Fontenelle Forest March-April 2014 Leaflet by Fontenelle Forest

LEAFLET The Newsletter of Fontenelle Forest March - April 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

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

Joe Vavak

Naturalist

Public Relations Assistant

Jim Beebe

Ronnie Wells

Ranger / NWNC Property Supervisor Elizabeth Chalen

Exhibits, Special Projects, and Events Coordinator

Manager of Programming and Outreach

Deborah Woracek

Linda Dennis

Manager of Summer Day Camps

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

Education Assistant Kareen Hickman

Development Associate Betsy Finch

Manager of Raptor Rehabilitation Gary Garabrandt

Ranger Catherine Kuper

Educator Paul Lahowetz

Facilities Superintendent Denise Lewis

Educator/Raptor Recovery Matt Miller

Facilities Attendant Kate Murphy

Educator Josh Preister

Ranger / FFNC Property Supervisor Alex Shiffermiller

Visitor Service Supervisor Barb Shiffermiller

Manager of Customer Service Joan Soverns

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

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

Visitor Services Assistants Helen Beebe Brian Mark Conover Kirk Vaughn-Robinson Nick Woodard

H on or ar y Tr u stees 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

Manager of Donor Relations and Membership Janet Stander

Assistant Manager of Raptor Rehabilitation Jamie Vann

Naturalist

March - April 2014 M

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

MEMBERS ONLY Mem b e rs h i p B e ne f it s As a Fontenelle Forest Member, your benefits include: • FREE members-only events and other programming • 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 at ◊ Unique entertainment options: critter encounters, guided fontenelleforest.org /membership hikes, children’s programs

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!

MARCH

APRIL

Blue Barn Theater 20% off tickets to “GNIT”

Ballet Nebraska Buy one ticket get one free to “Momentum featuring Party Animals”

El Museo Latino $1 off admission (per person)

Film Streams $4.50 tickets & 20% off concessions (for all regular screenings)

Nature Explorers: Just Passing Octo r Appre cia t io n M on th March 22be r i s M e m be Through 1:00p.m. - 3:00p.m. “Just Passing Through” Migratory birds WLC Leader(s): Debbie Beck & are on the wing. Join the group as we explore the stream, pond and marsh to Kate Murphy get a close up look at these spring time FF Members Only visitors. Bring your binoculars if you have a pair. We will set up spotting scopes and will loan out extra binoculars. Maybe we’ll spot some pelicans. Registration is required and limited to 16 children ages 5 – 11.

April 12 1:00p.m. - 3:00p.m. WLC Leader(s): Debbie Beck & Kate Murphy FF Members Only

Nature Explorers: Beavers The beaver have been very busy rearranging the stream at the wetlands. The group will visit the dam and den sight of a family of resident beaver. Along the way, we’ll play a beaver adaptation game. Registration is required and limited to 12 children ages 5 – 11.

March - April 2014

JUST FOR CHILDREN

PROGRAMS Programs are listed in chronological order March 1 9:00a.m. - 11:00a.m. Aksarben Aquarium, Schramm Park State Recreation Area Leader(s): Rick Schmid

Mud Pies now meets four days per week, Monday - Thursday. Mud Pies is a family program encouraging adult/child interaction focused around a weekly nature theme. 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 Leader(s): Kate Murphy

March 29 10:00a.m. - 2:00p.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.

March 1 10:00a.m. FFNC Leader(s): Chris Vosicka, Cori Tejral, & Mark Spangler

Fairy Faire 2014 Do you want to dress up and meet some forest fairies? From the bubble fairy to the flower fairy, dress up and come see the fairies. This is your chance to come build a fairy house, make a craft, have your face painted, or participate in a costume contest. You might even see the Queen of the fairies. Hobbits, wizards, elves, gnomes, fauns, pirates, and any other magical creatures are welcome. For children and the young at heart! Look for details about the exciting Ogre Cooking Contest and other scheduled events at fontenelleforest.org

First of Training Series for FrogWatchUSA Citizen Science Volunteers

This is the first session in a training series all about FrogWatch USA and what is happening locally with this citizen science project. Learn what this program is all about and how you can get involved, whether here at the forest, at a local park, or in your backyard. Registration required. Signs of Spring March 1 The forest is just beginning to wake up 1:00p.m. - 3:00p.m. from a cold winter, and we can’t wait to FFNC Leader(s): Jackie Sundberg, take you out to see what’s sprouting up! Will we find insects buzzing around? Joanne Langabee, & Jane Buds starting to open on the trees? Small Palmer patches of green starting to color the trails? Songbirds beginning to build their nests? Join us for this hike into the forest to discover the signs of spring. Family Sundays in the Forest: March 2 Forest Investigations 1:00p.m. - 3:00p.m. Be a Nature Detective and explore the FFNC Leader(s): Chris Robie & remains of NE mammals. Can you guess who they belong to? Using pelts, skulls, Judy Bell bones and artifacts we will discover the stories waiting to be unfolded. This program will include an optional hike to search for animal tracks and other signs to lead us on an adventure of forest investigation. Bird Club March 6 Our guest speaker will be Timothy White 7:00p.m. who will lead us on a photographer’s jour$12 per year ney “From Maine to the Plains” with muFF members only sic and photos. This one-hour program FFNC covers Mr. White’s 25 years of wildlife photography in Maine and his return to his native Nebraska where he has continued to photograph native wildlife. This month’s field trips will include a crane/ waterfowl trip to the eastern rainwater basin on March 15 and a prairie chicken trip to Spring Creek Prairie (with a stop at Branched Oak Lake) on March 22.

