Summer 2018 Leaflet - The Engagement Issue

Leaflet

The Newsletter of Fontenelle Forest fontenelleforest.org

Summer 2018

The

t n e m e g a g En Issue Learn more about our efforts to reach more people in the local community and bring them to the Forest, educate them about ecology, and provide a calm, safe space for people of all ages and abilities.

Explore more at FontenelleForest.org

FONTENELLE FOREST | 1

08

10 Education How our educators are touching lives, young and old, every day

12 Forest News See all the amazing things we have been up to in the past few months

Contents Fontenelle Forest’s Leaflet Summer 2018: Engagement Issue

06

04

08 Stewardship

04 Highlights

Interns every summer not only help

Upcoming events at the Forest

05 Partnerships

restore the forest but build the next generation of land stewards.

New partnerships make the Forest accessible to more of the community than ever before

10 13 Volunteer Spotlight

06 Raptor Recovery

Shout-out to a great volunteer plus

How we work with the public across

opportunities to volunteer at the Forest

the state to save more birds of prey

14 Calendar Select upcoming programs. View the

05

complete calendar at fontenelleforest.org

Fontenelle Forest 1111 Bellevue Blvd North Bellevue, NE 68005 (402) 731-3140 fontenelleforest.org 2 | FONTENELLE FOREST

Summer 2018: Engagement Issue

MIRACLE, ALLIYAH, SELENA, AND KYANN BEGIN THEIR CONSERVATION INTERNSHIP AT THE FOREST. THE INTERNSHIP IS LED BY THE NEBRASKA CHILDREN AND FAMILIES FOUNDATION AND IS SUPPORTED BY THE CLAIRE M. HUBBARD FOUNDATION.

Our community extends far outside the Forest In this edition of the Leaflet we would like to share all the ways that Fontenelle Forest is committed to being a community partner, a community resource, and a community treasure by rooting our service in our values. One of those values is ENGAGEMENT. In 1913, Fontenelle Forest was envisioned as a grand nature park for everyone in our community to enjoy. In the spirit of our founders Fontenelle Forest is committed to the value of engagement which means that we will be welcoming and inclusive of all people.

We are a community partner and collaborator. We remove barriers that inhibit our ability to live this value. As you read the Summer Leaflet you will see evidence of our commitment to growing partnerships and to more broadly serving this wonderful community.

Fontenelle Forest proudly engages recreationalists, lovers, and learners of all things nature for people of all ages through our partnerships with local school districts, nonprofits, area senior living communities, and businesses.

I want to welcome the Omaha Public Library, Offutt Air Force Base and STRATCOM, North Star Foundation, and Completely KIDS to our community of partners. I hope that you enjoy reading about our new partnerships that are serving youth and families in North and South Omaha, increasing access to the Forest to address nature deficit disorders, providing training and leadership opportunities to young conservationists, and serving our military community.

Our upcoming exhibition is offered to the public for the

first time at the Forest since these artifacts were unearthed here nearly 100 years ago. It will provide an opportunity to understand the challenges and accomplishments of the people of the Nebraska Phase Culture.

It answers the question, how did people survive and thrive in the Forest more than 1,000 years ago? See, back before European migration into the area, the ridge tops along present day Fontenelle Forest were inhabited by a thriving community — a group of people referred to as the “Nebraska Phase Culture.” These people built earth lodges along the Missouri River, of which more than 60 have been cataloged within Fontenelle Forest.

Fishhooks, knives, and pottery shards were clues to the first archaeologists working to unlock the mystery of these early inhabitants. These artifacts were uncovered by Robert Gilder, who conducted the first comprehensive excavations in the early 1900s.

Come experience ancient life at this archaeological exhibit beginning this August.

No matter who you are or how you love to experience and enjoy the natural world, there is a place for you at Fontenelle Forest. And, if you think of a way that we can further improve our engagement with our diverse local community please let me know personally!

Merica Whitehall, Executive Director Explore more at FontenelleForest.org

FONTENELLE FOREST | 3

Upcoming Highlights

Keep things sizzling at the Forest this summer We have some hot programming this summer, some back by popular demand, some new and exciting.

GET YOUR TICKETS FOR BEER ON THE BOARDWALK SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 15 6-9 P.M. | AGES 21+ There is no event in the Omaha Metro like Beer on the Boardwalk! You will enjoy a relaxing evening in nature with beer, music, food, and friends.

