Natural Enquirer N e w s l e t t e r f o r S p r i n g Va l l e y S u p p o r t e r s a n d Vo l u n t e e r s
vol.5 no.1 • Jan.-Feb. ‘14
In this issue...
A skilled observer can look at animal tracks, whether in mud, snow or frozen into the surface of a pond, and read the story hidden there. What animal was it? How long ago was it here? Where was it going? What was it doing? Was it young or old, male or female, healthy or sick? Many things can be discerned by learning to read these signs left behind by wildlife. In that same vein, we hope to leave a trail of knowledge and information for you to follow through the year in the pages of the Natural Enquirer. Our goal is to provide you with insightful and enlightening interpretation of local nature as well as local history, helping you to feel more closely connected with our local landscape and what makes it special. Just like footprints frozen into a pond, though, the short articles here can only offer teasers, brief glimpses into the rich stories to be found at places like Spring Valley. We hope that you’ll use the Natural Enquirer as an invitation to get outside and discover mysteries of your own that need discerning.
Inside Woodland Ambassadors......................................2 The Road to Zest..................................................3 What’s Happenin’.............................................. 4-5 From Awareness to Action..................................6 Spring Valley General Information....................11
Volunteer News Contents Volunteer Awards.................................................7 Volunteer Information..........................................8 Volunteer Calendar......................................... 9-10
Visit www.parkfun.com and take our Spring Valley Program Survey.
S p r i n g Va l l e y • N a t u r a l E n q u i r e r • J a n u a r y / F e b r u a r y 2 0 1 4
Woodland Ambassadors
I
by Dave Brooks
n the midst of winter’s cold and snow, the promise of spring-to-come is heralded from the treetops for all who care to listen. This announcement comes in the form of a simple, clear two-note whistle, provided by a herald whose small size belies the importance of his message. The male black-capped chickadee’s fee-bee song is his response to the gradually lengthening daylight and his interest in courtship, nesting territories, and other springtime matters. Although given the weather outside, it would be a stretch to call his song a sign of spring, it represents one of the first signs of the changing season and re-awakening of birdsong. One can usually count on hearing the song on one of the first clear, sunny mornings of mid to late winter. Not long afterward, the male cardinal may offer his sweet, clear message of hope, as well. The chickadee, however; is always the opening act. anywhere from 6–10 birds which include not only the dominant pair but also juveniles, other pairs, and single birds. The winter feeding territory is usually larger than the breeding territory and it is defended from incursions by other nearby chickadee flocks. In some cases, where territories meet, different flocks may be seen feeding, but not at the same time. Conflicts between flocks are characterized by scolding dee-dee-
Chickadee at Feeder
Black-capped chickadees are year-round residents throughout much of eastern North America. They are primarily woodland birds but adapt well to older suburban neighborhoods with a mix of mature trees. As a result, they can commonly be seen at backyard feeders, where they have a preference Male Chickadee Singing for sunflower seeds and suet. dee calls and During autumn and winter, birds chasing they travel as a small flock one another. from dawn to dusk, moving Curiously, during along a regular route of autumn, migrating feeding areas. They stay warblers will in constant communication sometimes join with each other through chickadee flocks quiet tseet-tseet calls. Their for short periods namesake chickadee-dee-dee of time and Chickadee Using Nestbox call brings the flock together feed alongside when they become separated. the chickadees. It is thought they are These small winter flocks form in autumn, possibly taking advantage of the resident usually centered on the breeding territory birds’ knowledge of local food sources. In of a dominant pair. Flocks consist of 2
this sense, the chickadees can be viewed almost as ambassadors of the area who will tolerate the presence of other birds— just not other chickadees. Once males start to sing their fee-bee song, the winter flocks begin to break up. The purpose of the song is to begin the process of staking out breeding territories. Often, the fee-bee song from one male will elicit a responding fee-bee from other nearby males. In this way, the birds put space between each other and carve out the boundaries of their future breeding territories. The establishment of these territories is gradual and active defense of breeding territories won’t really commence until nest building during April or May, so the winter flocks continue to loosely affiliate with each other through the end of winter. Males continue to sing the fee-bee song into springtime and early summer, but much less commonly during summer and autumn. Chickadees are one of the most accessible wild birds for most of us when it comes to closely observing the intricacies of bird behavior. The fact that they frequent backyards means that they are easy to attract to feeding stations and will also readily nest in artificial nest boxes. Naturally, they excavate a cavity in soft dead wood at the end of a branch, so a simple small wooden birdhouse mounted anywhere from 6–15 feet off the ground will suffice as a substitute. Many of the chickadees’ winter behaviors can also inspire us and provide valuable lessons for our own winter survival: stay active/keep moving, keep eating but wait your turn, avoid conflict, stay in communication with one another, there is strength in numbers, and remember that spring (hope) is always on the horizon!
