2017 "Big Tent" Programs
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Friday Evening
The World of Timber Rattlesnakes Christopher Howey, PhD Postdoctoral Scholar, Pennsylvania State University Timber Rattlesnakes are fantastic, beautiful, awe-inspiring animals. Together, we will explore Timber Rattlesnake biology, history, and conservation. We will discuss interesting facts regarding these animals, and we will debunk some long-held myths. |
Saturday Evening
French Creek: A National Treasure Judith Acker Outreach Program Coordinator, Audubon Pennsylvania The French Creek Watershed is a very unique and biologically diverse aquatic ecosystem with a rich and fascinating history. Known as a colonial era stream, it was named by The Nature Conservancy as "One of the Last Great Places" in the western hemisphere--right up there with major ecosystems like Yellowstone and Yosemite. Lean what makes this watershed so distinctive. |
Classes, Walks, and Field Trips
View the Program Schedule for times and locations
Check out our Leaders page for more information on our past presenters
~ 2017 Walks & Programs ~
Check out our Leaders page for more information on our past presenters
~ 2017 Walks & Programs ~
Adults Only Talk XXX
Lon Myers
This entertaining talk is the convergence of nature, myth and culture. Topics include mythology, sex, drugs, and animal procreation.
Lon Myers
This entertaining talk is the convergence of nature, myth and culture. Topics include mythology, sex, drugs, and animal procreation.
All-Day Birding
Tim Baird
This program is a car-pool birding trip throughout much of Allegany State Park. We will visit several sites that provide the opportunity to see and hear a variety of bird species in different habitats. People can participate in all or part of the trip, as long as they have their own transportation should they want to leave early. We will make restroom stops when available, and stop for lunch. Bring your own lunch or purchase food when we stop at the Quaker Store (ice cream available). Bring your own binoculars. If you enjoy photographing nature, bring your camera.
Tim Baird
This program is a car-pool birding trip throughout much of Allegany State Park. We will visit several sites that provide the opportunity to see and hear a variety of bird species in different habitats. People can participate in all or part of the trip, as long as they have their own transportation should they want to leave early. We will make restroom stops when available, and stop for lunch. Bring your own lunch or purchase food when we stop at the Quaker Store (ice cream available). Bring your own binoculars. If you enjoy photographing nature, bring your camera.
Amphibians of Allegany
Elsye Henshaw and Twan Leenders
Did you know Allegany State Park is home to over 20 species of amphibians? Learn more about their ecology, behaviors and fun facts while splashing through the creek in search of some of Allegany's resident frogs, salamanders and toads with Roger Tory Peterson Institute biologists! Attendees are encouraged to bring boots and nets as we venture down the stream.
Elsye Henshaw and Twan Leenders
Did you know Allegany State Park is home to over 20 species of amphibians? Learn more about their ecology, behaviors and fun facts while splashing through the creek in search of some of Allegany's resident frogs, salamanders and toads with Roger Tory Peterson Institute biologists! Attendees are encouraged to bring boots and nets as we venture down the stream.
Animal Signs
Valerie Jill Podet
Designed for adults and children aged 9 and up, this hike will help you use your senses to spot signs that animals have passed through.
Valerie Jill Podet
Designed for adults and children aged 9 and up, this hike will help you use your senses to spot signs that animals have passed through.
Beaver Colony Walk
Kristen Rosenburg
Learn about the official mammal of New York State while visiting an active beaver colony.
Kristen Rosenburg
Learn about the official mammal of New York State while visiting an active beaver colony.
Benefits of Wild Herbs
Barbara Winner
Learn the value of wild herbs with an introduction to their medicinal uses.
Barbara Winner
Learn the value of wild herbs with an introduction to their medicinal uses.
Bird Banding
Linda Ordiway with Jack Skinner
A bird in the hand is worth two in the bush! Well, at least they are easier to see. Learn how ornithologists capture, band, then release birds to study populations.
Linda Ordiway with Jack Skinner
A bird in the hand is worth two in the bush! Well, at least they are easier to see. Learn how ornithologists capture, band, then release birds to study populations.
