Natural Enquirer: November/December 2015 by Schaumburg Park District

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.6 no.6 • Nov.-Dec. ‘15

In this issue...

The natural world can often be full of surprises, even for those who aren’t necessarily looking that closely. The mink is an animal that many visitors are surprised to learn lives in this area, mainly due to its elusiveness. Mink are also only found in or near natural areas, unlike other common wildlife that can be seen in suburban backyards. Evidence of climate change can be just as elusive as the mink; however, when one looks at the data collected by scientists who study changes in rainfall, temperature, etc. on a continent-wide or global scale, the evidence is there. The changes in plant hardiness zones is one such example discussed in our second article. The lesson here is that it not only pays to look closely, but to be open to seeing things that one doesn’t expect.

Inside Climate Change Effects Are Setting Root...... 2-3

Volunteer News Contents

What’s Happenin’.............................................. 4-5

Volunteer Information..........................................7

The Mysterious Mustelid......................................6

Volunteer Calendar........................................... 8-9

Spring Valley General Information....................10

Schaumburg Park District

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 • N o v e m b e r / D e c e m b e r 2 0 1 5

Climate Change Effects Are Setting Root

he phrases “global warming” and “climate change” can sometimes cause an awkward conversation at the dinner table. While these topics may be considered controversial, it is important to resist the urge to just “pass the bread” and brush the idea under the rug. Most people have heard about, and many across the U.S. have experienced, rising temperatures, more frequent and extreme storms (or lack thereof via drought), the spread of wildfires, and rising sea levels from melting polar ice caps. These ecological catastrophes are so large and so geographically distant from us in the Midwest that they can sometimes be overlooked. Even as we all shoveled our way through one of the worst winters on record and experienced the wettest June in history, climate change can still be filed in the fiction section by some. If the scope is intensified and directed at a more local setting, however, general opinion may begin to shift. If the crosshairs are dialed in on one’s personal garden or a natural area just beyond the backyard, one can see that changes are occurring within the plant community. And the plants we have grown to appreciate…might just disappear. Amidst all the natural disasters worldwide, a focus on regional plants and their growing zones is also important in relation to the climate change issue. Especially when all the proof we may need, may be growing right outside our door. To begin, an overall northward shift is occurring with plant species. The USDA has produced a Plant Hardiness Zone Map that segments the country into sections according to temperature ranges. Even more specifically, the map is based on average annual minimal temperatures. Knowing an area’s possible average lowest temperature can, in turn, help predict what plants are expected to be found in the region due to their growing preferences. For example, a palm tree is expected to be found in a zone with a warmer winter climate. It is important to note, that this map does not represent overall climate or temperatures throughout the year, and is just a

by Matt Streitmatter

representation of the averaged coldest temperatures possible throughout winter months. As these averages rise, plants that could not “over-winter” in certain areas can now make it through the season and thrive year round.

cies and the decline of certain long lived trees.

The image above is a comparison between the Plant Hardiness Zone Map in 1990 and in 2012. It is quite apparent that all zones have climbed upwards across the country, most notably in Zone 4. For an understanding of scale, Zone 3 (which is now almost nonexistent in the continental U.S.) has an average lowest winter temperature of -30° to -40° F, and Zone 10 has an average lowest temperature of 30–40° F. Zone 5 once covered a large portion of Illinois. Over the past 25 years, Zone 6 has vertically moved to now cover more than half of Illinois.

States to assist with soil erosion and as a livestock forage plant. It was even advertised as the plant that “works while you sleep.” Unfortunately this slogan held truth (as it can grow up to 1 foot per day) and quickly spread beyond control. A longtime ecological problem in the south, this aggressive vine has only recently crept its way north. As climate change has pushed plant zones upward, kudzu is now present for the first time in Illinois with a confirmed population as far north as Cook County. Other subtropical invasives may be on the way, as well. Their overall adaptability and acceptance to warmer/wetter climates and harsh conditions might invite a whole new cast of exotic species to local natural areas.

