Upcoming Events & Programs

Peepers – Who’s Shadow is That?
When: Tues, January 29, 10am – 11:30am
Where: Boardman River Nature Center, 1450 Cass Road, Traverse City
Description: More spring? More winter? Join us this week as we examine groundhogs (and shadows!) We won’t be predicting weather but we’ll learn about this furry friend as we venture outdoors!  Join the Grand Traverse Conservation District every Tuesday morning at the Boardman River Nature Center for the Peepers pre-kindergarten (ages 3-5) program. This fun and educational parent/child program is designed to foster the exploration of nature in preschoolers and will have an outdoor activity every class (make sure grown-ups and children both come dressed for the weather). Save your spot!

February

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Peepers – Frozen Feathers
When: Tues, February 5, 10am – 11:30am
Where: Boardman River Nature Center, 1450 Cass Road, Traverse City
Description: Not everyone migrates when it turns cold! Find out at “Frozen Feathers” this week which feathered friends stay around during winter months in our area (and how we can help them!) Join the Grand Traverse Conservation District every Tuesday morning at the Boardman River Nature Center for the Peepers pre-kindergarten (ages 3-5) program. This fun and educational parent/child program is designed to foster the exploration of nature in preschoolers and will have an outdoor activity every class (make sure grown-ups and children both come dressed for the weather). Save your spot!

Be My Valentine Craft Time
When: Sat, February 9, 1pm-3pm
Where: Boardman River Nature Center, 1450 Cass Road, Traverse City
Price: Free
Age: All (Children must attend with an adult)
Description: Visit us for a special Valentine event for the whole family! Stop in a make a wild Valentine for someone special!

Peepers – Winter Friends
When: Tues, February 12, 10am – 11:30am
Where: Boardman River Nature Center, 1450 Cass Road, Traverse City
Description: This week is part one of a two part lesson! Critters have some fabulous ways of making it through the dropping temperatures. Tuesday at Peepers, join us to see which animal friends stay active and what special adaptations they use to stay warm! Join the Grand Traverse Conservation District every Tuesday morning at the Boardman River Nature Center for the Peepers pre-kindergarten (ages 3-5) program. This fun and educational parent/child program is designed to foster the exploration of nature in preschoolers and will have an outdoor activity every class (make sure grown-ups and children both come dressed for the weather). Save your spot!

Peepers – Winter Sleepers
When: Tues, February 19, 10am – 11:30am
Where: Boardman River Nature Center, 1450 Cass Road, Traverse City
Description: Part two of our Animals in winter lesson. This week at Peepers we’ll find out which animal friends have went to bed for the winter as well as how deep of sleepers they actually are! Join the Grand Traverse Conservation District every Tuesday morning at the Boardman River Nature Center for the Peepers pre-kindergarten (ages 3-5) program. This fun and educational parent/child program is designed to foster the exploration of nature in preschoolers and will have an outdoor activity every class (make sure grown-ups and children both come dressed for the weather). Save your spot!

Trekking to Machu Picchu
When: Tuesday, February 19
Where: Boardman River Nature Center, 1450 Cass Road, Traverse City
Description: Four members of the GT Hiking club traveled to Peru last June to trek the scenic Inca Trail into Machu Picchu. They will share their adventures and pictures. There are reasons this is one of the premier destinations in the world.

Educator Open House
When: Thurs, February 21, 5pm-7pm
Where: Boardman River Nature Center, 1450 Cass Road, Traverse City
Description: This Open House is for formal/non-formal educators, school administrators, and members of the community who are interested in helping students learn first-hand about natural resources in their community. Dinner will be provided and those in attendance will be entered to win a free Boardman River Nature Center experience during the 2013-14 school year (a $150 value) and other nature-related giveaways.

Peepers – Slitherin’ Snakes
When: Tues, February 26, 10am – 11:30am
Where: Boardman River Nature Center, 1450 Cass Road, Traverse City
Description:  Slither on in this Tuesday to find out how awesome snakes are! We have nothing to fear of these rockin’ reptiles as they here to help us! Find out how and more this week at Peepers! Join the Grand Traverse Conservation District every Tuesday morning at the Boardman River Nature Center for the Peepers pre-kindergarten (ages 3-5) program. This fun and educational parent/child program is designed to foster the exploration of nature in preschoolers and will have an outdoor activity every class (make sure grown-ups and children both come dressed for the weather). Save your spot!

