Leaflet: August - September 2013 by Fontenelle Forest

Leaflet

The Newsletter of Fontenelle Forest August - September 2013

NATURE RECYCLES. NATURALLY. in our backyard.

August 3, 2013â&#x20AC;&#x201C;October 31, 2013 Fontenelle Forest Nature Center

Smithsonian Institution

This version of Green Revolution is based on an exhibition originally created by the Museum of Science and Industry, Chicago, and its Black Creativity Council and is made available by the Smithsonian Institution Traveling Exhibition Service.

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

INFORMATION Phone: Web:

402.731.3140 fontenelleforest.org

Officer s

Fontenelle Forest Nature Center

Neale Woods

1111 Bellevue Boulevard North Bellevue, NE 68005

14323 Edith Marie Avenue Omaha, NE 68112

STAFF

Director s

St a ff Debra Beck

Janet Stander

Naturalist Jim Beebe

Assistant Manager of Raptor Rehabilitation

Ranger / NWNC Property Supervisor

Jamie Vann

Candy Bless

Naturalist

Scheduling & Administrative Coordinator

Ronnie Wells

Elizabeth Chalen

Manager of Programming and Outreach

Exhibits, Special Projects, and Events Coordinator

Linda Dennis

Deborah Woracek

Education Assistant

Manager of Summer Day Camps

Kareen Hickman

Development Associate Betsy Finch

Manager of Raptor Rehabilitation Gary Garabrandt

Land Steward Renae Groves

Finance Staff Accountant Catherine Kuper

Educator Denise Lewis

Educator/Raptor Recovery Paul Lahowetz

Facilities Superintendent Matt Miller

Facilities Attendant Kate Murphy

Educator Josh Preister

Ranger / FFNC Property Supervisor Stacey Schmid-Coury

Public Relations Assistant Alex Shiffermiller

Part-Time Educators Katie Aiello John Artherton Amy Campagna Julianne Carbonell Kathy Fischer Michelle Foss Sandy Gibbons Dianne Guinn Janie Helt Seth Krone-Keith Alex Martin Matt Miller Jean Neneman Bruce Noble Chris Vosicka Visitor Services Assistants Helen Beebe Brian Mark Conover Nick Woodard

Visitor Service Supervisor Barb Shiffermiller

Manager of Customer Service Joan Soverns

Manager of Donor Relations and Membership

Thomas D. Stalnaker \ President Jim Hawkins \ President-Elect Angela Burmeister \ Secretary Ben Miller \ Treasurer Michael Berry \ Advisor

August - September 2013

Angela Athy Catherine M. Barmettler Virginia Bowers Ann Christiansen Frank Comisar Ben Del Rosario David M. Dvorak Lorraine A. Egger Janice M. Fonda Paul J. Halbur Michael J. Hamilton Jon T. Hansen Christine Jacobsen Gary Johnson

Howard J. Kaslow Kara Krehbiel Gerry Morrow Lauritzen Julie Liakos Bill Lydiatt Keith Navratil Athena Ramos Neal S. Ratzlaff Robert D. Rose Julee Sauer Levi Scheppers Laura Stoss Kristin Williams

H on or ar y Tr u stees Mogens Bay George F. Haddix Rhonda A. and Howard L. Hawks Gerry and Bruce Lauritzen Marilyn Mammel Nancy and Mike McCarthy Cynthia C. and Thomas F. McGowan Suzanne and Walter Scott Ann Stinson

OUR MISSION To provide a place where people can experience and enjoy the quiet wild of nature. We want to inspire current and future generations to care for the natural world.

MEMBERS ONLY Mem b e rs h i p B e ne f it s As a Fontenelle Forest Member, your benefits include: • FREE admission to Fontenelle Forest and Neale Woods for 12 months • 26 miles of marked trails within the extraordinary Loess Hills • Two wheelchair accessible boardwalks with Missouri River and wetland views • Diverse ecosystems, hidden lakes, and rare wildflowers • A premier birding location with over 246 recorded species • Family-friendly exhibits • Acorn Acres: A forest playscape with nine exploration areas • Habitat Hollow for indoor play and learning • Unique entertainment options: critter encounters, guided hikes, and children’s programs • FREE members only events and other programming • 10% discount at The Gift Shop at Fontenelle Forest • Subscription to Fontenelle Forest’s newsletter “The Leaflet” • Free or discounted admission to over 100 nature centers nationwide through ANCA • Every time you visit, two of your guests can receive ½ priced admission • Monthly discounts at attractions in the metro area with the Metro Arts and Culture Pass • Discounts on Summer Camps • Access to trails before and after hours

Deal Aler t - Metro Ar ts & Cu l t u re Pa ss Use your Fontenelle Forest membership card to get discounts at local attractions across the metro. For more information go to facebook.com/metroartspass. Visit or contact the featured organizations below to take advantage!

AUGUST

SEPTEMBER

Lauritzen Gardens $1.00 off Admission & Tram Combo

Omaha Creative Institute $15.00 off any workshop purchased in September KANEKO $10.00 tickets to COVENANT Spetember 6 (regularly $25.00)

For more details and information please check our website, fontenelleforest.org /membership

Membe rs O n ly P rog ra ms August 2 5:00p.m. - 7:00p.m. FF members only FFNC

GREEN REVOLUTION: Members Only Preview Please join us for a special members only celebration of the opening of our latest exhibit, Green Revolution. Crafts, snacks, drinks, and exclusive activities will be provided for the whole family. Registration required at http://bit.ly/memberparty by July 26!