Birding Bova Area
Frank Gardner
The group will walk up into the Bova area from Camp Allegany to observe birds in the various habitats that this area offers.
Frank Gardner
The group will walk up into the Bova area from Camp Allegany to observe birds in the various habitats that this area offers.
Birding Wolf Run Road
Garner Light
Explore an uncommon birding destination near Quaker Lake. Take the road less traveled! Please bring binoculars and dress for weather. Kid friendly when accompanied by an adult. We will meet at the Quaker Lake dam parking area at 8:00am. (NOTE: This program may go to 11:00.)
Garner Light
Explore an uncommon birding destination near Quaker Lake. Take the road less traveled! Please bring binoculars and dress for weather. Kid friendly when accompanied by an adult. We will meet at the Quaker Lake dam parking area at 8:00am. (NOTE: This program may go to 11:00.)
Bird Card Collage
Judy Light & Patty Brown
Celebrate your connection to birds by creating 2 soul collage cards. Each card you create tells a story of your passion for nature!
No special art ability necessary. Materials provided. For all ages, under 12 permitted with an adult.
Judy Light & Patty Brown
Celebrate your connection to birds by creating 2 soul collage cards. Each card you create tells a story of your passion for nature!
No special art ability necessary. Materials provided. For all ages, under 12 permitted with an adult.
Birding for Beginners
Garner Light
An introductory look at bird watching including focusing your binoculars, using a field guide, and easy bird identification. Please bring binoculars. Easy walk, suitable for all ages. Kids welcome if accompanied by an adult.
Garner Light
An introductory look at bird watching including focusing your binoculars, using a field guide, and easy bird identification. Please bring binoculars. Easy walk, suitable for all ages. Kids welcome if accompanied by an adult.
Birds of Prey
Mark Baker
What is a raptor? Why and how are they different from other birds? The audience will be introduced to different families of raptors. Learn the natural history, biology and physical adaptations of birds of prey. With many hands-on items we explore size, feathers, flying, hunting styles, beaks, feet and talons. Presented by the Eagle Dream Rehabilitation Center.
Mark Baker
What is a raptor? Why and how are they different from other birds? The audience will be introduced to different families of raptors. Learn the natural history, biology and physical adaptations of birds of prey. With many hands-on items we explore size, feathers, flying, hunting styles, beaks, feet and talons. Presented by the Eagle Dream Rehabilitation Center.
Birds of Prey
Mark Baker
What is a raptor? Why and how are they different from other birds? The audience will be introduced to different families of raptors. Learn the natural history, biology and physical adaptations of birds of prey. With many hands-on items we explore size, feathers, flying, hunting styles, beaks, feet and talons. Presented by the Eagle Dream Rehabilitation Center.
Mark Baker
What is a raptor? Why and how are they different from other birds? The audience will be introduced to different families of raptors. Learn the natural history, biology and physical adaptations of birds of prey. With many hands-on items we explore size, feathers, flying, hunting styles, beaks, feet and talons. Presented by the Eagle Dream Rehabilitation Center.
Blacksnake Mountain – Wildflowers, Ferns, Birds and More
Steve Daniel
A leisurely stroll along this 3-mile trail that runs through some exceptional areas for some special Allegany plants--including seeps lush with wildflowers, ferns, and great plant diversity. Although the focus will be on the plants, we won't overlook whatever else happens to come our way--birds, butterflies, dragonflies, fungi. This will be a double session--allow 3-4 hours for a leisurely stroll. Bring water, binoculars, and a camera.
Steve Daniel
A leisurely stroll along this 3-mile trail that runs through some exceptional areas for some special Allegany plants--including seeps lush with wildflowers, ferns, and great plant diversity. Although the focus will be on the plants, we won't overlook whatever else happens to come our way--birds, butterflies, dragonflies, fungi. This will be a double session--allow 3-4 hours for a leisurely stroll. Bring water, binoculars, and a camera.