March

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Peepers – Fish Friends
When: Tues, March 5, 10am – 11:30am
Where: Boardman River Nature Center, 1450 Cass Road, Traverse City
Description: Get ready to look below the surface as we get up close with some “Fish Friends” this week. We’ll learn about the different kinds of fish in this area as well as about their life cycle. Wear you’re water shoes as we’ll certainly go looking for some friends in Jack’s Creek. Join the Grand Traverse Conservation District every Tuesday morning at the Boardman River Nature Center for the Peepers pre-kindergarten (ages 3-5) program. This fun and educational parent/child program is designed to foster the exploration of nature in preschoolers and will have an outdoor activity every class (make sure grown-ups and children both come dressed for the weather). Save your spot!

Beginning Birders Workshop
When: Sat, March 9, 10am
Where: Boardman River Nature Center, 1450 Cass Road, Traverse City
Coordinators: Melissa Rassel & Leonard Graf
Any questions call: (231) 941-0960

Peepers – Little Stinkers
When: Tues, March 12, 10am – 11:30am
Where: Boardman River Nature Center, 1450 Cass Road, Traverse City
Description: Plug your nose! This session on Peepers we’ll explore SKUNKS; our cute and stinky friends who have a great way of staying safe. Dress to play outside rain or shine! Join the Grand Traverse Conservation District every Tuesday morning at the Boardman River Nature Center for the Peepers pre-kindergarten (ages 3-5) program. This fun and educational parent/child program is designed to foster the exploration of nature in preschoolers and will have an outdoor activity every class (make sure grown-ups and children both come dressed for the weather). Save your spot!

Seedling Sale Open House
When: Thurs, March 14, 4pm – 6:30pm
Where: Boardman River Nature Center, 1450 Cass Road, Traverse City
Description: Thinking about purchasing some seedlings at our annual sale but not sure what would work best for your home landscape? Join native plant experts to discuss the species available during our Seedling Sale or come in for assistance placing an order on our website. Register here

Peepers – Hippity Hoppers
When: Tues, March 19, 10am – 11:30am
Where: Boardman River Nature Center, 1450 Cass Road, Traverse City
Description: Rabbits are EVERYWHERE this time of year! At Peepers this week we’ll learn all about our floppy-eared friends. Come ready to hop around the nature center and we search for rabbits around the Boardman River Nature Center this week at “Hippity Hoppers.” Join the Grand Traverse Conservation District every Tuesday morning at the Boardman River Nature Center for the Peepers pre-kindergarten (ages 3-5) program. This fun and educational parent/child program is designed to foster the exploration of nature in preschoolers and will have an outdoor activity every class (make sure grown-ups and children both come dressed for the weather). Save your spot!

Hiking Robber’s Roost and The Maze in Utah
When: Tues, March 19
Where: Boardman River Nature Center, 1450 Cass Road, Traverse City
Description: The Melcareks have extensively explored the Colorado plateau in southern Utah. Last year they spent 17 days in the nearby Robber’s Roost country, over 70 miles from the nearest water tap; As well as Blue John canyon, site of the tragedy depicted in the movie 127 Hours. Learn about hiking techniques and the geology, flora and fauna of this special place.

GTSI Professional Development Day – Sleeping Bear and the Leelanau Outdoor Center
When: Thurs, March 21, 8:30am – 12pm and 12:45pm – 4:45pm
Where:  Morning Workshop: Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore Visitor’s Center, 9922 Front Street, Empire, MI 49630. Afternoon Workshop: Leelanau Outdoor Center, 1653 Port Oneida Road, Maple City, MI 49664
Price: $45 per workshop for non-GTSI teachers and other interested educators or administrators
Description: The Grand Traverse Stewardship Initiative (GTSI) is offering two on-site Professional Development workshops for GTSI teachers and all interested area educators. During the morning workshop, participants will learn about the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore history, land features, Visitor’s Center, and year-round program offerings including an interpretive visit to their Glen Haven Historic Village. During the afternoon workshop, participants will take a tour of the Leelanau Outdoor Center (LOC) and engage is Group Building Activities with the staff of the LOC and the student from the Kingsley High School Outdoor Adventure Club. Attend one workshop or stay with us for the day!  For more information read the GTSI Blog or save your spot.

Spring Break Series
When: Mon-Fri, March 25-29, 1pm – 2pm
Where: Boardman River Nature Center, 1450 Cass Road, Traverse City
Price: $2 pre-registered/$3 drop-in
Age: 5+ (children must attend with an adult)
Description: Wishing you were somewhere warm this spring break? Flash forward to summer at the Boardman River Nature Center as we preview a different summer camp every day! Come in daily between 1:00-2:00 to participate in a fun crafts and activities and to find out more about camp! Don’t forget to get your “Passport to Nature” stamped daily for a special prize! Register now.

