Fontenelle Forest's July/August Leaflet by Fontenelle Forest

LEAFLET

The Newsletter of Fontenelle Forest July - August 2014

OUR MISSION

INFORMATION Phone: Web:

402.731.3140 fontenelleforest.org

To provide a place where people can experience and enjoy the quiet wild of nature.

Fontenelle Forest Nature Center

Neale Woods

1111 Bellevue Boulevard North Bellevue, NE 68005

14323 Edith Marie Avenue Omaha, NE 68112

We want to inspire current and future generations to care for the natural world.

OUR VISION

STAFF

To be a national leader in environmental stewardship and education and the regionâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s premier nature center

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

St a ff Debra Beck

Jordyn Walker

Naturalist

Animal Care Technician

Jim Beebe

Ronnie Wells

Ranger / NWNC Property Supervisor Elizabeth Chalen

Exhibits, Special Projects, and Events Coordinator

Manager of Programming and Outreach

Alex Wiles

Linda Dennis

Animal Care Specialist

Education Assistant

Deborah Woracek

Kareen Hickman

Manager of Summer Day Camps

Officer s Jim Hawkins \ President Paul Halbur \ President-Elect Julee Sauer \ Secretary Levi Scheppers \ Treasurer Thomas D. Stalnaker \ Advisor

Development Associate

Director s

Betsy Finch

Manager of Raptor Rehabilitation Gary Garabrandt

Ranger Catherine Kuper

Educator Denise Lewis

Educator/Raptor Recovery Kate Murphy

Educator Josh Preister

Ranger / FFNC Property Supervisor Alex Shiffermiller

Visitor Service Supervisor Barb Shiffermiller

Manager of Customer Service Joan Soverns

Manager of Donor Relations and Membership Janet Stander

Assistant Manager of Raptor Rehabilitation Jamie Vann

Naturalist Joe Vavak

Public Relations Assistant

June - July 2014

Part-Time Educators Kyle Anderson Amy Campagna Julianne Carbonell Lindsay Cooley Kathy Fischer Michelle Foss Dianne Guinn Seth Krone-Keith Matt Miller Jo Murray Jean Neneman Bruce Noble Dorie Stone Chris Vosicka

Angela Athy Catherine M. Barmettler Angela L. Burmeister Ann Christiansen Toba Cohen-Dunning David M. Dvorak Lorraine A. Egger Mike Hamilton Jon T. Hansen Christine Jacobsen

Visitor Services Assistants Helen Beebe Brian Mark Conover Brenna Watkins Nick Woodard

Mogens Bay George F. Haddix Neal C. Hansen Rhonda A. and Howard L. Hawks Gerry and Bruce Lauritzen Marilyn Mammel Nancy and Mike McCarthy Cynthia C. and Thomas F. McGowan Ann Pape Walter Scott, Jr. Ann Stinson

H on or ar y Tr u stees

Gary D. Johnson Howard J. Kaslow Gerry Lauritzen Tad Leeper Julie Liakos Sarah McGowan Susan Nemer Athena Ramos Todd Rivers Robert D. Rose

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

M emb e r s h i p U pda t e A reminder that July marks the end of our transition year to reusable membership cards. This means only new members to the Forest will receive new cards. Renewing members’ information will be updated electronically and their card will reflect their information. We are proud (and you should be too!) to promote conservation and recycling. Thank you for being members!

Dea l A l e r t - M e tro A r ts & Cult ure Pass 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!

JULY

AUGUST

Joslyn Art Museum 10% off Cafe Durham

The Arts Center of Iowa Western Community College Buy one ticket get one free to September Performance TBD Lauritzen Gardens $1 off Admission and Tram combo

Ma r k Yo u r C a l e n dars

MEMBER APPRECIATION MONTH

OCTOBER 1 - 31 NEBRASKA SHAKESPEARE, TRICK OR TREAT IN THE FOREST, BEER ON THE BOARDWALK, ENLIGHTEN MEMBER PREVIEW, AND MORE

July - August 2014

JUST FOR CHILDREN

Wednesday & Friday 9:30a.m. - 11:30a.m. FFNC No sessions July 2 & 4 Ends August 1 Leader(s): Kate Murphy

Wild Summer Days Each week a different topic will be explored through centers, animal visitors, walks, and outdoor play. Topics will be announced on our web site. For ages 11 and younger. Children must be accompanied by an adult.

Monday - Thursday 9:30a.m. - 11:30a.m. Begins August 25 FFNC Leader(s): Kate Murphy

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. This program is for children ages 5 and younger.

July 6 10:30a.m. - 11:30a.m. FFNC Leader(s): Justine Marshall

Children’s Yoga Bring your yoga mat and your little ones with you for this relaxing and refreshing yoga session in the forest. This class features easy, fun poses designed for children of all ages.