Bugs by Nightlight
Wayne Gall and Steve Daniel
Participants will observe live insects (moths, beetles, flies, mayflies, caddisflies, stoneflies, etc.) attracted to mercury vapor light at white sheet. The identifying characteristics and natural history of these insects will be discussed.
Wayne Gall and Steve Daniel
Participants will observe live insects (moths, beetles, flies, mayflies, caddisflies, stoneflies, etc.) attracted to mercury vapor light at white sheet. The identifying characteristics and natural history of these insects will be discussed.
Butterflies of Allegany State Park
Thomas LeBlanc
Participants will learn a variety of butterflies that make Allegany State Park their home. After a brief discussion, we will go out with nets and be given the opportunity to catch, identify, and release the previously discussed butterflies.
Thomas LeBlanc
Participants will learn a variety of butterflies that make Allegany State Park their home. After a brief discussion, we will go out with nets and be given the opportunity to catch, identify, and release the previously discussed butterflies.
Digital Wildlife Photography for Beginners
Heather Rutherford
Learn some tips for taking great wildlife photos. Bring your own camera, or camera enabled phone, as we head out on a trail to practice taking pictures. Together, we will share photos and questions.
Heather Rutherford
Learn some tips for taking great wildlife photos. Bring your own camera, or camera enabled phone, as we head out on a trail to practice taking pictures. Together, we will share photos and questions.
Dragonfly & Damselfly Walk
Jeremy Martin
We will review the life cycle of these fascinating creatures and then attempt to get up close and personal with a few resident species in the park. Kids will love trying to catch the flying adults and dipping for the nymphs in the water. Most years we have been lucky enough to find them emerging. We will have some nets, but feel free to bring your own.
Jeremy Martin
We will review the life cycle of these fascinating creatures and then attempt to get up close and personal with a few resident species in the park. Kids will love trying to catch the flying adults and dipping for the nymphs in the water. Most years we have been lucky enough to find them emerging. We will have some nets, but feel free to bring your own.
Dragons & Damsels at Allenberg Bog
Wayne Gall and Steve Daniel
All day bog slog to experience the flora and fauna typical of a northern peat bog, with special attention to identifying dragonflies and damselflies. Will get wet and mucky so wear old sneakers and pants. Bring lunch and water. Participants should have good mobility for walking on unstable substrates, and be in good health for a strenuous walk.
Wayne Gall and Steve Daniel
All day bog slog to experience the flora and fauna typical of a northern peat bog, with special attention to identifying dragonflies and damselflies. Will get wet and mucky so wear old sneakers and pants. Bring lunch and water. Participants should have good mobility for walking on unstable substrates, and be in good health for a strenuous walk.
Early Morning Bird Walk
Rich Bacher
A short drive to the lake for a quick survey of all the amazing avian wildlife we can find.
Rich Bacher
A short drive to the lake for a quick survey of all the amazing avian wildlife we can find.
Evening Bird Walk
Jay Wopperer
An enjoyable, leisurely evening bird walk for all ages and levels.
Jay Wopperer
An enjoyable, leisurely evening bird walk for all ages and levels.
Family Folk Concert
Nan Hoffman
Enjoy the music during and after your chicken or vegetarian dinner on Saturday evening! Nan Hoffman is a singer, musician, performer, recording artist, and workshop presenter. She has been sharing music with people of all ages for more than thirty years throughout the United States and parts of Canada. She has appeared in coffeehouses and festivals, schools and libraries, parks and camps, churches and community centers, hospitals and nursing homes and continues to keep a busy schedule of performances. Nan sings in a clear voice and accompanies herself on guitar, autoharp, and other instruments. Her repertoire encompasses a wide range of folk songs and ballads, both contemporary and traditional, including topical, spiritual, and humorous songs. Her presentations are fun and informative, and much of her material invites audience participation.
