are free. Address: Goodwin Forest, 23 Potter Rd., Hampton, CT. off Route 6 Expect this! . This off-road event starts at 9AM at Goodwin State Forest (23 Potter Road in Hampton, CT) and offers 3 loops with a range of terrain and miles to make everyone happy. Loops are marked with arrows for self-guided tours, and a guided Beginner/Mellow Group Ride of 7 miles starts at 10AM. All are welcome to this event and following pot-luck cookout at 12:30PM (hamburgers, hotdogs, buns & cheese provided. Bring a dish to share, your beverages & condiments.) The Goodwin Fun Ride explores wooded single track and double track in both Goodwin and the abutting Natchaug State Forest. Trails include everything from cart roads to rock gardens to tight, technical singletrack. In addition, the Airline Rail Trail--a level, smooth gravel trail that runs through both forests--offers an option for the more casual rider (and kids!) plus an easy return option from the mountain bike loops. Glen Newcombe, our Goodwin/Natchaug Trail Guru, says the arrowed routes for 2017 will follow some new trails and explore old favorites. “The short loop will be about 7 miles of easy terrain. I plan on around 15 or so miles for the intermediate ride and about 25 for the advanced,” he says. “The intermediate loop will not have much climbing but will include mostly ‘old school’ single track. The Airline Trail (which runs through both Goodwin and Natchaug) will allow anyone to bail out and return to Goodwin. The advanced loop will add climbing and more technical sections.” The chapter will provide a courtesy rest stop with water and snacks, accompanied by a mechanic station manned by Danielson Adventure Sports. Putnam Cyclery will also be in attendance for the day and set up near the registration tent with Specialized and Surly brand demo bikes available to try. Questions? 860-230-1237 Time/Distance: 3.5 hours+, 7/15/25 mile choices Sponsored by: Quiet Corner NEMBA. www.facebook.com/QuietCornerNEMBA





http://www.facebook.com/QuietCornerNEMBA




Trees on Woodstock Hill

Saturday, 6/3/2017, 10 - 11:30 am Difficulty: Moderate. Key(s): Repeats Saturday June 17. Restrooms nearby. Leashed dogs ok. Address: Palmer Arboretum, 523 Scenic Rte. 169, Woodstock, CT. Park behind brick Historical Society Building. Expect this! We will tour the 100 year old Palmer Arboretum, which is currently being restored and view the special trees on Woodstock Hill's Common. Questions? 860-928-9469, ext 322 Time/Distance: 1.5 hours, 1 mile Sponsored by: Palmer Arboretum, Town of Woodstock. www.townofwoodstock.com

Holland & Brimfield Trail Bike Ride Saturday, 6/3/2017, 10 am - 12 pm Difficulty: Easy. Key(s): Bring bike & helmet. Address: 20 Pond Bridge Rd., Holland, MA. Expect this! Meet at the kayak/canoe launch by the bridge at 20 Pond Bridge Road in Holland. The ride is 10 miles (options for a shorter ride) mostly on trails, though a small part will be on little-traveled public roads. Flat terrain. Helmets required. For info: 413 245-7745. Questions? 413-245-7745 Time/Distance: 2 hours, 10 miles Sponsored by: Holland Trails Committee. http://town.holland.ma.us/trails-committee SCOUTS/KIDS! Plant for Pollinators! Saturday, June 3, 2017, 10 am - 2 pm Difficulty: . Key(s):Pre-registration by 6/2/17 to 508-248-5697 or [email protected] . Address: Hodges Village Dam, 30 Howarth Rd., Oxford, MA. Meet in the lower field, upstream of the inlet, in the wildflower meadow at Hodges Village Dam. Expect this! CALLING ALL SCOUTS AND FAMILIES: The US Army Corps of Engineers is requesting your help with planting as many 4'X4' plots of wildflowers on Saturday, June 3rd. And for this, your plot will be posted with a sign. Please, RSVP, so I know to make you a sign. Please, bring the soil amendments- top soil, humus, natural fertilizer, peat, etc. Please bring gloves and your own drinking water. Snacks will be provided. The USACE will supply the New England Wildflower mix and all the tools. Questions? 508-248-5697 Time/Distance: 4 hours, n/a Sponsored by: US Army Corps of Engineers, Hodges Village Dam. http://www.nae.usace.army.mil/Missions/Recreation/Hodges-Village-Dam



http://town.holland.ma.us/trails-committee






Colonial Homestead Landscape Tour Saturday, June 3, 2017 (CT Trails Day), 10 am Difficulty: Easy. Key(s): FREE and a part of National Trails Day. Address: Huntington Homestead Museum, 35 Huntington Rd. (Rte. 14), Scotland, CT. Expect this! We will walk the old farm property originally of approximately 300 plus acres. The land was given to Samuel Huntington's father, Nathaniel, from his father, Joseph, who initially acquired it from Joshua, the son of Uncas and chief of the Mohegan tribe. Also learn about The W3R, Washington Rochambeau Revolutionary War Route (Route 14). Free. Sponsored by: Governor Samuel Huntington Trust. www.huntingtonhomestead.org