Nature Explorers: WillyWoggs July 12 Come meet Willy Wogg the frog and Session 1 learn the basics of kayaking. Children ages Ages 5-7 w/Adult 5 – 7 with an adult will kayak first while 10:00a.m. - 11:30a.m. their older siblings explore the stream on Session 2 a frog hunt. Ages 8-12 w/Adult 12:30p.m. - 2:00p.m. Bring a picnic lunch to enjoy with your WLC family at noon. Leader(s): Kate Murphy, Chris & Walt Vosicka $10.00/Adult -FF member In the afternoon the older children ages 8 – 12 will kayak while the younger $5.00/Child -FF member $17.00/Adult -non-member children learn about Willy Wogg and his $12.00/Child -non-member friends. Chris and Walt Vosicka are certified American Canoe Association instructors. Smaller kayaks for young children will be provided. Registration required. Limit 5 adults/5 children per session. If registering for both sessions - use discount code FAMILY to receive a $5.00 discount.

FOR CLASSES REQUIRING REGISTRATION GO TO FONTENELLEFOREST.ORG June - July 2014

July 20 10:30a.m. - 11:30a.m. FFNC Leader(s): Justine Marshall

Children’s Yoga Bring your yoga mat and your little ones with you for this relaxing and refreshing yoga session in the forest. This class features easy, fun poses designed for children of all ages.

August 3 10:30a.m. - 11:30a.m. FFNC Leader(s): Justine Marshall

Children’s Yoga Bring your yoga mat and your little ones with you for this relaxing and refreshing yoga session in the forest. This class features easy, fun poses designed for children of all ages.

August 17 10:30a.m. - 11:30a.m. FFNC Leader(s): Justine Marshall

Children’s Yoga Bring your yoga mat and your little ones with you for this relaxing and refreshing yoga session in the forest. This class features easy, fun poses designed for children of all ages.

August 30 1:00p.m. - 3:00p.m. CB Leader(s): Deb Beck & Kate Murphy

Nature Explorers Believe it or Not! The Nature Explorers will discover some very strange and incredible creatures that call the forest home. You may not believe what you see! Ages 5 - 12. Registration required.

PROGRAMS Programs are listed in chronological order July 5 Session 1 10:00a.m. - 11:00a.m. Session 2 11:00a.m. - 12:00p.m. WLC Leader(s): Chris & Walt Vosicka $10.00/hr - FF members $17.00/hr - non-members

Kayaking on the Great Marsh If you have ever wanted to try kayaking, or are just looking for an opportunity to get out on the Great Marsh in a kayak, Fontenelle Forest and Woggworks Kayaking will be offering kayaking rentals this summer. We will have 10 kayaks available per hour. For ages 12 and older. Registration is required.

July 6 9:00a.m. - 10:00a.m. FFNC Leader(s): Justine Marshall

Yoga in the Forest Join us for an hour long vinyasa style yoga class, surrounded by nature, designed to de-stress and relax you. This beginner’s class will feature the sounds of the forest as your soundtrack as you move towards complete wellness. Please bring your own yoga mat.

July 6 1:00p.m. - 3:00p.m. FFNC Leader(s): Grant Glazer

Family Sundays in the Forest: A Return To Solitude with Nature Poetry Poets have always looked to nature for inspiration in their writing. During this program we will read and discuss several nature-themed poems before going on a brief walk through the forest. Perhaps you will be inspired to write some poetry of your own! This program is perfect for anyone who thinks they might appreciate an afternoon of nature and poetry.

July 11 7:00p.m. WLC Leader(s): Lisa Cuevas-Jorgensen

Friday Night (Twi)Lights What better way to start the weekend than with a spring twilight hike in the Wetlands. Come and experience the sights and sounds of this unique ecosystem: is it settling in for the night…or just waking up?

July 12 10:00a.m. - 12:00p.m. CW Leader(s): Clem Klaphake

From the Last Glacier Era to the European Settlers in Fontenelle Forest Come join naturalist Clem Klaphake on a hike on History Trail and learn about the complex history of this area. The hike will entail walking 1.5 miles in hilly terrain. Wear appropriate clothing and walking shoes. This hike is most appropriate for those 12 and over.

July 13 1:00p.m. - 3:00p.m. FFNC Leader(s): Amberle Parkin

Family Sundays in the Forest: Mammals of the Forest Foxes, rabbits, deer and many other mammals call Fontenelle Forest home. This program will explore the many mammals of the Forest through skins, skulls and other artifacts. Stop by to touch and see these amazing examples of mammal life.

July 16 Session 1 9:00a.m. - 10:00a.m. Session 2 10:00a.m. - 11:00a.m. WLC Leader(s): Chris & Walt Vosicka $10.00/hr - FF members $17.00/hr - non-members

July 19 10:00a.m. - 12:00p.m. WLC Leader(s): Chris & Walt Vosicka $10.00 - FF members $17.00 - non-members

55+ Frog Walk & Kayak Take a hike through Pond and South Stream trails to learn about and search for Frogs or Toads of the wetlands. Then we will take a kayak and head out on the water to look along the reeds and back in the waterways of The Great Marsh. Bring a picnic lunch for afterwards at the Wetlands Learning Center if you’d like. Registration is required and is limited to 10 kayaks.

July 19 10:00a.m. FFNC Leader(s): Susan Graf

Strolling the Boardwalk This leisurely stroll will take us on the Riverview Boardwalk, where we can view the Missouri River from the 3rd loop. We’ll learn a little forest history; stop, look, and listen; and relax while we do it.