FOR CLASSES REQUIRING REGISTRATION GO TO FONTENELLEFOREST.ORG March - April 2014 M

March 8 9:00a.m. - 11:00a.m. FFNC Leader(s): Rick Schmid

March 8 9:45a.m. - 10:45a.m. FFNC Leader(s): Denise Lewis

Raptors...Live! This is your opportunity to come visit us and meet our amazing raptors! See and learn about these fascinating owl, hawk, and falcon wildlife ambassadors; photographs are encouraged.

March 8 10:00a.m. FFNC Leader(s): Dennis Ferraro, UNL Herpetologist

FrogWatch USA Fontenelle Forest Nebraska Chapter

March 8 10:00a.m. - 11:30a.m. WLC Leader(s): Lindsay Cooley

Junior Naturalists Want to expand your natural science knowledge? Ready to sharpen your outdoor skills? Join us for Junior Naturalists – a brand new group for 6th-8th grade students who are committed to learning and exploring our natural world! Our meetings will include learning from the experts, practicing our field skills, hiking, field trips, and even a service project or two. Meetings will take place on the second and fourth Saturday of each month, from 10-11:30 am at the Wetlands Learning Center. For more information or please contact Lindsay Cooley at lcooley@fontenelleforest.org. Registration required. Critter Encounters Come enjoy and learn about some of our education animals on staff at the Forest. A number of critters will be out for you to see and touch.

March 8 1:00p.m. - 2:30p.m. FFNC Leader(s): Debbie Beck

March 9 1:00p.m. - 3:00p.m. FFNC Leader(s): Ingrid Johnson

Family Sundays in the Forest: Birds - Our Feathered Friends. Join us for an in-depth look at the life of birds. Through birds nest, feathers, and other artifacts, we will explore the world from a birds’ eye view. After we get our fill of these birdy goods, we will head outside to search for birds in the Forest, so please bring binoculars if you have them.

March 11 9:45a.m. - 11:00a.m. FFNC Leader(s): Catherine Kuper

SUN: Seniors Understanding Nature Blake Bell, National Park Ranger from Homestead National Monument, will speak on “The Homestead Act and Immigration.”

March 14 7:00p.m. - 8:30p.m. NWNC Leader(s): Bob Fuchs

Constellation Hike We will meet in the parking lot at Neale Woods at 7:00, and take a short evening hike prior to identifying constellations as darkness falls. Dress for the weather, and bring binoculars if you wish. They are great for looking at the stars! Best for school age and up. Please note that the building is not open during this time, so there are no restroom facilities available. Looking for Green in the Wetlands Wander through the wetlands in search of some signs of green popping up. As spring approaches and the plants begin to wake from their winter slumber, we begin to see green everywhere. Why are these green things, whether they are small or tall, so important to our forest? Come hike with us to find out!

Second Training Series for FrogWatchUSA Citizen Science Volunteers During his career, and in life, Dennis’ main goal is the conservation of amphibians, reptiles and turtles in North America. In 2010, Ferraro received the Holling Family Excellence in Teaching Award. Dennis will share with us the most common frogs of Nebraska, identifying with both their physical characteristics and their calls. Registration required.

March 15 10:00a.m. - 11:30a.m. WLC Leader(s): Lisa Cuevas-Jorgensen

March 16 1:00p.m. - 3:00p.m. FFNC Leader(s): Lee & Pam Cheever

Family Sundays in the Forest: Reptiles & Amphibians of Fontenelle Forest Join us for this great display of live reptiles and amphibians that have been known to call Fontenelle Forest home. We will discuss the key characteristics of each species, such as their physical descriptions, behavior, diet and habitat. Get an up close look at these amazing creatures.

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

March - April 2014

March 20 7:00p.m. FFNC

Photographers Club Framing and Matting Your Photos

March 22 10:00a.m. - 12:00p.m. WLC Leader(s): Wanda Pendley

Dirt Time: A Tracking Adventure Learning to track animals requires many hours in the field, often on your hands and knees, studying animal signs up close. This is the dirt time, literally time to look and dig and track in the dirt. It is only through this regular dirt time that we can hone our skills as trackers, and this is our opportunity to get together with others who are interested in learning more about the animals who call this forest home. All are welcome, and no prior experience tracking is needed. Come prepared for the weather and the great possibility of muddy or snowy boots...the more mud and snow, the easier it is to find tracks!