Let Us Heal Our Ill & Injured Saturday, 6/3/2017, 11 am - 3 pm Difficulty: Easy. Key(s): $3.50 per person (children 12 + under are free), $10 for family of 4. Address: Huntington Homestead Museum, 35 Huntington Rd. (Rte. 14), Scotland, CT. Expect this! 18th century medicine was all natural and stemmed from Ancient Greek belief of the four humors. Experience a taste of what life must have been like to be ill in Samuel's time. Several "Huntington family" members will be treated and possibly even cured this day according to period advice books. Remedies will be made before the fire and visiting children can help tend the feeble and sickly. Tours available. Also, antique sale inside the Homestead today. Sponsored by: Governor Samuel Huntington Trust. www.huntingtonhomestead.org Air Line Lore along the Lebanon & Columbia Line Saturday, June 3, 2017 (CT Trails Day), 11 am - 12:30 pm Difficulty: Easy. Key(s): Leashed dogs, Especially for families with children. Address: Pine St. (Columbia) becomes Leonard's Bridge Rd (Lebanon), Lebanon, CT. Rte. 66 to Pine St. in Columbia to trail head over the Lebanon town line where street name changes to Leonard's Bridge Rd. Expect this! No goosebumps, but hear about the Ghost Train, the line construction of 1912-1913, and CT railroad lore with rail historian Ray Axelrod on this nice section of the Air Line Trail. Questions? 860-617-3308 Time/Distance: 1.5 hours, 2 miles Sponsored by: CT Eastern Railroad Museum. www.cteastrrmuseum.org Ribbon Cutting & Grand Opening of the Air Line State Park Trail Thompson Saturday, June 3, 2017 (CT Trails Day), 12 - 12:30 pm Rain date: Sunday, June 4, 12 pm Difficulty: Easy. Key(s):Pre-register to Charlie at [email protected] or 401-996-6175 Families, Leashed Dogs Permitted, Wheelchair Accessible via the rail trail. Address: Park at Air Line Trail Parking Lot on Rte. 12/Riverside Dr. in Thompson (Mechanicsville Section), Thompson, CT. Expect this! Visit this moderate trail (Gently rising/temperate terrain with occasional obstacles). Round trip from parking is a little over a mile, along the rail trail and requires crossing Thompson Rd./Rte. 193. Additional parking along Sunset Hill Rd where the Air









Line crosses the road. Round trip from this parking is no more than 2 miles round trip. We invite you to ride your bike or horse or walk to our the bridge located on the Air Line trail in Thompson CT, for a ribbon cutting ceremony. The Thompson Trails Committee will use FaceBook page https://www.facebook.com/Thompson-Trails-Committee-115455228469167/?fref=nf to post last minute updates including preferred park and walk/ride locations. Thompson Trails Committee also provides information on the Town of Thompson website showing other hiking and Mountain Biking opportunities in our town (http://www.thompsonct.org/) select MORE INFORMATION --- MAPS. (Scroll down to the interactive links for detailed maps.)The Thompson segment of the Airline State Park Trail runs from Putnam (in the south) to Douglas, MA (in the north) and provides easy connection to the Tri-State Marker Trail. The Air Line Trail can be traveled with wheel chair but sections will be a challenge due to incline or missing bridge over CT Route 193. Questions? 401-996-6175 Sponsored by: Thompson Trails Committee. www.thompsonct.org Hale Homestead CT Trails Day Walk Saturday, June 3, 2017, 2 - 3:30 pm Heavy Rain Cancels Difficulty: Easy. Key(s):Pre-registration recommended: 860-742-6917 . Address: Hale Homestead, 2299 South St., Coventry, CT. Expect this! A slow 2-mile walk down the 18th century road toward Norwich that the Hales used to take their livestock to market. Heavy rain cancels. Free. Registration recommended: 860-742-6917. Questions? 860-742-6917 Time/Distance: 1.5 hours, 2 miles Sponsored by: Hale Homestead. http://www.ctlandmarks.org Windham-Tolland 4-H Camp Open House Saturday, 6/3/2017, 2 - 4 pm Difficulty: Easy. Key(s): Especially for families with children. Address: Windham-Tolland 4-H Camp, 326 Taft Pond Rd., Pomfret Center, CT. Expect this! Visit the Windham-Tolland 4-H Camp Open House on Saturday June 3 and Sunday, June 4 from 2 – 4 PM at 326 Taft Pond Road, Pomfret, CT. Meet the director & other camp staff, take a camp tour, registration materials available. On Saturday the 3rd, join us from 1:30pm-2pm for an informational Parent Panel on the benefits of Windham-Tolland 4-H Camp for you and your child, hosted by Heather Logee, Camp Director. Register soon for a space at camp, slots are filling up quickly! Questions? 860-974-3379 Time/Distance: 2 hours Sponsored by: Windham-Tolland 4H Camp. www.4hcampct.org 10k & 30k Trail Run Sunday, June 4, 2017, 9 am - 1 pm Difficulty: Difficult. Key(s):Pre-registration required. Online at www.friendsofgoodwinforest.org Restrooms nearby. Address: Goodwin Forest, 23 Potter Rd., Hampton, CT. Off Route 6 Expect this! A challenging 30K (~18.6 miles) course and 10K (~5.8 miles) course have been established to explore the Goodwin State Forest, the Pine Acres Lake area and the Natchaug State Forest. This run features peaceful scenery, home-baked prizes, low entry costs and a fun but challenging single track course. There will be other activities throughout the day (tying into Trails Day celebrations) at the Goodwin Forest. Questions? Time/Distance: 4 hours, 10k / 30k Sponsored by: Friends of Goodwin Forest. www.friendsofgoodwinforest.org