Stroll the Riverview Boardwalk through the Forest, sampling locally brewed beers. On the plaza you can dance the evening away to local music, warm yourself by fire pits, and eat great food.

Don’t miss out on an event that you won’t forget. Register today. $25 for members, $35 for nonmembers. Save $5 if you register before September 1.

4 | FONTENELLE FOREST

NEBRASKA PHASE CULTURE THROUGH ARCHAEOLOGICAL WORK OF ROBERT F. GILDER OPENING RECEPTION FOR THE EXHIBIT IS AUGUST 4 AT 2 P..M.

More than 1,000 years ago, the ridge tops along present-day Fontenelle Forest were inhabited by a thriving community — a group of people referred to as the “Nebraska Phase Culture.” These people built earth lodges along the Missouri River, of which more than 60 have been cataloged within Fontenelle Forest.

This exhibition is offered to the public for the first time at Fontenelle Forest since these artifacts were unearthed here nearly 100 years ago. It will provide an opportunity to understand the challenges and accomplishments of the people of the Nebraska Phase Culture.

Summer 2018: Engagement Issue

WE THANK YOU FOR BEING ACTIVE MILITARY BY OFFERING FREE ENTRY THE FOREST IS A PARTICIPANT IN BLUE STAR MUSEUMS Up to five of your family members can join us for free all summer at Fontenelle Forest with your military ID! Whether you come to one of our family programs or enjoy the trails.

To top off this Blue Star Museums summer, we invite you to Military Family Weekend at the Forest August 25th and 26th for a complimentary cookout and tons of activities!

As always, all military families will receive $10 off a family membership to the Forest!

Active military or library card holder?

Enjoy the Forest for FREE! New partnerships bring more of the community into the Forest Have you heard all of the exciting news about our Fontenelle Forest partnerships in the community? We are dedicated to bringing more people from all walks of life to the Forest to enjoy the quiet wild of nature.

Thanks to new programs and partnerships, we are doing just that.

LIBRARY PASS PROGRAM: We have partnered with the Omaha, Bellevue, and Council Bluffs public libraries to offer free one-day admission to library members year-round. Just like a book, patrons of the library can check out a day pass for their whole family.

“We are so excited to be able to offer these membership passes to library cardholders,” said Merica Whitehall, Fontenelle Forest Executive Director. “One of the things that’s really amazing to me is how much of a resource places like libraries and Fontenelle Forest are for the community. How vast the engagement, activities, and learning opportunities of the organizations are. We are thrilled to work closely with local institutions for the betterment of our community.”

MILITARY COMMITMENT: This spring, we made it possible to purchase a Fontenelle Forest discounted membership directly at Offutt Air Force Base. Those who have recently relocated to Bellevue can learn about us for the first time and know that we are committed to supporting our military neighbors.

Moreover, for three months this summer active military families receive FREE admission to Fontenelle Forest as part of the Blue Star Museums program. Until Labor Day, service members and their families can enjoy everything the Forest has to offer, free of charge.

To cap off our Blue Star Museums summer, we will be hosting Military Family Weekend August 25 and 26 for active and retired military families to enjoy programming just for them! Whether it’s hiking, canoeing, or just relaxing and listening to music, this is a weekend to enjoy the Forest with friends and families who have served.

Explore more at FontenelleForest.org

FONTENELLE FOREST | 5

Raptor Recovery

When people truly care about big issues for the first time It takes a small army to complete the Raptor Recovery efforts at Fontenelle Forest. From being the only raptor recovery center in the state, to spreading the word about issues affecting birds of prey, to educating school groups about different species, there are many hands working many hours to make this happen.

superstitions related to birds of prey: some species, like the Owl, are perceived as “wise” while others, such as the common Red-Tailed Hawk, are thought of as “chicken hawks,” taking advantage of farmers’ chickens.

Turkey Vultures conjure up images of death and decay, while Bald Eagles are the majestic symbol of freedom.

STIGMAS All areas of our work focus on engaging the public in different ways to help keep birds of prey protected in a changing world. Consider all of the different stigmas or

People of all ethnicities have deeply-rooted beliefs and fears regarding these birds, and with the help of staff and a dedicated group of volunteers state-wide, we are able to educate the public about the importance of all raptors in our environment.