July20 9:00a.m. - 10:00a.m. FFNC Leader(s): Justine Marshall

July 20 1:00p.m. - 3:00p.m. FFNC

Family Sundays in the Forest: All About Hawks If you like hawks, then this is the program for you. With live birds on hand, you can learn about specific adaptations of these amazing birds that help them be the great hunters that they are. This is a great opportunity to get a close-up view of a hawk, take photos, and even talk with raptor handlers.

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

July - August 2014

July 22 Session 1 9:00a.m. - 10:00a.m. Session 2 10:00a.m. - 11:00a.m. WLC Leader(s): Chris & Walt Vosicka $10.00/hr - FF members $17.00/hr - non-members

July 26 10:00a.m. - 12:00p.m. WLC Leader(s): Lisa Cuevas-Jorgensen

Let’s Hike Want to hike some of the lesser known trails of the Forest and get a whole different view of the Wetlands? This naturalistled hike will start off at the wetlands building, and head up through Mormon Hollow and down Signal Ridge for a great exploration of these less-traveled trails.

July 27 1:00p.m. - 3:00p.m. FFNC Leader(s): Mic Burt

Family Sundays in the Forest: Turtle or Tortoise? Ever wonder what the difference is between a turtle and a tortoise? IS there a difference? And what do we have living here in Nebraska, or in the Forest itself? Through artifacts and animal examples, we will explore these questions and more.

July 31 10:00a.m. - 11:30a.m. FFNC Leader(s): Dennis Hynes

Over 55 Forest Walk We all spend too much time on computers and indoors under fluorescent lights, or texting and watching TV (often texting while watching TV). Walking encourages you to step away from your desk and step back out into nature. Walk through the woods to enjoy and notice the changes in the forest as summer progresses. Share the quiet of nature only a short drive from the city as we explore the local ecology and geology in a serene setting. Join us for this walk, and not only will your understanding of the environment will improve , but your productivity and positivity will as well.

August 2 10:00a.m. WLC Leader(s): Susan Graf

Strolling the Wetlands This leisurely stroll will take us down the Wetlands Boardwalk to get a great view of the marsh. We’ll start at the Learning Center and we’ll head out to the blind while we stop, look and listen - and even learn a little. Don’t forget the bug spray!

August 3 9:00a.m. - 10:00a.m. FFNC Leader(s): Justine Marshall

FOR CLASSES REQUIRING REGISTRATION GO TO FONTENELLEFOREST.ORG June - July 2014

August 3 Session 1 1:00p.m. - 2:00p.m. Session 2 2:00p.m. - 3:00p.m. WLC Leader(s): Chris & Walt Vosicka $10.00/hr - FF members $17.00/hr - non-members

August 3 1:00p.m. - 3:00p.m. FFNC Leader(s): Justine Marshall

Family Sundays in the Forest: Plants of Fontenelle Forest Join our Teacher Naturalist to learn about the plants and wildflowers found growing along some of Fontenelle Forest’s most popular trails. There will be a short children’s learning activity before we take to the trails. This is a beginner’s level hike suitable for all ages.

August 8 7:00p.m. WLC Leader(s): Lisa Cuevas-Jorgensen

Friday Night (Twi)Lights What better way to start the weekend than with a summer twilight hike in the Wetlands. Come and experience the sights and sounds of this unique ecosystem: is it settling in for the night…or just waking up?

August 9 10:00a.m. - 12:00p.m. FFNC Leader(s): Jeff Lacey

Writing Hike Explore the sights and sounds of the forest through the lens of writing! Poet, teacher, and Master Naturalist Jeff Lacey will lead you on a trek through the forest, with stops for guided writing along the way. This is a great chance to brush off your writing skills and to celebrate the forest with your own prose or poetry in a community of writers. All ages are welcome. The hike will stick primarily to the boardwalk.

August 9 10:00a.m. - 12:00p.m. WLC Leader(s): Chris & Walt Vosicka $10.00 - FF members $17.00 - non-members

55+ Dragonfly Walk & Kayak The wetlands are home to many kinds of Dragonflies. During this program we will begin to understand the importance of the Dragonfly to the marsh, as well as what species we can identify by Wetlands pond. Then we will head down to kayak out to see where they like to fly in the Great Marsh. Registration is required and is limited to 10 kayaks.

August 10 1:00p.m. - 3:00p.m. WLC Leader(s): Wanda Pendley

Family Sundays in the Forest: Tracking The wetlands are teeming with life, so do you ever wonder what stories can be found in the soil? Through exploring the animal tracks and signs left behind, the lives of many animals of the forest and wetlands can unfold in front of you. We will hike the trails in search of the hidden (and sometimes not so hidden) secrets of animal life!

August 14 7:30p.m. - 9:30p.m. WLC Leader(s): Tad Leeper & Sharon Draper

August 16 10:00a.m. - 12:00p.m. FFNC

Mammals on the Wing Bats are the only mammals in Fontenelle Forest that can fly. They capture our imagination for this and many other reasons. Join us for a night hike on the Fontenelle Forest floodplain as we learn about and seek out these amazing nocturnal Forest inhabitants. Note: Wear long pants and sturdy footwear. Bring water and insect repellent. This hike is best suited for those 12 and older.

All About Falcons If you like falcons, then this is the program for you. With live birds on hand, you can learn about specific adaptations of these amazing birds that help them be the great hunters that they are. This is a great opportunity to get a close-up view of a falcon, take photos, and even talk with raptor handlers.