https://www.facebook.com/Thompson-Trails-Committee-115455228469167/?fref=nf

http://www.thompsonct.org/

http://www.ctlandmarks.org/






Rapoport/Spalding Preserve Walk Sunday, June 4, 2017 (CT Trails Day), 10 - 11 am Difficulty: Moderate. Key(s): Leashed dogs. Address: Dead end of Calkins Rd., Woodstock, CT. Park respectfully on road by #129 Calkins Rd. Expect this! Hike the fields, woods, and wetlands of this scenic 154-acre Wyndham Land Trust Property, the Spalding/Rapoport Preserve. Questions? 860-928-4715 Time/Distance: 1 hour, 2 miles Sponsored by: Wyndham Land Trust. www.wyndhamlandtrust.org Coventry Farmers' Market Opening Day Sunday, 6/4/2017, 11 am - 2 pm Difficulty: Easy. Address: Hale Homestead, 2299 South St., Coventry, CT. Expect this! Featuring some of the best of Connecticut-grown, Connecticut-made products around at one of the most unspoiled countryside settings in the state. June 4 is Opening Day 2017! Sponsored by: Coventry Farmers' Market at Hale Homestead. www.coventryfarmersmarket.org Alice in Wonderland Croquet Sunday, 6/4/2017, 11:30 am - 2:30 pm Difficulty: Easy. Key(s): $4 per person for croquet game. Address: Jillson Square, 627 Main St., Windham (Willimantic), CT. Expect this! Come play croquet in Wonderland with Alice, the Queen of Hearts, and other enchanting characters. Costumes welcome but not required, prizes for best costumes. Croquet is part of a town wide Victorian era picnic and music. Bring a picnic and lawn chairs or blanket. Fee is $4 to play croquet. Questions? 860-423-1878 Time/Distance: 3 hours, n/a Sponsored by: Windham Historical Society & Willimantic Victorian Neighborhood Association. www.windhamhistory.org Back Roads "Undiscovered Killingly" (Bus Tour #2) Sunday, 6/4/2017, 1:00 PM Difficulty: Easy. Key(s):Limited seats! Reservations required by Wed., May 31st. Call 860-779-5311 or email [email protected] with your name, phone number and # in your party . Address: Meeting location disclosed with your reservation, Killingly, CT. Expect this! Have you explored the back roads of Northeast Connecticut? There is lots to see and visit tucked away up in the hills! Killingly Conservation Commission is repeating a bus tour in the northeast corner of our town. Get a taste of "where to go and what to see". You can then return to explore further the historical sites and open spaces. Do you know where in Killingly:

100 ft wide Liberty Oak shelters two Revolutionary War graves?

26 miles of unpaved roads?

500 acres of water?

Highest point in town? With help from members of the Conservation Commission, you'll get a bit of history, scenic views you may have never seen, places to launch your canoe/kayak, and miles of walking trails. Reservations are required with name, phone, and number in party by Wed, May 31. Call 860-779-5311 or email [email protected] Questions? 860-779-5311 Sponsored by: Killingly Conservation Commission. www.killinglyconservation.org



http://www.coventryfarmersmarket.org/

http://www.windhamhistory.org/



http://www.killinglyconservation.org/




Explore Dunhamtown Forest on CT Trails Day! Sunday, June 4, 2017 (CT Trails Day), 1 - 3 pm Difficulty: Easy. Key(s): Leashed dogs, Especially for families with children. Address: White Oak Rd., Mansfield, CT. From the intersection of Rtes. 275 & 32, head south on Rte. 32 for 1.9 miles. Turn left onto Mansfield City Rd. Go 1.3 miles & turn left onto White Oak Rd. Go .2 miles; parking is on left. Expect this! Join us on CT Trails Day for a hike through one of Mansfield’s interesting parks. Not only will we be looking at trees, wildflowers and wildlife but also discovering several old home sites and abandoned roads. We can only imagine what this area might have been like years ago. Part of National Trails Day, a nationwide hiking initiative established by the American Hiking Society in 1993, CT trails day is organized in CT by the Connecticut Forest and Park Association (CFPA). CFPA was founded in 1895 as a non-profit organization to protect Connecticut’s forests, parks, walking trails, and open spaces for future generations and to maintain 825-miles of the Blue-Blazed Hiking Trail system. The complete walk schedule, with directions, is available through CFPA at www.ctwoodlands.org. Questions? 860-429-3015 Time/Distance: 2 hours, 2 miles Sponsored by: Town of Mansfield, CT. http://www.mansfieldct.gov/content/1914/2861/7520/default.aspx Paddle the Shetucket with TLGV's Ranger Bill Sunday, June 4, 2017 (CT Trails Day), Time: TBD Difficulty: Moderate. Key(s):Pre-registration Limited spaces available. Register to [email protected] or 860-774-3300. Kayak/canoe, pfd. Address: TBD, Occum (Norwich), CT. Expect this! More miles of National Recreation Water Trails are now ready for you to paddle. Details to come from TLGV's Chief Ranger Bill for this upcoming member program. RSVP & questions to [email protected]. Questions? 860-774-3300 Time/Distance: TBD, TBD Sponsored by: The Last Green Valley. www.thelastgreenvalley.org








Windham-Tolland 4-H Camp Open House Sunday, 6/4/2017, 2 - 4 pm Difficulty: Easy. Key(s): Especially for families with children. Address: Windham-Tolland 4-H Camp, 326 Taft Pond Rd., Pomfret Center, CT. Expect this! Visit the Windham-Tolland 4-H Camp Open House on Saturday June 3 and Sunday, June 4 from 2 – 4 PM at 326 Taft Pond Road, Pomfret, CT. Meet the director & other camp staff, take a camp tour, registration materials available. Register soon for a space at camp, slots are filling up quickly! Questions? 860-974-3379 Time/Distance: 2 hours Sponsored by: Windham-Tolland 4H Camp. www.4hcampct.org Leffingwell House Museum Annual Meeting Wednesday, June 7, 2017, 6:30 -8:00 pm Difficulty: Easy. Address: 348 Washington St., Norwich, CT. Expect this! After a self-guided Walk Norwich stroll (walknorwich.org), attend the Society of the Founders of Norwich Annual Meeting, with a storyteller & refreshments. Open to the public. Free! Questions? 860-889-9440 Time/Distance: 1.5 hours, n/a Sponsored by: Leffingwell House Museum. www.leffingwellhousemuseum.org