S p r i n g Va l l e y • N a t u r a l E n q u i r e r • J a n u a r y / F e b r u a r y 2 0 1 4
The Road to Zest
by Walter Plinske
In 1895, an English firm, Lever Brothers, opened a branch in the U.S. and created a product called Lifebuoy. Sold as an antiseptic soap, it didn’t do well until they changed the name to Lifebuoy Health soap and invented the term B.O. Fear of social ostracism now fed the demand for their soap and led to a reawakening of personal hygiene. But was this milestone the opening act to “The Road to Zest” or was the nebulous unwashed past not as sour and rancid as is generally assumed? This is the story of soap, down from the further reaches of time to the slippery smell of springtime and roses that we enjoy today. From the beginning, prehistoric humankind settled in places that were located on or near bodies of water. So it was only natural that water alone would have been the initial sole arbiter in the cleaning process. Although the concept of germ theory was millennia away, plain water as a cleansing agent proved to be a time honored ally. Recent research on the effectiveness of alcoholbased hand sanitizers backed this up with a surprising conclusion: plain water was most effective, removing 96% of a diarrhea virus. Antibacterial soap reduced viral counts by 88%, while alcohol-based hand gels reduced the virus only by a half.
Many Native American tribes used soaproot plant as a fish poison. They would pulverize the roots, create the foam, and then add the suds to a stream. This would kill or stun the fish, which could then be easily gathered. It makes one wonder what came first, the bath soap or the fish-killer. The genesis of modern soap went hand in hand with the domestication of livestock such as cattle and pigs. One of the byproducts derived from these animals is their rendered fat. For pigs it is called lard, while for cattle, sheep, and goats it is called tallow. At some point during this period it was discovered, through a no doubt serendipitous accident, that when this rendered fat was mixed with wood ashes and boiled in water, a strange foamy substance formed and left the pot cleaner. Over the centuries, by trial and error, people refined their soap making
Indigenous peoples throughout the world have been known for their exhaustive knowledge of the uses of local flora and Homemade Soap fauna. The first soaps techniques. The active were thus discovered ingredient, lye, was first by the trial-and-error leached from ashes by method of selection trickling water through which these people them. The liquid was employed testing then concentrated by various plant species. Soapberry boiling. Herbs such as The vital ingredient is laurel oil were added today classed as a saponin. The name to promote a more pleasant smell. In the is derived from the soapwort plant, the Mediterranean world, in places like Syria root of which, when chopped and shaken and Spain, olive oil was used instead of in water, produces a soap-like foaming. animal fat due to the preponderance of Saponins are found in many botanical the olive tree. To this day the production families which include the soapberry, methods and ingredients of Aleppo Soap soapnut, and soapbark plants. Some of and Castile Soap have remained the these botanicals even have a dual use. 3
same. The ancient Romans considered cleanliness a social virtue building public bathhouses in every settlement they touched. With the fall of Rome their world did indeed became black as the central authority and the knowledge needed to maintain the baths disappeared. Along with this came the early Christian view that bathing was a form of hedonism. This time, called “The Dark Ages”, ended when the Crusaders imported the communal Turkish bath into medieval Europe. But then the bubonic plague struck in 1347 and people from kings to peasants shunned bathing because they feared water (and soap) washed away the only thing protecting them from the “evil humours” of the plague, a good layer of filth! It wasn’t until the American Civil War that the Union’s success in controlling disease through hygiene convinced its citizens that cleanliness was progressive and patriotic. Soap is an excellent cleanser because of its ability to act as an emulsifying agent. An emulsifier is capable of dispersing one liquid into another immiscible liquid. This means that while oil, which attracts dirt, doesn’t naturally mix with water, soap can suspend oil/dirt. Soap molecules are called micelles and repel each other when in water. Grease, oil, and dirt become attached and are caught inside of them and easily rinsed away. In the 20th century the animal and vegetable fats in most soaps were replaced with petroleum derived chemicals, some such as triclocarban, have shown to be harmful when exposed to lab animals. Because of this, natural soaps are enjoying a resurgence.