Peepers – Special Sessions as part of the Spring Break Series
When: Tues, March 26 & Thurs, March 28, 10am – 11:30am
Where: Boardman River Nature Center, 1450 Cass Road, Traverse City
Description: Join us and special guest Jen Strauss for a BONUS session this week! Both Tuesday AND Thursday from 10-11am Strauss will share springtime stories that are both engaging and educational. Peepers will get up, moving, singing, and dancing on both days for these free sessions.  Join the Grand Traverse Conservation District every Tuesday morning at the Boardman River Nature Center for the Peepers pre-kindergarten (ages 3-5) program. This fun and educational parent/child program is designed to foster the exploration of nature in preschoolers and will have an outdoor activity every class (make sure grown-ups and children both come dressed for the weather). Save your spot!

Springtime Egg Hunt
When: Sat, March 30, 10am & 11:30am
Where: Kids Creek Trails (map and parking)
Price: $5 Per Child
Ages: 0-5 /6-13 (Children will be split by age group)
Description:  Come visit Ollie the Otter and his new friends as we partner with the Great Wolf Lodge to bring you more eggs, different trails to search, and a Michigan Animal Egg Mini- Exhibit! One of the few egg hunts around where you actually get to FIND your eggs, this event will be sure to sell out so buy your tickets early! Friends can register early to save a spot! Not a Friend of the Conservation District? Learn more about Friendship.

April

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Peepers – Return of the Birds
When: Tues, April 2, 10am – 11:30am
Where: Boardman River Nature Center, 1450 Cass Road, Traverse City
Description: Spring has sprung and the birds are back! This Tuesday at Peepers we’ll learn all about the birds that migrate during the winter months. We’ll grab our binoculars and head outside to see who is back in town! Join the Grand Traverse Conservation District every Tuesday morning at the Boardman River Nature Center for the Peepers pre-kindergarten (ages 3-5) program. This fun and educational parent/child program is designed to foster the exploration of nature in preschoolers and will have an outdoor activity every class (make sure grown-ups and children both come dressed for the weather). Save your spot!

Trail Steward Open House
When: Thurs, April 4, 4:30pm – 6pm
Where: Boardman River Nature Center, 1450 Cass Road, Traverse City
Description: Throughout the 3,000 acres of public parklands that we manage there are 20 miles of trails, boardwalks, and bridges that need regular maintenance and upkeep. Trails Stewards are volunteers responsible for the upkeep and regular maintenance of their adopted trail section. Come learn more about the Trail Steward program during this Open House. Register here

Peepers – Quack Me Up!
When: Tues, April 9, 10am – 11:30am
Where: Boardman River Nature Center, 1450 Cass Road, Traverse City
Description: This week at Peepers you’re sure to have fun as we explore DUCKS! We’ll venture out of the Boardman River Nature Center as we look for these feathered friends on Sabin Pond. Join the Grand Traverse Conservation District every Tuesday morning at the Boardman River Nature Center for the Peepers pre-kindergarten (ages 3-5) program. This fun and educational parent/child program is designed to foster the exploration of nature in preschoolers and will have an outdoor activity every class (make sure grown-ups and children both come dressed for the weather). Save your spot!

Environmental Education Volunteer Training Part 1
When: Fri, April 12, 10am-2pm
Where: Boardman River Nature Center, 1450 Cass Road, Traverse City
Price: Free
Age: 16+
Description:  Interested in volunteering with the Grand Traverse Conservation District? You can share your passion of the natural world while gaining valuable experience volunteering with the Education Team. This session will prepare you for assisting with programs we provide during the school year. A portion of this class will include hiking.

Field Trip: Dance of the Woodcock
When: Fri, April 12, 8pm
Where: Boardman River Nature Center, 1450 Cass Road, Traverse City
Description: Wear dark colors, bring a flashlight. Leaders: Julie & Matt Winkler
Any questions call: (231) 941-0960

Environmental Education Volunteer Training Part 2
When: Sat, April 13, 10am-2pm
Where: Boardman River Nature Center, 1450 Cass Road, Traverse City
Price: Free
Age: 16+
Description: Interested in sharing your passion of the natural world with others? In this session of our volunteer training series we will provide training for the second half of programs that we provide during the school year as well as some ways to be involved in summer programming. A portion of this class will include hiking.

Peepers – Fabulous Frogs
When: Tues, April 16, 10am – 11:30am
Where: Boardman River Nature Center, 1450 Cass Road, Traverse City
Description: Hop on over and join us as we learn all about our Fabulous Frog Friends this week. We’ll explore the lifecycle of frogs, characteristics of an amphibian, and even meet the frogs that live in the Boardman River Nature Center! Join the Grand Traverse Conservation District every Tuesday morning at the Boardman River Nature Center for the Peepers pre-kindergarten (ages 3-5) program. This fun and educational parent/child program is designed to foster the exploration of nature in preschoolers and will have an outdoor activity every class (make sure grown-ups and children both come dressed for the weather). Save your spot!