Full Moon Hike Thursday, 6/8/2017, 7:30 PM Difficulty: Moderate. Key(s): Free to CAS members, $5 for non-members. Address: Trail Wood, 93 Kenyon Rd., Hampton, CT. meet in the parking lot Expect this! Trail Wood is beautiful by day and downright magical by night. Pull yourself away from the demands of the day, slow down for a bit, walk our trails and become familiar with the sights and sounds of a Trail Wood evening. Meet in the parking lot, 93 Kenyon Rd, Hampton. Free to CAS members; $5 non-members. Questions? 860-928-4948 Sponsored by: CT Audubon Society Center at Pomfret. www.ctaudubon.org/trail-wood 17th Annual Thames River Basin Partnership (TRBP) Floating Workshop Friday, 6/9/2017, 12 - 5 pm Difficulty: Easy. Key(s):Pre-register by 6/1/17 to Jean Pillo at 860-928-4948 or [email protected]. $25 fee includes light lunch. Address: Roseland Park, 205 Roseland Park Rd., Woodstock, CT. Expect this! Event starts with a soil health/rainfall simulator demonstration at 1 PM, followed by a slide show summary in the barn featuring water quality issues and an overview of local conservation focused projects in the watershed beginning at 1:30 PM. Then, as the name implies, we will take to the waters of Roseland Lake at 3:30 PM to showcase some of the features discussed in the workshop. Participants must provide their own boat. Life jackets required. Extra paddle craft may be available on a first come first serve basis. A walking tour in the park will be arranged for land lubbers. $25 fee includes light lunch, checks made out to Eastern Connecticut Conservation District, 238 West Town St., Norwich, CT 06360. Questions? 860-928-4948 Time/Distance: 5 hours, n/a Sponsored by: Millennium Power through The Last Green Valley. www.thelastgreenvalley.org

Rose Full Moon Paddle at Roseland Park

Friday, June 9, 2017, 7 - 9 pm, Rain date: Sat. 6/10, 7 – 9 pm Difficulty: Easy. Key(s): Restrooms nearby, Kayak/canoe, pfd. Pre-register to [email protected] Address: 205 Roseland Park Rd., Woodstock, CT. Expect this! Paddle on scenic & peaceful Roseland Lake as the full moon, known as the Rose Moon, rises in splendor. Our hosts at Roseland Park will have a bonfire crackling on the shore. Bring your memories of summers past & we'll share them all. Enjoy good company as we get ready to welcome in another season in The Last Green Valley. Registration is limited, email [email protected] to secure your spot under the Rose Moon! NOTE: We have a FEW extra vessels available, thanks to our friends! If you’d like to try paddling, RSVP to use the extra kayaks and a canoe, too! *******THIS IS A PERFECT PLACE FOR NEW PADDLERS*********COME TRY IT OUT!**************** Questions? 860-774-3300 Time/Distance: 2 hours, 1 mile Sponsored by: The Last Green Valley & Roseland Park. www.thelastgreenvalley.org & www.roselandpark.org


http://www.ctaudubon.org/trail-wood






http://www.roselandpark.org/




Visit the Huguenot Steamer No. 1 Fire Station Museum Saturday, 6/10/2017, 10 am - 12 noon Difficulty: Easy. Address: 655 Main St., N. Oxford, MA. Expect this! Silsby Steamer, Jeffers Handtub, Colonel DeWitt, firetruck, collections and stories galore are to be discovered in this museum. Great for kids - of all ages, ready for you to stop in and visit during Spring Outdoors, and the 2nd & 4th Saturday of each month through October. Unassuming outside - AMAZING inside! Sponsored by: Oxford Firefighters Association. http://www.huguenotsteamer.com Get Up and Get Outdoors! Saturday, June 10, 2017, 10 am - 1 pm Difficulty: Easy. Key(s): Especially for families with children. Address: Buffumville Park, 229 Oxford Rd., Charlton, MA. Expect this! Bring the kids to Buffumville Park for some outdoors fun! Lean about boating safety, water safety, learn how to fish, catch a fly fishing demonstration, ask your questions to a wildlife expert, and take a short hike! Stay after the event for a picnic or a swim. Questions? 508-248-5697 Time/Distance: 3 hours, n/a Sponsored by: US Army Corps of Engineers, Hodges Village Dam. http://www.nae.usace.army.mil/Missions/Recreation/Hodges-Village-Dam Textile Duo: Quilting & Fiber Arts Saturday, 6/10/2017, 10 am - 4 pm Difficulty: Easy. Key(s): Adults $10, Children $5. Address: Willimantic Textile & History Museum, 411 Main St., Windham (Willimantic), CT. Expect this! Speakers, Vendors, Demonstrations, History of Sewing Machines, and more also Art Quilt Show "Locally Inspired" Textile Event: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Adults $10 child $5 Questions? 860-423-1878 Sponsored by: Windham Textile & History Museum/The Mill Museum. www.millmuseum.org NHS - Second Saturdays: The Legend of Uncas Leap Saturday, June 10, 2017, 10:30 - 12 pm Difficulty: Easy. Address: Uncas Leap Heritage Area, Norwich, CT. Expect this! One of the NHS Second Saturday guides walk/talks offered. Discover the Mohegan Tribe's deep connection to Uncas Leap and learn about the legendary battle that gave the falls their name. Please join us as members of the Mohegan Tribe and Norwich Historical Society guide visitors through the Mohegan tribe's illustrious past in Norwich. The highlight of the tour is witnessing the grandeur of Uncas Leap Falls. Please wear comfortable shoes and clothing. FREE Uncas Leap Trail of Norwich, CT is now a self-guided walking tour apart of Walk Norwich, CT. Please check out the trail online at www.walknorwich.org or pick up a brochure at the Norwich Heritage and Regional Visitors Center. After the tour and visit The Slater Memorial Museum which opens at 1:00pm. Questions? 860-886-1776 Time/Distance: 1.5 hours, 1 mile Sponsored by: Norwich Historical Society. www.norwichhistoricalsociety.org