Nan Hoffman
Enjoy the music during and after your chicken or vegetarian dinner on Saturday evening! Nan Hoffman is a singer, musician, performer, recording artist, and workshop presenter. She has been sharing music with people of all ages for more than thirty years throughout the United States and parts of Canada. She has appeared in coffeehouses and festivals, schools and libraries, parks and camps, churches and community centers, hospitals and nursing homes and continues to keep a busy schedule of performances. Nan sings in a clear voice and accompanies herself on guitar, autoharp, and other instruments. Her repertoire encompasses a wide range of folk songs and ballads, both contemporary and traditional, including topical, spiritual, and humorous songs. Her presentations are fun and informative, and much of her material invites audience participation.
Fern Walk
Dr. Allen Podet
A mostly easy, fun walk, during which we learn taxonomy, employ a dichotomous key, identify our common New York state ferns and understand the spore cycle. Amaze your friends, stupefy your enemies!
Dr. Allen Podet
A mostly easy, fun walk, during which we learn taxonomy, employ a dichotomous key, identify our common New York state ferns and understand the spore cycle. Amaze your friends, stupefy your enemies!
Five Mile Hike
Teresa and Peter Corrigan
Start the pilgrimage with an invigorating hike. We will alternate periods of very moderate hiking with stops to study late spring wildflowers, migratory birds, and whatever other delights nature may present.
Teresa and Peter Corrigan
Start the pilgrimage with an invigorating hike. We will alternate periods of very moderate hiking with stops to study late spring wildflowers, migratory birds, and whatever other delights nature may present.
Geology of Allegany State Park
Valerie Jill Podet
Carpool to Thunder Rocks to learn the geologic history of the park. This program is designed for adults. Children may have fun climbing on the rocks.
Valerie Jill Podet
Carpool to Thunder Rocks to learn the geologic history of the park. This program is designed for adults. Children may have fun climbing on the rocks.
Great Downhill Bird Hike
Frank Gardner
The group will drive up to the Summit area, and then hike down the Patterson Trail to Camp Allegany, focusing on birding by ear as we go. Drivers will then get driven to retrieve the cars from the Summit area.
Frank Gardner
The group will drive up to the Summit area, and then hike down the Patterson Trail to Camp Allegany, focusing on birding by ear as we go. Drivers will then get driven to retrieve the cars from the Summit area.
History of Allegany State Park - Quaker Area
Andy Malicki
Focusing on the era before the Red House area was added to the park, this program will cover the years prior to 1928.
Andy Malicki
Focusing on the era before the Red House area was added to the park, this program will cover the years prior to 1928.
History of Allegany State Park - Red House Area
Harold Stock
Learn a bit about the history of the Red House side of Allegany State Park. There will be stops at the Administration Building, Park police, Native people, Olympic Ski Jumps, Red House Lake, CCC Camps & the Park Zoo. This program will involve some walking and driving/carpooling.
Harold Stock
Learn a bit about the history of the Red House side of Allegany State Park. There will be stops at the Administration Building, Park police, Native people, Olympic Ski Jumps, Red House Lake, CCC Camps & the Park Zoo. This program will involve some walking and driving/carpooling.
Insect Investigation
Emily Malley
Discover the hidden world of insect ecology and what it takes to be an insect and not just a "bug." We will discuss the anatomy of insects--do they have blood? Do they have organs inside their bodies? Why do cicadas have to keep everyone awake at night? We will also go out and try to capture some insects to investigate more closely and discuss their differences and what makes each unique.
Emily Malley
Discover the hidden world of insect ecology and what it takes to be an insect and not just a "bug." We will discuss the anatomy of insects--do they have blood? Do they have organs inside their bodies? Why do cicadas have to keep everyone awake at night? We will also go out and try to capture some insects to investigate more closely and discuss their differences and what makes each unique.
Invasive Species
Angie Driscoll
Learn some basics about invasive species: what are they, why are they a concern, and what can we do to prevent them. We will walk and drive around Camp Allegany and Red House Lake to learn to identify some of the most common invasive species in the area.
Angie Driscoll
Learn some basics about invasive species: what are they, why are they a concern, and what can we do to prevent them. We will walk and drive around Camp Allegany and Red House Lake to learn to identify some of the most common invasive species in the area.