S p r i n g Va l l e y • N a t u r a l E n q u i r e r • J a n u a r y / F e b r u a r y 2 0 1 4
Click on program/icon for information and to register online.*
*To create a new account, visit the registration desk at the CRC or download an internet registration form from www.parkfun.com. The form can be found under the registration tab. Programs will be cancelled three days in advance if minimum is not reached, so register early!
Growing Up Wild: Early Childhood Teacher Workshop
Additional workshops are being developed. For up-to-date information, visit www.parkfun.com/ Spring-Valley/ programs.
Saturday, Jan. 11 • 9:00AM-Noon Take part in a hands-on workshop designed for early childhood educators.
Project Learning Tree: Educators’ Workshop
Saturday, Jan. 25 • 9AM-3PM An award-winning environmental education program for teachers, scout leaders, parents and community leaders working with youth through grade 12.
Early Childhood Educator’s Combo
Saturday, Feb. 8 • 9AM-3PM Receive two nationally acclaimed curricula, Project Learning Tree Environmental Experiences for Early Childhood and Growing Up Wild.
ADULT or TEEN
Nature and Winter
Sunday, Feb. 23 • 1:30-2:30PM Get outside and experience nature in winter focusing on the season’s beauty.
Weekly Yoga at the Cabin
Tuesday, Jan. 7 - March 11 • 6:00-7:00PM Tuesday, Jan. 7 - March 11 • 7:30-8:30PM Thursday, Jan. 9 - March 13 • 6:30-7:30PM Thursday, Jan. 9 - March 13 • 8:00-9:00PM Enjoy a weekly yoga class in the woods at the Merkle Cabin.
FAMILY
The following programs have a special family rate. By registering ONE child, it is assumed that a minimum of two people (one adult and child) or a maximum of four people are attending. Do NOT register additional people, they may pay on the day of the program.
Winter Campfire in the Cabin
ALL AGES
Friday, Jan. 3 • 6:30-8:00PM Participants will tell stories, sing songs, enjoy hot chocolate and practice pioneer skills!
Deer Watch
Friday, Jan. 3 • 4:00-5:30PM Go on a hike in search of deer and learn all about them.
Sugar Bush Fair Schaumburg Park District's
EARLY CHILDHOOD
Presented by
Star Time
Saturday, Jan. 18 • 4:30-6:00PM Come to Spring Valley for activities that revolve around the night sky.
FREE ADMISSION! MAPLE SUGARING-Originally published by Currier & Ives
Saturday & Sunday, March 15 & 16
Lincoln, Logs and Lore
Enjoy a pancakes breakfast with real maple syrup, sausage, juice and coffee. See authentic demonstrations of maple syrup production, a pioneer sugar camp, children’s puppet show, hayride and sales of syrup and other goodies. Click here for more information.
Wednesday, Feb. 12 • 3:00-4:30PM Hike to Spring Valley’s log cabin, read a Lincoln story, make a craft and play with Lincoln logs. 4
S p r i n g Va l l e y • N a t u r a l E n q u i r e r • J a n u a r y / F e b r u a r y 2 0 1 4
Snowshoe Ramble
ENTICE Workshop
Saturday, Feb. 1 • 1:00-2:30PM If there’s enough snow, participants will strap on snowshoes and explore Spring Valley.
Saturday, Feb. 15 • 8:30AM-3:30PM
Winter may appear to be a time of inactivity in the natural world, but the appearance is deceptive. Join staff from Spring Valley Nature Center as they teach the interrelationships of organisms during winter. Targeted to educators of grades four through 10, this workshop will include discussions of species adaptations, the physical environment, biotic and abiotic factors affecting populations and take an observation hike. Supplemental educational materials and activities will be provided and demonstrated throughout the day. Continuing Professional Development Units are available. This workshop is part of the ENTICE (Environment and Nature Training Institute for Conservation Education) program from the Illinois Department of Natural Resources.
Winter Habitats: Spring Valley Style
Saturday, Feb. 1 • 3:00-4:30PM Prairie Sunday, Feb. 23 • 3:00-4:30PM Wetland Sunday, March 9 • 3:00-4:30PM Woodland Explore the prairie, wetland and woodland.