Trek to the North Pole
When: Tuesday, April 16
Where: Civic Center Community Room, Traverse City
Description: Combating wind, ice, snow, and -35 degree F temperatures a group of Michigan women skied from Russia to the North Pole with only the help of dogs. Learn more about this amazing feat at the GT Hiking’s club meeting.

Seedling Sale Pre-Order Pick Up
When: Fri, April 19, 10am – 6pm & Sat, April 20, 10am – 2pm
Where: Boardman River Nature Center, 1450 Cass Road, Traverse City
Description: Our annual Seedling Sale offers over 20 species of bare-root seedlings available for pre-order only. Orders can be placed on our website and must be complete by March 27. Stop in the Boardman River Nature Center on April 19^th from 10am-6pm and April 20^th from 10am-2pm to pick up your order.

Earth Day Tree Planting at the Boardman River Nature Center
When: Mon, April 22, 9am – 12pm
Where: Boardman River Nature Center, 1450 Cass Road, Traverse City
Description:  After an aggressive invasive plant removal project last year, it is time to replant with native species. We have hundreds of seedlings to plant throughout the Reserve and need your help. Make this Earth Day one to remember by helping restore one of our region’s natural gems. Register here

Peepers – Turtle Time
When: Tues, April 23, 10am – 11:30am
Where: Boardman River Nature Center, 1450 Cass Road, Traverse City
Description: Join us as we hunt for turtles around the Boardman River Nature Center this week! Don’t worry- if we can’t find one, we’ll be sure to get up close and meet the turtle that lives at the nature center. Join the Grand Traverse Conservation District every Tuesday morning at the Boardman River Nature Center for the Peepers pre-kindergarten (ages 3-5) program. This fun and educational parent/child program is designed to foster the exploration of nature in preschoolers and will have an outdoor activity every class (make sure grown-ups and children both come dressed for the weather). Save your spot!

Nature Literacy and Personal Narrative: Two GTSI Professional Development Workshops
When: Tues, April 23, 8am – 12pm and 1pm – 5pm
Where: Boardman River Nature Center, 1450 Cass Road, Traverse City
Price: $45 per workshop for non-GTSI teachers, interested educators or administrators
Description: The Grand Traverse Stewardship Initiative (GTSI) is offering two on-site Professional Development workshops for GTSI teachers and all interested area educators K-12. In the morning, Kate Hofmann from the National Wildlife Federation (NWF) will offer a workshop called, “Nature Literacy and an Introduction to NWF Programs for Educators”. In the afternoon, Literacy Coach and GTSI Program Coordinator, Jenifer Strauss will dove-tail on the morning literacy theme by offering a workshop called “The Turning Points Personal Narrative Model”, a process for telling and writing narrative with applications to common core standards, place-based education, public speaking and more. For more information read the GTSI Blog. Register here!

Traverse Bay Area Michigan GREEN Schools Celebration
When: Tues, April 23, 7pm – 8:30pm
Where: Boardman River Nature Center, 1450 Cass Road, Traverse City
Description: This is the first annual Traverse Bay Area Michigan GREEN Schools Celebration. Certificates, flags (for first-time schools), and patches will be awarded. RSVP to Tom Wessels by Friday, April 12th at 922.7875 or twessels@tbaisd.org.

Community Stewardship Series Parkland Event: Explore the Trails of the Commons!
When: Sat, April 27, 9am – 10:30am and 11am – 12:30pm – Sorry, this time slot is full.
Where: Program will start at The Greenspire School
Price: Free
Age: All
Description: You’ve been to the Commons, but have you checked out the trails? Interested in why trees are being removed from the area? Curious about that plant you can’t identify? Or maybe you’re just intrigued by what used to be there? Join Conservation District staff and students from The Greenspire School to get a fun and engaging tour of the trails. Our program will include a short documentary, seedling planting, and guided hike. The program will end with a complementary cup of coffee at Higher Grounds during an optional Q&A period. Register now.

Peepers – Busy Bees
When: Tues, April 30, 10am – 11:30am
Where: Boardman River Nature Center, 1450 Cass Road, Traverse City
Description: Buzzzzz on over to Peepers this week as we explore BEES! We’ll sample honey, learn what it’s like to live in a hive, find out why bees are our friends! Join the Grand Traverse Conservation District every Tuesday morning at the Boardman River Nature Center for the Peepers pre-kindergarten (ages 3-5) program. This fun and educational parent/child program is designed to foster the exploration of nature in preschoolers and will have an outdoor activity every class (make sure grown-ups and children both come dressed for the weather). Save your spot!