August 17 9:00a.m. - 10:00a.m. FFNC Leader(s): Justine Marshall

August 17 1:00p.m. - 3:00p.m. FFNC Leader(s): Eric Scholar

Family Sundays in the Forest: Wildflowers of Summer Explore the wildflowers of the prairie and forest as we walk over to Camp Brewster and visit the restored prairies on this property. Late summer is a bountiful time in the prairie. Many grasses and other plants are in full bloom, butterflies and bees are buzzing around, and the area is full of life.

August 21 10:00a.m. - 11:30a.m. FFNC Leader(s): Dennis Hynes

August 22 7:30p.m. NWNC Leader(s): Bob Fuchs

Constellation Night Hike Join us on an evening hike to listen to sounds of the forest and prairie with viewing of the mid-summer night sky constellations at the end. Bring binoculars if you have them to view some deep sky objects. If cloudy, we will hike anyway, but no constellation viewing.

August 23 10:00a.m. - 12:00p.m. WLC Leader(s): Lisa Cuevas-Jorgensen

Let’s Hike Come explore the floodplain and the hills as we trek through some of the lessexplored terrain of Fontenelle Forest. We will meet at the Wetlands Learning Center, and take off down Cottonwood trail through the floodplain. In Mill Hollow we will meet up with Oak trail, and head up through the hills and back past Camp Logan Fontenelle. The road will lead us home from this hike that is sure to get your heart pumping and put a smile on your face.

August 24 1:00p.m. - 3:00p.m. WLC Leader(s): Joanne Langabee

Family Sundays in the Forest: Wildflowers in the Wetlands Join us as we search the wetlands for wildflowers. Master Naturalist and Master Gardener Joanne Langabee will lead you on a walk to learn which wildflowers call the floodplain and marsh home. We may also find some waterfowl or other animals that live amongst these wildflowers.

August 28 7:00p.m. FFNC

Insect Club Babs and Loren Padelford will present a program on the habits and characteristics of the various wasp species found in our area. Family Sundays in the Forest: Dipping in the Wetlands Join us at the Wetlands Learning Center to learn which macroinvertebrates can be found in the pond. Using nets and strainers we will discover the amazing world that thrives in the water. Dragonfly larva, riffle beetles and snails, oh my! This hands-on afternoon will give you a whole new perspective on what’s in the water!

August 31 1:00p.m. - 3:00p.m. WLC Leader(s): Dianne Guinn & Wanda Pendley

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

July - August 2014

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

Yoga in the Forest 9:00a.m. - 10:00a.m.|FFNC p. 5 Children’s Yoga 10:30a.m -11:30a.m.|FFNC p. 4 Family Sundays 1:00p.m. - 3:00p.m.|FFNC p. 5

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

Kayaking the Great Marsh 9:00a.m. - 10:00a.m.|WLC p. 6 Kayaking the Great Marsh 10:00a.m. - 11:00a.m.|WLC p. 6

Wild Summer Days 9:30a.m. - 11:30a.m.|FFNC p. 4

Wild Summer Days 9:30a.m. - 11:30a.m.|FFNC p. 4 Kayaking the Great Marsh 9:00a.m. - 10:00a.m.|WLC p. 5 Kayaking the Great Marsh 10:00a.m. - 11:00a.m.|WLC p. 5

Wednesday

Wild Summer Days 9:30a.m. - 11:30a.m.|FFNC p. 4

Joslyn Art Museum: 10% off Cafe Durham

Tuesday

Yoga in the Forest 9:00a.m. - 10:00a.m.|FFNC p. 5 Children’s Yoga 10:30a.m -11:30a.m.|FFNC p. 4 Family Sundays 1:00p.m. - 3:00p.m.|FFNC p. 5

Monday

Metro Arts and Culture Pass Deals

july

Sunday

Over 55 Forest Walk 10:00a.m.-11:30p.m.|FFNC p. 6

Thursday

***Denotes members only program

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

Let’s Hike 10:00a.m. - 12:00p.m.|WLC p. 6

25 Wild Summer Days 9:30a.m. - 11:30a.m.|FFNC p. 4

55+ Frog Walk & Kayak 10:00a.m - 12:00p.m.| WLC p. 5 Strolling the Boardwalk 10:00a.m.|FFNC p. 5

Nature Explorers: WillyWoggs 10:00a.m. - 11:30a.m.|WLC p. 4 From the Last Glacier... 10:00a.m. - 12:00p.m.|CW p. 5 Nature Explorers: WillyWoggs 12:30a.m. - 2:00p.m.|WLC p. 4

Kayaking on the Great Marsh 10:00a.m - 11:00a.m.| WLC p. 5 Kayaking on the Great Marsh 11:00a.m - 12:00p.m.| WLC p. 5

Saturday

Wild Summer Days 9:30a.m. - 11:30a.m.|FFNC p. 4

Wild Summer Days 9:30a.m. - 11:30a.m.|FFNC p. 4 Friday Night (Twi)Lights 7:00p.m.| WLC p. 5