Sundown Supper in the Sugar Bush Saturday, Feb. 22 • 4:00-6:00PM Tap maple trees, gather sap and tend the boildown, and enjoy a pancake ‘supper’ at the Cabin.
Nature Stories
Sunday, Feb. 23 • 1:30-2:30PM Nature and stories go hand in hand. There are many stories to tell and books to read.
Home School Naturalist Group Programs Spring Valley Nature Center and Heritage Farm is the perfect place for hands-on, exploration-based science programs. Offerings change seasonally, so check the program guide regularly.
YOUTH School Day-Off Field Trip
Winter topics: • Stars & Constellations – Explore the far-out world of stars while traveling the life cycle of a star, telling constellation stories and star-hopping across the winter sky. • Pioneer Living – Travel back in time and practice pioneer skills, including weaving and cooking over a fire. • Winter Insects – Discover what insects need to do to survive the winter while searching under logs, leaves and ice for these tiny animals.
Friday, Jan. 17 • 9:00-4:00PM Monday, Jan. 20 • 9:00-4:00PM Monday, Feb. 17 • 9:00-4:00PM Explore Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum, Lincoln Park Zoo and Chicago History Museum.
Animal Surprises
Saturday, Jan. 18 • 2:30-4:00PM Look for animals by searching the prairie, wetlands and woodlands of Spring Valley.
Available every Winter: Conservation in Action, Woodlands, Owls: Predators of the Night, Winter Ecology, Farms and Food, Nighttime Nature
Dolls, Dolls, Dolls
Sunday, March 9 • 1:00-3:30PM Experience how girls in former years used their imagination to make dolls.
For more information about programs and pricing, or to schedule a program, call 847-985-2100.
Snowshoe Rentals Available: Beginning Dec. 1
Experience the beauty of the winter landscape in a new way! The following rental policies apply: • There must be at least four inches of snow on the ground before rentals will be made available. • First-time renters will be asked to view a short videotape on the proper way to use snowshoes prior to taking them out. • A rental application and liability waiver must be filled out at the Nature Center Visitor Center. • A driver’s license or some other form of ID is required as deposit. • Rental rate is $4 for a maximum of three hours for use at Spring Valley. • Rentals are available on a first-come, first-served basis from 9AM until 3PM. All rentals must be returned by 4:30PM. • Special youth group rates are available after 3PM on weekdays. Call to inquire. No youth groups on weekends. • To take snowshoes off site, a deposit of $50 is required. The cost is $10 per day. Call 847/985-2100 for more information. 5
S p r i n g Va l l e y • N a t u r a l E n q u i r e r • J a n u a r y / F e b r u a r y 2 0 1 4
From Awareness to Action
Lynn Eikenberry with Nerge Mighty Acorns
Fall Seeds
Six observers stand at the fence as two buses slowly come to a halt. The doors open and passengers begin to exit. At first it is a slow trickle; the first few off the bus blinking against the bright autumn sky. As their eyes adjust, the first to disembark take several steps forward, making room for those behind. The open area is quickly filled until what started as a slow trickle is now a steady flow. Most of the faces are quite young, but every so often an adult will appear in the stream of moving bodies. They fan out into the open space, and groups of students congregate around them until the entire sidewalk is alive with bodies. Boots stomp on the pavement, hats are adjusted against the cool wind and the rustle of paper bags can be heard above the excited chatter. It is time to begin. The six observers, who are a mix of Spring Valley staff and volunteers, leave the fence line and approach the group. The Mighty Acorns have arrived. The students who have just gotten off the bus are not here for an ordinary field trip. They have come as part of The Mighty Acorns program, which is a blend of environmental education, nature exploration and conservation. Unlike other field trips that are one-time visits, these students spend the entire school year in the program. This longer timeframe allows them to make real-world connections to what they learn in school. It also allows them to see changes in an ecosystem throughout the seasons, as well as the changes they are helping to bring about through their stewardship and conservation activities. The Mighty Acorns program evolved in 1993 from the Volunteer Stewardship Network (VSN), a joint effort of The Nature Conservancy and the Forest Preserve District of Cook County. The idea was simple; find a way to engage young
by Derek Gronlund
Spring Transplating
Barb Mitchell with Hoover Mighty Acorns