http://www.walknorwich.org/





The River, Rail, Mills & Trails AND Open House Saturday, June 10, 2017 (CT Open House Day), 11 am - 12:30 pm Difficulty: Easy. Key(s): Restrooms nearby, Especially for families with children. Address: 55 Bridge St., Windham (Willimantic), CT. Drive in about 0.5 miles on the gravel road beside the tracks to the walk start point. Expect this! Walk to new rail trail up to the Railroad Museum, talking & learning about railroad history & current service, the river that powered the mills. Optional: Stay longer and tour the museum or take a train ride after for an additional small cost. Questions? 860-617-3308 Time/Distance: 1.5 hours, 2 miles Sponsored by: CT Eastern Railroad Museum. www.cteastrrmuseum.org A Colonial Dinner for Our Future Governor Saturday, June 10, 2017 (CT Open House Day), 11 am - 3 pm Difficulty: Easy. Key(s): Reduced admission fees (regular is $3.50 per person, children 12 + under are free, $10 for family of 4). Address: Huntington Homestead Museum, 35 Huntington Rd. (Rte. 14), Scotland, CT. Expect this! The meadows, wood, and Merrick Brook surrounding The Huntingtons were abundant with wildlife. Wild fowl will roast from twine; a quail pie warms near the fire. "The Huntingtons" sit down in the Year 1748 to their hearth cooked meal and "Madam Huntington" discusses dressing a wild duck including all the fixings an 18th century family enjoyed. Children can make a special early CT wildlife booklet. Tours available. Reduced admission. Sponsored by: Governor Samuel Huntington Trust. www.huntingtonhomestead.org Leffingwell House Museum Open House Saturday, June 10, 2017 (CT Open House Day), 11 am - 4 pm Difficulty: Easy. Address: 348 Washington St., Norwich, CT. Expect this! After a self-guided Walk Norwich stroll (walknorwich.org), Stop in for a tour of this house museum, filled with tools, clothing, documents and stories galore. Open to the public. First floor tour for Free! Questions? 860-889-9440 Time/Distance: 5 hours, n/a Sponsored by: Leffingwell House Museum. www.leffingwellhousemuseum.org Long Distance Guided Hike Saturday, 6/10/2017, 12 - 3 pm Difficulty: Moderate. Key(s): Leashed, friendly dogs welcome. Address: Goodwin Forest, 23 Potter Rd., Hampton, CT. Off Route 6 Expect this! Enjoy the company of fellow hikers and get some great outdoor exercise. Expect a 5-7 mile hike. Goodwin Guide Kat Gayson, will be taking you on this long distance hike as she points out nature tidbits here and there. All are welcome, including friendly dogs. Questions? 860-455-9534 Time/Distance: 3 hours, 5-7 miles Sponsored by: Friends of Goodwin Forest. www.friendsofgoodwinforest.org









Atwood Farm Open House Saturday, June 10, 2017 (CT Open House Day), 12 - 4 pm Address: 624 Wormwood Hill Rd., Mansfield, CT. Expect this! Visit the historic Atwood Farm and home of Joshua's Trust. Take a tour, stay and enjoy for just a while or the entire afternoon! Questions? 860-429-9023 Time/Distance: 4 hours Sponsored by: Joshua's Trust. http://joshuastrust.org/

Gurleyville Grist Mill Opening Day Saturday, June 10, 2017 (CT Open House Day), 12 - 4 pm Address: Stonemill Rd., Mansfield, CT. Expect this! Attend opening day of the Gurleyville Grist Mill, last owned by the family of Governor Wilbur Cross. Tour the mill! A film will be shown at 3 pm at 624 Wormwood Hill Rd. (Joshua's Trust Office) that features the Grist Mill. Participants may elect to walk along the Fenton River on the blue trail, located nearby. Questions? 860-429-9023 Time/Distance: 4 hours Sponsored by: Joshua's Trust. http://joshuastrust.org Tour Hale Homestead on CT Open House Day Saturday, June 10, 2017, 12 - 4 pm Difficulty: Easy. Address: Hale Homestead, 2299 South St., Coventry, CT. Expect this! Tours of the Homestead are free today! Questions? 860-742-6917 Time/Distance: 4 hours, Sponsored by: Hale Homestead. http://www.ctlandmarks.org TOM CALLINAN TO PERFORM SONGS FROM THE TROUBADOUR TRAIL Saturday, Saturday, June 10 (CT Open House Day), 2:00 PM Difficulty: Easy. Address: Norwichtown Heritage & Regional Visitors Center, 69 East Town St., Norwich, CT. On the Norwichtown Green Expect this! As part of the Norwich Heritage & Regional Visitors Center's celebration of Connecticut Open House Day, Tom Callinan, designated Connecticut's first Official State Troubadour, will be performing selected songs from his Norwich repertoire that will be included in his "Troubadour Trail" walking tour. The concert and festivities will be held be at 69 East Town Street, on the Norwichtown Green. Mr. Callinan's "Troubadour Trail" will consist of three components: Norwichtown; Mohegan Heritage; and Downtown. Among the songs that will be included on June 10th will be: [from Norwichtown], "Lowthorpe Meadow"; "Meetinghouse Rocks"; and "Poco-Loco For Cocoa"; [from Mohegan Heritage], "The First Of The Mohegans" and "Uncas Leap"; and [from Downtown], "The Struggles Of Ruggles"; "Mending Soles And Saving Souls"; and "Norwich's Lifesaving Tree". Admission to this event is free. Questions? 860-917-8478 Sponsored by: Norwich Historical Society. www.norwichhistoricalsociety.org




http://www.ctlandmarks.org/





Paddle for a Cure Sunday, June 11, 2017, 10 am - ? Difficulty: Easy. Key(s): Kayak/canoe, pfd. Address: Greenway Dr., Brooklyn, CT. Meet & park at Riverside Park Expect this! Paddle for a Cure is a scenic and fun kayaking event held to benefit the Rose Bove LaRose Cancer Center at Day Kimball Hospital. Similar to a walk-a-thon, there is no entry fee, just collect pledges! Paddle for a Cure has raised more than $43,000 since 2011 to help support the care of those in our community who are fighting cancer.Get Pledge Form on the listed website. For more information call the Day Kimball Healthcare Development Office at (860) 928-7141. Questions? 860-928-7141 Sponsored by:Day Kimball Healthcare. http://www.daykimball.org/paddle-for-a-cure Kayak the French River Sunday, 6/11/2017, 10 am - 12:30 pm Difficulty: Moderate. Key(s): Kayak/canoe, pfd. Address: Greenbriar Park, Rte. 12, Oxford, MA. Expect this! MUST HAVE YOUR OWN VESSEL AND LIFE JACKET! FREE! Expect this! Would you like to see Hodges Village from the perspective of floating down the lazy river? Come play in the water and ask questions about the US Army Corps of Engineers. Questions? 508-248-5697 Time/Distance: 2.5 hours, 3 miles Sponsored by: US Army Corps of Engineers, Hodges Village Dam. www.nae.usace.army.mil Search Hodges Village