Kids Are Creatures!
Mark Carra
If you’ve ever wanted to be like an animal here is your chance. Volunteers will dress up with animal adaptations to become the creature and teach to audience about your place in nature. Get ready to ham it up and have fun!
Mark Carra
If you’ve ever wanted to be like an animal here is your chance. Volunteers will dress up with animal adaptations to become the creature and teach to audience about your place in nature. Get ready to ham it up and have fun!
Lasagna Gardening
David Winner
Learn about "lasagna gardening," a no-dig method in line with permaculture.
David Winner
Learn about "lasagna gardening," a no-dig method in line with permaculture.
Mammal Study
Kristen DiGioia
Explore mammal habitat and learn to look for signs of mammals. We will study skulls, pelts, and adventure into the woods in search of tracks, bedding, foraging, and scat. We will learn how to make plaster casts and record our observations.
Kristen DiGioia
Explore mammal habitat and learn to look for signs of mammals. We will study skulls, pelts, and adventure into the woods in search of tracks, bedding, foraging, and scat. We will learn how to make plaster casts and record our observations.
Mushroom Hike (carpool)
Garret Taylor
After a short ride (<10 min.) to a different habitat we’ll hike mostly off-trail about 1.5 to 2 miles to see what we find.
Garret Taylor
After a short ride (<10 min.) to a different habitat we’ll hike mostly off-trail about 1.5 to 2 miles to see what we find.
Mushroom Walk
Garret Taylor
Walk around nearby woods to find what is fruiting nearby. Off trail, so good shoes and pants suggested, but not necessary.
Garret Taylor
Walk around nearby woods to find what is fruiting nearby. Off trail, so good shoes and pants suggested, but not necessary.
Native Plants in Suburban, Urban, & Rural Gardens
Kathleen Contrino
Habitat loss from destruction, fragmentation and degradation is a threat the native flora and fauna. Gardeners in urban, suburban and rural residential communities are uniquely suited to providing pockets of biodiversity to provide long term environmental sustainability. Native varietals of plants, bushes and trees--locally sourced--provides the best chances for success.
Kathleen Contrino
Habitat loss from destruction, fragmentation and degradation is a threat the native flora and fauna. Gardeners in urban, suburban and rural residential communities are uniquely suited to providing pockets of biodiversity to provide long term environmental sustainability. Native varietals of plants, bushes and trees--locally sourced--provides the best chances for success.
Native Trees & Threats to Their Health
Dennis Wilson
An introduction to native tree species and the insects and diseases that threaten them, including hemlock woolly adelgid, emerald ash borer, and beech bark disease.
Dennis Wilson
An introduction to native tree species and the insects and diseases that threaten them, including hemlock woolly adelgid, emerald ash borer, and beech bark disease.
Nature for Kids by Kids
Alyson Dalton (with Krista Dalton)
Introduction to nature for kids. This is a hands-on walk where kids are encouraged to use all of their senses to experience nature.
Alyson Dalton (with Krista Dalton)
Introduction to nature for kids. This is a hands-on walk where kids are encouraged to use all of their senses to experience nature.
Nature Games For Kids And Families
Teresa Corrigan
Participate in a variety of fun activities that will deepen our understanding of the natural world. Perfect for families, children and those who work with children.
Teresa Corrigan
Participate in a variety of fun activities that will deepen our understanding of the natural world. Perfect for families, children and those who work with children.
Nature Greeting Cards
Lauren Makeyenko and Lois Donovan
Explore the outdoors to collect natural items from the ground and then create a greeting card for a loved one. A fun nature craft activity for all ages!
Lauren Makeyenko and Lois Donovan
Explore the outdoors to collect natural items from the ground and then create a greeting card for a loved one. A fun nature craft activity for all ages!
Nature Hike
Jeff Tome
Go for a short nature hike through the area to see what is happening.
Jeff Tome
Go for a short nature hike through the area to see what is happening.
Nature Photography Enjoyment
David Gordon
Not a “how-do-I-work my camera” or “Photoshop 101” program but one that helps participants use the camera that is located between their ears. The first day will introduce concepts and techniques. Participants will then take photos on their own and put selected images on a jump drive or other viewable method. These images will be seen and discussed the next day during the second class. Take either or both classes.
David Gordon
Not a “how-do-I-work my camera” or “Photoshop 101” program but one that helps participants use the camera that is located between their ears. The first day will introduce concepts and techniques. Participants will then take photos on their own and put selected images on a jump drive or other viewable method. These images will be seen and discussed the next day during the second class. Take either or both classes.
Nature Play Pop-Up!
Lauren Makeyenko
Kids of all ages will enjoy working with loose parts, branches, rocks and other natural items to stack, build and play with. Join us for the fun! Fairy house and toad abode materials will also be available for those who would like to build on a smaller scale.
Lauren Makeyenko
Kids of all ages will enjoy working with loose parts, branches, rocks and other natural items to stack, build and play with. Join us for the fun! Fairy house and toad abode materials will also be available for those who would like to build on a smaller scale.
Nature's Classroom
Jeff Tome
There is a whole lot of nature going on, and sometimes we miss most of it by walking. This program will explore one small area of forest from the ground to the tree canopy, exploring every bit of nature in between. Bring a chair and be prepared to boldly explore one small spot of the forest.
Jeff Tome
There is a whole lot of nature going on, and sometimes we miss most of it by walking. This program will explore one small area of forest from the ground to the tree canopy, exploring every bit of nature in between. Bring a chair and be prepared to boldly explore one small spot of the forest.
Nature Tangles
Judy Light and Patty Brown
Collect patterns in nature on a brief walk using a sketch or digital media. Create a a unique design based on these observed patterns. This year we will add a pop up focal point and a simple frame. Stress free! No drawing experience necessary! All ages welcome. Children under 12 with an adult.
Judy Light and Patty Brown
Collect patterns in nature on a brief walk using a sketch or digital media. Create a a unique design based on these observed patterns. This year we will add a pop up focal point and a simple frame. Stress free! No drawing experience necessary! All ages welcome. Children under 12 with an adult.
Night Hike - Exploring the Dark
Lon Myers
Explore nature from dusk to darkness. We will do a bit of everything – Stars, Planets, Owls, Frogs, Fluorescent Minerals. Again this year, we have an 8 inch SC Telescope dedicated to this walk.
Lon Myers
Explore nature from dusk to darkness. We will do a bit of everything – Stars, Planets, Owls, Frogs, Fluorescent Minerals. Again this year, we have an 8 inch SC Telescope dedicated to this walk.
Observe Nature with iNaturalist
Marcus Rosten
Have you ever stumbled upon an organism you couldn’t identify and had no one to ask for help? What if you had a team of 200,000 naturalists in your pocket? With iNaturalist.org or the app on your smartphone, you can simply send a picture of an organism and the community of naturalists reply with proper identification. Come on a walk and explore iNaturalist, the online social network of people sharing biodiversity information to learn and educate others about nature!
Marcus Rosten
Have you ever stumbled upon an organism you couldn’t identify and had no one to ask for help? What if you had a team of 200,000 naturalists in your pocket? With iNaturalist.org or the app on your smartphone, you can simply send a picture of an organism and the community of naturalists reply with proper identification. Come on a walk and explore iNaturalist, the online social network of people sharing biodiversity information to learn and educate others about nature!
Old Growth Forest Hike
Frank Crombe
A fascinating look at Allegany’s old growth forest.
Frank Crombe
A fascinating look at Allegany’s old growth forest.
Owl Prowl
Chuck Rosenberg & Tom Kerr
Your leader will imitate owl calls in an effort to lure in these secretive nocturnal raptors. Participants will meet at the tent and carpool.
Chuck Rosenberg & Tom Kerr
Your leader will imitate owl calls in an effort to lure in these secretive nocturnal raptors. Participants will meet at the tent and carpool.