COMMON QUESTIONS Our volunteers receive hundreds of calls from the public every year throughout the state of Nebraska and Western Iowa. We have a 24/7 public hotline where people can report an injured or orphaned bird of prey.

A CROWD GATHERS TO SEE A BALD EAGLE RELEASED BACK TO THE WILD

6 | FONTENELLE FOREST

Summer 2018: Engagement Issue

FAMILIES AND PRESS COME TO A RAPTOR RELEASE

A LITTLE GIRL FALLS IN LOVE WITH AN EASTERN SCREECH OWL

“

“

When you learn, you understand.

When you understand, you care.

Denise Lewis, Director of Raptor Recovery

But our volunteers get more than just rescue calls.

From questions regarding the elusive Golden Eagles in the Sand Hills region or the wandering Swainson’s Hawks that nest in shelter belts in central Nebraska, to the urban Peregrine Falcons nesting in Lincoln and Omaha, we are always on call to answer the public’s questions and concerns.

Our 14 non-releasable raptors housed in the Raptor Woodland Refuge are great at bringing folks together.

As individuals and families wander through the refuge, admiring the birds, they also learn about the stories of each bird and why the bird is no longer in nature.

Volunteer docents interact with the public and are often pulled into discussing bigger issues regarding the health of wild raptor populations, like lead poisoning in our Bald Eagle populations. These discussions lead to a greater understanding and appreciation of Nebraska’s protected birds of prey.

TURNING EDUCATION INTO ACTION We often hear comments from multi-generational families, which leads to the bigger questions such as “What can I do to help?” Whether people wind up helping in big ways, like spending time volunteering,

A GIRL IS INTERVIEWED AT A RAPTOR RELEASE

making small changes like placing decals on their windows to prevent injuries from flying into windows, or switching from lead ammunition and sinkers when hunting or fishing to help end the lead poisoning epidemic, meeting raptors up close changes lives.

During the summer months, our Raptor Woodland Refuge relies on volunteer docents to teach. It’s refreshing to hear conversations from children, parents, and grandparents as they discuss raptors and what affects them.

Older generations talk about when DDT insecticide almost wiped out Bald Eagles and Peregrine Falcons in the contiguous United States. Today we discuss the effects of lead in the environment and the choices we can make to help diminish this toxin in the food chain.

These educational discussions can help us all to work together for a common cause—to help Nebraska’s wild raptor population thrive for the next generation to admire and learn from.

When we are able to release an injured raptor back to the wild, it is an unforgettable experience. When you learn, you understand. When you understand, you care.

- Denise Lewis, Director of Raptor Recovery If YOU are interested in volunteering with injured or orphaned birds of prey, contact Denise Lewis at DLewis@fontenelleforest.org Explore more at FontenelleForest.org

FONTENELLE FOREST | 7

Stewardship

Summer 2018 research and stewardship intern class from left to right: Gabriel teNeyenhaus (UNL), Marissa Cornish (UNO graduate), Claire Harsh (UNO), Kayla Johnson (UNO)

Above: Biologist Matt Miller explains the intricacies of the honeysuckle smackdown procedure to stewardship interns and volunteers prior to heading into the woods.

8 | FONTENELLE FOREST

Summer 2018: Engagement Issue

Engaging young adults in conservation:

Beneficial for both the Forest and the next generation of stewards Fontenelle Forest’s Land Stewardship and Research Department developed a formal conservation internship program three years ago. Initially our department hosted one college intern per school semester. However, as the program has expanded and become more prominent, we now hire three to four interns each semester and there are seven interns working in the Land Stewardship and Research department this summer.

Internship programs are an increasingly popular component of agencies, organizations and other

businesses as well as higher education institutions which benefit both the intern and the organization.

How does Fontenelle Forest benefit from our intern partnership with local universities?

• • • • • • • •

We might find a future employee We can test-drive the talent Increased productivity Low cost of labor Give back to the community Support students Mentor young people We receive a fresh perspective

Below are just a few benefits college students receive through the internship program at Fontenelle Forest: • Many students receive college credit for the hours • Opportunities to test-drive a career in conservation and restoration • The students can network with other students and professionals • They have ample opportunity to develop job skills • They can test their abilities and interests • Expose students to the rigors of field work in the conservation and environmental studies arena Our aim is to continue to strengthen our bond with colleges, universities, and other adult learning centers to attract a variety of young adults to Fontenelle Forest in the hopes of having a positive impact on these young, motivated future stewards as well as increasing our capacity to do important conservation work at the Forest.