Coventry Farmers' Market : Homegrown How-To Sunday, 6/11/2017, 11 am - 2 pm Difficulty: Easy. Address: Hale Homestead, 2299 South St., Coventry, CT. Expect this! Featuring some of the best of Connecticut-grown, Connecticut-made products around at one of the most unspoiled countryside settings in the state. June 11th's focus is Homegrown How-To. Sponsored by: Coventry Farmers' Market at Hale Homestead. www.coventryfarmersmarket.org Bobcats with Paul Colburn Sunday, 6/11/2017, 1 - 2 pm Difficulty: Easy. Key(s):Pre-registration required. Online at www.friendsofgoodwinforest.org RSVP REQUIRED - Limited Seating. Online or call 860-455-9534. Address: Goodwin Forest, 23 Potter Rd., Hampton, CT. Off Route 6 Expect this! RSVP REQUIRED “The Bobcat: Connecticut’s Secretive Wild Cat” presentation by Master Wildlife Conservationist Paul Colburn focuses on the natural history of bobcats in Connecticut. It also provides an overview of bobcat habitat, diet, behavior, reproduction, and current research efforts. Bobcat artifacts will be shown, and mountain lions will also be discussed. Paul Colburn is a certified graduate of DEEP’s


http://www.daykimball.org/paddle-for-a-cure

http://www.nae.usace.army.mil/





Master Wildlife Conservationist program. He is trained in wildlife management, natural history, and interpretation. With 65 presentations under his belt, Paul loves engaging and talking with the community about the natural world. Questions? 860-455-9534 Time/Distance: 1 hour Sponsored by: Friends of Goodwin Forest. www.friendsofgoodwinforest.org TLGV Ranger Marcy's Acorn Adventure Letterboxing with the Girl Scouts! Sunday, June 11, 2017, 1 - 2:30 pm Difficulty: Easy. Key(s):Pre-register [email protected] Especially for families with children. Address: Camp Laurel, 175 Clubhouse Rd., Lebanon, CT. Expect this! Letterboxing is good old-fashioned fun. Be creative. Be a sleuth & a modern-day explorer! Get out in fresh air! We’ll learn how. RSVP REQUIRED so we will have enough materials for all of you! RSVP to [email protected]. Snacks, Acorn stickers & fresh air FUN always included! Be sure to bring a friend! FREE! All ages welcome. Questions? 860-774-3300 Time/Distance: 1.5 hours, 2 miles Sponsored by: The Last Green Valley, Girl Scouts of CT & Putnam Bank. www.thelastgreenvalley.org

Walk in the Dark Sunday, June 11, 2017, 3 - 4 pm Rain date: Sat. 6/18, 3 pm Difficulty: Easy. Key(s): Restrooms near, Wheelchair access, NO DOGS please, age 12+ only. Address: Howard T. Brown Memorial Park, 100 Chelsea Harbor Dr.,, Norwich, CT. Expect this! Experience the world through the eyes of the blind. Discover a tree or flower, sit and tie your shoe, smell the smells and listen to the sounds of the city while blindfolded. Fun and educational, you’ll be assisted by a trained member of the Norwich Lions Club. A simple, short and enriching experience… if you become uncomfortable for any reason you may remove your blindfold. For all ages, but those under 18 should be accompanied by an adult. Recommended for teachers and community leaders. Questions? 860-237-4330 Time/Distance: 1 hour, < 0.25 miles Sponsored by: Norwich Lions Club. www.norwichlionsclubinc.com




http://www.norwichlionsclubinc.com/




Senior Walk (not just for Seniors) Wednesday, 6/14/2017, 12 - 2 pm Difficulty: Easy. Key(s): Walking sticks available to borrow. Address: Goodwin Forest, 23 Potter Rd., Hampton, CT. Off Route 6 Expect this! These are easy to moderate but casual walks taken on forest trails. They are a great opportunity to get outside, learn something new and maybe even meet a few new friends. These walks are very popular, and not just for seniors! All are welcome. Hiking sticks are available to borrow. Questions? 860-455-9534 Time/Distance: 2 hours, 2 miles Sponsored by: Friends of Goodwin Forest. www.friendsofgoodwinforest.org The Family Life of Pileated Woodpeckers Wednesday, 6/14/2017, 7 - 8 pm Difficulty: Easy. Address: Goodwin Forest, 23 Potter Rd., Hampton, CT. Off Route 6 Expect this! Spy on a pair of Pileated Woodpeckers for six weeks during the breeding season—and fall in love at first flight! Using a videocam aimed at the nest hole on a daily basis for six weeks, Carrie Crompton created a 45 minute video. See how the male and female divvy up the labor of incubating, hatching/brooding, and feeding their young. It’s a surprisingly suspenseful story. Carrie Crompton is an apprentice in the Master Naturalist program at Goodwin Conservation Center. She discovered a pair of pileated woodpeckers nesting near her home in Andover, CT and filmed their activities until the young fledged. She has shown this video at the Audubon Center in Pomfret and is now bringing it to Goodwin Questions? 860-455-9534 Time/Distance: 1 hour Sponsored by: Friends of Goodwin Forest. www.friendsofgoodwinforest.org Willimantic's 3rd Thursday Street Fest Thursday, June 15, 2017, 6 - 9 pm Difficulty: Easy. Address: Main St. (Rte. 66), Windham (Willimantic), CT. Expect this! Enjoy this monthly street fest, starting every year in May. Vendors, tastes & sips, arts, music and the local businesses on Main Street, too! Questions? 860-450-0918 Time/Distance: 3 hours, n/a Sponsored by: Willimantic Renaissance, Inc.. www.willimanticstreetfest.com Deep Sky Observing Friday, 6/16/2017, 8 - 11 pm Difficulty: Easy. Key(s): NO dogs except for guide dogs which are permitted. (FYI because guide dogs are well trained and pose little hazard to astronomical equipment) Address: Holton Rd., Franklin, CT. Sprague Land Trust property on Holton Road in Franklin. Directions/Parking: From Baltic take 207 West, right onto 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 Giants, Nebulae. We might be able to view Jupiter. If you have a telescope - bring it. If you don't know how to use 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 talk about - and answer - all kinds of astronomical trivia while we observe. This is a family friendly event. Please - no lanterns and flashlights should be only be red lights. No white lights. Questions? 860-774-3300 Time/Distance: 3 hours, n/a Sponsored by: The Last Green Valley and McLean Research Associates. www.thelastgreenvalley.org & http://mcleanresearch.com