May

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Native Plant Sale Open House
When: Sat, May 4, 1pm – 4pm
Where: Boardman River Nature Center, 1450 Cass Road, Traverse City
Description: Thinking about purchasing some native plants at our annual sale but not sure what would work best for your home landscape? Join native plant experts to discuss the species available during our Native Plant Sale and answer any questions you might have. Register today!

Peepers – Fancy Fliers: Dragonflies and Butterflies
When: Tues, May 7, 10am – 11:30am
Where: Boardman River Nature Center, 1450 Cass Road, Traverse City
Description: Bring your nets and your magnify glasses! This Tuesday we’ll chase a few “Fancy Fliers” as we learn all about the lifecycle of butterflies and dragon flies. Join the Grand Traverse Conservation District every Tuesday morning at the Boardman River Nature Center for the Peepers pre-kindergarten (ages 3-5) program. This fun and educational parent/child program is designed to foster the exploration of nature in preschoolers and will have an outdoor activity every class (make sure grown-ups and children both come dressed for the weather). Save your spot!

Grand Traverse Stewardship Initiative Spring Celebration
When: Wed, May 8, 5pm – 7pm
Where: Grand Traverse Circuit, 225 W. Fourteenth St. Traverse City, MI 49684
Description: Join us to celebrate the students, teachers, and community partners who have worked together on year-long natural resource stewardship projects in their communities during the 2012-2013 school year. Enjoy live presentations, engaging displays, video footage, and light refreshments. Talk with GTSI team members and learn more about their projects.

Great Garlic Mustard Hunt
When:  Sat, May 11, 8am – 12pm
Where: Boardman River Nature Center, 1450 Cass Road, Traverse City
Description:  Join us for an orientation and excursion into local natural areas to search for small populations of garlic mustard, while exploring all the beauty these areas have to offer.  Afterwards, we will enjoy a gourmet garlic mustard lunch featuring delicious options that range from garlic mustard pizza to hummus to pesto. Register here

Native Landscaping at the Boardman River Nature Center
When: Sat, May 11, 8am – 12pm
Where: Boardman River Nature Center, 1450 Cass Road, Traverse City
Description: This spring, we are augmenting our native wetland and forest understory garden.  Join us in our efforts to create beautiful examples of native plants for the home landscape. Register here

Peepers – Jump into Grasshoppers
When: Tues, May 14, 10am – 11:30am
Where: Boardman River Nature Center, 1450 Cass Road, Traverse City
Description: Jump on over to the Boardman River Nature Center this Tuesday as we learn all about grasshoppers. Be prepared to hop, skip, and jump around outside to find a few new friends! Join the Grand Traverse Conservation District every Tuesday morning at the Boardman River Nature Center for the Peepers pre-kindergarten (ages 3-5) program. This fun and educational parent/child program is designed to foster the exploration of nature in preschoolers and will have an outdoor activity every class (make sure grown-ups and children both come dressed for the weather). Save your spot!

Native Plant Sale
When: Sat, May 18, 8am – 3pm & Sunday, May 19 from 11:00am-2:00pm
Where: Boardman River Nature Center, 1450 Cass Road, Traverse City
Description: Update your home landscape with some native plants that are beautiful, well-adapted to our climate, and support a variety of animals living in our region. Plant experts will be on hand to help you pick out the perfect native plants from our selection of over 40 species.

Peepers – Discovery Garden
When: Tues, May 21, 10am – 11:30am
Where: Boardman River Nature Center, 1450 Cass Road, Traverse City
Description: Come ready to get growin’ in the garden this week! We’ll learn who lives in, on and around the garden this week.  We’ll also do some planting for our butterfly friends! Shovels and watering cans provided! Join the Grand Traverse Conservation District every Tuesday morning at the Boardman River Nature Center for the Peepers pre-kindergarten (ages 3-5) program. This fun and educational parent/child program is designed to foster the exploration of nature in preschoolers and will have an outdoor activity every class (make sure grown-ups and children both come dressed for the weather). Save your spot!

Backpacking the Mountains of Tasmania
When: Tuesday, May 21st
Where: Boardman River Nature Center, 1450 Cass Road, Traverse City
Description: As part of their 9 month excursion around the world, Bob and Janette Downes backpacked for six days through these not well known mountains. Bob will share their hike as well as other anecdotes from their trip.