So, the question arises, “What does this mean for the plants?” The answer can be complicated and simple all at once. In a nutshell, warmer winter temperatures (or at least the lack of extremely deep cold temps) allow plants that could not previously survive the Midwest’s frigid conditions the opportunity to spread northward into new regions. Each zone has different plant species that are adapted for that climate. So a new zone in Illinois will bring new plants. In addition, the native flora that is already established and acclimated to Illinois’ Zone 5 conditions may be negatively affected by the temperature shift. While both of these situations are affecting many plant species, they are significantly important in relation to the spread of invasive spe2

Kudzu is an invasive species originally from Eastern Asia. It was introduced in 1876 to the southern half of the United

As kudzu is on the move and quickly staking out a new home, some of Illinois’ oldest and most recognizable trees may be hanging a “For Rent” sign in the distant future. The white oak, our state tree, is a staple in Illinois oak/hickory woodlands. While it has a vast growing range that stretches all the way down to Florida, its preferred growing conditions occur in Illinois. Negative effects on the white oak may not come from the rising temperatures that are associated with climate change, but rather the projected potential of heavy storms and rainfall.

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 • N o v e m b e r / D e c e m b e r 2 0 1 5

Climate Change Effects Are Setting Root - Continued White oaks can grow in different ecosystems, but strongly prefer a dryer, sandier soil. If projections of a much wetter climate hold true, white oaks may struggle. According to the U.S. Forest Services article, “Potential Changes in Tree Habitat for Illinois under Climate Change” other trees that may be negatively affected by climate change include the paper birch, white ash, black walnut, American elm, shagbark hickory, sugar maple, eastern white pine, and the red pine to name a few. Mature trees that are already established will probably not be affected by these changes; however, future saplings may take a significant hit. Many projections show an increase in the productivity of shrubs and trees with a shorter life cycle. Slow maturing trees could be affected the most because of their need

for more stable growing conditions over long periods of time. Recent trends and studies, while important, can only suggest projections when it comes to climate change and the as-

Kudzu Engulfing the Landscape

sociated effects on plants within an ecosystem. And one of the most constant and secure assumptions is to “expect the unexpected” with climate stability. From heavy snowfalls, to flooding spring rains, to deep summer droughts, plants across the Midwest will have to adapt to extremely variable weather patterns.

And it will be interesting to see which species thrive in this changing and unpredictable environment. As Illinois experienced the wettest June on record and both native and exotic plants reached Jurassic heights, I was reminded of a quote from the movie Jurassic Park, “Life finds a way.” Even as climate change continues to alter the environment with rising temperatures, higher CO2 levels and more frequent and drastic storms, I do believe this quote will prevail. Plants will find a way; adapt or even leave to find suitable growing conditions. Our natural areas will, no doubt, remain lush and full from afar…but on closer inspection the expected and admired species of native plants currently growing in Illinois’ natural areas may be dangerously in question.

SHOPPING AT OUR

WOODS & FIELDS

In addition to our natural areas, walking trails, living history farm, and wonderful programs, Spring Valley also provides some great gift ideas. While we may not be Woodfield Mall, you can be sure that the items sold in our gift case are educational and reasonably priced. Spring Valley honey, Spring Valley t-shirts, bug boxes, children’s games, and a variety of excellent books on nature and history are available. All proceeds from these sales ben-efit Spring Valley. The Spring Valley Nature Club also has attractive Spring Valley shirts, the sale of which benefits the Club. So, forget the highpriced malls, the traffic and parking, and purchase meaningful gifts at our Woods and Fields!! 3

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 • N o v e m b e r / D e c e m b e r 2 0 1 5

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! Spring Valley is now offering an early bird discount on programs. Prices in the fall brochure reflect that discount and will be in effect until one week before the date of the program. At that time, fees will increase 15%. Programs with insufficient registration will be cancelled at noon three days before the program. We hope you will take advantage of this opportunity. It is our attempt to serve you better!

Project Learining Tree

Saturday, Nov. 7 • 9:00 a.m.- 3 p.m. Join in a fun-filled day learning how to use the activities and receive a copy of the PLT K-8 curriculum guide with 96 interdisciplinary activities.

Early Childhood Educator’s Combo

Saturday, Nov. 14 • 9:00 a.m.- 3 p.m. Receive two nationally acclaimed curricula, Project Learning Tree Environmental Experiences for Early Childhood and Growing Up Wild. Both build on a child’s sense of wonder about nature and invite you to explore nature through art, music, science inquiry, math, reading and health.

ADULT or TEEN

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.

Harper College & Spring Valley

All About Apples

Saturday, Nov. 21 • 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Enjoy a walk to the Cabin, make apple prints, and eat apple cobbler.

Blacksmithing for Beginners

Saturday, Nov. 21 • 9:00 a.m.-Noon Warm yourself by the red glow of the forge as you discover the timeless and practical craft of blacksmithing. Course: LEI 0078

Bird Buffet

Sunday, Dec. 13 • 10:30 a.m.-Noon Create a birdfeeder to energize and prepare birds for their long journey south for winter.