http://www.willimanticstreetfest.com/






John E. Jackman Tour de Mansfield Saturday, June 17, 2017, 7 am - 1 pm Rain Date: Sunday, June 18 Difficulty: Moderate. Key(s):Pre-register [email protected] or 860-429-3015 Restrooms nearby, Bring Bike & Helmet, Registration Required. Address: 10 S. Eagleville Rd., Storrs (Mansfield), CT. Expect this! The Town of Mansfield, Mansfield Community Center, and Mansfield Downtown Partnership invite you to explore Mansfield by bike! The John E. Jackman Tour de Mansfield features three different routes (7, 20, and 40 miles) through Mansfield’s historic districts, new downtown, and the UConn campus. Experience riding on open roads is encouraged. NOTE: Rides take place on open roads; Helmets required; Registration materials will be available in May with fee to be determined at that time. Questions? 860-429-3015 Time/Distance: 6 hours, 7/20/40 mile options Sponsored by: Mansfield Downtown Partnership. http://mansfieldct.gov/biketour Post Timber Harvest Walk with a Forester Saturday, 6/17/2017, 9 - 11 am Difficulty: Easy. Address: Goodwin Forest, 23 Potter Rd., Hampton, CT. Off Route 6 Expect this! Have you noticed changes in James l. Goodwin State Forest? Seeing a lot of downed trees and cleared areas and have questions? Come join Ed McGuire, DEEP Forester, for a walk around Goodwin. Ed will explain the most recent timber harvest and discuss what the future looks like for the Goodwin State Forest. Bring your questions and your hiking shoes! For those who wish to volunteer some time, at 11am Ed will be leading an effort to clear the invasive garlic mustard plant from the grounds until 12 pm. Questions? 860-455-9534 Time/Distance: 2 hours, 1 mile Sponsored by: Friends of Goodwin Forest. www.friendsofgoodwinforest.org Trees on Woodstock Hill Saturday, 6/17/2017, 10 - 11:30 am Difficulty: Moderate. Key(s): Restrooms nearby. Leashed dogs ok. Address: Palmer Arboretum, 523 Scenic Rte. 169, Woodstock, CT. Park behind brick Historical Society Building. Expect this! We will tour the 100 year old Palmer Arboretum, which is currently being restored and view the special trees on Woodstock Hill's Common. Questions? 860-928-9469, ext 322 Time/Distance: 1.5 hours, 1 mile Sponsored by: Palmer Arboretum, Town of Woodstock. www.townofwoodstock.com



http://mansfieldct.gov/biketour






Pitch Pine Preserve Hike Saturday, 6/17/2017, 10 am - 12 noon Difficulty: Difficult. Key(s):Pre-register call 860-536-9811 NO dogs please. Address: Poheganut Dr., opposite Women's Health Center, Groton, CT. I-95, Exit 88; road is immediately north of Mystic Marriott Expect this! A rigorous hike over a rocky ridge, through a dark hollow, with a stop at an old granite quarry. The 201 acre site features a 44-acre pitch pine ridge forest, one of Connecticut's 13 imperiled ecosystems. Wear sturdy hiking shoes and bring water and a snack. Uneven, sometimes steep, terrain, several stream crossings and a narrow foot bridge. Experienced hikers please. The site was newly acquired by the State in March 2017. We will traverse some private property, with permission. There are no signs, trail markers, restrooms or maps. Questions? 860-536-9811 Time/Distance: 2 hours, 3.5 miles Sponsored by: Groton Open Space Association (GOSA). www.gosaonline.org Father's Day Rail Flea Market Saturday, June 17, 2017, 10 am - 4 pm Difficulty: Easy. Address: 55 Bridge St., Windham (Willimantic), CT. Drive in about 0.5 miles on the gravel road beside the tracks to the walk start point. Expect this! Dads and the whole family will love this fresh air flea market! Railroadiana, toy & model trains, train papers, books, railroad artifacts. (Sellers are welcome for $3 additional with regular admission. BYO table, chairs, tent, etc. Any railroad merchandise acceptable.) Details at www.cteastrrmuseum.org. Entry fees apply to all. Sponsored by: CT Eastern Railroad Museum. www.cteastrrmuseum.org Textile Duo: Spin, Weave, Knit Saturday, 6/17/2017, 10 am - 4 pm Difficulty: Easy. Key(s): Adults $10, Children $5. Address: Willimantic Textile & History Museum, 411 Main St., Windham (Willimantic), CT. Expect this! Fleece to Shawl, Silkworms to silk, Speakers, Vendors, Demonstrations and more also Art Quilt Show "Locally Inspired" Textile Event: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Adults $10 child $5 CT Openhouse day: get a free ticket for a return visit, enter a drawing to win A. N. Wyeth watercolor print Questions? 860-423-1878 Sponsored by: Windham Textile & History Museum/The Mill Museum. www.millmuseum.org Dam Tours are Very Popular! Saturday, June 17, 2017, 11 am – 1 pm Rain or Shine Difficulty: Easy. Key(s): Stairs lead down into the Dam, No ADA Access. Address: Buffumville Dam, 48 Old Oxford Rd., Charlton, MA. Expect this! Join a Park Ranger at the Gate House Doors of Buffumville Dam for an exclusive tour, inside and out. Rain or shine. Questions? 508-248-5697 Time/Distance: , Sponsored by: US Army Corps of Engineers, Hodges Village Dam. http://www.nae.usace.army.mil/Missions/Recreation/Hodges-Village-Dam


