CNC Winter Guide - 2011

Winter

Program Guide

December 2011-February 2012 Issue 01-12

NEW!

Birds & Bagels

FREE!

Snowshoe Hikes

FUN!

For All Ages!

Dec. 2-4, 2011

FREE

Film Screening!

The City Dark pg. 11

Inspiring people and institutions to protect the natural world

“Nature needs no help – just no interference.”

Dr. Melanie D. Waskevich Dr. Stanton A. Couch Dr. Steven B. Simmons Dr. Eric J. Selle

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Table of Contents Registered Programs (Dec–Feb)...........5-7 Walk-in Programs..................................9-17 400. S. Badour Rd., Midland, MI 48640 989.631.0830 Visitor Center Hours: 8am–5pm Monday through Friday 9am–5pm Saturday • 1–5pm Sunday & holidays Closed Thanksgiving and Christmas Day Trail Hours: Open year-round, dawn-to-dark daily!

Join us on facebook! facebook.com/cncmidland

Go Green!

To receive your guide via e-mail instead of hard copy, just send an e-mail request to info@chippewanaturecenter.org!

Free

Wi Fi spot

CNC has free WiFi! CNC’s Visitor Center offers the convenience of wireless Internet access while enjoying nature’s ever-changing beauty!

Affiliate Group Meetings..........................17 Youth Walk-In Programs..........................17 Directions to CNC...................................18 Program Registration Form....................20 Become a CNC Member..........................20 Gift Memberships,Nature Preschool......24

2011 Board of Directors Barb Anderson President

Marc Snyder Vice President

Adam Bruski Secretary

Kirk Fisher Treasurer

John Davis • Dr. Tracy Galarowicz Christopher Gaumer • Anne Haines Bill Lauderbach • Dale Laughner Janet Martineau • Dr. Marianne McKelvy Lois Ann Reed • Mark Robertson Michelle Wilkins Dick Touvell Executive Director

See What’s Happening – Visit Our Webcam!

Visit our website to pan, tilt and zoom a customized view of the Pine River!

www.chippewanaturecenter.org Chippewa Nature Center Program Guide • Published Quarterly • Winter 2012 / Issue 01-12

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Need a Doctor?

Choosing the right physician can be confusing.

How do you find a doctor that takes your insurance, who is currently accepting patients, and also fits your preferences for gender and office location?

MidMichigan Health Line Can Help The counselors at MidMichigan Health Line can guide you to a physician who meets your individualized needs.

Our Health Line counselors can also assist you with information on programs and services, as well as health-related classes, screenings and support groups.

Call (989) 837-9090 or toll free (800) 999-3199

www.midmichigan.org/doctors

Registered Programs If weather conditions are unfavorable, a trip may be canceled (determined at CNC’s discretion) and participants will receive refunds.

fruit on your table or to place on shelf and admire. Join Jenn Kirts for this workshop specifically designed for people who have little or no basket making experience.

All tools and materials will be provided.

Christmas Bird Count Midland Count: Sat, 12/17 • Contact Audrey Diadiun at taggin audrey@aol.com by 12/10.

Bay City Count:TBD • Contact Jeanne Henderson at hendersonjeanne23@gmail.com

Snowshoe Lacing Workshop Sat, 12/3 • 9 am-5 pm & Sun, 12/4 • 1-5 pm Register by 11/13 • Ages: 15+ No. Time Fee / CNC Member W11-09 9 am-5 pm $160/$140 Whether you’re a beginner or have some experience, lacing your own pair of traditional snowshoes is a rewarding project that can result in years of enjoyment.The workshop will feature snowshoe kits from Country Ways of Minneapolis, Minnesota. Frames are made of White Ash and lacing material is tubular nylon. Each kit also includes “Super-A” style bindings.

Participants can choose between Ojibwa or Green Mountain Bearpaw style snowshoes. For complete descriptions, sizing information and photographs of each style, visit http://snowshoe.com/.

During the class, participants will receive instruction from CNC’s Kyle Bagnall. Kyle has been teaching snowshoe lacing for more than 10 years and has designed effective teaching techniques to help you get the most out of your experience. Participants will also receive a copy of the book Snowshoeing, by local outdoor author Steve Griffin and a list of great places to snowshoe in Michigan. Participants should bring a sack lunch on Saturday.

Basket Making Workshop Sat, 12/10 • Register by 12/5 • Ages: 18+ No. Time Fee / CNC Member W11-12 9:30 am-1 pm $37/$30 People from all cultures have long woven plant materials together to make baskets for gathering and transporting goods. Participants in this workshop will weave their own basket for gathering garden vegetables, storing

Birders are assigned a section to identify and count birds for the National Audubon Society citizen science project, the Christmas Bird Count.

Usually birders plan to be out all day, or at least the morning. We’ll meet for lunch. There is a $5 fee/ person charged by National Audubon which helps defray costs of compiling and printing the data.