September 20 5:30p.m. - 7:30p.m. $10 Fee FF members only CB

Scarecrow Picnic Be creative as your family works together to fashion a scarecrow friend to take home for your fall décor. Pumpkin heads and stuffing provided. Each family needs to bring a set of scarecrow clothes (shirt, pants, maybe a silly hat). Your family will also enjoy a hot dog roast and s’mores. Registration for this program is required and limited to 12 families.

August - September 2013

JUST FOR CHILDREN Mud Pies returns August 26 and will now be held four days per week, Monday - Thursday. Mud Pies is a family program encouraging adult/ child interaction focused around a weekly nature theme. Parent groups, day cares, and preschools are accepted on Fridays only by appointment. Contact Kate Murphy at kmurphy@fontenelleforest. org for more information and availability of times. Monday - Thursday 9:30a.m. - 11:30a.m. FFNC

Mud Pies Drop by to explore nature activities with your child. One adult is required for every two children. A different natural science topic is introduced each week through interactive stations within “Habitat Hollow.” Check the calendar at fontenelleforest.org to learn the weekly topic. For ages 5 and younger.

August 31 12:30p.m. - 1:00p.m. FFNC

Animal Tails - Stories for Children Come join us for a few animal stories. It will be fun, entertaining, and educational! Geared for younger children and their parents.

September 28 1:00p.m. - 3:00p.m. CB

Nature Explorers: The Forest in Fall This year the “Nature Explorers” will celebrate the seasons. During this session, the group will delight in the sounds, smells and feel of fall. We will watch the skies for fall migrants and learn about preparations some of the other animals are making to survive the coming winter. Each participant will create a fall decoration to bring home. Registration is required and limited to 16 children ages 5 – 11.

FOR CLASSES REQUIRING REGISTRATION GO TO FONTENELLEFOREST.ORG

August - September 2013

PROGRAMS Programs are listed in chronological order August 1 7:00p.m. $12 per year FF members only FFNC

Bird Club Club member Phil Swanson will delight us with a review of birds he has photographed in Florida.

August 3 9:45a.m. - 10:45a.m. FFNC

Raptors...Live! Drop in to meet our amazing raptors! Owls, hawks, and more. See and learn about these fascinating wildlife ambassadors. Photographs are encouraged.

August 3 10:00a.m. - 5:00p.m. FFNC

Public Opening - Green Revolution Go green with Green Revolution! Come explore how you and your family can be more eco-friendly with a new Smithsonian eco-zibit, made from recycled and repurposed materials. Green Revolution focuses on important environmental issues such as alternative energy sources, green building, recycling, and waste management. Green Revolution runs August 3 - October 31, 2013 at FFNC.

August 7 2:00p.m. - 5:00p.m. FFNC

Upcycle That: Expanding Your Creative Mind Come pick through our bin of strange objects. They will be primed and all the same color, just waiting for you to turn them into something beautiful. Maybe that used to be a cup, but now it can be a brightly colored toothbrush holder! Perhaps this strange structure is a toy truck that would make a great gift with a new paint job! Upcycling is the act of creating something new and interesting out of something that has been discarded. Painting supplies will be provided. Staff artist Alex Martin will be available to answer questions and help encourage you in your process, but be prepared to roll up your sleeves and just have a good time with it. Registration is required and is limited to 20 people. Children are encouraged to attend, as long as they are enthusiastic about making art.

August 9 7:00p.m. - 9:00p.m. WLC

August 11 1:00p.m. - 3:00p.m. FFNC

Night Hike in the Wetlands Many of the creatures who call the wetlands home are just starting their day when the sun goes down. Beavers, raccoons, and barred owls crawl and fly from their homes in search of their next meal. Join us as we explore this special place at a time of day when most of us are just settling in for the night. No flashlights needed as we allow our eyes to become accustomed to the dimming light. Please wear appropriate footwear for walking in the wetlands at night. Family Sundays in the Forest: Make An Edible Landfill (WHAT?!) Where does our trash go after we put it out on the curb? Unfortunately, not all of it is recyclable and it can end up in a landfill. However, not all landfills are made equal. Come learn a bit about sustainable, self-contained landfills with a hands-on experience involving -- you guessed it -dessert! Use parts and pieces to discover the many layers of a good landfill (pudding, chocolate, wafers... you know, the good stuff) and then take your project home to share after dinner. Registration is required for this program, and is limited to 40 people. ***Please note that this project was not be adapted for people with extreme food allergies.***

August 17 10:00a.m. - 12:00p.m. FFNC

It’s Small World After All Like a picture is made of pixels, our planet is made up of many small worlds that are ordinarily unseen to mankind. Come with us and explore these microcosms and be blown away by the amount of life you can find in places you never expected life to be. Explore the forest a mere 1 inch at a time and just see what amazing things you will discover! Bring your camera if you want to “capture” the creatures we find.

August 18 1:00p.m. - 3:00p.m. FFNC

Family Sundays in the Forest: Fire as the Great Recycler Forest fires are bad, right? Well, that depends! Are you a pine tree whose pine cones only open in the extreme heat of fire? Or an oak tree which requires wide open spaces? How do prairies rely on fire to keep them healthy? Come explore the benefits of a natural fire cycle and see how humans can approximate fire cycles for the health of the forest.