http://www.gosaonline.org/








Leffingwell House Museum Guys with Guns Manly Day Saturday, June 17, 2017, 11 am - 4 pm Difficulty: Easy. Address: 348 Washington St., Norwich, CT. Expect this! After a self-guided Walk Norwich stroll (walknorwich.org), Leffingwell offers a day of "manly" fun for all guys. Guys with Guns shows off the Guns of Norwich & Lebanon Towne Militia Co. 1775. $5 entry fee. Questions? 860-889-9440 Time/Distance: 5 hours, n/a Sponsored by: Leffingwell House Museum. www.leffingwellhousemuseum.org Got Milk? A family-fun day at Blue Slope Farm Saturday, 6/17/2017, 1 - 4 pm Difficulty: Easy. Key(s): $7 for adults & children age 10+, Children ages 4-10 are $3. Address: Blue Slope Farm & Country Museum, 138 Blue Hill Rd., Franklin, CT. Expect this! Enjoy a day on the farm like it used to be. Milk a cow, draft horse rides, Cabot Cheese products & education, meet Alpacas/Goats/Donkey/Calves, vintage equipment, kids activities, Farmer's Cow delicious products, 4000 top quality antiques & farming implements in the museum, and shop the museum store for keepsakes and memories! Questions? 860-642-6413 Sponsored by: Blue Slope Country Museum. www.blueslope.com Tour "The Fenn" & Learn How it was Preserved Saturday, June 17, 2017, TBD Difficulty: Easy. Key(s): . Address: 205 Roseland Park Rd., Woodstock, CT. Roseland Park, meet at the park barn. Expect this! Meet Bet & her husband Patrick to learn what they have done & how they have done it. Theirs is an amazing story of purchasing & preserving land in Woodstock. After the story, tour “The Fenn” located on the north end of Roseland Lake in Woodstock. After the tour, refuel with lunch in the park. Questions? 860-774-3300 Time/Distance: TBD, TBD Sponsored by:ECFLA/WDLT. http://ecfla.org/



http://www.blueslope.com/

http://ecfla.org/




Coventry Farmers' Market: Carbs & Carburetors Sunday, 6/18/2017, 11 am - 2 pm Difficulty: Easy. Address: Hale Homestead, 2299 South St., Coventry, CT. Expect this! Featuring some of the best of Connecticut-grown, Connecticut-made products around at one of the most unspoiled countryside settings in the state. June 18th celebrates Carbs & Carburetors. Sponsored by: Coventry Farmers' Market at Hale Homestead. www.coventryfarmersmarket.org Trail Wood Bird Walk Tuesday, 6/20/2017, 8:00 AM Difficulty: Moderate. Key(s): CAS members $5, $10 for non-members. Address: Trail Wood, 93 Kenyon Rd., Hampton, CT. meet in the parking lot Expect this! Join Andy as he finds various nesting birds on our Hampton sanctuary. Hooded warblers, chestnut-sided warblers, indigo buntings, and blue-winged warblers should be found. Fee: $5 CAS members; $10 non-members. Questions? 860-928-4948 Sponsored by: CT Audubon Society Center at Pomfret. www.ctaudubon.org/trail-wood Paddle Killingly's Mashapaug Lake (Bigelow Hollow State Park ) Paddle Tuesday, June 20, 2017, 5:30 - 7:30 pm Difficulty: Moderate. Key(s):Pre-register https://www.meetup.com/PaddleKillingly/events/237303210 Kayak/canoe, pfd, 10-foot length of rope, whistle, headlamp/flashlight. Address: 288 Bigelow Hollow Dr., Union, CT. There is a smaller pond at the entrance to the park, this is not the lake. Follow signs to the Boat launch/Mashapaug Lake, once you enter the park. Expect this! Leisurely flatwater paddle on Mashapaug Lake, a 297-acre lake surrounded by Bigelow Hollow State Park and Nipmuck State Forest in the town of Union. The lake has a maximum depth of 39.5 feet and an average depth of 15 feet. Questions? Time/Distance: 2 hours, Sponsored by: Paddle Killingly. https://www.meetup.com/PaddleKillingly/events/237303210 & https://www.facebook.com/paddlekillingly/ Wyndham Land Trust's Summer Solstice Gathering Wednesday, June 21, 2017, 7 - 9 pm Difficulty: Easy. Address: Holmes Rd., Pomfret, CT. Take Wrights Crossing Rd. to Holmes. Park considerately on the side of Holmes Rd. Expect this! End Spring Outdoors and welcome in Summer at the Summer Solstice Celebration! Join land trust members on the longest day of the year at the Duck Marsh Preserve in Pomfret with stunning views. Not-yet-members are welcome, too. A great way to relax and ask the questions you may have about how Wyndham Land Trust works to preserve land in northeast CT, and then how they steward the various properties in their care. Bring a snack, bring your camera, bring your canvas and paint! Questions? 860-963-2090 Time/Distance: 2 hours, n/a Sponsored by: Wyndham Land Trust. www.wyndhamlandtrust.org



http://www.ctaudubon.org/trail-wood









Documents

Spring Outdoors 2017 Sponsored by Southbridge Savings Bank · 2017-06-01 · Spring Outdoors connects you to lands, waters, and trails in The Last Green Valley National Heritage Corridor,