Papermaking
Dan Farrell
Paper making is a centuries old (and all natural) art. Kids will have fun forming sheets of paper from natural, as well as recycled material. We may even add in some 'found' fibers and local plant materials.
Dan Farrell
Paper making is a centuries old (and all natural) art. Kids will have fun forming sheets of paper from natural, as well as recycled material. We may even add in some 'found' fibers and local plant materials.
Plant Lore
Kim Alexander-Thomson
Once we’ve identified a plant, is there something interesting about it? Did you hear the story about the Libyan boy who sang? What plants have been around since the dinosaurs? Hey, come along and find out.
Kim Alexander-Thomson
Once we’ve identified a plant, is there something interesting about it? Did you hear the story about the Libyan boy who sang? What plants have been around since the dinosaurs? Hey, come along and find out.
Quaker Lake Area Exploration
Tim Baird
This excursion will be an exploration of natural areas near Quaker Lake and a look at the impact of the Wisconsin Glaciation on the region nearby. Carpool to the Quaker Lake area. Appropriate for adults and older children (12+).
Tim Baird
This excursion will be an exploration of natural areas near Quaker Lake and a look at the impact of the Wisconsin Glaciation on the region nearby. Carpool to the Quaker Lake area. Appropriate for adults and older children (12+).
Reptile & Amphibian Habitat Walk
Christopher Howey
Amphibians alone make up the most biomass of any group of animals within our forests; however, we hardly ever see them! Just as secretive are reptiles. We’ll go on a hike through the woods and search for amphibians and reptiles. At the very least, we’ll explore different types of habitat where we would expect to find these secretive creatures.
Christopher Howey
Amphibians alone make up the most biomass of any group of animals within our forests; however, we hardly ever see them! Just as secretive are reptiles. We’ll go on a hike through the woods and search for amphibians and reptiles. At the very least, we’ll explore different types of habitat where we would expect to find these secretive creatures.
Salamander Walk
Mitchel Light and Andrew Burroughs
Join us for an annual short talk and wet walk searching for salamanders in the creek at Camp Allegany. Wear boots. Bring nets. Expect to get wet and muddy while catching and releasing a variety of resident salamanders! Family fun!
Mitchel Light and Andrew Burroughs
Join us for an annual short talk and wet walk searching for salamanders in the creek at Camp Allegany. Wear boots. Bring nets. Expect to get wet and muddy while catching and releasing a variety of resident salamanders! Family fun!
Science Lake Pond Study
Tom Kerr
Get in the water and search for amphibians, aquatic insects, and other creatures in a pond study program for kids! Nets and magnifying glasses are provided.
Tom Kerr
Get in the water and search for amphibians, aquatic insects, and other creatures in a pond study program for kids! Nets and magnifying glasses are provided.
Shades of Green II
Nancy Jager & Sarah Sorci
A leisurely walk with a focus on identification of wild plants. Some are edible and beneficial, others invasive. Highlights of some extraordinary qualities of "ordinary" weeds and woodland medicinals. Wildcrafting tips and basic phytochemistry of medicinal constituents. For all ages.
Nancy Jager & Sarah Sorci
A leisurely walk with a focus on identification of wild plants. Some are edible and beneficial, others invasive. Highlights of some extraordinary qualities of "ordinary" weeds and woodland medicinals. Wildcrafting tips and basic phytochemistry of medicinal constituents. For all ages.
Sky Tour
David Wymer
We will, weather permitting, explore the early summer sky using a celestron telescope. Star clusters, nebulas and planet Saturn will be the highlights.
David Wymer
We will, weather permitting, explore the early summer sky using a celestron telescope. Star clusters, nebulas and planet Saturn will be the highlights.
Spiders
Samuel Martin
Samuel, a 9 year old spider enthusiast, will talk about some of the common spiders found in the park and then take participants on a walk where they can try to find and identify various species. Following the walk will be an easy spider related craft for kids.
Samuel Martin
Samuel, a 9 year old spider enthusiast, will talk about some of the common spiders found in the park and then take participants on a walk where they can try to find and identify various species. Following the walk will be an easy spider related craft for kids.