people in stewardship and nature exploration. In turn, this engagement in their local community and ecosystem would foster a lifelong connection to the land. From this simple guiding mission, along with many meetings between educators, naturalists, VSN leaders and parents, the Mighty Acorns program was conceived. What began in one county for a handful of students has blossomed into a robust program spanning seven counties across Chicagoland and northwest Indiana, reaching over 8,000 students in grades 4–6 each year. The Mighty Acorns program is in its 15th year at Spring Valley. It began here in 1998 with eight classes from three Palatine schools. Over the past decade and a half, 161 classes of students from 15 different schools have participated in the program here at Spring Valley. For participating students, this program is much more than a series of field trips. It is a yearlong effort that includes three in-school visits by SV staff, as well as three on-site visits to Spring Valley. Students come during fall, winter and spring and, while on site, work closely with volunteers and staff in a combination of exploration, guided interdisciplinary activities and stewardship projects. Each trip builds on what was seen and done previously. Students get the chance to grow as individuals while learning and improving their environmental literacy. It is this growth that makes the Mighty Acorns program so unique and valuable. One of the ultimate goals of environmental education is to increase individual and societal environmental literacy. By knowing more about ecological matters and understanding their place in the world, people can ultimately make more environmentally sustainable decisions. This change can be thought of as moving along a continuum, with 6
Winter Brush Cutting
awareness at one end, and action/behavioral change on the other. Since the time commitment is much greater than a one-time field trip, students that take part in Mighty Acorns are able to grow in their understanding of local ecology and advance along the awareness-to-action continuum throughout the school year. Awareness and knowledge of current ecological issues in the Chicagoland region are introduced in the classroom by teachers and SV staff. Student attitudes and values are addressed through pre- and post-visit activities provided for teachers. During the year, students take action through participation in stewardship projects on site. The program provides a cohesive experience that focuses and strengthens students’ connections to their local environment. On that brisk October day when students arrived for their first onsite trip, the large hoard quickly dispersed. Each group, escorted by a SV volunteer, took a different path quickly spreading out and losing sight of one another. They fanned out into the prairie, not on paths, but wherever the seeds were to be found. The paper bags that had been rustling with excitement were soon filled with seed from various native prairie plants, including big bluestem, Indian grass, bush clover, purple prairie clover and rough blazing star. This will be their project for the upcoming school year. This is where they will continue to observe and work. They are the Mighty Acorns. If you happen to be enjoying SV trails this February or May, keep an eye out for the Mighty Acorns! If you or someone you know would be interested in becoming involved in the Mighty Acorns program, contact the Nature Center at 847-985-2100 or email springvalley@ parkfun.com.
Volunteer News S p r i n g Va l l e y • N a t u r a l E n q u i r e r • J a n u a r y / F e b r u a r y 2 0 1 4
Spring Valley Volunteer Recognition for 2013
Spring Valley held its Volunteer Holiday Celebration and Recognition event on Saturday, December 14. It was wonderful that so many volunteers could join us for the evening’s festivities. Activities included the chance to socialize with fellow volunteers, the toasting of wassail, the pleasure of delectable food, and of course, the recognition of our fantastic volunteers. Spring Valley volunteers, along with the help of local church, corporate, school, and scout groups, contributed 11,836.25 hours in 2013. It’s wonderful to see such strong community support. Thank you to everyone who has contributed their time and talent to Spring Valley. We simply could not accomplish as much as we do without you! As is traditionally done this time of year, we would like to specifically recognize people for their accomplishments over the past year. First 25 hours of service
Barb Royce
300 to 399 Hours
Ten Years
Andrew Awdziejczyk
Bob Royce
Jay Laski
Andy Caccavari
Robin Barr
Amy Vito
Barb Mitchell
Pete Gigous
Karen Delmonico
Berni Kolasa
Bill Flesch
100 to 199 Hours
400 to 499 Hours
Charlie Loh
Amanda Krause
Carol Anagnostopoulos
Lynn Eikenbary
Rich Ringfelt
Bruce Kuhnhofer
Kaitlyn Ball
Randee Lawrence
Dean Bruckner
600 to 699 Hours
Mert Rutledge
Jim Peterson
Eve Carter
Pete Gigous
Carolyn White
Gaby Ramos
Ray Deibert
Tony Meo
Nancy Schaefer
Barb Dochterman
Roy Svenson
Arthur Jeczala
Two Years:
John Curin
Donna Johnson
Carol Anagnostopoulos
Roger Nelson
50 to 99 Hours
Susan LaDore
Andrew Awdziejczyk
Elsie Sears
Gail Ameer
Sandy Meo
Kaitlyn Ball
Bill Bidlo
Roger Nelson
Katrina Miley
Thirty Years
Leon Blum
Mert Rutledge
Larry Morkert
Sandy Meo
Christine Curin
Laurie Tatom
Julie Nilson
Tony Meo
Karen Delmonico
Donna Turner
Ann Scacco
Daryle Drew
Angela Waidanz
Nancy Schaefer
Karen Kusek
Carolyn White
Tina Rokoszewski
Fifteen Years
Thirty-Five Years Barb Dochterman
Charlie Loh
Five Years
Nancy Lyons
200 to 299 Hours
Ray Deibert
Nancy Mamsen
Duane Bolin
Donna Johnson
Mary Matz
Ken Ogorzalek
Penny Perles
Katrina Miley
Dick Ruffolo
Tom Perles
Barb Muehlhausen
Roy Svenson
Bob Royce
Janet Neally
John Witkowski
Sharon Ogorzalek Penny Perles Walter Plinske Gaby Ramos 7
Note: If you are due an award and haven’t yet received it, please stop by the Nature Center by Feb. 1 so we can personally present it to you. Thanks you.