June

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National Trails Day at the Brown Bridge Quiet Area
When:  Saturday, June 1 from 9:00am-12:00pm
Where: Former Brown Bridge Quiet Area boat launch, Brown Bridge Road, Traverse City
Description:  Join us as we work to create habitat along the Boardman River and prepare the bottomlands for recreational use by removing invasive plants and establishing hiking trails. This work bee will provide you the unique opportunity to explore a once-in-a-lifetime restoration project while helping ensure high quality wildlife habitat and recreational opportunities. Register here

9^th Annual Boardman River Clean Sweep and Kayak Raffle
When: Saturday, June 8^th, 2013 9:00 am – 4:00 pm
Where: Boardman River Nature Center, Oleson Pavilion, 1450 Cass Road, Traverse City
Description: The Boardman River Clean Sweep has partnered with us to lead a group of volunteers in an effort to keep the Boardman River Clean. After the clean-up, we will have an appreciation picnic that includes drawing the winner of the kayak raffle (along with many other local prizes). Raffle tickets are only $2 each! Register here.

Ollie’s Birthday Party
When: Saturday, June 15 from 1:00-3:00pm
Where: Boardman River Nature Center, 1450 Cass Road, Traverse City
Price: Free
Age: All (children must attend with an adult)
Description: It’s Ollie the Otter’s Birthday! Join us for cake, a special visit with Ollie, and a walk on our trails.

Community Stewardship Series Agriculture Event: Wine Tour of MAEAP Verified Wineries
When: Saturday, June 22 from 1:00-5:00pm
Where: Meets at the Boardman River Nature Center, 1450 Cass Road, Traverse City
Price: $35
Age: 21+
Description: Join us for a wine tour through the Old Mission Peninsula. During the bus tour we will visit three wineries that have all been verified through the Michigan Agriculture Environmental Assurance Program. On your ride enjoy discussions by our staff about the MAEAP program and its importance for farmers and the rest of the community. Meet with wine makers at each winery and conclude with an in-depth tour of the final winery examining what makes it MAEAP verified. Register now.

Embracing Invasives?
When: Thursday, June 27 from 7:00-9:00pm
Where: Good Works Collective (417 S. Union St), Traverse City
Description: You may not yet have heard about an ongoing debate on how to best take care of northwest Michigan’s wild, scenic places. Whereas some gauge the quality of an ecosystem by how many natives are present and how many invasives are not, others say “native to when?” and believe exotic plants can often outperform natives in building biodiversity and ecosystem health. Join EtceteraTC for a night of lively, but civil and nuanced conversation. After brief presentations, Brad Kik of ISLAND will moderate a discussion between the audience, Matthew Bertrand of the Grand Traverse Conservation District and Bruce Holland-Moritz of The Greenman LLC. Put aside your fixed notions about natives, invasives and exotics, and learn new ways of preserving, conserving, restoring and regenerating the ecology of the places we love. You may never look at autumn olive the same way again.

Field Trip: Introduction to Butterflies Gardens
When: Saturday, June 29th, 10:00am
Where: Boardman River Nature Center, 1450 Cass Road, Traverse City
Leaders: Julie & Matt Winkler
Any questions call: (231) 941-0960

July

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Summer Camp: Wild Things!
When: Monday-Friday, July 8-12 from 9:00am-12:00pm
Where: Boardman River Nature Center (with off-site field trips), 1450 Cass Road, Traverse City
Price: $95
Ages: 7-9
Description: This week of morning camp is for our older campers who just can’t get enough local wildlife. At “Wild Things!” campers will have special guest visitors both human and not, and will go fishing, hiking, swimming, and exploring.

Trailblazers: Art in the Wild
When: Wednesday, July 10 from 1:00-4:00pm
Where: Boardman River Nature Center, 1450 Cass Road, Traverse City
Price: $20 per session (buy 4 get 1 free)
Ages: 10-13
Description: This session of Trailblazers will allow participants to get crafty as they make high quality artwork reflecting nature to take home. Activities may include printmaking, jewelry making, painting, and more!

Summer Camp: Critters of the Mitten
When: Monday-Friday, July 15-19 from 9:00am-12:00pm
Where: Boardman River Nature Center, 1450 Cass Road, Traverse City
Price: $95
Ages: 4-6
Description: This morning camp will focus on exploration of all local wildlife. Campers will explore different animals everyday including mammals, fish, birds, reptiles, and more! Our week will include hiking, games, hands on exploration and special visitors including storytellers and local artists.

Trailblazers: Boardman River Exploration
When: Wednesday, July 17 from 1:00-4:00pm
Where: Boardman River Nature Center, 1450 Cass Road, Traverse City
Price: $20 per session (buy 4 get 1 free)
Ages: 10-13
Description: Fishing, stream sampling, there’s no telling what we’ll be up to as we find new ways to explore and investigate the Boardman River!