Blacksmithing for Beginners II

Saturday, Nov. 21 • 1:00-4:00 p.m. This follow-up to the beginning blacksmithing class allows participants to take their skills to the next level. Course: LEI 0079

YOUTH Spring Valley Winter Break Camp

Mon.-Wed., Dec. 21-23 • 9:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m. Mon.-Wed., Dec. 28-30 • 9:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m. Mon.-Wed., Dec. 21-30 • 9:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m. Spend winter break at Spring Valley exploring, tracking animals, experimenting with snow and more.

Dutch Oven Cooking

Saturday, Nov. 14 • 3:00-5:00 p.m. Learn the ins and outs of cooking over an open fire using a cast iron Dutch oven.

EARLY CHILDHOOD Chickadee’s Day Out

Spring Valley Holiday Bazaar

Friday, Jan. 8 • 4:00-5:00 p.m. Put on your black caps and spend the day with chickadee, one of Spring Valley’s winter birds!

Follow those Feathers

Saturday & Sunday, Nov. 28 & 29 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Nature Center

Sunday, Dec. 13 • 1:00-2:30 p.m. Discover why some birds migrate and how they know where they are going.

Getting Ready for Winter

The Nature Center becomes a festive holiday gift shop for two days as numerous vendors of hand-crafted items display their unique creations. Admission is free. Sponsored by the Spring Valley Nature Club.

Saturday, Nov. 14 • 10:30 a.m.-Noon Explore Spring Valley to find out how the plant and animals are getting ready for winter.

Reindeer Watch

Saturday, Dec. 19 • 1:00-3:00 p.m. Rumor has it that one of Spring Valley’s deer has a red nose! Read a story and make a craft.

Spring Valley Winter Fest

Those Darn Squirrels

Saturday, Nov. 14 • 1:00-2:30 p.m. Read a story about squirrels and what they’re doing to get ready for winter.

Saturday & Sunday, Jan 16 & 17 • Noon - 3 p.m. Nature Center

Get bundled up and join in some winter fun. Enjoy snowshoe walks through the prairie, horse-drawn wagon rides, winter snacks, crafts and activities inside the Nature Center, marshmallows roasted on a winter bonfire and a visit by a live wolf and coyote.

Time for Turkeys

Saturday, Nov. 21 • 9:00-10:00 a.m. Help a naturalist determine if any turkeys are hiding at Spring Valley.

Admission: $3/person or $12/family, children 3 and under free.

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 • N o v e m b e r / D e c e m b e r 2 0 1 5

FREE DROP-IN PROGRAMS AT THE NATURE CENTER Footprints Series – Adult + Child

Leave your footprints while exploring the beautiful trails at Spring Valley! We’ll explore a different topic and notice the changes nature makes throughout the year!

December: Where Do They Go? Saturday, Dec. 19 • 10 a.m.-Noon

November: Take a Step Back Saturday, Nov. 21 • 10 a.m.-Noon

Go back in time to when Illinois was covered with prairies. Explore how the Native Americans survived.

Focus on hibernation and the changes nature makes to prepare for the cold weather to come.

Schaumburg Park District presents...

Weekend Horse-Drawn Wagon Rides at the Farm

at Volkening Heritage Farm & Merkle Cabin

Saturdays & Sundays • 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Through end of November

Experience the holiday season as it was in 1880s Schaumburg. Victorian decorations and traditional German foods filled the home with light and warmth as farm work continued at Sponsored by its own pace. Click here

Relax and enjoy a horse-drawn wagon ride through Heritage Farm as staff relates information about the farm, animals and the history of Schaumburg’s farm families. Dress for the weather.

for more information.

• Tickets sold on a first-come, first-served basis the day of the ride, no earlier than 15 minutes before start time. • Tickets are $3/person; children 3 and under are free. • Wagon holds a maximum of 15 people. • Rides begin and end next to the Farm Visitor Center.

Sat./Sun., Dec. 5 & 6 • Noon-4PM $3 per person • $12 per family • 3 yrs & younger Free

Note: Wagon rides may be cancelled due to extreme weather (storms or heat) and/or animal health issues. Wagon ride will not be offered on Special Event days. Please call 847/985-2102 or check www.parkfun.com for updated information.

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.

Groups of 15 and larger are encouraged to schedule their own group wagon rental. For more information, call Heritage Farm at 847/985-2102.