Basic Rocks and Minerals of Michigan Sat, 1/21 • Register by 1/13 • Ages: 15+ No. Time Fee / CNC Member W12-01 9:30 am-12 pm $15/$10 We usually ignore rocks unless they are in our garden or fly into our windshield.Yet they can provide both beauty and information about our area’s past. This workshop will focus on how to identify some of the basic rocks and minerals in Michigan, discuss their possible origins, and show some of Michigan’s scenic geology (especially in the Upper Peninsula and Isle Royale).This hands-on session will emphasize the rocks themselves, rather than lots of technical terminology.

Nordhouse Dunes Snowshoeing Sat, 1/21 • Register by 1/13 • Ages: 15+, under 18 w/adult No. Time Fee / CNC Member F12-01 8 am-6 pm $35/$28 The Nordhouse Dunes Wilderness Area is one of the last truly wild places in Michigan’s Lower Peninsula.

Explore this 3,400-acres of mature forests, open dunes and Lake Michigan beach on a fresh blanket of snow with experienced trip leader Kyle Bagnall.

Participants should bring a sack lunch, water bottles and gear appropriate for the weather, including the windy shores of Lake Michigan. Please bring money to stop for dinner at a restaurant on the way home.

Walk 100 Miles at CNC! Jan. 1–Dec. 31, 2012 • Ages: 9 & up Non-member: $10 • CNC Member: $7 Register now to walk 100 miles at CNC in 2012 and explore the outdoors all year long!

Call 989.631.0830 or visit us online for details.

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Lunches, Library Room, Gym, Music, Check out our new Spanish and French website and find us classes weekly!

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Nature Photography Workshop with Dave Stimac Sat, 1/28 • Register by 1/16 • Ages: 18+ No. Time Fee / CNC Member W12-02 10 am-3:30 pm $55/$42 You may remember the stunning photographs of Alaskan wildlife at last year’s Annual Meeting.

Internationally published photographer David Stimac is returning to CNC, but this time to teach a one-day workshop to teach you how to create spectacular photographs of landscapes, plants, and animals.

Whether you are a novice or advanced hobbyist, this class offers something for everyone.

The class is aimed at the digital SLR photographer, but film shooters will also benefit. If you don’t yet own an SLR (single lens reflex) camera but are considering buying one, this class will help you spend your money wisely.

Participants will learn how to select the right camera bodies, lenses, filters, tripods, etc., to best accomplish photographic goals. They will gain a firm knowledge of all of the technical aspects of photography, including techniques for creating razor sharp images, understanding the camera’s light meter, histogram, file formats, and how to control exposure.

Each participant will also receive a set of notes covering the main points of the class and a list of recommended equipment sellers.

Dave will use his own photography to illustrate an in-depth discussion on the various aspects of lighting and composition that separate good photographs from great ones. He will discuss how familiarity with your subject deepens and expands your approach to creating thoughtful and dynamic images.

Many practical aspects of nature photography will be covered, from using a vehicle as a blind, travel aspects with photography equipment, and how to approach wary animals. It will be a day full of information!

Participants should bring a sack lunch and beverage for this all-day, indoor workshop.

Introduction to Fly Tying and Aquatic Biology for Fly Fishing Wed, 2/1, 2/8, 2/15 & 2/22 • Register by 1/23 Ages: 15+ No. Time Fee / CNC Member W12-03 7-9 pm $45/$40 Are you tired of spending high prices for flies? Would you like to know more about what flies to use for

steelhead, salmon, trout, and bass? Would you like to learn more about the fascinating aquatic animals that inhabit our lakes and rivers?

If you answer yes to the above we invite you to attend our four-week Aquatic Biology and Fly Tying Class. All equipment and materials will be supplied as we cover over a dozen different types of flies.You will also receive a copy of instructions for each type of fly made during the course. The instructor, John Johnson, is a veteran trout fisherman and a member of the Leon P. Martuch Chapter of Trout Unlimited.

Space is at a premium, so register early.

Valentine Snowshoe Hike and Dessert Fri, 2/10 & Sat, 2/11 • Register by 2/3 • Ages: 18+ No. Time Fee / CNC Member F12-02 7-9:30 pm $35/$25 (per couple) F12-03 7-9:30 pm $35/$25 (per couple) This popular event is designed for couples who would like to spend an evening together enjoying the outdoors. Cathy Devendorf and Jeanne Henderson will guide you through the woods to explore the sights and sounds of the Nature Center after dark.

For those new to snowshoeing, we will begin the evening with a brief lesson on using snowshoes and then head out on the trails for approximately 1 ½ hours. We will end the evening warming up inside and enjoy special refreshments by candlelight. If snow conditions are poor we will enjoy a casual walk instead. Please inform us at registration if you need to borrow snowshoes.