Volunteer News S p r i n g Va l l e y • N a t u r a l E n q u i r e r • J a n u a r y / F e b r u a r y 2 0 1 4
Volunteer Want Ads
If you are interested in helping with any of the following activities, please call Judy at 847/985-2100 or e-mail her at juvito@parkfun.com.
Conservation Workday
Saturday, Jan. 25 Put on your grubby clothes, dress for the weather, and help us at our upcoming workday. The workday runs from 9am to 1pm.
Prescribed Burn Training
Saturday, Feb. 22 Learn the philosophy behind controlled burns and why we use this important management tool at Spring Valley. Volunteers who attend the training will then be eligible to assist with the prescribed burns we do in spring and fall. Training is scheduled from 9am-2pm in the Nature Center classroom.
Sugar Bush Set-Up
March 13 & 14 Can’t help at the Sugar Bush Fair, but still want to be part of it? Join us the Thursday and Friday before the event to help setup. We have a variety of activities which need to be done. Come at 10am and stay for all or part of the day!
Dates to Remember
• Monday, Jan. 13................ 1-4pm Handy Crafters Meeting • Saturday, Jan. 25............... 9am-1pm Conservation Workday • Wednesday, Feb. 5............ 6:30-9pm Volunteer Meeting • Monday, Feb. 10................ 1-4pm Handy Crafters Meeting • Saturday, Feb. 22.............. 9am-2pm Burn Training
Welcome New Volunteers…
Sugar Bush
March 15 & 16 It’s not too early to start thinking about the Sugar Bush Fair. If you think you’ll be available to help, please give me a call. Shift time is 8am-12:30pm. Remember – there’s a free pancake breakfast for all volunteers!
Pats on the back to the following volunteers... • Barbara Dochterman for 35 years of service as Spring Valley librarian. From creating the library to maintaining it to passing on its responsibility to Michael LaVont, her time and energy on its upkeep has been greatly appreciated over the years.