March 23 1:00p.m. - 3:00p.m. FFNC Leader(s): Mary Lou Alfieri & Wanda Pendley

March 23 2:00p.m. FFNC Leader(s): Chris & Walt Vosicka

March 30 1:00.p.m. - 3:00p.m. WLC Leader(s): Chris Vosicka, Cori Tejral, & Mark Spangler

April 3 7:00p.m. $12 per year FF members only FFNC

Bird Club Our guest speaker will be renowned Nebraska ornithologist and UNL Professor Emeritus, Dr. Paul Johnsgard. Dr. Johnsgard is the author of more than 40 books, and his presentation will be on cranes. There will be two field trips in April. The first will be April 18-21 to southern Kansas (Quivera NWR and Cheyenne Bottoms). The second will be a day-trip to Indian Cave State Park and Squaw Creek NWR on April 26.

April 4 7:00p.m. FFNC

Prophets of Woe and Mischance: Night Thoughts on Night Owls. A lecture by Rick Wright. Wright is a Bellevue native and was the Managing Director of WINGS from 2008 to 2010. He is also a widely published writer, a popular lecturer at birding events, and an enthusiastic tour leader in Europe and North America (where he still leads trips for WINGS). FF and the Audubon Society of Omaha are jointly sponsoring this program, which is open to the public at no charge.

Family Sundays in the Forest: Sandhill Cranes The Sandhill Cranes are migrating through central Nebraska right now, and we are here to cheer them on! While we may not see them flying over our forest, there is April 5 still much to learn about these magnificent 9:00a.m. - 11:00a.m. creatures. Aksarben Aquarium, Schramm Park State Recreation Area River Kayaking Adventures Leader(s): Rick Schmid Join us for a preview for our this year’s upcoming Nebraska, Missouri and Mississippi Kayaking River Trips with WoggWorks Kayaking. We’ll start by viewing “The Niobrara: Jewel of the North” filmed and documented by Tom Brouse, then on to the Elkhorn, Missouri, and Mississippi Rivers. Chris Vosicka, FF Educator, ACA Member/Certified Instruc- April 5 1:00p.m. - 3:00p.m. tor and husband Walt of WoggWorks FFNC Kayaking will take you on a visual jourLeader(s): ney of kayaking our region. Registration Joanne Langabee, Jackie required. Sundberg, & Jane Palmer FrogWatch USA Fontenelle Forest Nebraska Chapter This brief training will start inside with some background information, then we will head out into the marsh to listen for frog calls. By visiting various locations around the marsh, we will learn to observe and report your data for this citizen science project. All ages are welcome. Registration required

April 5 1:00p.m. - 3:00p.m. WLC Leader(s): Chris & Walt Vosicka

FOR CLASSES REQUIRING REGISTRATION GO TO FONTENELLEFOREST.ORG March - April 2014 M

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). Signs of Spring Spring in the forest is a time of blooming, buzzing and birds. Join us on this afternoon hike to discover what is growing and showing out in the forest at this time of year. Welcome to Kayaking 101 From Spring until early Fall, kayaking will be offered this year at Fontenelle Forest’s wetlands. Chris Vosicka, Fontenelle Forest Educator/ACA Member/Certified Instructor, and husband Walt with WoggWorks Kayaking will be providing kayaking opportunities at “The Marsh” throughout the seasons. This presentation will give you a short history of kayaking and water safety, and will give you an understanding of kayaking basics.You will also be able to try the various kayaks and paddles available today. This will be a “dryland” event in preparation to be “on the water” this spring. Registration is required.

April 6 1:00p.m. - 3:00p.m. FFNC Leader(s): Dianne Guinn

Family Sundays in the Forest: Animals and Their Young in the Forest Search for animals with their young, and signs of animals with their young, while hiking in the forest. What do these animals need to raise their young? What signs should we be looking for? Come learn about the animals that make the forest their home.

April 8 9:45a.m. - 11:00a.m. FFNC Leader(s): Catherine Kuper

SUN: Seniors Understanding Nature John Pollack, retired National Weather Service meteorologist with give a presentation on “Climate Change.”

March 8 9:45a.m. - 10:45a.m. FFNC Leader(s): Denise Lewis

Raptors...Live! This is your opportunity to come visit us and meet our amazing raptors! See and learn about these fascinating owl, hawk, and falcon wildlife ambassadors; photographs are encouraged.

April 13 1:00p.m. - 3:00p.m. FFNC Leader(s): Eric Scholar

Family Sundays in the Forest: Wildflower Walk Spring is the time for wildflowers in the forest, and they are starting to show their colors. We will head out onto the trails in search of Dutchman’s Breeches, Virginia Waterleaf and Spring Beauty, among other flowers. Learn where the best places are in the forest to find wildflowers and enjoy these gems of the spring.

Photographers Club Night Photogaphy

April 20 8:00a.m. - 9:30a.m. FFNC Leader(s): Jackie Sundberg

Morning Hike Join us this Sunday morning for a stroll to watch the forest wake up. Listen for the morning bird song, watch the sun warm the plants as it comes over the hills, and enjoy the fresh morning air. Start your day off fresh with this morning hike.