Au Sable River Snowshoeing Sat, 2/25 • Register by 2/17 • Ages: 15+, under 18 w/adult No. Time Fee / CNC Member F12-04 8 am-6pm $35 / $28 Join Tom Lenon and Dennis Pilaske for an exciting one day adventure that is fairly close to home, but spectacular in both natural and cultural history as we snowshoe along the Au Sable River’s high banks in the Huron National Forest. Participants will meet at CNC’s Visitor Center at 8 am. During the day expect to hike 3-5 miles on snowshoes.

We’ll casually hike and take plenty of breaks, while learning about the area we’re traveling through.

The time spent hiking will also be split with a warm lunch prepared beforehand. We’ll talk about the historic importance of this area from a lumbering standpoint, as well as visit Iargo Springs and spend time on the River Road Scenic Byway. We’ll return to CNC around 6 pm. To borrow snowshoes and poles at no extra charge, please indicate at time of registration.

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Your Neighborhood. Your Realtor.

Helping people find the right home in Homer Township and beyond for over 25 years.

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Associate Broker 989-839-9655 7007 Eastman Ave., Midland, MI 48642 • Cell: 989-205-1945 www.BarbRice.com • BarbaraJeanRice@aol.com

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Great gifts start with: Your Recycling Headquarters

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COUNTRY HARDWARE Doug & Linda Newman, Owners

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989-832-2771

Open Mon. - Fri. 8-8, Sat. 8-6 & Sun. 9-5

Offering: • Commercial and residential Confidential Document Destruction.

• Commercial Recycling Programs customized to fit your needs.

• Commercial and residential Indoor Recycling Drop Off Center accepting newspaper, cardboard, #1 and #2 container plastic, phonebooks, magazines/catalogs, office paper/junk mail (excluding plastic window envelopes), steel/aluminum cans and more! (call for specifics) Open Monday thru Friday warehouse: 8A – 4:30P; office 8A-5P 3240 Schuette Rd., Midland; 989-496-9900 Family owned and operated since 1953 Visit us on Facebook!

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Walk-in Programs at Chippewa Nature Center December 2011-February 2012 FREE unless noted. Full program details at www.chippewanaturecenter.org Nature Art Show & Sale – Members Only Preview • Fri 12/2 • 6-9 pm Sat, 12/3 • 9 am-5 pm • All ages, under 18 w/adult Sun, 12/4 • 9 am-4 pm • All ages, under 18 w/adult Chippewa Nature Center is excited to bring back our annual Nature Art Show & Sale for 2011!

Artists will feature their works such as paintings, woodcarvings, photography, sculpture, baskets, pottery and more. Chat with artists, then purchase your favorite piece for yourself or for a Christmas gift. This year’s featured artist, Jim Ardis, will have copper and clay pieces available.

Full Moon Stroll Sat, 12/10 • 5-7 pm • Ages: 9+, under 18 w/adult Enjoy a guided walk, with or without snowshoes, with Senior Naturalist Janea Little. If there are at least four inches of snow on the ground, we’ll use snowshoes (call ahead to reserve a pair of CNC’s: 631-0830 or bring your own) and enjoy the snowscape! If there isn’t much snow, we’ll just walk. Either way, be sure to dress for the weather, in layers so you can stay warm and yet not get overheated if we snowshoe. We’ll look for animal tracks, listen for owls, and check for other sights and sounds of CNC’s wildlife.

Winter Solstice Celebration Sat, 12/17 • 6-8 pm • All ages, under 18 w/adult The Winter Solstice is almost here! For centuries, people have gathered with family and friends to recognize the longest night of the year and to celebrate the return of longer days to come. Take part in earth-friendly traditions as you roll a beeswax candle, make an evergreen wreath and a small Yule log to take home. Also learn about evergreen trees, why the seasons change, and listen to solstice stories and music from across the globe. You can also shop for the holidays at the Nature Center Store.

Snowshoe Hike Thurs, 1/5 • 4-5:30 pm • Ages: 9+, under 18 w/adult Whether you are a beginner or have strapped snowshoes on many times before, you are welcome to join us for a walk on our trails. Native Americans used snowshoes for thousands of years to make winter travel through deep snow possible.

CNC’s Dennis Pilaske will teach you the basics of snowshoeing and then take you on a a short walk on and off the trails to enjoy the winter wonderland.

Meet at the Visitor Center. If you need to borrow snowshoes you please call 631-0830 to reserve a pair. Meet at the Visitor Center.

Winter Bird Hike Full Moon Snowshoe/Hike Thurs, 12/15 • 8:30-10:30 am • Ages: 12+, under 18 w/adult Join CNC Senior Naturalist Janea Little for part or Sun, 1/8 • 5:30-7:30 pm • Ages: 9+, under 18 w/adult all of this casual walk on CNC’s trails to look for the Join Senior Naturalist Janea Little for a nighttime birds of winter. If the weather is too severe to be out hike on snowshoes under the light of the full moon. for long, we’ll finish up in the Visitor Center, enjoying With good snow cover, the bright reflection of the a cup of hot chocolate or coffee, and waiting for a full moon will give us plenty of light to see by as Snowy Owl to fly by the River Overlook! If there is we explore the Nature Center at night. With some a lot of snow, we’ll take the hike on snowshoes. Be luck, we’ll see a fox or raccoon or hear coyotes sure to dress in layers. Loaner binoculars are available. howling at the moon! Call 631-0830 if you need to reserve snowshoes. Meet at the Visitor Center.