Friday

Sunday

Monday

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

Family Sundays 1:00p.m.- 3:00p.m. WLC p. 7

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

Family Sundays 1:00p.m.- 3:00p.m. WLC p. 7

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

MudPies 9:30a.m. - 11:30a.m.|FFNC p. 4 Insect Club 7:00p.m.|FFNC p. 7

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

Let’s Hike 10:00a.m. - 12:00p.m. | WLC p. 7

Yoga in the Forest 9:00a.m. - 10:00a.m.|FFNC p. 7 Children’s Yoga 10:30a.m -11:30a.m.|FFNC p. 4 Family Sundays 1:00p.m. - 3:00p.m.|FFNC p. 7

Constellation Night Hike 7:30p.m. | NWNC p. 7

All About Falcons 10:00a.m.-12:00p.m.|FFNC p. 7

9 Writing Hike 10:00a.m.-12:00p.m.| FFNC p. 6 55+ Dragonfly Walk & Kayak 10:00a.m. - 12:00p.m. | WLC p. 6

8 Friday Night (Twi)Lights 7:00p.m. | WLC p. 6

Over 55 Forest Walk 10:00a.m.-11:30a.m.|FFNC p. 7

Strolling the Wetlands 10:00a.m. | WLC p. 6

Saturday

Wild Summer Days 9:30a.m. - 11:30a.m.|FFNC p. 4

Friday

august

The Arts Center of IWCC: Buy 1 ticket get 1 free to September Performance TBD Lauritzen Gardens: $1 off Admission and Tram combo

Thursday

Mammals on the Wing 7:30p.m. - 9:30p.m.| WLC p. 7

Wednesday

Metro Arts and Culture Pass Deals

Tuesday

Family Sundays 1:00p.m. - 3:00p.m.|WLC p. 6

***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

Metro Arts and Culture Pass Deals:

FONTENELLE FOREST GUILD Feather Our Nest Fundraiser…A Huge Success! Fontenelle Forest Guild Raises Funds for Youth Environmental Programs Fontenelle Forest (FF) Guild exceeded their support goals with their annual fundraiser held at the Livestock Exchange Building on Friday, April 25. Feather Our Nest 2014 invited attendees to “celebrate the past, take pleasure in the present, and prepare for the future” with a centennial theme. This event supports the youth environmental education programs which bring over 30,000 children to the Forest each year. The festivities began with a silent auction, scotch tasting, and hors d’oeuvre during which nearly 400 guests were greeted by birds of prey from Fontenelle Forest’s Raptor Recovery. Guests were welcomed to the dining area at 7:30pm featuring tablescapes with live trees, fresh tulips, tree “cookies”, and vintage photographs. A slide show featured historical and current pictures of FF’s one hundred year history. Laura Shiffermiller, FF Executive Director, praised both Gary Garabrandt, the evening’s honored individual and the Nebraska Land Trust, the evening’s honored organization, in her opening remarks for their contribution and connection to the mission of Fontenelle Forest. The Feather Our Nest 2014 leadership committee was Jen Bartelt, Emily Lauritzen, and Kristin Lewis, event chairs; Sarah McGowan, Guild President; Laura Shiffermiller, FF Executive Director; Christi Churchill; FF Director of Development; Kareen Hickman, FF Development Associate; and Brad A. Watkins, FF Director of Communications.

L to R - Event Chairs Emily Lauritzen, Kristin Lewis, and Jen Bartelt

A Forest of trees welcomed guests.

L to R - Bob Dinslage, Gary Garabrandt, and James Beebe. Mr. Garabrandt was the event’s Honored Individual

L to R - Clark, Emily, Gerry, and Bruce Lauritzen

June - July 2014

FEATHER OUR NEST SPONSORS Thank You Infinitely for your Friendship and Support

Centennial

- $10,000

Trailblazer - $5,000 Friend of the Forest Marianne & Fred Hawkins, Jr.

Steward - $2,500+ Gerry & Bruce Lauritzen OPPD Debra & Neal Ratzlaff Laura & William Shiffermiller

FraserStryker® Attorneys at law, since 1898

Founding - $1,914

Naturalist - $1,000+

Altus Architectural Studios Berkshire & Burmeister Law Offices Ann & Dennis Christiansen Mary Coady-Leeper, Ph.D., Licensed Psychologist Mary & Jim Hawkins Emily & Clark Lauritzen Omaha Schools Foundation Oriental Trading Company RDG Planning & Design Denese & Thomas Stalnaker Kate & Leonard Sommer Tax Help, LLC & O’Malley Financial Services Union Pacific

Sharon & Randy Blackburn Cornhusker Motor Club Cox Communications J.E. Dunn Sudbeck Homes Kristin & Chuck Lewis Beth & Jerry Smith Nancy & John Webster Wells Fargo

July - August 2014

Ar t a nd t h e Fo res t

Em b ar k: Jou r n ey in to Natu re

Joslyn Art Museum and Fontenelle Forest are partnering to offer classes that take inspiration from the Forest. To register or learn more, please visit joslyn.org/education/classes/adult-and-teen-classes/

“Exploring a sense of place (this bio region we call home) has been an enlightening study. Lying in a tall grass prairie, standing in the center of an earth lodge or sifting through a fossil bed were a few of the events that entwined my spirit with the history of our local natural world. This was truly a rewarding adventure.”