Insect Club What’s the difference between a moth and a butterfly? What butterfly species should I be looking for in Nebraska? How do I tell a swallowtail from a hairstreak? Local entomologist and FF Teacher Naturalist, Tony Palmer, will answer these and other questions during his presentation on Lepidoptera.

April 26 10:00a.m. - 11:30a.m. FFNC Leader(s): Lisa Cuevas-Jorgensen

Earth Day Bird Hike What better way to celebrate Earth Day than to search for birds that travel all over this great planet during their lifetimes. This hike will take us out into the forest to search for these feathered, flying friends. Bring along your binoculars and your sense of adventure as we head out onto the trails to enjoy nature.

April 27 1:00p.m. - 3:00p.m. FFNC Leader(s): Sharon Draper

Family Sundays in the Forest: Are You Smarter than a Crow? If you’ve ever watched the show “Are You Smarter Than A Fifth Grader,” you probably realized at some point that you were not. And you may not be as smart as a crow either. Come join us as we hike through the forest and learn that crows are not “bird brained” but are “brainy” birds.

Par ty Wh ere th e Wild Th in gs L i ve!

Almost Full Moon Hike April 17 We all know that bright object in the night 7:00p.m. - 8:30p.m. sky as the moon. And to most of us it’s FFNC Leader(s): Sharon Draper & just a full, half, crescent or new moon. But did you know that the indigenous cultures Tad Leeper had very descriptive names for the moon, usually depicting something about their lives? Come join us as we learn what some of these names are and why the native peoples chose them. We will also see if these names still mean the same today as they did centuries ago. Please dress for the weather and wear sturdy boots/shoes as we will be on dirt trails. Ages 12 and up April 17 7:00p.m. FFNC

April 24 7:00p.m. $10 per year FF members only FFNC

Make your child’s next birthday memorable by celebrating it at the Forest! Each party includes a Naturalist led hike, games, 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 is included for all participants for that day. One adult must be present for every four children in attendance. Prices are non-refundable unless Fontenelle cancels due to the weather. Available Dates: March 15 & April 19 Available Times: 10:00a.m. to 12:00p.m. 1:00p.m. to 3:00p.m. Camp Brewster Lodge $130.00 FF members plus $50.00 refundable cleaning deposit $150.00 non-members plus $50.00 refundable cleaning deposit Ages: 4-10 (12 child limit per party) Registration required. Call Debra Beck at 402.731.3140 x1017. Registration and payment must be received two weeks in advance of party date.

Scou tin g at Fon ten elle Forest Contact the Scouts Registrar as Fontenelle Forests’ new Scout programs are in the works. If you are interested in details on new guided hikes, badges, and programs that can travel to you, contact Kathy Fischer at kfischer@fontenelleforest.org or check out our website at http://www.fontenelleforest.org/scouts.

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

March - April 2014

Monday

Tuesday

FrogWatch USA 1:00p.m.-3:00p.m..|WLC p. 6

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

11 Mud Pies 9:30a.m. - 11:30a.m.|FFNC p. 4 SUN 9:45a.m. - 11:00a.m.|FFNC p. 5

Family Sunday 1:00p.m. - 3:00p.m.|FFNC p. 6 River Kayaking 2:00p.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 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. 5

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

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

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

Constellation Hike 7:00p.m. - 8:30p.m. | FFNC p. 5

***Denotes members only program

Friday

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

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

Thursday

Wednesday

Family Sundays 1:00p.m. - 3:00p.m.|FFNC p. 4

Blue Barn Theatre: 20% off tickets to “GNIT” by Will Eno El Museo Latino: $1 off admission (per person)

Metro Arts and Culture Pass Deals

march

Sunday

Fairy Faire 10:00a.m. - 2:00p.m.|FFNC p. 4

Dirt Time: A Tracking Adventure 10:00a.m. - 12:00p.m.|WLC p. 6 Nature Explorers 1:00p.m. - 3:00p.m. | WLC p. 3

Looking for Green 10:00a.m. - 11:30a.m. | FFNC p. 5

Bird Banding 9:00a.m. - 11:00a.m.|Schramm p. 4 FrogWatch USA 10:00a.m. | FFNC p. 4 Signs of Spring 1:00p.m. - 3:00p.m. | FFNC p. 4

Saturday

Sunday

Monday

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

Thursday

Wednesday

Tuesday

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

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. - 9:00p.m.|FFNC p. 6

Friday

Prophets of Woe and Mischance 7:00p.m.|FFNC p. 6

Saturday

Bird Banding 9:00a.m.-11:00a.m.|Schramm p. 6 Signs of Spring 1:00p.m. - 3:00p.m. | FFNC p. 6 Welcome to Kayaking 1:00p.m. - 3:00p.m. | WLC p. 6

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

Mud Pies 9:30a.m. - 11:30a.m.|FFNC p. 4 Almost Full Moon Hike 7:00p.m. - 8:30p.m.|FFNC p. 7 Photographers Club 7:00p.m.|FFNC p. 6

ARBOR DAY!

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

Nature Explorers: Beavers 1:00p.m. - 3:00p.m. | WLC p.3 Raptors Live 9:45a.m. - 10:45a.m.| FFNC p. 7

EARTH DAY!