Fall topics: •• Orienteering – Calculate your pace and learn how to navigate with a map and compass. • • Habitat Study – Compare and contrast Spring Valley’s different habitats using scientific techniques. • • Super Soil – Develop your own recipe for soil, search for decomposers and analyze soil samples. Available every fall: Conservation in Action, Woodlands, Owls: Predators of the Night, Cycling, Farms and Food, Gardening, Wetlands, Nighttime Nature 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 9 a.m. until 3 p.m. All rentals must be returned by 4:30 p.m. • Special youth group rates are available after 3 p.m. 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.

Hoghouse to Smokehouse SUNDAY, NOV. 15 NOON-4 p.m. Volkening Heritage Farm

$3 per person $12 per family 3 yrs & younger Free

Discover how 1880s farm families put meat on their tables and preserved food for the long, cold winter. Click here for more information.

Sponsored by

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 • N o v e m b e r / D e c e m b e r 2 0 1 5

The Mysterious Mustelid

here is a vicious looking creature lurking in the Spring Valley library. It sits perched high on a shelf, its face frozen in a permanent snarl, and a scattering of feathers suggests a recent kill. Most people who first lay eyes on this beast mistake it for a ferret, which is understandable since the two are close relatives. While the creature I describe is very real (come in and see for yourself!), it shouldn’t cause concern. It is a stuffed mount of an American mink, one of Spring Valley’s more reclusive residents. Minks are considered mustelids which is the family of carnivorous mammals, including weasels, otters, badgers, ferrets, martens, and skunks. This family of mammals is characterized by their long, lean bodies, stout legs, round ears, thick fur, and sharp teeth.

by Derek Gronlund

to eat, it can quickly pounce and kill its meal with a swift bite to the neck.

Mink

Another biological quirk that may make you think twice about adopting a pet mink are their potent musk glands. Minks have two scent glands Mink Skull conveniently located on their posterior end. These produce a noxPerhaps the most disious, oily substance that is mainly used tinguishing feature of the to mark territory; however, much like mink is its luxurious fur coat. Since the another famous mustelid, the skunk, mink is a semi-aquatic mammal, it has when under stress or feeling threatened special oil glands that keep the fur water a mink can quickly expel the contents of resistant. The coat is also relatively its musk glands, scattering the surroundthick, which keeps the winter chill off its ing area with its foul-smelling secretions. skin. This combination of water shedding and density make the mink’s fur an In recent years, mink have been sighted important animal to the fur trade. Thick, by visitors and staff at several places in sleek and warm, the mink has long been Spring Valley. I made one such sighting hunted for its pelage. myself a few winters ago. I was walking with a group While their fur may be soft and fluffy, the of second grade students mink is definitely not a cuddly animal. An down to the Merkle Cabin. adult mink has 34 teeth, including four Since the trails were covneedle-sharp canines. It is these sharp ered in several feet of snow, teeth that help the mink bite and grab we opted to hike down the on to its prey. Minks are carnivores, so service road that leads their diets consist entirely of meat, and south of the Nature Center. they have a non-discriminating pallet. As the group approached Prey can include small animals, such as the bend in the road near crayfish, fish, and mice, to larger anithe drainage ditch, a large, mals such as ducks, geese, and rabbits. dark mink bounded out of When a mink locates an animal it wishes the brush. It paused on a 6

little mound of snow that had been piled up along the road by the plow, as if it were posing for its portrait. The sleek fur glistened in the winter sun, almost black in contrast to the snow. The mink held its head high, and regarded the group with a piercing, yet non-threatening stare. The appearance of the mink was so unexpected that even the louder students in the group were startled into silent awe. Its nose twitched a few times, taking in the smell of excitement from the group. After pondering us for what seemed like several minutes, but was probably in reality only a few seconds, the mink continued on its way. The winter sun glinted off its shiny coat as it hopped across the road and into the prairie. If you are interested in trying to catch a glimpse of the mink, I recommend coming to walk at Spring Valley frequently during the late fall and early winter. During this time of year, there are typically fewer visitors out on the trails, which increases the chance of seeing wildlife. Also, since many of the plants are dormant and the trees are bare, there aren’t as many obstructions to the view. A fresh blanket of snow is also helpful for spotting the dark fur, as well as revealing mink tracks. The mink (or minks?) that call this area their home are often seen near the pond and along the banks of Salt and Yeargin creek. Above all, a bit of luck is required. In the seven years I have worked at Spring Valley, I have only seen a mink four times; however, don’t let my abysmal luck discourage you. One member of the education staff had three mink sightings within her first season of summer camps!