Winter Exploration Days Dec. 22, 2011-Jan. 2, 2012

Mon-Fri, 8 am-5 pm • Sat, 9 am-5 pm Sun & Holidays 1 pm-5 pm • Closed Christmas Day • All Ages Enjoy your break from school while exploring the wonders of nature in Michigan! This program includes a variety of self-guided, handson exploration stations. Experiments, fun facts, crafts and outdoor scavenger hunts are just a few of the activities you’ll find. Each day is the same, but feel free to come back again and again.

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Birds and Bagels Fri, 1/13 • 8:30-11:30 am • Ages: 9+, under 18 w/adult If a three-hour bird hike in the dead of winter on Friday the 13th sounds scary, have no fear! Senior Naturalist Janea Little won’t keep you out for the whole three hours, but will come back early for snacks and hot drinks. Too much snow on the ground? No problem – we’ll strap on snowshoes! .

Birding in mid-January might net us winter specialties like redpolls, juncos, tree sparrows, shrikes or Snow Buntings, along with year-round residents like a variety of woodpeckers, cardinals, Blue Jays and finches. Loaner binoculars are available.

Snowshoe Hike Thurs, 1/12 • 4-5:30 pm • Ages: 9+, under 18 w/adult Whether you are a beginner or have strapped snowshoes on many times before, you are welcome to join us for a walk on our trails. We’ll look for animal tracks, birds, and other points of interest, and enjoy the snowy scenery. If you need to borrow snowshoes, please call 631-0830 to reserve a pair.

Meet at the Visitor Center. If snow conditions are unfavorable the hike will be canceled (based on the discretion of CNC).

Twigs, Bark and Buds Sun, 1/15 • 2-3:30 pm • All ages, under 18 w/adult Join CNC Educator Jeanne Henderson for this walk all about trees in winter! Without leaves, it is easier to notice tree shapes and patterns. On this

winter walk, look for opposites, alternates, whorls, diamonds, cracks, thunderbirds and more. Can you find red, orange and yellow among all the grays and browns? Meet at the Visitor Center.

Bird Mist-netting Adventures in the Ecuadorian Cloud Forest Tues, 1/17 • 7-8 pm • Ages: 12+, under 18 w/adult Mike Bishop’s Alma College class went to the Bellavista Cloud Forest Reserve in the Tandayapa Valley of Central Ecuador in May of 2011 to document the molt characteristics of the resident birds found there. See some of the birds that were captured and released and those observed at the reserve as well as from other locations Mike and his class traveled to during their three weeks in Ecuador. In addition to being a Biology Instructor at Alma College, Mike is also Director of the Alma College Bird Observatory, and he manages the bird banding research at CNC. Family Snowshoe Hike Wed, 1/18 • 4-5:30 pm • Ages: 5+, under 18 w/adult Whether you are a beginner or have strapped snowshoes on many times before, you are welcome to join us for a walk on our trails. We’ll look for animal tracks, birds, and other points of interest, and enjoy the snowy scenery. If you need to borrow snowshoes, please call 631-0830 to reserve a pair.

Meet at the Visitor Center.

Film Screening: “The City Dark:” A Search for Night on a Planet that Never Sleeps Thurs, 1/19 • 7-9 pm • Ages: 12+, under 18 w/adult From the Peabody Award winning filmmaker of King Corn and Truck Farm comes The City Dark, a new feature documentary that looks to the night sky to tell the definitive story of the disappearance of darkness and the human relationship to the stars. The City Dark asks a simple question, “Do we need the stars?”

Blending a humorous tone with cutting edge science and poetic footage of the night sky, filmmaker Ian Cheney unravels the myriad implications of a globe glittering with lights — including increased breast cancer rates, disrupted wildlife migratory patterns and ecosystems, and a generation of kids without a glimpse of the universe above. Featuring stunning astrophotography and a cast of eclectic scientists, historians, and lighting designers, The City Dark is the definitive story of the disappearance of darkness and the human relationship to the stars.

The City Dark premiered at the SXSW Film Festival in March 2011 where it won the Jury Prize for Best Score/Music, and has been rolling out across festivals, theatres, planetariums, and community screenings worldwide.

Following the 84-minute film, Senior Naturalist Janea Little will lead participants on a short nighttime hike to participate in “Globe at Night”, an international effort to measure the amount of night sky pollution in local areas. How many of Orion’s hundreds of stars will we be able to see?