Splash Hike - Ecology of Red House Creek, Bova Area
Lon Myers
Come prepared to get wet. Beavers, Crayfish, Salamanders, Water. Did we mention you will get wet? Bring water shoes. Fun family activity!
Lon Myers
Come prepared to get wet. Beavers, Crayfish, Salamanders, Water. Did we mention you will get wet? Bring water shoes. Fun family activity!
Stream Adventure - Age 16 & Over
Lon Myers
We will explore the ecology of the Red House stream. This challenging nature walk will head directly up a stream talking about the nature of the stream itself and riparian zone along the way. Bring study water shoes--no flip flops or bare feet. Prepare to get wet.
Lon Myers
We will explore the ecology of the Red House stream. This challenging nature walk will head directly up a stream talking about the nature of the stream itself and riparian zone along the way. Bring study water shoes--no flip flops or bare feet. Prepare to get wet.
Tree Identification - Beginners
Marie Erck
We will take a small hike in the area around Camp Allegany, learning to identify trees typically found in Allegany State Park.
Marie Erck
We will take a small hike in the area around Camp Allegany, learning to identify trees typically found in Allegany State Park.
Underwater Monsters of Science Lake
Wayne Gall & Steve Daniel
Participants will catch live aquatic creatures, observe their identifying characteristics and behavior, and discuss their natural history. Meet at dam at Science Lake in Quaker Area, approx. 25 min drive from Camp Allegany.
Wayne Gall & Steve Daniel
Participants will catch live aquatic creatures, observe their identifying characteristics and behavior, and discuss their natural history. Meet at dam at Science Lake in Quaker Area, approx. 25 min drive from Camp Allegany.
Watercolor Birds
Liz Urbanski Farrell
Capture beautiful birds with paint. This course for both beginners and advanced artists will have you painting your own watercolor masterpiece using basic shapes and reference material on how to paint birds. We will supply watercolor paper, paint and brushes for you to use. You are invited to bring your own printed bird photos or to use ours. Incorporating John James Audubon’s ‘natural state’ methodology, we will reference photographs of birds in their natural state, while using John James Audubon's paintings as a relevant reference. Appropriate for youth and adults.
Liz Urbanski Farrell
Capture beautiful birds with paint. This course for both beginners and advanced artists will have you painting your own watercolor masterpiece using basic shapes and reference material on how to paint birds. We will supply watercolor paper, paint and brushes for you to use. You are invited to bring your own printed bird photos or to use ours. Incorporating John James Audubon’s ‘natural state’ methodology, we will reference photographs of birds in their natural state, while using John James Audubon's paintings as a relevant reference. Appropriate for youth and adults.
Wetland Wonders Walk
Chuck Rosenberg
Experience the wonders of wetlands and learn the benefits of these important ecosystems. Meet at the tent, then car pool to the brand new wetland boardwalk near Red House maintenance area.
Chuck Rosenberg
Experience the wonders of wetlands and learn the benefits of these important ecosystems. Meet at the tent, then car pool to the brand new wetland boardwalk near Red House maintenance area.
Wild Edibles
Adele Wellman
Ever wonder what you could eat in the woods? Learn about some of our common edible plants and their uses. Suitable for all ages.
Adele Wellman
Ever wonder what you could eat in the woods? Learn about some of our common edible plants and their uses. Suitable for all ages.
Wolf Run Road Nature Walk
Tim Baird
We will ride to Wolf Run Road in the southwestern part of Allegany State Park. Our walk will look at this natural area of open fields, conifer stands, and different stages of succession.
Tim Baird
We will ride to Wolf Run Road in the southwestern part of Allegany State Park. Our walk will look at this natural area of open fields, conifer stands, and different stages of succession.
Would You Like to Propose a Program?
Click here to access our "Contact Us" page and drop us an email with your proposal. (Or click here to download a program proposal form.) Program leaders may select either a bed in the dorm or a small stipend. Leaders also have the option of purchasing a food plan and eating with other leaders and committee members in the Dormitory Dining Hall.