ALL PROGRAMS ARE FREE FOR FF MEMBERS OR WITH GENERAL ADMISSION UNLESS OTHERWISE NOTED

August 23 7:00p.m. - 9:00p.m. FFNC

Full Moon Night Hike at the Forest Hike by the light of the full moon and discover what the forest has to offer after the sun goes down. We will learn about the nocturnal creatures of the forest and how they are specially adapted to survive at night, and use our senses to the fullest to explore the forest at night. Sturdy walking shoes are recommended, but no flashlights, please.

August 24 10:00a.m. - 12:00p.m. FFNC

Green Body Care Come learn how to make your own sugar or salt-based body scrubs! They’re friendly to the earth and your wallet. Independent Beauty Consultant, Joan Koneck-Wilcox, will be there to answer all of your skin care needs! Materials will be provided. Registration is required but not limited.

August 25 1:00p.m. - 3:00p.m. FFNC

Family Sundays in the Forest: Upcycled Critters The forest is full of all kinds of animals, but today’s critters will be unlike any you have ever seen before! Using recyclable materials we will create all new creatures and give them names and habitats. That old egg carton? Turn it into a caterpillar. Have an empty butter container? Now it is a turtle shell! Let’s see what kinds of fun animals we can make together.

August 29 7:00p.m. - 8:30p.m. FFNC

Movie Night: Do the Math Green Bellevue and Fontenelle Forest are excited to partner in the showing of this great film about the climate movement sweeping America. This 45-minute film will cover the 2012 tour of Bill McKibben’s across America to build a movement to face the crises of climate change. The film features other climate-movement leaders who explain how together we can use lessons from the most successful movements of the past century and the past year of dramatic new actions to change the industry across the country. You can watch the preview at: http://act.350.org/signup/ math-movie Free for FF members or with One Day Membership. Green Bellevue members admitted for 1/2 price.

August 31 1:00p.m. - 3:00p.m. FFNC

Green Energy Debate Scientists and sustainability experts agree that energy is a hot topic these days. Everyone talks of alternative energy sources, but what is the best source of this sustainable energy? Is it solar energy, harvested from the sun? Or maybe biofuel made from soybeans. Join us as we debate and discuss the many forms of alternative energy, and possibly even choose one to be the best suited for our everyday needs.

August - September 2013

September 8 1:00p.m. – 3:00p.m. FFNC

August 31 1:30p.m. – 2:30p.m. FFNC

Nature Hike Join Naturalist Debbie Beck on a nature walk. Come along, relax, and enjoy the beauty of the forest. Be sure to dress for the weather.

August 31 3:30p.m. – 4:15p.m. FFNC

Rock Hound Do you have a rock that you’d like to identify? Bring it to the Rock Hound! Naturalist and Geologist Debbie Beck will help you discover what kind it is. If she can identify it, you’ll get a signed certificate September 10 that is stamped with the Nebraska Geologi- 9:45a.m. – 11:00a.m. FFNC cal Seal.

September 1 1:00p.m. – 3:00p.m. FFNC

Family Sundays in the Forest: Backyard Habitats Want to make your yard more wildlife friendly? Join us for this presentation on backyard habitats and you will gain a greater sense of what and how plants can be used in your yard to attract wildlife. Once we learn about creating a great backyard habitat, we will head out into the forest September 14 to look for plants that would grow well in 9:00a.m. – 11:00a.m. your yard, and how to recreate forest habiFFNC tats in your own yard. This program will be best for adults and older children.

September 5 7:00p.m. $12 per year FF members only FFNC

Bird Club Program to be announced. Check fontenelleforest.org.

September 7 9:00a.m. - 11:00a.m. Arksarben Aquarium, Schramm Park State Recreation Area

Bird Banding Get a people’s-eye-view of our feathered friends as we capture live birds, “tag” them with tiny light-weight leg bands and release them back into the wild. Drop by any time between 9:00a.m. and 11:00a.m. and stay as little or as long as you like. All ages are welcome, and anyone who wishes to may touch a live bird. We welcome donations of bird seed, which can be made through Wild Birds Unlimited in Rockbrook Plaza (402.399.9976).

September 8 7:30a.m. – 9:30a.m. WLC

August - September 2013

SUN: Seniors Understanding Nature Jewels of the Sky: Dragonflies and Damselflies Come and learn about the fascinating world of the flying dragons and damsels that are found in Fontenelle Forest. Our local experts, Loren and Babs Padelford, will share their beautiful slides of our resident aerial acrobats, the dragonflies and damselflies. Bird Banding Get a people’s-eye-view of our feathered friends as we capture live birds, “tag” them with tiny light-weight leg bands and release them back into the wild. Drop by any time between 9:00a.m. and 11:00a.m. and stay as little or as long as you like. All ages are welcome, and anyone who wishes to may touch a live bird. We welcome donations of bird seed, which can be made through Wild Birds Unlimited in Rockbrook Plaza (402.399.9976).

September 14 9:45a.m. - 10:45a.m. FFNC

Raptors...Live! Drop in to meet our amazing raptors! Owls, hawks, and more. See and learn about these fascinating wildlife ambassadors. Photographs are encouraged.

September 14 1:00p.m. - 3:00p.m. FFNC

Critter Encounter A critter will be out for all to see and touch. Come meet some of our educational animals up close and personal.

Morning on the Marsh Canoe Trip September 15 Join us as the sunlight first touches the 1:00p.m. - 3:00p.m. trees of the wetlands. We will head out to FFNC watch the day unfold on the water, listen to the morning bird chorus around the wetlands, and maybe even see a few mink or beaver returning home after a long night. No canoe experience needed. Limited to 16 participants, ages 16 and over. Registration is required.

FOR CLASSES REQUIRING REGISTRATION GO TO FONTENELLEFOREST.ORG

Family Sundays in the Forest Upcycled Art in the Forest Put your creativity to work as we find new life in old items. We have all heard the saying, “One man’s trash is another man’s treasure” and in this great program you will get to put this idea to the test as we turn trash and recyclables into creative art pieces.

September 19 7:00p.m. FFNC

Family Sundays in the Forest: Bounce Back How does the forest recycle and renew itself after humans have been in an area? Explore the trails of Fontenelle Forest to discover how our forest is managed and to view areas that have regrown and reclaimed the land that was once touched by people. As we celebrate 100 years as an organization, see how this area was once used and the signs that can still be seen in the forest today of its previous inhabitants. Photographers Club Program to be announced.

Sunday

Monday

Tuesday

Wednesday

Upcycle That 2:00p.m. - 5:00p.m.|FFNC p. 4

august

CB - Camp Brewster HWLC - Hitchcock Wetlands Learning Center CLF - Camp Logan Fontenelle FFNC - Fontenelle Forest Nature Center CW - Camp Wakonda NWNC - Neale Woods Nature Center ***Denotes members only program

Metro Arts and Culture Pass Deal: 6

Saturday

Friday

Green Revolution: Members Only Preview*** 5:00p.m. - 7:00p.m.|FFNC p. 3

Raptors...Live! 9:45a.m. - 10:45a.m.|FFNC p. 4 Green Revolution: Public Opening 10:00a.m. - 5:00p.m.|FFNC p. 4

Thursday

Bird Club*** 7:00p.m.|FFNC p. 4

Wetlands Night Hike 7:00p.m. - 9:00p.m.|WLC p. 5

Full Moon Night Hike 7:00p.m. - 9:00p.m.|FFNC p. 5

Green Body Care 10:00a.m. - 12:00p.m.|FFNC p. 5

It’s a Small World After All 10:00a.m. - 12:00p.m.|FFNC p. 5

“Do the Math” Showing 7:00p.m. - 8:30p.m.|FFNC p. 5

Mud Pies 9:30a.m. - 11:30a.m.|FFNC p. 4

Lauritzen Gardens $1 off Admission & Tram Combo

Mud Pies 9:30a.m. - 11:30a.m.|FFNC p. 4

Family Sunday 1:00p.m. - 3:00p.m.|FFNC p. 5

Family Sunday 1:00p.m. - 3:00p.m.|FFNC p. 9

Green Cleaning 1:00p.m. - 3:00p.m.|FFNC p. 9

Family Sunday 1:00p.m. - 3:00p.m.|FFNC p. 6

Morning Marsh Canoe Trip 7:30a.m. - 9:30a.m.|WLC p. 6 Upcycled Art in the Forest 1:00p.m. - 3:00p.m.|FFNC p. 6

Family Sunday 1:00p.m. - 3:00p.m.|FFNC p. 6

Sunday

Mud Pies 9:30a.m. - 11:30a.m.|FFNC p. 4 Bistro in the Forest 6:30p.m.|FFNC p. 9 Wetlands Night Hike 7:30p.m. - 9:00p.m.|WLC p. 9

Mud Pies 9:30a.m. - 11:30a.m.|FFNC p. 4 Photographers Club 7:00p.m.|FFNC p. 6

Mud Pies 9:30a.m. - 11:30a.m.|FFNC p. 4

Mud Pies 9:30a.m. - 11:30a.m.|FFNC p. 4 Bird Club*** 7:00p.m.|FFNC p. 6

Thursday

Nature Explorers: Fall Forest 1:00p.m. - 3:00p.m.|CB p. 4

Rock & Fossil Field Trip 9:30a.m. - 3:00p.m. Meet at FFNC|p. 9 Being Creative about Being Creative 1:00p.m. - 3:00p.m.|FFNC p. 9

Bird Banding 9:00a.m. - 11:00a.m.|FFNC p. 6 Raptors…Live! 9:45a.m. - 10:45a.m.|FFNC p. 6 Critter Encounter 1:00p.m. - 3:00p.m.|FFNC p. 6

Bird Banding 9:00a.m. - 11:00a.m. Aksarben Aquarium|p. 6

Saturday

***Denotes members only program

CB - Camp Brewster HWLC - Hitchcock Wetlands Learning Center CLF - Camp Logan Fontenelle FFNC - Fontenelle Forest Nature Center CW - Camp Wakonda NWNC - Neale Woods Nature Center

Bistro in the Forest 6:30p.m.|FFNC p. 9

Friday

Scarecrow Picnic*** 5:30p.m. - 7:30p.m.|CB p. 3

KANEKO: Check fontenelleforest.org/metroartsandculturepass for Offer Omaha Creative Institute: $15 off Any Workshop Purchased in September

Metro Arts and Culture Pass Deals

september

Mud Pies 9:30a.m. - 11:30a.m.|FFNC p. 4

Mud Pies 9:30a.m. - 11:30a.m.|FFNC p. 4 “Bag it” Film Showing 7:00p.m. - 8:30p.m.|FFNC p. 9

Mud Pies 9:30a.m. - 11:30a.m.|FFNC p. 4

Mud Pies 9:30a.m. - 11:30a.m.|FFNC p. 4 SUN: Seniors Understanding Nature 9:45a.m. - 11:00a.m.|FFNC p. 6

Mud Pies 9:30a.m. - 11:30a.m.|FFNC p. 4

Wednesday

Mud Pies 9:30a.m. - 11:30a.m.|FFNC p. 4

Tuesday

Mud Pies 9:30a.m. - 11:30a.m.|FFNC p. 4

Monday

September 21 10:00a.m. – 3:00p.m. $12.00 FF members $20.00 non-members Meet at FFNC by 9:30a.m.

September 21 1:00p.m. - 3:00p.m. FFNC

September 22 1:00p.m. - 3:00p.m. FFNC

September 25 7:00p.m. - 8:30p.m. FFNC

Rock & Fossil Field Trip Fossil hunters unite! Register now for this exciting field trip to an inactive quarry. We will search for the remains of ancient organisms and learn about the exposed rock layers, which were deposited some 280 million years ago when a shallow sea covered Nebraska. You may even take your fossils home with you (baggies provided). Make sure to wear your sunscreen and bug spray. Bottle water and granola bars will be provided. We suggest you bring a sack lunch as we will be fossil hunting over the lunch hour. We will get there by car caravan, following the trip leader. Ages: 6+, children below the age of 16 years must be accompanied by an adult. Registration is required by August 31, 2013. Limit 30 people. Being Creative about Being Creative Join Kirk Vaughn Robinson, Green Revolution Artist in Residence in a lecture and discussion about what is keeping you from being the creative individual you can be. With fresh ideas on how to find the time, space, and freedom to explore all levels of creativity, Kirk will inspire you to embark on your own journey. Kirk will also discuss his processes on how he approaches sculpting, what led him to becoming a visual artist, and the inspiration for his Green Revolution projects. Family Sundays in the Forest Green Cleaning Looking for an easy way to lead a “greener” life? Come learn how to make your own eco-friendly (and economical) cleaning supplies! We will be using natural materials, most of which can be found right in your cabinet. Materials will be provided. Registration is required, but not limited. Movie Night: Bag It Fontenelle Forest and Green Bellevue are excited to present another fantastic film night at the forest. What started as a documentary about plastic bags, “Bag it” evolved into a wholesale investigation into plastics and their effect on our waterways, oceans, and even our bodies. “Bag it” is highly educational, even for those who recycle plastics now. Learn about how other countries and U.S. states and cities are becoming more and more responsible with this material. The film is entertaining and for all age groups! Trailer: www.youtube.com/movie/bag-it.

September 26 6:30p.m. September 27 6:30p.m. FFNC

Bistro in the Forest: A Pop-up Restaurant Experience Come dine al fresco as you can only do at Fontenelle Forest. This temporary eatery will offer an unparalleled experience as you sit on the plaza listening to the evening forest sounds. We will be offering a limited special menu with an emphasis on organic and locally sourced foods. The complete menu will be announced on the night of the dinner. Vegetarian and vegan offerings will be included. Check online at fontenelleforest.org/popup beginning August 30 for complete details, pricing, and reservations.

September 26 7:30p.m. - 9:00p.m. WLC

Wetlands Night Hike As autumn and winter approach, we notice the dying plants around us and are comforted in the fact that they will return in the spring. Unless you’re a hunter, you probably don’t give much thought to animals dying in the wild. Did you know that some animals grieve over the death of one of their own and that other animals deal with death in some unusual ways? Join us for a hike around the marsh as we enlighten you with these fascinating stories. This hike is for ages 15 and older. Wear sturdy shoes/boots and dress for the weather. Family Sundays at the Forest: What Tree do I See? Ever wondered what trees are in the forest? By looking at leaves and bark from these trees, we will teach you to identify the most common trees found in Fontenelle Forest. Using bark rubbings and leaf rubbings, we will compare our samples with the trees founds in the uplands, and learn a few fun facts about each tree as we go.

September 29 1:00p.m. - 3:00p.m. FFNC

October 5 (Rain Date: October 6) Session 1 11:00a.m. - 12:30p.m. Session 2 1:00p.m. - 2:30p.m. WLC

Kayaking the Great Marsh Enjoy the colors of fall on the ridge tops as you skim across the waters of the Great Marsh. If you’ve never kayaked before, this is the opportunity for you! Chris and Walt Vosika of “Wogg Works” will supply the kayaks and be our instructors. (Meet them on Facebook.) Registration is required as each session is limited to 10 participants, ages 13 to adults.

Free for FF members or with One Day Membership. Green Bellevue members admitted for 1/2 price.

August - September 2013

A do pt a n A n i ma l

Rap tor Recover y

The Secret Lives of Our Educational Animals

Hello Fontenelle Forest

By Deborah Woracek, Naturalist

By Betsy Finch, Manager of Raptor Rehabilitation

Venturing outside with an animal carrier, FF educators are often asked, “What do you have in the box?” or “What’s inside that?” Inside those towel-covered carriers are some of our many educational animals that are going out into the community to give people a chance to experience a wild animal up close and personal. This experience ranges from a 2 or 3 year old touching a tiger salamander, a senior citizen petting a rabbit, to young adults being exposed to the awesome world of raptors. You see, all of our education animals earn their keep. They are the stars of our popular Critters on the Go programs, Traveling S.U.N. programs, Rappin’ with Raptors programs, Nature Discovery Camps, Family Events, and Outdoor Educational Programs. We have even taken our animals to Neighborhood Group picnics. We also are featured in various summer library programs.