By Jeanine Lackey, Director of Research and Stewardship To learn more about our internship program or apply for a college internship at Fontenelle Forest, contact Jeanine Lackey at jlackey@fontenelleforest.org or Michelle Foss at mfoss@fotnenelleforest.org.

Tabitha Paras, 2018 spring and summer intern Explore more at FontenelleForest.org

FONTENELLE FOREST | 9

Education

We can engage children who may not have access to nature

Amanda Johnson & Taylar E. Mason, graduate students at the University of Nebraska – Omaha in Social Welfare Planning, recently partnered with Fontenelle Forest to provide research that more clearly defines the realities of nature deficit on children and adults.

NATURE DEFICITS Research into the human disconnection from nature is not new. In 1984, E. O. Wilson introduced the biophilia hypothesis, which states that all people possess “the [biological] urge to affiliate with other forms of live.”

This hypothesis also discussed the ramifications this nature disconnect has on people in various facets of their lives.

According to a 2008 Children and Nature Network study, only 31% percent of children actively engage with the outdoors daily compared to 70% of their parents. An increasingly sedentary lifestyle via a reliance on electronic forms of entertainment has taken its toll in unforeseen ways.

Technology has changed the world. It has become

10 | FONTENELLE FOREST

Summer 2018: Engagement Issue

“

Children in cities have little or no access to nature and cannot explore outdoors, resulting in the majority of their formative years being spent inside.

“

A

t Fontenelle Forest we want to inspire current and future generations to care for the natural world.

Some have argued that it’s impossible to care for something that you don’t know or understand. This is why we take environmental education, interpretation, and immersive experiences in nature seriously.

“Biophilic Design Applications: Putting Theory and Patterns into Built Environment Practice” by Paul Downton

integral to everyday life and has positive and negative implications, especially for children whose brains are not fully developed. Some well-developed, ageappropriate applications and programs can be very beneficial assisting a child in learning new information and developing new skills according to 2009 research about young children and educational digital games.

Technology is not evil even in the context of use in childhood, but when it is used to replace time spent in nature there are real consequences to the physical health, behavior, and emotional well-being of youths.

Unfortunately, many people don’t have regular opportunities to experience nature, based on where they live.

“Children in cities have little or no access to nature and cannot explore outdoors, resulting in the majority of their formative years being spent inside,” according to a 2017 research paper on designing classrooms with a

(The Outdoor Foundation, 2017) Biophilic design.

the Dimensions Educational Research Foundation.

Today, there is a clear divide in which people have access to nature based on age, gender, race, socioeconomic status, and level of education, according to the Outdoor Foundation (graph above).

Whether the experience is provided through summer camps, the Acorn Acres outdoor nature classroom, ecotherapy like outdoor yoga and forest bathing, or Mud Pies, our infant to preschool program– all available to our broad community at Fontenelle Forest– learning, playing, and recreating in nature is good for your mind, body, and soul.

NATURE EXPOSURE FOR THE COMMUNITY At Fontenelle Forest we have been increasing educational partnerships and programs that expose people of all ages to nature. With the support of generous donors in the community, Fontenelle Forest raised over $10,000 this year to provide scholarships for community youth to attend summer camp. This year our partners in providing the rich experience of nature camp are Completely KIDS, which serves families in South Omaha, and the NorthStar Foundation, serving boys and young men in North Omaha.

Families living in poverty and youth growing up in inner-cities are subject to a high level of stressors that are typically persistent in character. Through new partnerships people of all ages are able to experience and enjoy Fontenelle Forest’s educational programs in an environment that promotes increased academic outcomes.

Research demonstrates that education and recreation in the natural world has measurable positive impacts on cognitive abilities as well as behavioral, physical, and mental health (according to 2013 research from

By Merica Whitehall, Executive Director Sources: Downton, P. (2017). Biophilic design applications: Putting theory and patterns into built environment practice. The International Conference on Design and Technology, 2017. 59–65 Children and Nature Network. (2008). A report on the movement to reconnect children to the natural world. Retrieved from https:// www.childrenandnature.org/uploads/CNMovement.pdf Lieberman, D.A., Fisk, M.C., & Biely, E. (2009). Digital games for young children ages three to six: From research to design.