Mink

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 • N o v e m b e r / D e c e m b e r 2 0 1 5

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, Nov. 14 • 9am-Noon We’ll be out on the grounds cutting brush. Come for all or part of the day! Christmas in the Valley Dec. 5 & 6 • Noon-4pm Volunteers are needed to assist with our Victorian Christmas celebration on Saturday and Sunday, December 5 & 6. We’re looking for farm interpreters as well as other volunteers to assist with craft projects, food sales, and the information booths.

Volunteer Holiday Celebration and Recognition Friday, Dec. 11 If you have logged at least 25 hours of volunteer time this past year or are a new active Spring Valley volunteer who joined in 2015, we hope you can join us for our annual volunteer recognition event. Keep an eye out for your invitation and be sure to RSVP for this festive evening.

It’s that time of year again! November 30 marks the end of the year as far as Spring Valley Volunteer recordkeeping goes. PLEASE be sure that all of your hours are recorded!! There are volunteer record books located at both the Nature Center and the Farm. If you can’t make it in to log the hours yourself, drop Judy an e-mail or give her a call and she’ll do it for you. All hours must be compiled by the end of November. Thanks! Recorded volunteer hours aid us in writing grant applications and are a tangible way of showing community support of our programs. Volunteer hours also benefit you in the form of points which may be redeemed as part of the Park District’s Parkfun Volunteer Reward Program. This is the program in which you receive one point for every hour you volunteer. Points can be redeemed in increments of ten for such things as Water Works passes, golf outings, massages, fitness passes, and discounts on class registrations. To redeem your points, call Judy Vito at 847/985-2100.

Pats on the back to the following volunteers... • Deanna Bruckner, Eve Carter, Elaine Deibert, Barb Dochterman, Babs Eddington, Lynn Eikenbary, Eileen Skiba, Gerri Svenson, Carol Thomas, Donna Turner, and Carolyn White for helping at the Farm Visitor Center.

• In preparation for Autumn Harvest Fest: Carol Anagnostopoulos, Dean Bruckner, Rosemary and Dennis Colbert, Pat Dillon, Lynn Eikenbary, Jay Laski, Elizabeth Moorman, and Roy Svenson for picking apples; Lynn Eikenbary and Barb Mitchell for making cobbler crusts; Dean Bruckner, Elaine Deibert, Lynn Eikenbary, Bill Forst, Pete Gigous, Arthur Jeczala, Barb Mitchell, Ken Ogorzalek, Eileen Skiba, and Angela Waidanz for cleaning and general set-up. • All the volunteers who donated their time to help make Autumn Harvest Festival and Haunting in the Valley enjoyable events for all of our patrons. 7

Dates to Remember • Monday, Nov. 2............... 1-3pm Handy Crafters Meeting

• Saturday, Nov. 14........... 9am-1pm Conservation Workday • Sunday, Nov. 15............. Noon-4pm Hoghouse to Smokehouse • Monday, Nov. 23............. 1-3pm Handy Crafters Bazaar Prep • Saturday, Dec. 5............. 1-5pm Christmas in the Valley • Sunday, Dec. 6............... 1-5pm Christmas in the Valley • Monday, Dec. 7............... 1-3pm Handy Crafters Meeting • Friday, Dec. 11................ 6-9pm Volunteer Holiday Celebration

Welcome New Volunteers… • Evan Barr (Welcome back!) • Matt Franks • Bill Tatom

Happy Birthday to… November

5 7 8 9 10 11 13 14 19

Deanna Bruckner Leanna Rice Mert Rutledge Walter Plinske Renata Riccobon Bernadette Kolasa Paula Waterman Judy Leon Robin Barr Gretchen Coleman

December

1 2 3 7 9 12 17

Susan Champagne Heather Hartman Victoria Mann Jay Laski Steven Zanfardino Angelo Catalano Bill Forst Caroline Bezik Arissa Sato Jennifer Harkin

21 23 24 28 29

Dennis Colbert Elaine Deibert Louisa Walsh Bob Royce Colin May Nancy Mamsen Bob Schmidt Sharon Ogorzalek

18 20 23 25 28 30

Tom Perles Tony Satoh Laura Walsh Luke Schmidt Elizabeth Moorman Rich Ringfelt Debbie Rose George Bailey Helga Niewiadomski