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Wigwam in the Winter Sun, 1/22 • 2-4 pm • All ages, under 18 w/adult Drop by the wigwam and join Dennis Pilaske to get a glimpse into what it was like for the Chippewa Indians to live in a wigwam along the Pine River several hundred years ago during winter.The wigwam will be toasty warm with a small fire in the center of the lodge. Inside, you will get a chance to see some of the tools they used to hunt and prepare wild game, hear how they prepared for winter’s cold by tanning hides and learn about some of the plants and trees they used for making cordage and baskets as well as try your hand at making a fire with a bow and drill.

Snowshoe Hike Tues, 1/24 • 4-5:30 pm • Ages: 9+, under 18 w/adult Whether you are a beginner or have strapped snowshoes on many times before, you are welcome to join us for a walk on our trails. We’ll look for animal tracks, birds, and other points of interest, and enjoy the snowy scenery. If you need to borrow snowshoes, please call (989) 631-0830 to reserve one of the limited pairs of snowshoes owned by the Nature Center. Meet at the Visitor Center. If snow conditions are unfavorable the hike will be canceled (based on the discretion of CNC).

Sunrise Snowshoe Hike Wed, 1/25 • 8-10 am • Ages: 9+, under 18 w/adult Whether you are a beginner or have strapped snowshoes on many times before, you are welcome to join us for a walk on our trails. We’ll look for animal tracks, birds, and other points of interest, and enjoy the snowy scenery. If you need to borrow snowshoes you must call 631-0830 to reserve a pair.

Meet at the Visitor Center.

The Galapagos: Darwin’s Paradise Presented by Wildlife Biologist and MSU Alumni Jessica Pociask Wed, 1/25 • 7-8 pm • Ages: 15+, under 18 w/adult 175 years have passed since Darwin’s famed ‘Voyage of the Beagle,’ where he extensively studied the birds and tortoises of the Galapagos and developed the theory behind his infamous publication ‘The Origin of Species’. During this presentation, Jessica Pociask of WANT Expeditions will lead a photographic tour on how this incredible place became the foundation for evolution and modern day biological themes. You will also learn about the rare and endemic wildlife that make the Galapagos stand out on the list of must-see places to visit.

Join us for this casual gathering and enjoy light refreshments and a chance for some fun door prizes!

Co-sponsored by CNC and the MSU Alumni Club of Midland County.

Snowshoe Hike Thurs, 1/26 • 4-5:30 pm • Ages: 9+, under 18 w/adult Whether you are a beginner or have strapped snowshoes on many times before, you are welcome to join us for a walk on our trails. We’ll look for animal tracks, birds, and other points of interest, and enjoy the snowy scenery. If you need to borrow snowshoes, please call (989)631-0830 to reserve a pair. Meet at the Visitor Center.

Family Snowshoe Hike Sun, 1/29 • 2-3:30 pm • Ages: 5+, under 18 w/adult Whether you are a beginner or have strapped snowshoes on many times before, you are welcome to join us for a walk on our trails. We’ll look for animal tracks, birds, and other points of interest, and enjoy the snowy scenery. If you need to borrow snowshoes, please call 631-0830 to reserve a pair.

Meet at the Visitor Center.

Snowshoeing Little Forks Conservancy’s Riverview Natural Area Tues, 1/31 • 4-5:30 pm • Ages: 9+, under 18 w/adult Tues, 2/14 • 4-5:30 pm • Ages: 9+, under 18 w/adult Join Dennis Pilaske from Chippewa Nature Center and Elan Lipschitz from the Little Forks Conservancy (LFC) for a snowshoe hike to LFC’s trails of Riverview Natural Area along the Tittabawassee River. We will meet at Little Forks Conservancy’s parking lot on Wheeler Road. If you need to borrow snowshoes, please call 631-0830 to reserve a pair.

Directions to Riverview Natural Area F r o m Downtown Midland: Head west on M-20 for 4.2 miles.Turn right onto N. Homer Rd. Follow Homer Rd for 2 miles.Take the curve onto E.Wheeler Rd. Follow E. Wheeler Rd. for .25 miles.The parking lot is on the right.

Directions to Riverview Natural Area From Chippewa Nature Center:Head south on S. Badour Rd.Turn right onto E. Pine River Rd and follow for .9 miles. Stay straight to go onto E. Prairie Rd. Follow E. Prairie Rd. until you reach S. Homer Rd.Turn right. Follow Homer Rd until it curves into E. Wheeler Rd. Follow E. Wheeler Rd. for .25 miles. The parking lot is on the right.

Fish and Wildlife of Mid-Michigan Wed, 2/1 • 7-8 pm • Ages: 12+, under 18 w/adult Mid-Michigan has an abundance of fish and wildlife and people are often surprised to when they learn what species reside in this area. During this program you will learn about some of the fish and wildlife and their unique behaviors and adaptations.You will also leave with a better understanding of where to find some of these animals and why they are here.

Tom Lenon, Director of Land and Facilities, will be leading the program.