Computers in the Schools, 26, 299-313.

Slutsky, R., Slutsky, M., & DeShelter, L.M. (2014). Playing with technology: Is it all bad? Dimensions of Early Childhood, 42(3).

18-23.

Miller, D. L., Tichota, K., & White, J. (2013). Young children’s authentic play in nature explore classrooms supports foundational learning: A single case study. Dimensions Educational Research Foundation,1-80.

Explore more at FontenelleForest.org

FONTENELLE FOREST | 11

Forest News

A look back at a successful Spring

EAGLE MEW BUILT AND READY FOR BALD EAGLE TO LIVE THERE Fontenelle Forest’s Raptor Woodland Refuge re-opened in early May with the completion of the Chip Davis Eagle Mew. With the $350,000 donation from Chip Davis, Grammy award-winning founder and creator of Mannheim Steamroller, this is our largest raptor enclosure. It can house a flighted Bald Eagle, meaning there is room for the Eagle to fly. It comes complete with a water feature for the Eagle to bathe and drink, perches from wood in the Forest, and an indoor space for inclement weather.

TODD WILLIAMS “LEGACY OF NEBRASKA” EXHIBIT CAPPED OFF THE NEBRASKA 150 CELEBRATION Internationally renowned artist Todd A Williams spoke about his “Legacy of Nebraska” series of paintings, which is on display at Fontenelle Forest through July.

You can see his whole talk on the Fontenelle Forest Facebook page. This is the last stop of this exhibition, so come see it before it’s gone for good!

NEBRASKA PASSPORT BRINGS TRAVELERS FROM ACROSS THE STATE TO THE FOREST Hundreds of visitors have walked in our doors to get their Nebraska Passport stamped. There are 42,000+ people doing the 2018 Nebraska Passport program this summer, and we are one of the natural attractions on the list!

MEMBER APPRECIATION WEEK WAS PACKED WITH POPULAR PROGRAMS TO THANK THOSE WHO MAKE THE FOREST PART OF THEIR LIVES Fontenelle Forest thanked members for being an important part of everything we do! From “Forest Bathing” walks, Raptors...Live! events, an evening of music on the plaza, Mommy and Me Yoga, and more, members experienced the best of what the Forest has to offer.

RECENT PRESCRIBED FIRE SEASON HAD RECORD NUMBER OF ACRES TRANSFORMED Land stewards and volunteers applied prescribed fire to more than 839 acres this year in addition to the 530 acres last year as part of our efforts to restore the Oak Savanna that once thrived here.

12 | FONTENELLE FOREST

Summer 2018: Engagement Issue

How did people survive and thrive in the Forest nearly 1,000 years ago?

NEBRASKA PHASE PEOPLE

THROUGH THE ARCHAEOLOGICAL WORK OF ROBERT F. GILDER BARIGHT GALLERY ARTIST SERIES

Join Us

AUGUST 4 AT 2 P.M. AT THE NATURE CENTER

To unveil an archaeological exhibition that has not been seen at the Forest since these artifacts were unearthed here nearly 100 years ago.

Fishhooks, knives, and pottery shards were clues to the first archaeologists working to unlock the mystery of these early inhabitants. These artifacts were uncovered by Robert Gilder, who conducted the first comprehensive excavations in the early 1900s.

Gilder’s early career was as a printer for several Omaha newspapers but after his retirement in 1919 he devoted his full attention to painting and archaeology. His findings were published in journals from Harvard to Yale. He later served as chief archaeologist of the University of Nebraska Museum.

Learn more about Robert Gilder and the Nebraska Phase people at our gallery opening, and look for more lectures and programs about this exhibition at fontenelleforest.org.

FUNDED IN PART BY: Explore more at FontenelleForest.org

FONTENELLE FOREST | 13

Left to Right: Mike Burke, Les Lowrey, Tom Olshark

Volunteer

Highlight

By Jeanine Lackey, Director of Research and Stewardship During 2017, Fontenelle Forest land stewardship volunteers (including interns) worked 3,360 hours.

That equals roughly $68,000 in services and savings for Fontenelle Forest and the community. Now that’s an impact!

I had such a hard time selecting just one stewardship volunteer to highlight, so I am putting the spotlight on THREE of our amazing land stewardship volunteers: Mike Burke, Les Lowery, and Tom Olshark. These fellas dedicate every Tuesday and Thursday morning, year-round, to Fontenelle Forest. Mike, Les, and Tom are some of our most experienced, long-standing, and skilled volunteers. They help us trim nettles along hiking trails, assist with landscaping projects, pull dames rocket, control bush honeysuckle, and help us conduct prescribed fire.

Mike Burke of Omaha has been volunteering for the Land Stewardship and Research department for seven years.

“Volunteering gives me a chance to help others as well as an opportunity to give something back to society,” Mike said. “Being a volunteer at Fontenelle Forest gives me the chance to enjoy the beautiful outdoors. Because of the foliage and changing seasons, it appears different every time we see a particular location.”

14 | FONTENELLE FOREST

Summer 2018: Engagement Issue

“One of the most important features of being a volunteer at Fontenelle Forest is the friendship with those I have an opportunity to work with. This includes both the other volunteers as well as the ranger staff,” Mike continued.

Les Lowrey of Bellevue has been volunteering at Fontenelle Forest for 10 years.

Why does Les volunteer at Fontenelle Forest? “I love the fellowship. One of the great rewards of working in any job is the relationships established. I really enjoy working with the people at Fontenelle Forest. I enjoy the feeling of being useful and productive. I love working in nature, I like the fact that we are always learning. I also like the fact that our work keeps me in good physical condition.”

Tom Olshark of Gretna has been volunteering at Fontenelle Forest for five years.

“The people I interact with are some of the best people that I have had the pleasure of working with,” Tom said.

“The sharing of information by the full-time employees is outstanding, they take the time to explain things, even when I give them the ‘deer in the headlights’ look. Volunteering at Fontenelle Forest gets me outdoors with nature. It also allows me to be useful and productive. I love learning different plants and trees. I volunteer because I love ‘Saving the Oaks’ and trying to get the forest back to the way it was 100 years ago.”

Thanks to these folks and all our wonderful volunteers for your sweat, determination, dedication, and especially for helping us create a healthier ecosystem we all call home.

Come to our Volunteer Luncheon Saturday, September 29th

Leading a Nature-Rich Life Luncheon On November 7, 2018, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., join us for Leading a Nature-Rich Life featuring the best-selling author of Last Child in the Woods, Richard Louv.

His writings and the founding of the Children & Nature Network focus on how to get children, families, and adults to have nature be a part of their lives.

This luncheon will lead the way in our region for parents, teachers, and health professionals to enthusiastically join in the movement to encourage interaction with nature and the benefits of leading a nature-rich life.

A Q&A session and book signing will follow after Mr. Louv’s presentation. Books will be available for purchase at the event and at the Fontenelle Forest gift shop.

Purchase tickets now at fontenelleforest.org or call Visitor Services at 402.731.3140. $75 for a ticket / $800 for a table.

Explore more at FontenelleForest.org

FONTENELLE FOREST | 15

Regular Programming Wild Summer Days Every child should experience the magic of holding a snail or smelling a wildflower, alongside a special adult in their life. Connect your child to nature by experiencing it together at this drop-in program for hands-on learning and screen-free play indoors and out.

Mud Pies This drop-in-and-play program encourages interaction between adult and child. Each week, a natural science topic is explored through activities, free play, and a guided walk. Discover the joy of sharing nature with your child!

Mondays Wednesdays For ages 11 and younger

*UNTIL AUG 1

MondaysThursdays

9:30 - 11:30 AM Ages 5 & younger

*BEGINS AUG 6

Family Sundays in the Forest Join a Fontenelle Forest educator most Sunday afternoons at 1:00 PM for Family Sundays in the Forest. Each week presents a new topic, from wildflower walks, history hikes, and plenty more for all seasons. All activities are family friendly and designed to both educate and entertain.

Most Sunday Afternoons 1:00 - 3:00 PM

Seniors Understanding Nature (SUN) Many seniors grew up in a time when nature was a big part of everyday life; SUN programs enhance that experience. Join us to learn about a different topic every month. Refreshments are served for the presentation, and a nature walk follows for all who are interested.