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 Savings Time Ends 1 Daylight

NOVEMBER 2015

Monday

Handy Crafters Meeting 1pm

Tuesday

•Weekly Yoga at Cabin 6pm •Weekly Yoga at Cabin 7:30pm

Wednesday

Spring Valley Nature Club 6:30pm

Hoghouse to Smokehouse Noon

Schaumburg Community Garden Club 7pm

Handy Crafters Bazaar Prep 1pm

•Weekly Yoga at Cabin 6pm Sierra Club 6:30pm •Weekly Yoga at Cabin 7:30pm

•Weekly Yoga at Cabin 6pm •Weekly Yoga at Cabin 7:30pm

Holiday Craft Bazaar 10am

•Weekly Yoga at Cabin 6pm •Weekly Yoga at Cabin 7:30pm

Saturday

•Weekly Yoga at Cabin 6pm •Weekly Yoga at Cabin 7:30pm

Friday

Veterans Day •Weekly Yoga at Cabin 6pm •Weekly Yoga at Cabin 7:30pm

Thursday

Conservation Workday 9am •Getting Ready for Winter 10:30am •Those Darn Squirrels 1pm •Dutch Oven Cooking 3pm

•Time for Turkeys 9am •Blacksmithing for Beginners 9am •Take a Step Back 10am •All About Apples 10:30am •Blacksmithing for Beginners II 1pm

Holiday Craft Bazaar 10am

Thanksgiving

Farm Closed Cabin Closed Bold indicates volunteer activities Italics indicates programs which may be taken as complimentary by volunteers See “What’s Happening” for program descriptions

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

DECEMBER 2015

Monday

Tuesday

FarmHClosed

Wednesday

Thursday

Christmas in the Valley Noon

Cabin Closed Bold indicates volunteer activities Italics indicates programs which may be taken as complimentary by volunteers See “What’s Happening” for program descriptions

Christmas in the Valley Noon

Handy Crafters Meeting 1pm

•Weekly Yoga at Cabin 6pm •Weekly Yoga at Cabin 7:30pm

10 •Weekly Yoga at Cabin 6pm Sierra Club 6:30pm •Weekly Yoga at Cabin 7:30pm

•Weekly Yoga at Cabin 6pm •Weekly Yoga at Cabin 7:30pm

Hanukkah •Bird Buffet 10:30am •Follow Those Feathers 1pm

•Weekly Yoga at Cabin 6pm •Weekly Yoga at Cabin 7:30pm

21 M-W

M-W

•Where Do They Go? 10am •Reindeer Games 1pm

•Weekly Yoga at Cabin 6pm •Weekly Yoga at Cabin 7:30pm

•Winter Break Camp 9:30am

Volunteer Holiday Recognition 6pm

Christmas

Saturday

Friday

•Winter Break Camp 9:30am

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 • N o v e m b e r / D e c e m b e r 2 0 1 5 Spring Valley • Schaumburg Park District • 1111 East Schaumburg Road • Schaumburg, Illinois 60194 Schaumburg Rd.

N Plum Grove Rd.

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.

Vera Meineke Nature Center

Volkening Heritage Farm

PHONE VERA MEINEKE NATURE CENTER...............................................847/985-2100 VOLKENING HERITAGE FARM......................................................847-985-2102

135 acres

HOURS Nature Center Grounds & Trails...............Open Daily...............8AM-5PM Volkening Heritage Farm Grounds..........Closed......................Dec.1-March 1

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.

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

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.

Spring Valley Birthday Parties

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.

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.

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

Hourly use fees:

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’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.

Residents:.............. $25

Civic groups:...............................$25

Non-residents:....... $40 Corporate/business groups:.......$55

SCHAUMBURG PARK DISTRICT BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS:

NATURAL ENQUIRER STAFF: Mary Rice.......... Editor

Mike Daniels Sharon DiMaria David Johnson George Longmeyer Bob Schmidt

Judy Vito............ Volunteer Coordinator Dave Brooks...... “In this Issue...” Scott Stompor.... Graphic Artist

SCHAUMBURG PARK DISTRICT WEBSITE: www.parkfun.com

E-MAIL:

springvalley@parkfun.com

MEMBER:

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR: Tony LaFrenere

Participants should dress appropriately for weather conditions.

*All facilities closed on Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s Day

Environmental Outreach Program

SPRING VALLEY MISSION STATEMENT:

Unless otherwise noted, all programs are held rain or shine.