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Orion and Friends Stargazing Thurs, 2/2 • 8-10 pm • Ages: 9+, under 18 w/adult Just who is this “Orion” in the sky, and how do you find him? Senior Naturalist Janea Little will lead this outdoor evening of stargazing, focusing on viewing the constellation Orion and the stories surrounding him, his hounds, and his quarry. We’ll learn to use a planisphere for locating constellations, and even make up some of our own constellations. If the weather is just too cloudy for stargazing, Janea will take you through the night sky indoors, using a computer program to show you how to locate various stars.

Family Snowshoe Hike Sat, 2/4 • 10-11:30 am • Ages: 5+, under 18 w/adult Whether you are a beginner or have strapped snowshoes on many times before, you are welcome to join us for a walk on our trails. We’ll look for animal tracks, birds, and other points of interest, and enjoy the snowy scenery. If you need to borrow snowshoes, please call 631-0830 to reserve a pair.

Please arrive promptly at the start of the program so we can maximize our time outdoors.

Nature for Youth – Michigan Hibernators Sat, 2/4 • 1-2:30 pm • Ages: 5-9 w/adult This program is designed to help kids develop a connection to the natural world through fun, handson activities including experiment stations, games, crafts, and more.

Sunrise Snowshoe Hike Tues, 2/7 • 8-10 am • Ages: 9+, under 18 w/adult Whether you are a beginner or have strapped snowshoes on many times before, you are welcome to join us for a walk on our trails. We’ll look for animal tracks, birds, and other points of interest, and enjoy the snowy scenery. If you need to borrow snowshoe, please call 631-0830 to reserve a pair.

Meet at the Visitor Center Snowshoe Hike Thurs, 2/9 • 4-5:30 pm • Ages: 9+, under 18 w/adult Whether you are a beginner or have strapped snowshoes on many times before, you are welcome to join us for a walk on our trails. We’ll look for animal tracks, birds, and other points of interest, and enjoy the snowy scenery. If you need to borrow snowshoes, please call 631-0830 to reserve a pair.

Meet at the Visitor Center. If snow conditions are unfavorable the hike will be canceled (based on the discretion of CNC).

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Animal Tracks and Trails Sun, 2/12 • 2-3:30 pm • Ages: 5+, under 18 w/adult Winter often seems like a time when little is alive.

However, animals may be more lively than you think – you just don’t see them. But you can see the tracks and other “signs” they leave behind. CNC Educator Jackie Kelly will give you a quick overview of some of the clues to look for. We will check for clues in the field, so dress warmly.

Public Archaeology at a Long Lost Trading Post in Southwest Michigan Wed, 2/15 • 7-8:30 pm • Ages: 12+, under 18 w/adult

During the 2011 field season, Western Michigan University archaeologists continued investigations at Fort St. Joseph, an 18th-century mission-garrisontrading post complex in southwest Michigan.

Excavations are providing a better understanding of the activities in the area of the site that is accessible for study. In this presentation, Dr. Michael Nassaney will discuss recent findings, their implications for understanding the fur trade, and the expanded effort to involve the community through public education and outreach.

Snowshoe Hike Thurs, 2/16 • 4-5:30 pm • Ages: 9+, under 18 w/adult Whether you are a beginner or have strapped snowshoes on many times before, you are welcome to join us for a walk on our trails. We’ll look for animal tracks, birds, and other points of interest, and enjoy the snowy scenery. If you need to borrow snowshoes, please call 631-0830 to reserve a pair.

Meet at the Visitor Center. If snow conditions are unfavorable the hike will be canceled (based on the discretion of CNC).

Snakes Alive!: Discovering the Wonders of Snakes Sat, 2/18 • 2-3 pm • All ages, under 18 w/adult

Snakes may be one of the most feared and misunderstood animals, but after attending this program you’ll see how fascinating and beneficial these beautiful reptiles can be. Join CNC Educator and snake enthusiast Michelle Fournier for this live snake program. All our welcome to get as close a look at the snakes as you feel comfortable!

Michigan’s Wild Pathways Sun, 2/19 • 2-3 pm • Ages: 15+ Would you like to find new wild places to hike, or re-live some of your own memories? Naturalist and photographer Phil Stephens has hiked many of Michigan’s wild pathways with their waterscapes,

woodlands, wildlife and wild flowers. Although he has backpacked in a number of them, his illustrated program will emphasize day hikes to such places as Pigeon River State Forest, various state parks, Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, our three national forests, Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore and Isle Royale National Park. Besides detailing these natural areas, Phil will share tips to help make your next hike more safe and enjoyable.

This program kicks off his Michigan’s Wild Pathways Series, in which he will lead trips to some of these wonderful places.

Snowshoe Hike Tues, 2/21 • 4-5:30 pm • Ages: 9+, under 18 w/adult Whether you are a beginner or have strapped snowshoes on many times before, you are welcome to join us for a walk on our trails. Native Americans used snowshoes for thousands of years to make winter travel through deep snow possible. CNC’s Dennis Pilaske will teach you the basics of snowshoeing and then take you on a a short walk on and off the trails to enjoy the winter wonderland. Meet at the Visitor Center. If you need to borrow snowshoes, please call 631-0830 to reserve a pair. If snow conditions are unfavorable the hike will be canceled (based on the discretion of CNC).