Field Trip: Wildflowers and Birds
When: Saturday, July 20th, 9:00am
Where: Boardman River Nature Center, 1450 Cass Road, Traverse City
Leader: Molly McComb
Any questions call: (231) 941-0960

Summer Camp: Eco-Explorers
When: Monday-Friday, July 22-26 from 9:00am-3:00pm
Where: Boardman River Nature Center (with off-site field trips), 1450 Cass Road, Traverse City
Price: $175
Ages: 7-9
Description: Eco-Explorers unite! The Boardman River Nature Center needs you! This week at camp our Eco-Explorers will take several field trips including fishing and hiking. We will build forts, make our own mini national parks, create a solar oven to make yummy snacks, and so much more! Like all our programs we will hike, play, explore, swim and create on a daily basis all while learning how to take care of our planet!

Summer Camp: Junior Eco-Explorers
When: Monday-Friday, July 29-August 2 from 9:00am-12:00pm
Where: Boardman River Nature Center, 1450 Cass Road, Traverse City
Price: $95
Ages: 4-6
Description: Junior Eco-Explorers prepare! This camp is for those who love the outdoors! This week of half-day camp is full of outdoor fun including catching bugs in the river, playing in forts, building food chains and so much more! We’ll have special visitors both human and not throughout the week that will help us explore the natural world.

Trailblazers: Treasure Hunters – The Art of Geocaching
When: Wednesday, July 31 from 1:00-4:00pm
Where: The Commons Natural Area
Price: $20 per session (buy 4 get 1 free)
Ages: 10-13
Description: This session will take place at the trails behind the Commons. During this session, Trailblazers will learn the basics of using a GPS, find several caches, and make one of their own!

August

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Summer Camp: Mission – Bug Finder
When: Monday-Friday, August 5-9 from 9:00am-12:00pm
Where: Boardman River Nature Center (with off-site field trips), 1450 Cass Road, Traverse City
Price: $95
Ages: 7-9
Description: Warning this message is for our older insect investigators only! We’ll go beyond bug jars and magnify glasses at this camp. We’ll spend the week on a top secret mission where we will learn how to set our own bug traps, raise caterpillars, and quite possibly find the long lost “Buggy Beetle Treasure.” Throughout the week we’ll play games, search for treasure, hike, swim, create, and explore.

 Trailblazers: Survival Skills
When: Wednesday, August 7 from 1:00-4:00pm
Where: Boardman River Nature Center, 1450 Cass Road, Traverse City
Price: $20 per session (buy 4 get 1 free)
Ages: 10-13
Description: You’ve always wondered what it would be like to be on a survival show, and now here’s your chance. Local experts will teach a few tricks for surviving the wilderness. This session may include fire building, shelter building, and other various activities.

Summer Camp: Insect Investigators
When: Monday-Friday, August 12-16 from 9:00am-12:00pm
Where: Boardman River Nature Center, 1450 Cass Road, Traverse City
Price: $95
Ages: 4-6
Description: This half-day camp is for those interested in investigating creepy crawlies, slimies, and slugs. Throughout the week we will learn all about bugs by using our investigator tools (magnifiers, nets, underwater viewers, and more) to examine their habitats. We’ll find bugs in the woods and in the water as well as play games, make our own ant farms, share stories, hike, create art, AND we’ll have special visitors both human and not!

Trailblazers: The Amazing Eco-Race
When: Wednesday, August 14 from 1:00-4:00pm
Where: Boardman River Nature Center, 1450 Cass Road, Traverse City
Price: $20 per session (buy 4 get 1 free)
Ages: 10-13
Description: This final session of Trailblazers will be an event like no other! Trailblazers will canoe and hike as they solve puzzles to gain clues which will help them make it through the Amazing Eco-Race Course.

Summer Camp: River Rangers
When: Monday-Friday, August 19-23 from 9:00am-3:00pm
Where: Boardman River Nature Center (with off-site field trips), 1450 Cass Road, Traverse City
Price: $175
Ages: 7-9
Description: Come cool off with us this summer as campers become Boardman River Rangers. As “rangers” campers will explore and investigate the river from all aspects including swimming, paddling, wading, and more! As “rangers” complete their week long mission they’ll make new friends, take field trips, hike, swim create, and explore in the natural world above and below the surface.

Field Trip: Observe Bird Banding
When: Saturday, August 24th, 8:30am
Where: Boardman River Nature Center, 1450 Cass Road, Traverse City
Leader: Leonard Graf
Any questions call: (231) 941-0960

Summer Camp: Junior River Rangers
When: Monday-Friday, August 26-30 from 9:00am-12:00pm
Where: Boardman River Nature Center, 1450 Cass Road, Traverse City
Price: $95
Ages: 4-6
Description: For our younger campers ready to be Boardman River Junior “Rangers,” this week of camp will allow for discovery, fun, and connection to nature. Everyday we’ll play outside while exploring the river and the animals that call it home. Grab your nets and your boots and come ready to splash around!