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 class is for all levels, from beginner to experienced, and will feature the sounds of the forest as your soundtrack. A meditative walk will follow, ending with tea for those who can stay.

16 | FONTENELLE FOREST

Summer 2018: Engagement Issue

2nd Tuesday of Each Month 9:45 - 11:30 AM

Sunday Mornings

9:00 - 10:30 AM & Wednesday

Evenings

6:00 - 7:00 PM

Weddings

Explore more at FontenelleForest.org

FONTENELLE FOREST | 17

Canoe

the Great Marsh upcoming public trips

SIGN UP EARLY. THESE TRIPS BOOK UP FAST, WITH A LIMIT OF 18 PARTICIPANTS FOR EACH DATE. Join us in the wetlands as we explore the great marsh and its amazing array of wildlife! From Beavers to Owls and everything in between, this program is great for both beginners and experienced canoers.

For ages 7 & up. Cost: $15 for members.

JULY SATURDAY THE 14TH AT SUNRISE / 5:30-7:30AM

AUGUST WEDNESDAY THE 8TH EVENING/ 6-8PM

SATURDAY THE 18TH SUNRISE / 6-8AM

WEDNESDAY THE 25TH EVENING/ 6-8PM

SATURDAY THE 11TH SUNRISE / 5:45-7:45AM

WEDNESDAY THE 22ND EVENING / 6-8PM

THURSDAY THE 26TH MOON RISE / 8-10PM

WEDNESDAY THE 15TH EVENING/ 6-8PM

FRIDAY THE 24TH MOON RISE / 7:30-9:30PM

SATURDAY THE 28TH MORNING/ 9-11AM / 18 | FONTENELLE FOREST

Summer 2018: Engagement Issue

Calendar Highlights July 12

6:00 P.M. - 8:00 P.M. AT THE NATURE CENTER

July 15 1:00 P.M. - 2:30 P.M. AT THE NATURE CENTER (INDOORS IF BAD WEATHER)

July 25 6-8 P.M.

July 26 8-10 P.M.

July 28 9-11 A.M. AT THE WETLANDS LEARNING CENTER

August 10 AND August 11 8:30 P.M. 10:30 P.M. AT NEALE WOODS (CANCELLED IF 25% CLOUDY)

NET Film Screening: Follow the Water NET’s newest documentary features the Platte Basin Timelapse project as well as photographer Michael Forsberg and Pete Stegen’s Braided Journey. Total runtime is about 60 minutes, followed by a Q&A with the photographers.

Family Sundays in the Forest: Write in the Forest 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 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.

Canoe the Great Marsh

See the Great Marsh and its wildlife from a canoe! This program is great for beginners and experienced canoers.

For ages 7 and up. Cost: $15 for members. $25 for non-members. Check Fontenelleforest.org or call Visitor Services at 402.731.3140 to book your spot or find even more canoe dates coming up in August and September.

Fontenelle Forest Constellation Walk and Viewing Join us at Neale Woods for an easy walk in the twilight followed by a viewing of August stars and constellations when darkness falls. We will be nearing the peak of the annual Perseid Meteor Shower which coincides with a new moon (a darker sky) for better viewing.

Bring bug spray and binoculars.

July 14 10:00 A.M. - 11:30 A.M. BEGINNING AT CAMP WA-KON-DA

July 21

8:00 A.M. -10:30 A.M. AT CAMP BREWSTER

August 11

8:00 A.M. -10:30 A.M. AT NEALE WOODS

August 4 2:00 P.M. AT THE NATURE CENTER

August 11 Short 8:30 A.M. Interview AT THE NATURE CENTER

Logan Fontenelle Memorial Re-Dedication The Daughters of the American Revolution have cleaned the Logan Fontenelle memorial near History Trail.

Join us for an informative hike about the Fontenelle Family and a small rededication ceremony with the DAR National American Indians Chairman.

Forest Therapy Walks Try out Shrinrin Yoku (Forest Bathing).

Slow walking will connect you to the forest for enhanced health, wellness, and happiness. This is a gentle practice or all abilities. Dress for the weather, trails, and insects, and bring water.

Max of 10 people per walk. Register at fontenelleforest.org.

Nebraska Phase Culture Archaeology Exhibit Opening This exhibition is offered to the public for the first time at Fontenelle Forest since these artifacts were unearthed here nearly 100 years ago.