Wilderness Studies Wednesdays: July 2, July 9, 16, 23, 30; 6-8:30 pm; at Fontenelle Forest Gallery Tour: Sunday, June 15; 1:00 pm at Joslyn Art Museum Museum & Forest Members: $88; General Public: $98

- Westy - Embark Participant, 2012-13

“Embark is such an eye-opening experience! This journey out into the natural world has allowed me insights and an understanding that I could not have gotten from just reading a book or journeying alone.”

Join us as we trek the trails of Fontenelle Forest and learn to use a variety of media to capture first-hand views of the forest, wetlands, and prairie. Inspired by Thomas Moran’s visit to Yellowstone we’ll learn to use watercolors, pastels, and charcoal while on the move in the wilderness. Instructor: Ron Sykes

- Theresa -Embark Participant 2013-14 Fontenelle Forest is pleased to offer our THIRD season of this popular adult class! EmJourney Into Nature bark: Journey Into Nature is a program designed to deepen one’s relationship with the natural world by combining information, field study and other experiences. Through presenters and storytellers, field trips, nature journaling and integrative activities, participants will gain a greater sense of what the natural world has to offer.

Embark

Landscapes: Shooting for the Canvas Thursdays: July 17, 24, 31, August 7, 14, 21; 6-8 pm Gallery Tour- Sunday, July 13; 1 pm at Joslyn Art Museum First class session to be held at Fontenelle Forest. Joslyn Members: $105; General Public: $115 This special class will combine basic photography instruction with an introduction to oil painting. Students will start with a camera at Fontenelle Forest, receiving instruction from both a photography and a painting professional, to frame and capture views of the woods to use later in the studio. Back at Joslyn, we’ll discuss ideas of compositional design then edit and combine elements of our photos to create idealized views of nature in a finished oil painting. Instructor: Jim Ferguson & Martie Wagner

Embark is looking for 15-18 adults, 18 years and older, with a desire to explore the natural world. These 9 full-day sessions will be held on the second Saturday of each month, running from September 2014 to May 2015. The program is $275 per person, with a $50 non-refundable deposit due by August 15, 2014.

Na t ur a l Se l e c t i ons By Deborah Woracek, Master Naturalist July Hikers will follow the animals’ lead and become more crepuscular to avoid the midday humidity and heat. But then dusk and dawn are great times to be on the trails. July offers us a variety of happenings from painted turtle nests to young warblers and turkeys learning the ways of their lives. In the insect world, the cicada killers are on the prowl while ladybugs are in masses on some plants…eating aphids…making more ladybugs? Our late bloomers such as the American lotus, Jerusalem artichoke, golden glow, white snakeroot and swamp milkweed appear at various times in July telling us that summer is beginning to wind down. The Goldfinches finally build their nest while other birds like Cardinals may be working on nest number two. Shorebirds can also be seen in our wetlands as they begin their long journey south.

To learn more visit fontenelleforest.org/embark Applications are available online, and the deadline for applying is August 1st. If you have questions, contact Elizabeth Chalen at echalen@fontenelleforest.org or call 402.731.3140 x1026.

August Beautiful black and yellow orb spiders sway in the hot August winds while guarding their giant webs along our trails. Huge Cecropia moth caterpillars will spin their winter-home cocoons. At the end of August, the purple of the asters will be added to the yellows of the goldenrod and wingstem which are blooming now along with other summer blossoms. The forest will fill up with birders with binocs. pointing up to see the latest visiting birds. The early migratory Monarch butterflies may also float past our hikers.

June - July 2014

Adopt a n A n i ma l

Free Fligh t

By Deborah Woracek, Master Naturalist

By Betsy Finch, Manager of Raptor Rehabilitation

Rusty, the Red-tailed Hawk Rusty, our Red-tailed Hawk is our adoptee this issue. Rusty was found near Ravenna, NE in 2003. She was very emaciated and missing a wingtip. Rusty was brought to Raptor Recovery where it was discovered she had been illegally shot! Rusty has the most ‘regular’ coloration usually found in a mature Red-tailed Hawk.

Final Flights When this Bald Eagle arrived at the Center in March of 1999, he was very ill. The fractured ulna he had sustained from a gunshot was easily healed; the lead poisoning he was suffering from was much more serious. Unable to stand or feed himself, the eagle required intensive care in order for him to recover. After 3 months, he was able to feed himself. But the lead took its toll on his brain and eyesight, and he never regained the full eagle awareness he would need to survive free. We received permission to keep him, and named him Remington. His plumage was of a third-year bird in 1999. Remington wowed audiences everywhere with his size and beauty, and was a great ambassador for his kind.