September

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Hiking in Sequoia National Park and to Mt. Whitney
When: Tuesday, September 17th
Where: Boardman River Nature Center, 1450 Cass Road, Traverse City
Description: First, wander among the 4000 year old huge giants of southern California and then hike along the Sierra Crest to see the stunningly beautiful granite spires of Mt. Whitney, the highest point in the lower 48 states.

17^th Annual R.W. Summers Fly Rod Raffle and Boardman River Showcase
When: Thursday, September 19 at 6:00pm; fly rod raffle at 7:00pm
Where: Brewery Terra Firma, Traverse City
Description: Join Boardman River Program Coordinator Steve Largent and other river specialists as they tell the story of the Boardman River and dam removal project at the newly constructed Brewery Terra Firma. The evening will include our annual fly rod raffle at 7:00pm. For the past 16 years, Bob Summers – a nationally renowned fly-rod maker who lives on the Boardman River – has crafted and donated a fly rod to support our work on the Boardman River. Raffle tickets are only $10 each. Register here

Natural Education Reserve Restoration
When: Saturday, September 21 from 9:00am-12:00pm
Where: Boardman River Nature Center, 1450 Cass Road, Traverse City MI
Description:  As part of ongoing restoration after invasive species removal, we need help monitoring for new or missed invasive plants. With so much ground to cover, your help will be critical. See a whole new side of the park, meet new people, and enjoy a beautiful day working in the outdoors. Register here

10^th Annual Rotary Gourmet Game Dinner
When: Thursday, September 25 at 6:00pm
Where: Traverse City Country Club
Description: Each year the Traverse City Rotary Club holds a Gourmet Game Dinner to benefit our critical role in protecting the Boardman River, one of the most outstanding natural features of the Grand Traverse Bay Region. Besides spending an evening with great friends eating great food, you will have a chance to walk away with great raffle and auction prizes such as guns, crossbows, locally crafted jewelry, far away vacation packages and much more.

October

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Community Stewardship Series Stewardship Event: Kayak to Brown Bridge Quiet Area
When: Saturday, October 5 from 10:00am-12:00pm and 1:00-3:00pm
Where: Brown Bridge Quiet Area
Price: $20
Age: 13+
Description: A spectacular paddle down the Boardman River that will conclude at the Brown Bridge Quiet Area. Led by Boardman River Coordinator, Steve Largent, the trip will provide an opportunity to share the growth and change over the last year, discuss our efforts still underway with the dam removal, and appreciate the beauty of the fall colors. Kayaks will be provided by Backcountry North. Register now.

Field Trip: Fall colors and bird hike
When: Saturday, October 12th, 9:00am
Where: Boardman River Nature Center, 1450 Cass Road, Traverse City
Leader: Heather Peyton
Any questions call: (231) 941-0960

Short Hikes of Western Canada
When: Tuesday, October 15th
Where: Boardman River Nature Center, 1450 Cass Road, Traverse City
Description: Discover great places to hike from the waved swept Pacific coast, to the little explored Coast Mtns, through the Kootenays, and to the Rockies. These day hikes will show you the best of wild and spectacular hiking in Canada. It just might become your next foreign destination (yet the friendly natives speak English.)

Spooky Fall Stories
When: Saturday, October 29 from 1:00-3:00pm
Where: Boardman River Nature Center, 1450 Cass Road, Traverse City
Price: Free
Age: All (children must attend with an adult)
Description: Put on your costume, bring a blanket, and come ready to hear some kid-friendly spooky stories!

November
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Hiking The Wind River Range
When: Tuesday, November 19th
Where: Boardman River Nature Center, 1450 Cass Road, Traverse City
Description: Alpine hiking at its finest. The Wind River Range of Wyoming is not sedimentary rock like most of the Rockies but a granite batholith, so the scenery is unique. Get up high among the bald slopes and alpine tarns and stay high.

December

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Holiday Gift Making
When: Saturday, December 3 from 1:00-3:00pm
Where: Boardman River Nature Center, 1450 Cass Road, Traverse City
Price: Free
Age: All (children must attend with an adult)
Description: Nothing says holidays like handmade gifts! Drop-in and make a unique holiday ornament or gift.

Community Stewardship Series Education Event: Full Moon Owl Hike with  Wings of Wonder
When: Tuesday, December 17 from 6:00-8:00pm
Where: Boardman River Nature Center, 1450 Cass Road, Traverse City
Price: $10
Age: 6+
Description: A winter evening event for all! Rebecca Lessard of Wings of Wonder will start the evening featuring numerous live birds of prey, emphasizing owls native to our area. Once the full moon is above us we’ll head outside where numerous owl searching hikes will be led by staff and partnering community organizations. Please bring snowshoes if snow is present! Register now.