It is an opportunity to understand the challenges and accomplishments of the people of the Nebraska Phase Culture.

Land Stewardship Volunteer Work Day The volunteer Land Stewardship crew meets on selected Saturdays mornings to work on various projects. Interested in joining our land volunteer crew?

Contact Josh Preister at jpreister@ fontenelleforest.org or give us a call at 402-731-3140.

THERE IS STILL TIME TO REGISTER FOR JULY SUMMER DAY CAMPS! From Grands and Me Camps, to Wildlife Veterinarian Camps, to Challenge Camp with an overnight camp-out, there is plenty to still choose from!

VISIT FONTENELLEFOREST.ORG/CAMPS FOR MORE INFO Explore more at FontenelleForest.org

FONTENELLE FOREST | 19

Calendar Highlights August 25-26

ALL WEEKEND CHECK ONLINE FOR A FULL LIST OF ACTIVITIES

September 15

6:00 P.M. - 9:00 P.M. AT THE NATURE CENTER

Military Family Weekend To top off this Blue Star Museums summer, we invite you to Military Family Weekend at the Forest August 25th and 26th for a complimentary cookout and tons of activities! All active and retired military and their families receive free admission to the Forest this weekend.

Beer on the Boardwalk Whether it’s your first time or you’ve been waiting for this event to return, you will enjoy a relaxing evening in nature with beer, music, food and friends. Stroll the Riverview Boardwalk through the Forest, sampling locally-brewed beers from the brewers themselves. Find more information and updates at fontenelleforest.org or on Facebook.

September 8

8:00 A.M. -10:30 A.M. AT NEALE WOODS

OR

6:00 P.M. -8:00 P.M. AT CAMP BREWSTER

September 20

7:00 P.M. - 8:30 P.M. WETLANDS LEARNING CENTER

September 29 September 22

10:00 A.M. - 12:00 P.M. AT THE NATURE CENTER

Fall Bird Migration Walk Join expert birder Clem Klaphake as we discuss fall migration of birds and walk on the Riverview Boardwalk and a couple of short trails Dress for whatever weather there may be shoes, jacket, hat/cap etc. Meet on Dennis Plaza. Bring binoculars and field guide if you have them. Ages 12+

11:00 A.M. - 1:00 P.M. AT THE NATURE CENTER

1:00 P.M. - 3:00 P.M. AT THE NATURE CENTER

Family Sundays in the Forest: Tools of the Nebraska Phase Culture See some of the tools of the Nebraska Phase Culture and learn about what they used to survive and thrive in Fontenelle Forest 100s of years ago.

Throughout the walk, invitations are offered to connect walkers to the forest to enhance health, wellness, and happiness. This is a gentle practice or all abilities. Dress for the weather, trails, and insects, and bring water.

Max of 10 people per walk. Register at fontenelleforest.org.

Earthworms Under Your Feet Hike If your only experience with earthworms is when rain brings them out, all over your sidewalk or you find them shriveled in the sun, then join us for our night hike! These deaf, blind, and spineless creatures have the ability to transform forests and much more! Wear sturdy boots/shoes. We will be walking on the trails. Ages 18+

Volunteer Appreciation Luncheon Save the date for our annual celebration of the amazing work you do every day here at the Forest! We’ll enjoy lunch and thank you for all of the great things you have accomplished this year.

Leading a Nature-Rich Life Luncheon November 7

September 30

National Forest Therapy Day Walks (Shrinrin Yoku)

11:00 A.M. - 1:00 P.M. AT THE BEARDMORE EVENT CENTER OF BELLEVUE

Discover how your family and our community can benefit from connecting to nature. Join us for Leading a NatureRich Life featuring the best-selling author of Last Child in the Woods, Richard Louv. His work inspired the movement to cure “nature deficit disorder.” Q&A and book signing to follow after his talk.

For more info and to purchase tickets please visit fontenelleforest.org.

CHECK OUT ALL UPCOMING CANOEING DATES ON OUR CALENDAR OF EVENTS AT FONTENELLEFOREST.ORG As of July 1 our admissions prices are changing. $11 for adults, $10 for seniors, $9 for children. FREE for children under two years, and always FREE for members.

20 | FONTENELLE FOREST

Summer 2018: Engagement Issue