Birds and Bagels Wed, 2/22 • 8-11 am • Ages: 9+, under 18 w/adult If a three-hour bird hike in the dead of winter on

Friday the 13th sounds scary, have no fear! Senior Naturalist Janea Little won’t keep you out for the whole three hours, but will come back early for snacks and hot drinks. Too much snow on the ground? No problem -- we’ll strap on snowshoes!

Birding in February might net us winter specialties like redpolls, juncos, tree sparrows, shrikes or Snow Buntings, along with year-round residents like a variety of woodpeckers, cardinals, Blue Jays and finches. Loaner binoculars are available.

Snowshoe Hike Thurs, 2/23 • 4-5:30 pm • Ages: 9+, under 18 w/adult Whether you are a beginner or have strapped snowshoes on many times before, you are welcome to join us for a walk on our trails. We’ll look for animal tracks, birds, and other points of interest, and enjoy the snowy scenery. If you need to borrow snowshoes, please call 631-0830 to reserve a pair.

Meet at the Visitor Center. If snow conditions are unfavorable the hike will be canceled (based on the discretion of CNC).

Annual Meeting Mon, 2/27 • 7-9 pm • All Ages Welcome Save the date! Speaker to be announced.

Funding for this special program is made possible by the Dale Dean Natuural History Speaker Series

CNC Affiliate Group Meetings Homestead Quilters Wed, 12/28 • 9 am-2 pm • All ages Wed, 1/25 • 9 am-2 pm • All ages Wed, 2/22 • 9 am-2 pm • All ages Pick up a needle and learn this beautiful craft with the Quilters at their regular monthly meeting.

Jolly Hammers and Strings Dulcimer Club Sat, 12/17 • 1-4 pm • All ages • Holiday Sing Along Sat, 1/28 • 1-4 pm • All ages Sat, 2/25 • 1-4 pm • All ages Stop in to enjoy the toe-tapping music of the Jolly Hammers & Strings Dulcimer Club. Or, if you play a folk instrument (guitar, banjo, fiddle, dulcimer, etc.), bring it along and join in!

Midland Hiking Club Thurs, 12/1 • 7 pm • All ages • Arches National Park Thurs, 2/2 • 7 pm • All ages

Mid-Michigan Rock Club (MMRC) Tues, 12/6 • 6 pm • All ages • Holiday Potluck Tues, 1/3 • 7 pm • All ages Tues, 2/7 • 7 pm • All ages Visitors are welcome to bring along any rock, mineral, gem, fossil, earth science or lapidary arts items which they might like to show to the group.

To learn more about this group and their upcoming programs, visit www.midlandrockclub.com.

Oxbow Archaeologists This group meets every Wednesday evening and Saturday morning at CNC. For more details, call 989.631.0830 or visit www.chippewanaturecenter.org/oxbow.

Valley Herb Society Thurs, 12/1 • 7 pm • All ages Thurs, 2/2 • 7 pm • All ages For program information, please contact Cathy Devendorf at 989.631.0830.

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Preschool Story Hour Ages: 3-5 years w/adult

I Wonder • Thurs, 12/1 • 9:30-10:30 am Owl Moon • Thurs, 12/15 • 9:30-10:30 am Now I Know What Makes the Weather

Wee Stroll

Ages: 6 mos.-2 yrs. w/adult 9-10 am & 10:30-11:30 am Fri, 1/13 & 2/10 This program is designed for parents to take a guided walk with their child, learn about the outdoors and learn ways to introduce children to the natural world around them.

Thurs, 1/5 • 9-10 am • 10:30-11:30 am Sat, 1/7 • 9-10 am • 10:30-11:30 am

It’s Winter!

Thurs, 1/19 • 9-10 am • 10:30-11:30 am

Who Wants a Ride?

Thurs, 2/2 • 9-10 am 10:30-11:30 am Sat, 2/4 • 9-10 am 10:30-11:30 am

All Night Near the Water

Thurs, 2/16 • 9-10 am 10:30-11:30 am

Directions to Chippewa Nature Center

Chippewa Nature Center is just three short miles from downtown Midland.This haven of fields, woodlands, wetlands and rivers is easy to get to and well worth the trip. See you soon!

From Mt. Pleasant: Take M-20 east.Turn right on Homer Road, left on Prairie Road and left into CNC entrance at Badour Road.

From Bay City: Take US-10 to Business 10 exit. Follow Business 10 to Cronkright. Turn left on Cronkright and go over bridge (road becomes Poseyville). Continue with directions From Midland.

From Clare: Take US-10 to Eastman Ave. exit.Travel south on Eastman (becomes Buttles St.).Turn right on Cronkright. Go over bridge (road becomes Poseyville).