• Caroline Bezik • Gerri Svenson
Happy Birthday to… January
4 5 11 12 19 21 22 23
• Carol Anagnostopoulos, Lynn Eikenbary, Mike Gear, Barb Mitchell, Ellie Vogel, and Angela Waidanz for decorating the Farm and Cabin in preparation for Christmas in the Valley and the holidays. • Caroline Bezik, Leon Blum, Ray Deibert, Karen Delmonico, Daryle Drew, Amanda Greco, Ron Haskell, Amanda, Janet and Al Kraus, Bruce Kuhnhofer, Jay Laski, Mary Matz, Janet Neally, Roger Nelson, Donna Nicolaisen, Patty Ochs, Kristi Overgaard, Tina Rokoszewski, Barb and Bob Royce, Dick Ruffolo, Mert Rutledge, Roy Svenson, Laurie Tatom, Amy Vito and John Witkowski for their continuing weekly animal care assistance at Volkening Heritage Farm. • Pat Campbell and Arthur Jeczala who help with a variety of administrative support activities on a regular basis. 8
• Nancy Griffin
Andrea Farnham Jim Sears Barb Dochterman Marilyn Dvoratchek Karen Delmonico Arlene Krizka Terri Williams Eileen Skiba
February
2 6 8 9 10 11 14
Donna Nicolaisen Randee Lawrence Ray Deibert Jeff Huebner Arthur Jeczala Keith Kramer Sandy Meo Tom Popek Bill Flesch Leo Salais
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Norina Waugh Pat Floreani Andy Farnham Kaitlyn Ball Dan Greco Gaby Ramos Ann Scacco
Mike Gear Dave Krein Angie Cornwell Roger Nelson Carolyn Bowden Dean Bruckner Janet Neally
S p r i n g Va l l e y • N a t u r a l E n q u i r e r • Vo l u n t e e r C a l e n d a r
Sunday
JANUARY 2014
Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
1
Farm Closed
Thursday
2
Cabin Closed
Friday
3
•Deer Watch 4pm
Saturday
4
Bold indicates volunteer activities Italics indicates programs which may be taken as complimentary by volunteers See “What’s Happening” for program descriptions
•Winter Campfire in the Cabin 6:30pm
New Year’s Day
5
6
7
•Weekly Yoga at Cabin 6pm •Weekly Yoga at Cabin 7:30pm
12
13
Handy Crafters Meeting 1pm
14
8
9
Schaumburg Community Garden Club 7pm
15
19
20
•School Day-Off Field Trip 9am
Martin Luther King Jr. Day
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27
21
17
•School Day-Off Field Trip 9am
18
•Animal Surprises 2:30pm •Star Time 4:30pm
•Weekly Yoga at Cabin 6:30pm •Weekly Yoga at Cabin 8pm
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23
•Weekly Yoga at Cabin 6pm •Weekly Yoga at Cabin 7:30pm
28
11
•Weekly Yoga at Cabin 6:30pm •Weekly Yoga at Cabin 8pm
16
•Weekly Yoga at Cabin 6pm •Weekly Yoga at Cabin 7:30pm
10
•Heaven’s Watch 8pm
24
•Weekly Yoga at Cabin 6:30pm •Weekly Yoga at Cabin 8pm
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30
•Weekly Yoga at Cabin 6pm •Weekly Yoga at Cabin 7:30pm
•Weekly Yoga at Cabin 6:30pm •Weekly Yoga at Cabin 8pm
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25
Conservation Workday 9am
S p r i n g Va l l e y • N a t u r a l E n q u i r e r • Vo l u n t e e r C a l e n d a r
Sunday
FEBRUARY 2014
Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
Saturday
Friday
1
Farm Closed
•Snowshoe Ramble 1pm •Winter Habitats: Spring Valley Style 3pm
Cabin Closed Bold indicates volunteer activities Italics indicates programs which may be taken as complimentary by volunteers See “What’s Happening” for program descriptions
2
3
4
•Weekly Yoga at Cabin 6pm •Weekly Yoga at Cabin 7:30pm
9
10
Handy Crafters Meeting 1pm
11
•Weekly Yoga at Cabin 6pm •Weekly Yoga at Cabin 7:30pm
16
17
•School Day-Off Field Trip 9am
Presidents’ Day
23
•Hot Cocoa and Cookies at the Farmhouse 1pm •Nature and Winter 1:30pm •Winter Habitats: Spring Valley Style 3pm
24
18
5
6
Volunteer Meeting 6:30pm
12
•Lincoln, Logs and Lore 3pm
Schaumburg Community Garden Club 7pm
19
25
8
14
15
•Weekly Yoga at Cabin 6:30pm •Weekly Yoga at Cabin 8pm
13
•Weekly Yoga at Cabin 6:30pm •Weekly Yoga at Cabin 8pm
20
•Weekly Yoga at Cabin 6pm •Weekly Yoga at Cabin 7:30pm
7
Valentine’s Day
21
•Weekly Yoga at Cabin 6:30pm •Weekly Yoga at Cabin 8pm
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27
•Weekly Yoga at Cabin 6pm •Weekly Yoga at Cabin 7:30pm
•Weekly Yoga at Cabin 6:30pm •Weekly Yoga at Cabin 8pm
10
28
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Prescribed Burn Training 9am •Sundown Supper in the Sugar Bush 4pm
S p r i n g Va l l e y • N a t u r a l E n q u i r e r • J a n u a r y / F e b r u a r y 2 0 1 4 Spring Valley • Schaumburg Park District • 1111 East Schaumburg Road • Schaumburg, Illinois 60194 Schaumburg Rd. Vera Meineke Nature Center
Plum Grove Rd.