Partnering with Fontenelle Forest is not new; in 1988, Raptor Recovery Nebraska and Fontenelle Forest joined forces with the Audubon Society of Omaha and the Nebraska Game & Parks Commission to

form the Nebraska Peregrine Falcon Project. During 1988, 89, and 90, we hacked out young Peregrine Faclons from the Woodmen Tower and the Mutual of Omaha buildings. The Project ended in 1990 when one of the first chicks released returned to set up a territory. There have been Peregrines flying over downtown Omaha ever since! We have everything from millipedes, American and Woodhouse Toads, to the Rough-Legged Hawk. We accommodate groups of all sizes. Each program includes natural history about the animal, ‘fun facts,’ and offers a chance to touch the animal. For instance, touching a snake for the first time helps a child to understand snakes are not slimy and teaches respect for the animal. The only animals that are off-limits to touch are the Raptors. But the Raptors are still extremely impressive and you get a feel for their power when they are ‘on the job.’ “Do you really need another animal, Deborah,” I have been asked when a request was made yet again to get a new animal for the education department. Our animals are always going to programs or working, so the answer is, “Yes, we do need a new animal when an old one passes away.” We educators feel privileged to be able to handle and display our wonderful educational animals. So if you see a staff member walk by with boxes or carriers covered in towels…the animals are off to work again.

Raptor Recovery began in 1976 under the auspices of the Wachiska Audubon Society, and grew into a major, award-winning conservation organization in its own right. Thirty-seven years and 11,000 raptors later, we’ve come back to Fontenelle Forest. Raptor Recovery’s three part-time staff have become full-time Fontenelle staffers, charged with continuing our rehabilitation activities, and growing the educational missions of both organizations. Denise Lewis, Outreach Coordinator at RRN, answered an ad RRN placed seeking a new volunteer to help in the Omaha area. Ten years later, she became our educational specialist, and developed her nationally recognized “Raptor-ology” program for grade schools. Denise joins the Education team at FF. Janet Stander, Assistant Rehabilitation Coordinator at RRN, is a Jill of all trades, bringing experience from many animal-related jobs. She possesses great insight into animal behaviors, great compassion for all creatures, and great enthusiasm for her work. Janet is currently working on attaining her Associate’s Degree in Veterinary Technology. Janet will serve as Assistant Manager of Raptor Rehabilitation at FF.

For our Adopt an Animal feature this Leaflet, we are featuring all of our animals! For a fee of $50.00 your name will be posted in our animal care room for all to see. You will receive an adoption certificate, a photograph of an educational animal of your choice, that animal’s history and fun facts, and a family guest pass. You may also sign up for a behind-the-scenes tour of our animal care facilities and know that And finally me, Betsy Finch, Founder and Director of RRN. I am also a charter member and past president of Wachiska Audubon. you played a part in keeping our educational animals ‘on tour.’ With a B.A. in Biology and an Associate’s Degree in Medical TechContact Deborah L. Woracek today at 402.731.3140 ext. 1016. nology, I am uniquely qualified to apply the skills and knowledge needed to care for raptors. We are all excited about Raptor Recovery’s new way forward under the aegis of Fontenelle Forest and we can foresee great promise in advancing our mutual conservation missions.

August - September 2013

Pa r t y W h e re t h e W ild Thing s L ive ! Available Date: Saturday, September 7, 2013 Available Times: 10:00a.m. to 12:00p.m. or 1:00p.m. to 3:00p.m. $130.00 FF members; $150.00 non-members Camp Brewster Lodge Ages: 4-10 (12 child limit per party) Registration required, call Debra Beck 402-731-3140 ext. 1017 Registration and payment must be received 2 weeks in advance of party date. Make your child’s next birthday memorable by celebrating it at the Forest! Each party includes a Naturalist led hike, a game, and one very cool animal visitor (rabbit, snake, toad, salamander, or turtle – it is your choice!) There will be time allotted for eating, singing, and gift-opening. Admission to Fontenelle Forest Nature Center is included for all participants for that day. One adult must be present for every four children in attendance. Prices are non-refundable unless FF cancels due to weather and do not include an additional $50.00 refundable cleaning deposit.

Natu r al Selection s Natural Selections

By Deborah Woracek

Sc out in g a t Fo n te ne lle Fo re s t Registration required for all programs. Contact the Scouts Registrar at kfischer@fontenelleforest.org. We are excited to be planning new scout programs for the fall. Check online or email Kathy for more information.

August Now goldenrod and wingstem join July’s yellows and at the end of the month, the majestic purple of the asters also can be seen. Black and yellow orb spiders spin their huge webs and sway in the hot winds while cecropia moth caterpillars spin the cocoons that will be their winter home inside of which a miraculous change occurs. The larger than normal Monarchs, the migratory, float past us on the way to the Mexican mountains. The forest is full of birds and avid birders. At the end of August strings of pelicans, undulate across the sky while warblers wend their way through the trees along our trails. Photo by Roland E. Barth

Scouts After-School Program Fontenelle Forest Nature Center Admission: 1 hour program: $6 per scout 2 hour program: $8 per scout Scout Leaders are free