Continue with directions From Midland.

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From Midland: Take Poseyville Road south.Turn right on St. Charles.Take an immediate left onto Whitman, following sign for CNC. Turn right into the CNC entrance at Badour Road.

From Saginaw: Take M-47 through Freeland to Midland Road (follow sign for Tittabawassee Township Park).Turn left at stoplight at Gordonville Road, right on Poseyville Road, left at stoplight on Ashby Road (at Ted’s Lawn Equipment), right on Badour Road and follow to the CNC entrance straight ahead.

CNC Membership All CNC members receive in-home delivery of the bi-monthly newsletter and quarterly program guide, program discounts, membersonly events, a 10% store discount and more!

GENERAL MEMBERSHIP:

o Individual – $28 o Senior Individual (60+) – $23 o Family/Grandparent – $45 (Children/grandchildren under 18) o Senior Family (60+) – $31

o

Life Membership - $1,000+ (payable in 4 annual installments) All of the above benefits plus ...

• 20% Nature Center Store discount • Confidence in knowing that your gift supports CNC’s mission to inspire future generations of people and institutions to protect the natural world through our endowment fund.

Payment Information CNC Membership (optional): $_________

SOCIETY MEMBERSHIPS:

o

Total Registration Fees: $_________

Meadow Society – $100-249 • Recognition in Annual Report and newsletter • Eligible for Grandparent benefits

o Woodland Society – $250-499 All of the above benefits plus ...

• Exclusive program presented by a CNC naturalist o River Society – $500+ All of the above benefits plus ...

• Exclusive program with meal presented by a CNC naturalist

Additional Contribution: $_________ Total Payment: $_________ (Please make checks payable to Chippewa Nature Center or include credit card information below.)

Name on credit card:__________________________________ Credit card number: _________________________________ Signature: __________________________________________ Expiration Date: ___________

Memberships and gifts to CNC are tax deductible as allowed by law. Charitable Solicitation License MICS 2710

Registration Form Name________________________________________________ Day Phone_______________________ Address_______________________________________ City ____________________ Zip____________ E-mail (optional)_________________________________________________________________________ Would you like to receive CNC’s weekly e-mail update? Yes____ No____ Are you a CNC Member? Yes____ No____ If yes, would you prefer to receive your CNC member newsletter via e-mail, instead of hard copy? Yes____ No____

Program # __________ __________ __________

Course/Trip Name ______________________________________ ______________________________________ ______________________________________

Date(s) ___________ ___________ ___________

Fee ________ ________ ________

Notes (Equipment loan, food allergies, etc.): ____________________________________________________ REGISTRATION: Send payment & completed form to: Chippewa Nature Center, 400 S. Badour Rd., Midland, MI 48640. Phone registrations by credit card only (989.631.0830). Become a member at the time of registration to receive the member discount.

CANCELLED PROGRAMS:While Chippewa Nature Center makes every effort to carry out programs, it reserves the right to cancel programs at its discretion, based on conditions beyond its control. In the event of a cancellation, participants will be notified prior to the program and have the option of receiving a refund or registering for a rescheduled program, if available.

FOR OFFICE USE ONLY

Received from: _______________________________________________________________ Received by :____________________ Reg. _________ Conf. _________ Val. _________

20

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Advertiser Index Advertiser

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Ace Hardware. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 Barb Rice MID-LAND EXECUTIVE 1 REALTORS. . 8 Brady News & Recycling. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 Country Hardware. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 Eastman Party Store. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 Hatfield Construction. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 Howl-A-Day Resort. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 Little Forks Conservancy. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 Midland Center For The Arts. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 Midland Montessori School. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 MidMichigan Medical Center-Midland. . . . . . 4 Northern Animal Clinic. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 Roy Kutchey Greenhouses . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 Servinski Sod Service. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 Simmons Specific Chiropractic. . . . . . . . . . . 23 Space Studios. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 Wilson Miller Funeral Home. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4

Non Profit Org. U.S. Postage

Program Guide 400 S. Badour Rd. Midland, MI 48640-8661

PAID

Permit No. 285 Midland, MI

201 Regis 2-13 begin tration s Feb . 1!

Nature Preschool

• Classes for 3- & 4- year olds • 2,3 or 4 half-day classes • Full and partial scholarships available

Open House Dates: Jan. 25 • 5:30-7 pm Feb. 9 • 5:30-7 pm

Holiday Shopping Made Easy!

Purchase a CNC gift membership for a new member in 2011, and the recipient’s membership will be valid until January 31, 2013. Benefits include: • • • •

Discounts to CNC programs & Nature Day Camp Our monthly newsletter mailed to your home or inbox Opportunities to attend special members’ only events 10% discount at the Nature Center Store

See your Walk-in Programs, Purchase gift memberships in person at CNC and we will include a special gift starting on page 11 wrapped in a reusable gift bag.

989.631.0830 | chippewanaturecenter.org | facebook.com/cncmidland