Family Sundays 1:00p.m. - 3:00p.m.|FFNC p. 7

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

21 22

Mud Pies 9:30a.m. - 11:30a.m.|FFNC p. 4 SUN 9:45a.m. - 11:00a.m.|FFNC p. 7

13 Family Sundays 1:00p.m. - 3:00p.m.|FFNC p. 7

Easter - FFNC is Open

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

NE SCIFEST 8:00a.m. - 5:00p.m.|FFNC p. 11 Earth Day Bird Hike 10:00a.m. - 11:30p.m.|FFNC p. 7

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

Ballet Nebraska: Buy 1 ticket get 1 free for “Momentum feat. Party Animals” Film Streams: $4.50 tickets & 20% concessions (for all regular screenings)

Metro Arts and Culture Pass Deals:

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

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

Morning Hike 8:00a.m. - 9:30p.m.|FFNC p. 7

NE SCIFEST 8:00a.m. - 5:00p.m.|FFNC p. 11 Family Sundays 1:00p.m. - 3:00p.m.|FFNC p. 7

april

Na t ure D i s c ove r y D ay Ca mps 2 0 1 4

Ad op t an An im al

Fontenelle Forest welcomes you to a summer of discovery and learning in a place where the quiet wild of nature offers an unparalleled opportunity for your child to learn. Nature Discovery Day Camps feature science-based learning through play taught by a combination of FF’s year-round professional educators and summer staff who are college students or graduates. All have experience working with children in an outdoor setting, are enthusiastic, energetic, love children, and have passed background checks. Camp staff complete a one-week training session and have current CPR and First Aid certifications. Our staff is committed to providing your child with high quality, positive experiences. Whether your child canoes the Great Marsh, takes a low ropes course challenge, or builds a kite, we’re sure that they will bring home memories and knowledge that will last a lifetime.

...and the Name is Cranberry

By Deborah Woracek, Master Naturalist

Registration is open now! Discounts are offered for early registrations and multi-camp registrations. For information contact the Manager of Day Camps at 402.731.3140 x1016 - dworacek@fontenelleforest.org or visit fontenelleforest.org/camps. GRANDS & ME Ages 4 to 8 Grands & Polliwogs A Grand Adventure Ages 9 to 12 Grands in the Wetlands TODDLERS Ages 3 and under A Tree & Me Things with Wings Night Time at Camp Brewster DISCOVERERS Ages 4 and 5 Below Your Toes Claws & Paws Color My World Nature Through Eric Carle’s Eyes Puddle Ducks ADVENTURERS Kindergarten A is for Ants, B is for Beetles....S is for Spiders Nature Detectives Dinosaurs Rock! Nifty Night Critters All About Amphibians (and Reptiles, too) Open the Door, Let’s Explore Pond Discoveries

March - April 2014 M

We have a new policy of naming our educational animals and our newest addition came to us with the name of Cranberry (born on November 15, 2013). One of our Teen Naturalist Trainees (TNTs) knew we were in the market for a baby educational rabbit. She contacted us when one of her rabbits had a litter. Of course, she sent pictures and, of course, we all fell in love with the tiny fur balls. When the young ones were old enough we very gladly accepted one of them to be our newest rabbit for programs! She/he is a mix of Dutch and Rex Breeds – both old well-established breeds known for being extra calm, friendly, and intelligent. Finally, she/he was old enough to come to live with us! This baby was handled every day of its life and came to us trained in proper etiquette when handled by strangers. Our new cutie looks like a brown wild rabbit with very soft thick fur. This one is a true velveteen rabbit as both of the breeds (Rex and Dutch) have short guard hairs that form the ‘double’ velvety coat. We have already presented the new kid at programs and she/he has proven to be a huge hit in a tiny package!

EXPLORERS 1st & 2nd Grade Crazy about Critters Boys at Brewster Glorious Girls A Planting We Will Go Wetlands Wonders Habitat Havoc Up, Up, and Away....the Sky’s the Limit! Inspect an Insect Oh, What a Tangled Web We See A Sample of Science SEEKERS 3rd & 4th Grade Marsh Music Take a Hike Scat, Tracks, & Trails Nature’s Engineers Skeeters, Ticks, & Flies, Oh My! Gals in the Wetlands Guys in the Forest Time Traveler TRACKERS 5th & 6th Grade Canoeing 101: A Beginning... All Day Adventures Camp Canoeing 102: The Next Chapter... Zombie Camp or How to Survive in the Wild!

If you adopt our new baby rabbit you will receive an official adoption certificate, a beautiful portrait of the baby, a family guest pass, an animal fact sheet, the FNA animal history of this rabbit and your name will be posted by her/his cage. All of this is available for the low price of $60 and will provide the little one with treats, toys, and help with general expenses. When she/he is old enough we will have her/him spayed or neutered and she/he will have regular checkups with a veterinarian. Think about adopting this little cutie for a unique addition to your Easter basket, birthday gift, or anniversary gift for that special someone. We appreciate the support.

Per fect for Easter Din n er !