September September skies are even more spectacular and include all sizes from the tiny Ruby-Throated Hummingbirds to the circling kettles of migrating hawks and Turkey Vultures. Waterfowl, vireos, and warblers add Your troop can spend an hour or two hours at Fontenelle Forest Nature excitement to wetland hikes. If we Center with an educator enjoying a guided hike, meeting our live animal get rain this summer, be sure to look friends, or working on badge requirements. Registration is required two for the puffball fungi that will be weeks in advance. popping up. Their spores drift out like smoke when the fungus is gently Backpacks tapped – a favorite September ritual Fontenelle Forest Nature Center of mine. Also, be alert for the tiny earthstar and bird’s nest fungi that Admission: $45 per troop. Includes scouts and adults can be seen amongst the mulch on some trails. Some bats are migratup to 20 people. ing while praying mantids and walking sticks sway in the breezes that blow. A few trees and vines begin to show their fall colors while the If you have Tiger Scouts working on their Let’s Go Outside achievejack-in-the-pulpit berries turn crimson under the September sun. ment, this backpack has everything you need. If you have scouts that just want to come out and hike, the backpack is full of field guides that will help you identify plants and animals in the forest.

August - September 2013

Green R evolut i on - Aug us t 3 - October 31 at Fontenelle Forest Nature Cent er

As natural resources become more precious, it’s more important than ever to inspire people of all ages to be positive “green” forces. When we consider our everyday choices and make even small changes, we can make a huge difference. Fontenelle Forest is proud to present - Green Revolution Fontenelle Forest will debut “Green Revolution,” an eco-friendly, minimal carbon footprint exhibit created by the Museum of Science and Industry in Chicago and distributed by the Smithsonian Institution Traveling Exhibition Service (SITES). SITES is partnering with Chicago’s Museum of Science and Industry to present “Green Revolution,” a fully digital exhibition that gives host organizations the power to build (and control) their own “eco-zibit.” “Green Revolution” engages children and their families by addressing critical issues concerning the future health of our planet. The exhibit is divided into five sections: “Carbon Footprint,” “Composting & Gardening,” “Energy,” “Recy-CUBE-als,” and “Waste Not.” Fontenelle Forest has been planning, designing, and collecting used materials to repurpose into creative and educational displays that will inspire people of every age to be part of the “Green Revolution!” This hands-on community project builds awareness of our fragile earth and demonstrates solutions to more effectively protect our air, water, soil, and wildlife. Modules include renewable energy, water usage, food choices. and reducing our waste. Displays give practical tips on how to “Reduce, Reuse, and Recycle.” Visitors to the exhibit will learn the effects of climate change on ecosystems and will be able to explore learning modules that show what we can do in our daily lives to improve our Earth! Visitors to Fontenelle Forest will be greeted by the recycled shipping container visitor center. This structure will be used during the length of the exhibit as the headquarters for all things green! After the exhibit, the space will be used as an additional classroom during the year. Another unique aspect to our exhibit will be an artist in residence. Kirk Vaughn-Robinson, a local sculptor, will be onsite creating an art piece out of recycled materials supplied by the visitors of the exhibit. “Recy-CUBE-als” will line the one mile fully accessible Riverview Boardwalk. Each “recy-CUBE-al” will serve as an informative and inspirational art installation focusing on the impact mankind’s waste has on the planet. Volunteers, including University of Nebraska at Omaha’s SummerWorks Omaha program, have been assembling the cubes for the past week.

This version of “Green Revolution” is based on an exhibition originally created by the Museum of Science and Industry, Chicago, and made available by the Smithsonian Institution Traveling Exhibition Service (SITES). The typical recipe for a traveling museum exhibition is to pack objects into crates, load them onto trucks, and then have those trucks travel the highways to museums across the country. “Green Revolution,” however, is an innovative museum exhibit with virtually no carbon footprint. Participating venues receive all of the necessary design files and instructions digitally, allowing them to construct their very own home grown “eco-zibit” from re-used, recycled materials found within their local community. SITES has been sharing the wealth of Smithsonian collections and research programs with millions of people outside Washington, D.C. for more than 60 years. SITES connects Americans to their shared cultural heritage through a wide range of exhibitions about art, science, and history, which are shown wherever people live, work, and play. Exhibition descriptions and tour schedules are available at www.sites.si.edu.

August - September 2013

Introduction In this section, visitors will be introduced to Green Revolution, with definition circles, text and graphics panels, the environmental pioneers bio banners, green jobs information, and so much more.

Carbon Footprint In this section, visitors can calculate their own carbon footprint through a web-based program, play an oversized board game, and turn a hand crank to generate energy to power up a portion of the display.

Composting and Gardening Take a look inside a worm composting bin and get the dirt on how they turn food scraps into nutrient-rich soil for plants.

Energy Explore the different types of alternative energy that can be used including wind power, solar power, and water power.

Recy-CUBE-als Each “recy-CUBE-al” will serve as an informative and inspirational art installation focusing on the impact mankind’s waste has on the planet and the importance of green practices.

Waste Not! This portion of the exhibit talks about how many everyday materials can be reused and recycled. Guests will explore the ways to reduce the amount of their everyday throw away, and how to bring recyclable materials back to life.

Artist-in-Residence Kirk Vaughn-Robinson will be onsite creating a one of a kind sculpture out of the recycled materials brought by visitors to the center. Over the course of the three months, the piece will take shape and expand depending on the materials collected.

August - September 2013

CONTRIBUTIONS & SUPPORT May 16 , 2 0 1 3 - June 1 5 , 2 0 1 3 Sustaining ($500 - $999) Marvin and Susie Cohn William and Sally Hanley Supporting ($250 - $499) Dhruba and Andrea Chakravarti Richard and Frances Juro Thomas S. and Caroline M. Thomas Patrons ($100 - $249) David and Dorothy Bowman, Jr. Ed and Bev Burchfield Miles and Laurel Davis Terrence J. and Catherine Ferguson Carolyn Hare and Lonny Holman David J. and Cydney C. Koukol Michael J. Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Hara James T. Shaw Rod and Dodie Warren Chester Waters Don and Angie Wells

Donations America First Foundation Treasure Jean Baker and Karla Oliver Dorothy Balash Taylor Donnellan Paul & Oscar Giger Foundation Michael and Lyn Gilbert Susan A. Griffith Gilbert M. and Martha H. Hitchcock Foundation Fred Hawkins, Jr. Michelle Tarantino and Jennifer Witkowsky

In Memory of Thaddeus Barr Heather Meisinger In-Kind Gifts Maureen Hoskinson Wright/Jensen/Paragon Printing

A Special Thank You to Our Donors & Sponsors Catholic School Program

An Education Program for Students in the Omaha Archdiocese Friend of the Forest

Embark: Journey Into Nature Sisters of Mercy West Midwest Community Environmental Expeditionary Learning Initiative

An Education Program for Western Hills Magnet Center Tom and Mary Jetton Charitable Fund Lincoln Financial Erosion Abatement & Restoration Project Jim and Mary Hawkins Lozier Foundation Nebraska Environmental Trust Papio-Missouri River Natural Resource District R. Joe Dennis Foundation

Corporate and Foundation Giving Anonymous First Data

Free Forest Adventures Dr. C.C. and Mabel L. Criss Memorial Foundation

Tributes

Forest Sustainer

In Memory of Ryan Guinn

Black Walnut

Patricia Hammer

In Memory of Craig Hoskinson Maureen Hoskinson

Friend of the Forest Methodist Health System Sarpy County Tourism

Shagbark Hickory J. William and Ruth Lind Scott Fund

August - September 2013

Kiewit Companies Foundation Webology

An Education Program for Omaha Public School Fourth Grade Students Omaha Schools Foundation Wells Fargo H2Omaha: Missouri River Science Education Initiative

An Education Program for Omaha Public School Sixth Grade Students Omaha Schools Foundation William Leopard Charitable Lead Trust Interpretive Trail Kiosk Sponsor Bob and Evelyn Veach Foundation

Youth Environmental Education Program GFH and SAH Foundation H. Lee and Carol Gendler Charitable Fund Lawrence R. and Jeanette James Foundation Mammel Foundation The Miller Foundation Robert H. Storz Foundation

Vo lunt e e r s Thank You to our many talented volunteers! Your work here at Fontenelle Forest helps provide a place where people can experience and enjoy the quiet wild of nature! Thank you for volunteering in April â&#x20AC;&#x201C; May 2013. Mel Abueg Patty Albright Mary Lou Alfieri Debra Bercaw Emma Betz Brooklyn Buchholz Mic Burt Joseph Churchill Georgette Clark Doug Clark Dawn Daniel Sharon Draper Lisa Dworak

Nelli Falzgraf Linda Ferring Michelle Foss Robert Fuchs Sandra Gibbons Grant Glazer Bob Goetschkes Betty Grenon Dianne Guinn Kris Hammond Jean A. Hankins Katie Hartner Ann Hickman-Podany

Lois Inskeep Jenny Janes Ingrid Johnson Clem Klaphake Victoria Krupp Tad Leeper Justine Marshall Alex Martin Julie McKeone Kate Murphy Bruce Noble Jane Palmer Joseph Palmer

Wanda Pendley Neal S. Ratzlaff Mary J. Rome Cathy Schaefer Eric Scholar Joanie M. Soverns Andrew Soverns Brenna L. Watkins Johnny Wells Katie Wiegand Landon Wiens Michelle Woodruff

Volunteer at Fontenelle Forest Do you have a passion for preserving nature? Fontenelle Forest has a several volunteer programs that provide hands on experience to help care for the Forest. Opportunities range from leading hikes as a Teacher Naturalist to clearing trails with the Land Stewardship group. For more information on all our volunteer programs, please visit our website at fontenelleforest.org/volunteer or contact Kareen Hickman, Development Associate, at khickman@fontenelleforest.org or 402.731.3140 x1024.

T his L e a f l e t P rint e d By:

August - September 2013

NON-PROFIT ORG.

U.S. POSTAGE

PAID

Omaha, NE Permit No. 679

1111 Bellevue Blvd. North Bellevue, NE 68005 www.fontenelleforest.org Address service requested

AUGUST 3 - OCTOBER 31

GENERAL INFORMATION Phone: 402.731.3140 Email: info@fontenelleforest.org Web: fontenelleforest.org Find us on: Fontenelle Forest Nature Center

Neale Woods

1111 Bellevue Boulevard North, Bellevue, NE 68005

14323 Edith Marie Avenue, Omaha, NE 68112

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Hours August 3 - October 31 Mon-Fri

8:00a.m. - 6:00p.m.

Sat-Sun

8:00a.m. - 5:00p.m.

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Trails open dawn to dusk for FF members

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Non-members admitted before close have trail access until sunset

Admission: Fontenelle Forest members Free One Day Membership $8 All Ages 2+ (August 3 - October 31)

Trails open year round, dawn to dusk Nature center CLOSED for renovation

Admission: Fontenelle Forest members Free One Day Membership $5 Adult | $4 Senior (62+) | $3 Child (2-17)

Experience the Quiet Wild

of Nature