Red-tailed Hawks are one of the most common hawks found in North America. Their range spreads across the country as settlers arrived and changed the landscape. These broad-winged hawks weigh from 2 to 4 pounds and have a 3 ½ to 4 ft. wingspan. They prefer the edge of woods that have large clearings in them as they hunt in open areas. They can also be found in almost any open country. In fact, the only part of North America that doesn’t have Red-tailed Hawks is in the high arctic and unbroken forest areas. There are 16 recognized subspecies of Red-tailed Hawks with the Harlan’s (dark morph) & the Krider’s (light morph) looking the most different than a ‘regular’ Red-tailed Hawk. These medium-sized raptors hunt by swooping down from a perch. When they dive they have their feet in front of them, very different from the stoop of the Peregrine Falcon! Red-tailed Hawks will eat rodents, rabbits, squirrels, reptiles, and have been known to follow a hunting badger to capture prey that the badger stirs up. They nest in tall trees, making a large nest of branches lined with evergreens and bark. The pair mate for life and will rotate among several nests in their territory. A Great-Horned Owl pair will also use a Red-tailed Hawks’ nest. The hawk eggs are laid in March or April with 1 to 3 eggs in a nest. A Red-tailed Hawk usually gets their red tail after her first or second molt. The young have banded or striped tails. The females can be up to 25% larger than the males. It is estimated that the species population is numbering around 1 million. Similar species are Swainson’s Hawks and Redshouldered Hawks. We thought Rusty was a male due to her small size for a Red-tailed Hawk but she proceeded to build a nest one spring, something that males don’t do! Her adoption fee is $200. What a fine birthday or anniversary gift it would be to have your name posted on the Red-tailed Hawks cage! Other benefits will include: • Family guest pass to Fontenelle Forest Nature & Neale Woods • An adoption certificate • A color photograph of your animal • An animal fact sheet including your animal’s personal story • Knowledge that you have helped to enhance an educational animal’s life

Around two years ago, Remington began to experience episodes of convulsions, from which he recovered in a few days. Whether they were a result of the initial lead poisoning he had, or a sequelae of West Nile Virus, is unknown. Both of our eagles contracted WNV in 2002 when it swept the state. Remington’s most recent episode was much more severe; by evening we had managed to quiet the convulsions. The next morning he was dead. It was the first day of spring, March 20, 2014, almost fifteen years to the day he arrived into our lives. He was eighteen years old. Skywalker has been featured many times in Free Flight over the years. His history in Nebraska began in 1977, when he came to the Ager Memorial Zoo in return for a female Golden Eagle FFRR transferred to the San Francisco Zoo. He had lost the tip of one wing and a toe to a bullet as an adult. When the Ager Zoo closed in 1988, RRN received an Eagle Exhibition Permit, and Skywalker became ours to care for. He instantly became everyone’s favorite. He lived with me outside Lincoln until 1995, and then was with several other volunteers until we could build him new quarters in Elmwood in 1999. Skywalker loved to sing; he responded to almost everything that calledgeese, owls, springtime-with his wonderful, lilting call. The only times he was silent were in 2002 when he almost died from WNV and in 2004 when cataracts rendered him almost completely blind. A veterinary ophthalmologist removed the cataract from one eye, and gave the bird a new lease on life. But he was older- much older- than we thought. By this spring he was back to singing again, but was beginning to slow down. He stopped eating and after a brief illness, Skywalker died in my arms on May 5th, 2014. We can only guess that his age was around sixty years. We are still grieving the loss of these two wonderful eagle ambassadors who touched so many people with their calm demeanors and regal presences. We were privileged to have been their caretakers for so many years, and take comfort in the fact that they lived peacefully here. They sing as messengers for the Great Spirit now, and sometimes, on a calm day, I catch the faint sound of a lilting song high above.

For more information call Deborah Woracek at (402) 731-3140 ext.1016 or dworacek@fontenelleforest.org.

June - July 2014

CONTRIBUTIONS & SUPPORT Ma rc h 1 6 , 2 0 1 4 - May 1 5 , 2 0 1 4 Distinguishing Paton ($1000 - $2499) John and Marty Elftmann, Jr. Sustaining Patron ($500 - $999) Steve and Christine Mendlik Rick and Marjorie Schmid

Supporting Patron ($250 - $499) Jack T. and Lynne J. Baldwin Sally Bekins Paul Dizona and Andrea Felber Shawn Dontigney and Mandy Wallar C E. Heaney Lawrence R. and Jeannette James James and Karen Linder Margaret Sandlier Teresa Swafford Thomas Thalken Kevin and Nancy Vaughan Shawn Dontigney and Mandy Wallar Christine Webster Andrew and Meredith Weitz

Patrons ($100 - $249) Chad and Katie Bauerly Jason and Lisa Bruce Matthew Burke Gerald J. and Denise A. Burke Will and Melissa Eby William and Barbara Fitzgerald Barbara J. Hauptman Hal D. and Mary Holoun Robert J. and Mary Ellen Huck Todd J. and Jayne D. Hutton John and Carolyn Jacobson Matt and Jessica Jaksha Mark and Elizabeth Johnston Gary and Sally Kaplan K. Wayne and Carole Lainof Elizabeth McInerney John D. and Susan Moylan Murray and Sharee Newman Robert and Rebecca Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Hanlon Don and Kate Ostdiek Roger and Marty Pagel Al and Cindy Reyer Debra J. Romberger Patrick and Jeanne Salerno Robert and Jeanne Schultz

June - July 2014

Merryellen T. Schulz R G. Seiter Lonnie Shumate Hal Sornson Thomas and Carol Svolos Gordon and Joy Watanabe Brian and Jennifer Wilson Elizabeth Winkler

A Special Thank You to Our Donors & Sponsors

Donations Ronald and Jane Ahlschwede America First Foundation Tracey Buettner Sara Bush Frank and Katherine Carnaby Beth Dean Greg and Jan Dobesh Shawn Dontigney and Mandy Wallar Robert and Karron Folker Donald W. and Ruth Frazee Jack Fredrichson Paul & Oscar Giger Foundation Scott and Kari Graves Fred Hawkins, Jr Janet Herring Gilbert M. and Martha H. Hitchcock Foundation Jenny Lambrecht James McCormick Mary McKeighan Carol and Michael McMurtry Greg and Carol Palmier Ann Pape Edward and Kimberly Pearce E. and Andrea Peterson Neva Pruess Amy and Jon Rouse Anne Schmid Ken Schroeder and William Griffin Jeanette Sinram Kirk and Vanessa Strodtman

Sisters of Mercy West Midwest Community

Corporate and Foundation Giving Indigo Bridge Books Union Pacific Fund for Effective Government

Catholic School Program

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

Embark: Journey Into Nature Environmental Expeditionary Learning Initiative: An Education Program for

Western Hills Magnet Center Tom and Mary Jetton Charitable Fund Lincoln Financial Foundation Erosion Abatement & Restoration Project Jim and Mary Hawkins Lozier Foundation Nebraska Environmental Trust Papio-Missouri River Natural Resource District R. Joe Dennis Foundation Free Forest Adventures Dr. C.C. and Mabel L. Criss Memorial Foundation Forest Sustainer

Black Walnut Friend of the Forest Methodist Health System Sarpy County Tourism

Shagbark Hickory J. William and Ruth Lind Scott Fund 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

Tributes

In Memory of Joan L. Flowers Kawasaki Motors Manufacturing Corp., U.S.A. In-Kind Gifts Anderson Printing

Omaha Schools Foundation William Leopard Charitable Lead Trust Interpretive Trail Kiosk Sponsor Bob and Evelyn Veach Foundation

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

Volunteers 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 from April â&#x20AC;&#x201C; May 2014. Patty Albright Jennifer Alloway Alex Aspiazu Vilma Baluyot Jennifer Bartelt Penny Bartholomew Louise Bauck Cassie Baum Helen Beebe James Beebe Richard Behrens Judith Bell Shawn Bengtson Jim Brentlinger Amy Brown Jennifer Brummund Alexis Bulos Michael Burke Mic Burt Julianne Carbonell Pete Carbonell Frank Carnaby Thomas Chaussee Pamela Cheever Dolan Collins Jessica Covi Amanda Dana Dawn Daniel-Conlon Kristi Davis Bob Dinslage Shannon Dombrowski Jenny Doyle Sharon Draper Chufan Du Amy Duboise

Heather Efaw Marty Elftmann Amber Fahey Nell Falzgraf Gina Feely Jessica Feinstein Mindy Foral Robert Fuchs Jody Galata Efrain Galvan Bob Goetschkes Susan Graf Dianne Guinn Jaisa Gutierrez Andrea Gutta Kris Hammond Jean Hankins Russ Hankins Amanda Harvey Jason Harvey Blake Hatfield Roger Hildebrandt Kristin Hoffman Lisa Hoffman Brett Homme John Howell Natalie Huntley Camille Hussmann Dennis Hynes Lois Inskeep Jenny Janes Kelly Jeffreys Ingrid Johnson Christian Jones Lisa Jorgensen

Cecilia King Clem Klaphake Jennifer Koom Joanne Langabee Maria Lara-Rivas Emily Lauritzen Tad Leeper Kristin Lewis Tillman Lowrey Missy Magnuson Justine Marshall Martha Mays Sarah McGowan Dean McVicker Bella Mendoza Marques Mitchell Kate Murphy Bonnie Newman Brian Ogle Ric Olsen Barbara Orr Vickie Orr Gordan Overmann Jane Palmer Amberle Parkin Amy Parks Denise Paul Brandi Pellerito Holly Pendley Wanda Pendley Julie Peterson Adrienne Petsick Linda Plock Susan Poling Jeanne Pricer

Debra Ratzlaff Tiffany Regan Megan Ringenberg Chris Robie MaryJo Rome Eric Scholar Christine Schulte Joni Shaw Katherine Simmons Brenda Smith David Smith Thomas Spliethof DebbiE Stalnaker Elizabeth Stiles Dorie Stone Carl Stonerook Jackie Sundberg William Tarbox Kristin Taylor Christopher Toms August Trumm Ray Turkle Joseph Vann Christine Vosicka Nicole Voss Steven Voss Jordyn Walker Johnny Wells Kaitlyn Wiktor Ann Woolard Yahoo!

July - August 2014

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

GENERAL INFORMATION Phone: 402.731.3140 Email: info@fontenelleforest.org Web: fontenelleforest.org Find us on: Fontenelle Forest Nature Center 1111 Bellevue Boulevard North, Bellevue, NE 68005 •

Hours: Open daily, 8:00a.m. - 5:00p.m. Closed December 25 & January 1

•

Trails open dawn to dusk for FF members. Non-members admitted before close have trail access until dusk

Admission: Fontenelle Forest members Free One Day Membership $7 Adult | $6 Senior (62+)| $5 Child (2-17)

Neale Woods 14323 Edith Marie Avenue, Omaha, NE 68112 •

Trails open year round, dawn to dusk

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Nature center CLOSED for renovation

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

Coming October 25, 2014