APPLE PIES FOR SALE famous homemade! 10

Emba r k i n t o Su mme r.

Natu r al Selection s

New Adult Program for 2014!

By Deborah Woracek, Master Naturalist

This new five-day program offers an opportunity for adults to encounter the natural world through presentations, field study, and integrative experiences. We’ll explore geology; forest, prairie, and wetland ecology; and human inhabitants from ancient to current times.

March The geese can be spotted overhead as they journey north and the RedWinged Blackbird early males are looking for territories at the beginning of March. Spring Beauties will pop up and bloom overnight. These are the first of many flowers to grace our trails in the early spring. Bloodroot will soon follow by unfurling its leaves in the warmer days of March. It is time to travel to the Platte to experience the timeless migration of the Sandhill Cranes. This passage to spring has occurred for millennia, how lucky we are to have a chance to see it again! The Grackles and Robins visit our birdbaths in abundance as songbirds start to return to our area. The first ‘scouts’ of the Purple Martin flocks also return in mid-March. Spring IS on its way!

Contact Catherine Kuper at ckuper@fontenelleforest.org for information about college credit or CEUs. Join us for the week of June 16-20, 9am-4pm daily. For more information and to apply, visit http://www.fontenelleforest.org/embarkintosummer or contact Elizabeth Chalen at echalen@fontenelleforest.org.

April Thanks to our snowy winter April’s trails should be spectacular as they should be thickly adorned with our spring flowers. The blooms may be tiny but they are impressive when massed beside the trails. From timber phlox to Dutchman’s Breeches and bloodroot-they can really put on a good show when conditions are just right. The Toms of the turkey tribe are starting to dance to ‘impress the ladies’ while Purple

NE S C I FES T All About Birds Fontenelle Forest is proud to once again be a part of Nebraska Science Festival with free admission for the public on Saturday, April 25 & Sunday, April 26. Visitors can participate throughout the day in a variety of bird themed events: • bird banding • guided bird walks • raptor presentations • artifact tables • art/craft project for children • meet and greet Bert and Ernie of Sesame Street! Activities will be held multiple times throughout the day. The final schedule will be posted on our website and at the Front Desk on the day of the event.

Photo by Philip A. Swanson

Te en N a t u ra l i s t s! If you have a high school student who loves nature, contact Naturalist Jamie Vann at jvann@fontenelleforest.org for information on the Teen Naturalist Trainee program.

Martin scouts are picking out real estate. The hawks and warblers start coming back into the area along with the occasional string of Pelicans weaving in and out between the clouds. The marsh wakes up to the season with toads calling, turtles basking and all the rest giving birth to this year’s crop of young. The warblers will also arrive during this exciting month. At April’s end the Great Marsh will be teeming with the first babies of the mammals….Business at the forest is definitely booming! Come and see for yourself.

March - April 2014

Fe a t he r O u r N e st

CONTRIBUTIONS & SUPPORT Novem b er 16, 2013 - J anu ar y 15, 2014 Benefactor ($2500 and above) Bruce Lauritzen and Gerry Morrow Lauritzen Walter Scott Distinguishing Patron ($1000 - $2499) Paul and Maureen Halbur Bryan Handlos Leland Russell and Mary Liz Jameson Howard J. and Gloria C. Kaslow Bill Kathol and Linda Head, M.D.

FONTENELLE FOREST GUILD Cordially Invites You To Join Us FEATHER OUR NEST Centennial Celebration 1914-2014 FRIDAY, APRIL 25, 2014 Livestock Exchange Building | 4920 South 30TH Street 6:00PM Cocktails, Silent Auction, Raffle 7:30PM Dinner & Live Auction HONORED CHAIRPERSON Gary Garabrandt HONORED ORGANIZATION Nebraska Land Trust Celebrate the PAST, take pleasure in the PRESENT, & prepare for the FUTURE

Sustaining Patron ($500 - $999) Jim and Mary Hawkins Anne Hubbard Lawrence R. and Jeannette James Richard W. and Ruth Laughlin Janet J. McCrae Daniel and Cheryl Morris William R. Peters H. Douglas and Karen Riley Edward B. and Victoria F. Roche Christine Smith and Lynne MacDonald Supporting Patron ($250 - $499) Mike and Becky App John Arndorfer and Mary Carnazzo Jonathan and Traci Bean Michael Berry Robert and Anne Bothe Chester and J. Louise Bressman Sal and Mary Kay Carta Dennis and Ann Christiansen Robert and Linda Fuchs James and Christine Jacobsen Robert and Cheryl Leavitt Tad Leeper and Mary Coady-Leeper Martin and Lorraine Mancuso Chris and Sarah McGowan Bill and Judy Mueller Athena Ramos and Jose Sanchez Robert and Stacie Reed, Jr. Robert D. Rose and Kathleen Crawford-Rose Steve and Julee Sauer Thomas D. and Denese H. Stalnaker Gary L. and Carol Thompson Robert and Sandy Tuma Ricardo and Ramona Turner James T. and Dian Warren

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Patrons ($100 - $249) John C. and Bettie Adams Chuck and Franci Addy Larry and Shirley Anderson Joseph Bradley Douglas J. and Dawn Buchanan Alan and Jill Butler Ed F. and Ruth J. Cambridge Steve and Kim Crook Roger and Carolyn Cunningham Beck Household Matt Darling and Elizabeth Rouse Matt and Kristi Davis Thomas and Mary Dobleman Louis and Astrid Ferony Rollin and Sue Gentes Gary L. and Barbara Goldstein Gary and Lisa Green Walter L. and Lana L. Griffiths Mike and Kathlyn Gross Timothy and Debra Hart John P. and Karen Heil Margaret and Charles Hermes Bruce L. and Holly J. Hoberman Jim and Kay Horwath Victor and Jan Kensler Dennis and Karlene A. Kingery Kyle and Kara Krehbiel H. Frederick and Janet A. Kuehl John W. and Marian J. Lord Danforth and Mary Loring, Sr. Ed and Phyllis Lueninghoener Russ and Mary Ann Manners Beth and Edward McGill Jim and Pat Millard Sarah Newman and David Harding Steve and Janalyn Nowling James and Kathy Quinlan Gary and Sara Radil Richard S. and Mary Lynn Reiser James and Nancy Rosenthal Max J. and Karen Rudolph Tobin and Molly Schropp Jerry and Beth Smith John and Debbie Stalnaker Justin and Jeanette Stolen Edward J. Taylor and Carol Gilbert Steven C. and Maureen Turner Irving and Gail Veitzer William and Carole Warnes Gordon and Joy Watanabe Corey and Andi Weber Robert and Deborah Wigton

Donations Deb and Bill Ady Janet Anderson Ralph Anderson Greg and Cecilia Arndt Jocelyn Baade Elaine Bachel Ingrid Bangers Edson L. and Sally S. Bridges, II Richard and Carol Britten David E. and Nancy G. Brown Anne Brutsche Lawrence Burman Col. Richard C. and Judy Carver Mary L. Chapek-Hogg Jack and Alice Chapman Willis and Irene Chesnut Malinda Chouinard John W. and Judith Clark Randall and Sharon Clark Karen Collins Karna Cronn John and Rebecca Dietle Mark and Beth Dietz Jeff Dykstra John and Marty Elftmann, Jr. Kathryn Ewing and David Anson Doug and Betsy Finch Gordon E. and Nev Fredrickson Robert and Linda Fuchs Marsha V. Gallagher Dr. E.D. and Birte Gerlings Sheri Gillham John and Jennifer Glazer John and Margaret Gondring Judith Good Neil and Martha Graff Patricia Hammer Jon and Beth Hansen Richard and Kristina Hansen Michael T. Hayduska Bill Kathol and Linda Head, M.D. Charles and Robin Hill Alan Hines Daniel and Nancy Hinnah Carri Honz Lawrence R. and Jeannette James Jim and Mary Jansen Beth Jenckes Darlene and Ric Jensen Jennifer and Douglas Johnson Dwight Johnson Kenneth and Sally Kampfe Julia Kellie

John Kellogg, Jr. and Mary Ann Kellog Paul and Cristin Kelly Donald and Lynda King Brandon and Jennifer Koom Richard and Patricia Kutilek Patrick J. Lavelle Tad Leeper and Mary Coady-Leeper Lorraine Leiser and David Taylor Ed and Phyllis Lueninghoener William and Jodie Mackintosh Jim and Nancy Malkowski Shirley Mason Chris and Sarah McGowan Kelly Mernaugh James and Dorothy Morrow Alan and Anna Naujokaitis James and Dorsey Olson Raptor Recovery Nebraska Ed and Jo Rasmussen Neal S. and Debra Ratzlaff Tim Robinson and Michaela Dinan Jack and Anita Roth John T. Roth Becky and David Royce Mark and Diana Schreier J. William and Ruth Scott William and Laura Shiffermiller Thomas D. and Denese H. Stalnaker John and Jodi Sunderman Robert and Sharon Swartzbaugh Gary L. and Carol Thompson Kuba Travnicek Hazel Turner Rita M. Valla Michael and Linda Verzal Tim and Mary Wahl James T. and Dian Warren John Wayne Robert and Joan Wicklund Ann and Vernon Williams Barton Willis Deborah H. Wyatt Kirby and Mary Zicafoose

Continued on next page

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CONTRIBUTIONS & SUPPORT C o nt inu e d f ro m Page 1 3 Corporate and Foundation Giving Big Muddy Workshop Girl Scouts Spirit of Nebraska Lincoln Track Club Mammel Foundation MetLife Nebraska Falconerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Association Omaha Fish and Wildlife Patricia Catering Suzanne and Walter Scott Foundation Tenaska, Inc. Philanthropy Fund Tributes

In Honor of Matt Darling and Elizabeth Rouse Mark and Diana Schreier

In Honor of Bill Riggs

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

Maude Riggs

Patricia Hammer

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

In Memory of Jim Haggart, Jr.

Forest Sustainer

Neal S. and Debra Ratzlaff

Black Walnut

In Memory of Robert Linderholm

Friend of the Forest Methodist Health System Sarpy County Tourism

In Memory of Ryan Guinn

Nebraska Falconerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Association

Shagbark Hickory In Memory of Karen Waters Jack and Alice Chapman Randall and Sharon Clark John and Rebecca Dietle John and Margaret Gondring Richard and Kristina Hansen Charles and Robin Hill John Kellogg, Jr. and Mary Ann Kellog Alan and Anna Naujokaitis Becky and David Royce Verzal Household In-Kind Gifts Dan and Melissa Preister Patricia Catering

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 Omaha Schools Foundation William Leopard Charitable Lead Trust

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

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

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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 Patty Albright Mary Lou Alfieri Jennifer Alloway Alex Aspiazu Angela Athy Jennifer Bartelt Louise Bauck Judith Bell C. Shawn Bengtson Emma Betz Alexis Boulos Amy Brown Jennifer Brummund Michael Burke Angi Burmeister Pamela Jay Cheever Albert Lee Cheever Ruihong Chen

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 from December 2013 – January 2014. Ann Christiansen Joseph Churchill Kathleen Crawford-Rose Amanda Dana Marissa Daskiewicz Kristi Davis Shannon Dombrowski Jenny Doyle Sharon Draper David Dvorak Patricia Eich Marty Elftmann Amber Fahey Nelli Falzgraf Gina Feely Jessica Feinstein Mindy Foral Michelle Foss Robert Fuchs Jody Galata Fred Galata Sue Gentes Bob Goetschkes Susan Graf Betty Grenon Andrea Gutta Paul Halbur Jean Hankins Russ Hankins Katie Hartner Blake Hatfield Jim Hawkins Brett Homme John Howell Dennis Hynes Jeannette James Kelly Jeffreys Ingrid Johnson Lisa Jorgensen Howard Kaslow Seth Keith Clem Klaphake

Jennifer Koom Kara Krehbiel Catherine Kuper Joanne Langabee Emily Lauritzen Tad Leeper Kristin Lewis Missy Lewis Julie Liakos Les Lowrey Chuqi Luo Justine Marshall Sam Matson Martha Mays Randy Mays Sarah McGowan Dean McVicker Jarl Nelson Susan Nemer Bonnie Newman Crole O’Neil Vicki Orr Loren Padelford Isabelle Paik Jane Palmer Amy Parks Denise Paul Brandi Pellerito Wanda Pendley Adam Peterson Julie Peterson Adrienne Petsick Jeanne Pricer Donald Ranheim Tiffany Regan Megan Ringenberg Chris Robie Jennifer Salem Julee Sauer Chris Schacht Levi Scheppers Eric Scholar

Christine Schulte Eloise Schwerdtfeger Duane Schwery Kathleen Schwery Katherine Simmons Brenda Smith Debbie Stalnaker Thomas Stalnaker Elizabeth Stiles Jackie Sundberg Justin Svrdlin Kristin Taylor Christopher Toms Ray Turkle Bridget Tynan Desirae Vallier Christine Vosicka Jordyn Walker Johnny Wells Haley Wharton Chad Witt Richard Wright Millard Central Middle School

Upcoming Volunteer Opportunities: Volunteer Trail and Land Stewardship March 22 8:30a.m. – 12:00p.m. April 12 8:30a.m. – 12:00p.m. Fontenelle Forest provides a monthly opportunity for volunteers to assist our Rangers with land and trail projects. These projects help preserve the land and forest so current and future generations can experience the quiet wild of nature. No special skills required except a love of being outdoors and a willingness to get dirty. :-) All volunteers are asked to wear long pants and bring work gloves, if they have them. We will provide a light breakfast and lunch. Bug spray is also provided by the Forest. Fairy Faire March 29 10:00a.m. – 2:00p.m. Do you believe in Fairies? Celebrate all things fairies and help bring to the life the wonder of imagination for children of all ages. Volunteers are needed to help with crafts, puppet shows, storytelling, hikes and crowd control. Nebraska Science Festival April 26 10:00a.m. – 5:00p.m. April 27 10:00a.m. – 5:00p.m. Fontenelle Forest will participate in 2014 in this community wide event focusing on science-related activities. Fontenelle Forest will be among several organizations offering free admissions and special programming on April 26 and 27. Volunteers are needed to help with set-up, crafts and other activities. This free public event relies on the success of our amazing volunteers. To sign up for any of these volunteer opportunities, please contact Kareen Hickman, Development Associate at 402-731.3140x1024 or khickman@fontenlleforest.org

Students from University of Nebraska – Omaha help clear brush at the Wetlands building during Martin Luther King Day of Service on 1/20/14. Thank you for your service to Fontenelle Forest!

March - April 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

Neale Woods

1111 Bellevue Boulevard North, Bellevue, NE 68005

14323 Edith Marie Avenue, Omaha, NE 68112

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Hours: Open daily, 8:00a.m. - 5:00p.m.

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Trails open year round, dawn to dusk

Closed December 25 & January 1

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Nature center CLOSED for renovation

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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)

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

Experience the Quiet Wild

of Nature