N Volkening Heritage Farm
PHONE VERA MEINEKE NATURE CENTER...............................................847/985-2100 VOLKENING HERITAGE FARM......................................................847-985-2102
135 acres
HOURS
Vera Meineke Nature Center
The earth-sheltered visitor center provides an introduction to Spring Valley’s 135 acres of restored prairies, woodlands and wetlands and three miles of trails. The center contains natural history exhibits that change seasonally, a demonstration Backyard for Wildlife, an observation tower, classrooms, an extensive library, gift sales area and restrooms.
Volkening Heritage Farm
Step back into the past for a look at Schaumburg as it was in the 1880s – a rural German farm community. Help with seasonal farm chores, participate in family activities and games of the 1880s, or simply visit the livestock and soak in the quiet. Authentically dressed interpreters will welcome and share activities with visitors throughout the site.
Environmental Outreach Program
We’ll bring our outreach program to your site. Topics include forests, worms, spiders, mammals, owls, food chains, food webs, wetlands, and the water cycle. Students will participate in hands-on activities, songs, and games. Topics may be adapted to students in grades one through six, and are aligned with Illinois State Standards and NGSS.
Programs at Spring Valley
School, Scout and adult groups are encouraged to take advantage of Spring Valley’s Environmental Education Program. Programs change seasonally and are geared for specific age groups. Correlations to the state standards, connections with NGSS, and activity sheets are available on the SPD website, www.parkfun.com. Learn local history with a visit to the Heritage Farm. Elementary and high school students recreate farm life in the 1880s with Hands on History; second graders experience it through Heritage Quest. Children from the age of four through second grade will learn about food, farmers, and farm animals in Farms and Foods.
Scout Badges
We offer many opportunities for scouts. Our programs will help with your badge, pin or patch requirements. Call for more information or stop in for a brochure.
SPRING VALLEY MISSION STATEMENT:
Spring Valley’s mission is to educate area residents regarding the natural and cultural history of the Schaumburg area and how people have and continue to interact with and upon the landscape.
Spring Valley is a refuge of 135 acres of fields, forests, marshes and streams with over three miles of handicappedaccessible trails, a museum featuring natural history displays and information, and an 1880s living-history farm. Spring Valley is open to the general public. Admission is free.
SCHAUMBURG PARK DISTRICT BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS: Mike Daniels Sharon DiMaria David Johnson George Longmeyer Bob Schmidt
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR: Tony LaFrenere
Nature Center Grounds & Trails...............Open Daily...............8AM-5PM Volkening Heritage Farm Grounds..........Closed......................Dec.1-March 1 NATURE CENTER/MUSEUM HOURS: Year Round.............Daily*.......... 9AM-5PM FARM INTERPRETIVE PROGRAM HOURS: Nov. - March............Open for Special Events April 1 - Oct. 31.......Sat/Sun....... 10AM-4PM Tue-Fri........ 9AM-2PM Mon............ Buildings Closed
Unless otherwise noted, all programs are held rain or shine. Participants should dress appropriately for weather conditions.
*All facilities closed on Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s Day
Spring Valley Birthday Parties
Looking for a unique, fun, and educational venue for your child’s birthday? Spring Valley is the answer! Two party themes are available. A hayride can be added for an extra fee. Call Spring Valley for more information.
Spring Valley Firepit and Shelter Rentals
Make your next scout group, business or family gathering something special! Spring Valley offers the use of a picnic shelter and fire pit in a wooded setting near the Merkle Log Cabin. Use of the site includes firewood, trash/recycling receptacles and benches, as well as picnic tables. No alcohol or amplified music permitted. Restrooms are available at the Heritage Farm or Nature Center, a 5–10 minute walk. The adjacent Merkle Log Cabin contains a restroom and may be rented for additional fees. Hourly use fees: Residents:.............. $25
Civic groups:...............................$25
Non-residents:....... $40 Corporate/business groups:.......$55
NATURAL ENQUIRER STAFF: Mary Rice Editor
Judy Vito Volunteer Coordinator Dave Brooks “In this Issue...” Scott Stompor 11 Graphic Artist
SCHAUMBURG PARK DISTRICT WEBSITE: www.parkfun.com
E-MAIL:
springvalley@parkfun.com
MEMBER: