Classes, Walks, and Fieldtrips

Code ​Key
Participant Expertise:  A1=Beginner  A2=Intermediate  A3=Advanced
Audience:  B1=Families of all ages  B2=Young children with adult  B3=Older children with adult  B4=Adults only
Difficulty:  C1=Seated, all abilities  C2=Easy walk  C3=Moderate walk  C4=Strenuous/long hike ​

Download the 2025 program Schedule and ​​Guidebook for complete information.

Adult-Themed Nature Talk: We will have a discussion on the culture and mythology of the plants and animals of the park. Part of our discussion will focus on the mating rituals of the animals of the park. This conversation will be a bawdy discussion of nature within the park. PowerPoint presentation for adults only.
A1, B4, C1  Lon Myers

All-Day Birding: This is an all day field trip. Participants will travel (carpool if possible) throughout Allegany State Park. We will visit many different habitats looking for the birds and other wildlife present. Dressing appropriately for the weather is important. Please bring a lunch as this program will likely last 5 to 6 hours. It is not necessary to commit to the entire time, but have transportation available should you decide to leave the trip early. 
A1, B1, C3  Timothy Baird

Allenberg Bog Slog: This is an all day field trip leaving from Camp Allegany. Experience the unique flora and fauna of a spectacular northern peat bog that features a quaking mat surrounding a bog pool. Many plants that are uncommon or rare in this part of New York occur here. We’ll also pay special attention to dragonflies and damselflies, including some unusual ones often are flying here at this time. Participants should be in good health and have good mobility for walking on unstable substrates. Expect wet and mucky conditions and bring bug repellent as some years (not all) mosquitoes can be annoying. Recommended attire: long pants, long sleeves, hat, closed-toe footwear that can get wet such as old sneakers. Bring lunch & water.
A2, B4, C3  Steven Daniel & Wayne Gall

Amble, Ramble and Maybe a Scramble: – Meet at the Stone Tower for a family friendly reading the forest exploration on the Bear Paw Trail. How to see the trees in the forest and what do they tell us. 
A1, B3, C3  Ro Woodard

Amphibians and Reptiles of Allegany State Park: Join Mark on a walk around Camp Allegany to find local amphibians and reptiles and learn about their biology. Field trip attendance is limited to the first 30 people at the signpost.
A1, B1, C3  Mark Carra

Bearpaw Loop Adventure: Exploring the Stone Tower and Fire Tower of the Summit Area  2 ½ hours This 3-mile moderately challenging loop hike offers stunning views of forests, fields and valleys. Along the way you will explore two iconic towers. This adventure offers the perfect blend of nature, history and scenic landscapes. Be sure to bring water and snacks.
A1, B1, C3  Jonathan Anderson

Bees, Butterflies & Beneficials: Join beekeeper Shannon Rinow in the Butterfly Meadow for an inside look at the fascinating world of honeybees and the role they play in our gardens and ecosystems. Learn about hive structure, bee behavior, and the basics of beekeeping, with real equipment on display. We’ll also touch on native bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects, along with the native plants that support them.
A2, B1, C2  Shannon Rinow

Beginning Birding: An Introductory experience. We will concentrate on birdwatching basics like how to use a guide book, binoculars and some easy bird identification. Easy walk. Suitable for all ages. Young children with an adult. Please bring your own binoculars.
​A1, B1, C1  Garner Light

Beginner to Intermediate Birding: This walk is intended for beginner to intermediate birders. We will be walking on road or paved sidewalks. The pace is leisurely with time for observation and education in varied habitat. Bring binoculars and bird books if you have them.
A1, B3, C2  Rick Bacher

Bird Banding: Get a close view of warblers and other birds as our bird banders catch birds in nets and demonstrate how to band them.
A1, B1, C1  Thomas LeBlanc

Bird Origami - Bird fans of all ages welcome! Amaze your friends and family with your origami skill! Learn about and fold models of four birds that can be found in Allegany State Park. Step by step directions will be available digitally to all participants.
A1, B1, C1  Judy Light

Birds & Buds-Step by Step Artwork: The is a 2 1/2 hour field trip. Dad and daughter duo Charles and Erin will guide participants through the entire artistic process from sketch to final painting. Participants will create an image of a backyard bird and native plant (species to be revealed!), using a variety of materials including colored pencils, pastels, and paint. Everyone will leave with knowledge about principles of design, media techniques, and a ready-to-display work of art. Materials provided on a first-come first-served basis. Relaxed pace, all abilities welcome.
A1, B1, C1  Charles & Erin Ruffino

The Bluebird of Happiness: Learn about our NY State bird; its habitat, diet and behaviors. Learn how to build and monitor a nestbox and ways to help the bluebird survive. You will see photos and a display of nests and eggs of native birds. You will see how easy it is to build a nestbox! Building plans and instructions for mounting will be available.
A1, B1, C1  Elaine Crossley  

Bones-What We Can Learn From Them: Ever find a bone on one of your forays into nature and wondered what kind of animal left it? Ever wonder why we don't tend to find more bones and antlers? Ever wonder how old you actually are (and what that has to do with a talk on bones)? Those topics and much more will be covered in this presentation.
A1, B1, C1  Glenn Wahl

Botany & More Along The Blacksnake Mountain Trail: This is a 4 hour field trip. A moderate hike, but we'll take 3-4 hours to cover the 3-mile distance! This trail includes some exceptional areas for some special Allegany plants--including forested seeps that are incredibly lush with wildflowers, ferns and overall 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. Bring water, binoculars and camera. A hiking stick would be helpful.
A2, B4, C3  Steven Daniel

Botany Blitz For Kidz! Come learn some basic botany skills for kids! This program will teach kids some basic plant identification skills. We’ll then use these skills to go on a botany blitz (AKA scavenger hunt) around the Camp Allegany area. Prizes for all competitors!
A1, B1, C2  Angela Driscoll

Bridal Falls Birding: Take a walk down to the Bridal Falls in search of Louisiana Waterthrush, Acadian Flycatcher, Winter Wren, and other forested ravine specialties. Please be prepared with appropriate footwear for hiking down a steep and possibly wet trail. Binoculars are available to borrow.
A2, B4, C3  Tom Kerr

Bug Pinning and Preservation for Scientists and Artists: Practice with the tools of the ancient, evolving insect pinning trade in this crash course. Learn to preserve the completed specimens once you have them. All materials for demonstration will be provided.
​A1, B3, C1  Conrad Baker

Busy Beavers: Learn all about the official mammal of New York State while visiting an active beaver colony.
A1, B1, C2  Kristen Rosenburg

Bugs by Nightlight: Participants will observe night-flying insects attracted to a mercury vapor light and white sheet after dark. A diversity of moths, caddisflies, mayflies, stoneflies, and beetles are just some of the insect taxa likely to be encountered. Discussion will focus on identifying characteristics and the natural history of the attracted insects.
A1, B1, C1  Wayne Gall & Steven Daniel

Common Bird Identification: This talk will provide basic information about some bird species commonly seen and/or heard in the woodlands and backyards of Western New York. The information presented is geared toward non-birders who want to learn something about the birds with whom they share the earth.
A1, B1, C1  Peter Corrigan

Community Convo on Climate - Sharing climate-related experiences: One of the biggest challenges humans face now is dealing in a healthy way with our complex emotions about widespread environmental degradation and depletion, loss of biodiversity, and destabilization of the essential planetary systems on which we all depend. The more skilled we become at sharing our difficult feelings, holding them with care and consideration for each other, the stronger is our capacity to respond to our global metacrisis with integrity and in community. We’ll gather for a friendly, respectful exploration of how escalating climate disruptions are impacting our communities and share some of our climate-related concerns and experiences.
A1, B4, C1  Jennifer Fendya

Corn Husk Dolls: The story of the No Face Doll will be shared and we have a step by step process of the corn husk doll to complete in our time together. Time and patience, some knot tying is involved and families with small children will need aid to complete the project. All materials will be included.
A1, B1, C1  Penny Minner

Creating Transformative Experiences in Nature:  Many of us have had experiences in nature that had a lasting impact in our life. We can recall them vividly and they often involve moments that felt spiritual or at the very least pivotal. In this talk and workshop you will learn how to create the structure for the best possibility of a transformative experience for your next outing. Right now you are likely thinking "why on earth would I want to create structure for a retreat into nature?".  Good question. Transformative design isn't about designing the entire experience... It's about preparing yourself for the journey, stepping into the outing, and then engaging in a debrief afterwards (what we call "Framing" in transformative design). Framing is what helps you process your moments of awe or shift in perspective. This processing is what allows you to transfer the change into your life beyond in a way that is prolonged and sustained. Bring writing materials - in the workshop section of this class, you will design the structure for your next trip or outing. 
​A1, B3, C1  Meghan Gardner

Creature Clues:  Using a variety of discovery tools, from hand lenses and ID sheets to your own senses, get ready to put those powers of observation to the test. Children and their adults will work together to look for animals and the clues they leave behind to figure out what animal dug that hole, who is living under the logs, and explore the forest. There will be a mix of structured activities and free exploration time to help you discover what animals, large and small, might be calling Allegany State Park home.
A1, B1, C2  Chelsea Jandreau

Disc Golf:  This introductory disc golf class will teach you the fundamentals of the game through a variety of fun and engaging activities all while enjoying nature. You’ll learn proper throwing techniques, rules, and strategies while enjoying the outdoors. Disc golf is a fantastic way to add a recreational element to your nature walks, combining exercise, skill-building, and appreciation for nature in a single experience.
A1, B1, C2  Jonathan Anderson

Do Flowers Talk to Bees & Mushrooms to Trees?: Learn how nature communicates and what you can learn from 'Ma & her kids' conversations. This can help you better understand the critical relationships between plants, animals and the rest of the ecosystem. Making your experiences even more rewarding. 
A1, B4, C2  Michael Klepp 

Dragonflies & Damselflies: Learn about these beautiful flying beasts of the ponds and lakes. Groups will catch, identify and release the insects after taking a closer look at each one. Boots or water shoes are recommended but not necessary.
A1, B1, C2  Adele Wellman

Early Morning Birding: Sunrise birding at the Red House Wetland Trail. Binoculars will be provided as needed. 
​A1, B1, C2  Tom Kerr

Early Summer Sky Tour: We will concentrate on looking at deep sky objects. We have no major planets in this year's early summer sky this year, so as it gets darker we will look at star clusters and nebula. We will have two telescopes ready to share and as the night gets darker those faint fuzzies will emerge for us to see with detail, and maybe a little sparkle. Cloudy skies will necessitate cancelling this program. 
A1, B1, C1  David Wymer

An Ecologist's Day in the Forest: This is a 2 1/2 field trip. Learn what a NY Natural Heritage Program ecologist looks for in a forest. Join Julie Lundgren, our Saturday night Big Tent speaker on a walk through a few different forest types and learn how to observe. You will help identify plants, record information, look at soils and landscape to evaluate the type and condition in one forest plot. This requires standing in one location for a time while collecting data; patience needed so best for adults and inquisitive kids. 
A1, B3, C3  Julie Lundgren

Edible Wild Plants: Can I eat that? Learn to identify common edible plants in the woods or field. Some medicinal uses will also be discussed 
A1, B1, C2  Adele Wellman

Fairy Houses and Toad Abodes:  Nature is full of lots of surprises – maybe even fairies! Using all natural materials from the woods, participants will learn how to build a house anywhere they want to for fairies and nature’s friends to visit. A great way to be creative and just play in the woods. This program is fun for kids and their parents or anyone that wants to enjoy a little time to let their imagination run free! A short story is also included.
A1, B1, C2 Lauren Makeyenko

Falconry: Come along for a meet and greet with Meeps the American Kestrel and an introduction to the 4,000 year old practice of falconry.
A1, B3, C2  Jessica Hill

Family Folk Concert: Bring your chair and join us under the "Big Tent" on Saturday at 5:30 pm for a concert featuring a variety of folk and acoustic songs, many of which tie into the ANP theme of nature and the outdoors and our responsibilities to all who share this planet with us. The audience is invited to sing along in this beautiful space. 
​Nan Hoffman & Friends

Fern Foray! Come befriend the fabulous ferns that fill the forest floor with feathery fronds! We will hike the Red Jacket Trail (#8, 1 mile loop) behind the Red House Administration Building and explore the basics of fern identification while getting to know Allegany’s most common species!
A1, B1, C3  Marcus Rosten

Fibonacci Sequence & Sacred Geometry in Nature: Did you know there’s a divine plan to nature? Mathematical principles can be found in nature, from flower petals to the spirals of galaxies and even human anatomy, creating a sense of balance and aesthetic pleasure. Often explained through concepts like the Fibonacci sequence, sacred geometry, and the golden ratio (1.618), these principles shape the world around us. After this lecture, you’ll begin looking more closely at nature and see how these mathematical wonders reveal a deeper, hidden beauty in the natural world.
A1, B3, C1  Diane Crandall

Fire Towers of Allegany State Park: This will be an in-depth talk about the history of Allegany State Park fire towers with a discussion, questions and tour of the fire tower after the presentation.
A1, B1, C2  Kevin Gallineau

First Look Hike at the New Allegany Wildlands Expansion: (all morning).  Be among the first members of the public to experience the stunning beauty of the Western New York Land Conservancy’s newest conservation project—a 193-acre expansion of the Allegany Wildlands, slated for acquisition in 2025. This guided hike offers a rare opportunity to explore pristine forests, quiet ravines, and rich wildlife habitat that few have seen before. Join us for a memorable hike through this remote and ecologically significant landscape as we celebrate its future as a permanently protected nature preserve. We will meet at the parking lot of the Janet Gallogly Allegany Wildlands in South Valley, and enjoy a 2-hour hike through this spectacular property. Bring water and snacks.
A1, B1 ,C3  Andrew Gaerte

Five-Mile Nature Hike: This is a 2.5 hour field trip. We will enjoy the quiet beauty of Allegany's Eastwood Meadows Trail on this moderate hike. The pace will be leisurely as we observe and enjoy the wildflowers, birds and mammals found in this lush, quiet location of the park. Bring water and maybe a light snack.
A2, B3, C3  Teresa & Peter Corrigan

Five, Six, Pick Up Sticks:  We will look at samples of games and crafts you can make with sticks and then take a short walk to find sticks. Sticks are not just for kindling! When we return to the tent you will make a game/craft of your choice using your sticks and provided materials. Make a magic wand, journey stick, tic tac toe game, weaving project or make up your own. You will leave with your simple project and a list of ideas to take with you.
A1, B1, C2  Kimberly Clarke

Forest Bathing-It's Not What You Think! Forest Bathing/Forest Therapy has its roots in the Japanese shinrin-yoku, a well-researched method of nature immersion that supports physiological health and psychological well-being. It is equally informed by embodiment & mindfulness practices, indigenous principles of reciprocity, and deep ecology. On this relaxed, pleasure-oriented walk, participants are offered invitations to explore sensory experiences and engage with the "more-than-human" world. We'll gather along the way to share what we're noticing as we "bathe" in the forest atmosphere. Field trip attendance is limited to the first 20 people at the signpost.
A1, B3, C1  Jennifer Fendya

General Nature Hike: Easy walk near the camp. We will look at the features of the area and how they relate. We may walk to the bike path across from the camp or maybe have a pop quiz. 
A1, B1, C2  Laura Dustin

General Nature Hike:  We will take a short walk along the Red House bike trail from Camp Allegany and venture into the woods to see what we can find. We will learn a bit about trees and some of the other organisms that call the park home. We won't be able to identify everything that we see, but that's part of the fun. You deserve a walk in the woods!
A1, B1, C2  Robert Reeves

Geology of the Region: A family oriented interactive geology program with hands-on demonstrations. Together, we'll journey through time to uncover the geologic history of the surrounding area. Come ready to discover and ask questions. 
A1, B1, C2  Chris Myers

Ghostly Stories and Songs.  Once again, we are eager to share some of our ghost tales and spooky songs with you. Old favorites and new tales!
A1, B3, C1  George Crafts & Dee Kysor

Grasses, Sedges, and Rushes...Oh My! An introduction to these fascinating, yet maligned, groups of plants, that have an undeserved reputation for being difficult, if not impossible to learn. So we will "Learn 10" graminoids. and it shouldn't be too painful! "Learn 10" is a program begun by the New York Flora Association to help make various groups of plants accessible to non-botanists. Bring a hand lens or magnifying glass if you have one. 
A1, B4, C2  Steven Daniel

Headwaters Hike: Have you ever wondered where our streams, creeks, and rivers begin? The “headwaters” are the source of a waterway. We’ll explore a headwater forest in Allegany State Park, where the water we see will eventually travel all of the way to the Gulf of Mexico. We’ll discuss why healthy headwaters are important for our watershed and enjoy some natural discoveries along the way.
A1, B1, C3  Claudia Nusstein

Historical Uses for Indigenous Plants - Indigenous plants, trees and bushes are critical to ecological resiliency and biodiversity. Historically, plants have an additional value as they have been used for a wide variety of ways to support indigenous populations for centuries. This presentation will discuss some of those plants and their many historical uses while also touching upon some important herbs. Many of these plants are also important food sources or host plants for pollinators and critical to the environment. The information provided in this presentation is for educational purposes only.
A1, B2, C1  Kathleen Contrino

History of Allegany State Park: This is a 2 1/2 hour field trip. Take a trip back in time as we will mainly focus on the early days of Allegany State Park. We will spend a great majority of time in the first 7,150 acres where the Park was first born. We will cover pre-park, how and why the Park was formed, as well as what life was like was like in the early days. The program will conclude with a timeline from start to present. This field trip will be a combination of driving and walking.
​A1, B1, C2  Andy Maliki

Identifying Wild Mushrooms-Edible, Poisonous and Beautiful: This program is a photo show with explanations. Dr. Victor will show you, with photos, how to identify the most tasty edible mushrooms and explain how not to confuse them with dangerous varieties. He will explain the conditions when and where to find wild mushrooms; dates, weather and locations. He will also explain the French way to cook chanterelle mushrooms.
A1, B3, C1  Jeffrey Victor

Improving Your Nature Photography: This program starts out with thoroughly explaining the use and relationships between ISO, aperture and shutter speed settings. The remainder will cover composition, light, depth of field, subject selection, area photo locations, birds and dragonflies in flight and a host of suggestions, ideas, etc.
A2, B1, C1  Craig Braack

Let the Forest Come to You: - Meet at Camp Allegany for a unique field trip lead by you! We will briefly talk about still observations from a sitting spot and then find our own place to quietly observe and let the birds, and animals come to us for a half hour; then regroup and share our experiences. For older kids and adults. You may want to bring a seat or cushion, binoculars, or camera. What will we see?
A1, B3, C3  Ro Woodard

Life Under a Lens: Enter the world of all that is small as we explore species seldom seen. We will investigate tree bark, stumps, logs, rocks and everything in between! Bring a hand lens if you have one. Focus will be on mosses, liverworts and overlooked species in the woods.
A1, B1, C2  Matthew Nusstein

Little Rock City: This is a 4 hour field trip. Participants will travel by car to Little Rock City north of Salamanca, NY. The location is an outcropping of Salamanca conglomerate rock in the Little Rock City State Forest. The geology of the site will be discussed and explored. Little Rock City is host to a variety of interesting plants and animals as well. As drive time from Camp Allegany is roughly three-quarters of an hour and participants can expect approximately four hours total time for this activity. You are encouraged to bring drinking water. A lunch is also a good idea. 
A1, B3, C3  Timothy Baird

Live Animals of the World Give Up Their Secrets: Living creatures from distant places will teach us that they are perfectly adapted to their natural habitats and how this relates to our own survival.
A1, B1, C1  Mark Carra

Looking for Fluorescent Mushrooms Walk: We will look for mushrooms that are fluorescent with filtered UV light. Please bring your filtered (just UV) light or more to share with others. If you don’t have one and have a red light, that is helpful to be able to join the search party. Also, it is highly recommended to wear UV-C protective glasses in case there is dew.
A1, B1, C3  Garrett Taylor

Mammals: 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 also learn how to make plaster casts.
A1, B1, C2  Giulianna Lalomio 

Mini Rebel Nature Journal:  Using selections from Audubon Community Nature Center’s Rebel Nature Journal, participants will explore their surroundings, practice their observation skills, and capture their time in nature in a unique way. Your experiences won’t always be captured in full sentences, words, or even in pen or pencil. Instead, kids and families, working either independently or together, will use a combination of words, drawings, and the nature found around them to record the information gathered with your five senses. While this program is designed for families and children, anyone is welcome.
A1, B1, C2  Chelsea Jandreau

Mushroom Walk: Walk around Camp Allegany and search for interesting mushrooms and share our discoveries.
A1, B1, C2  Garrett Taylor

Nature Bingo!: Kids of all ages are welcome! Come out as we walk, talk, and play a round of Bingo in nature. We will cover some nature basics, as we find items for our Bingo game. Everything you need will be provided and there will be some fun prizes too!
A1, B1, C2  Tonie Schmitt

Nature Detective with Art: Through nature walks children will use their senses to experience the outdoors. They will talk about what their senses would experience if they were hiking at night, learn what might be the same and what might be different. Children will break into small groups to take hikes. After the hike, create a nature inspired project such as a Rain Stick, a Nature ornament from salt dough, using impressions from objects found in nature, or a Suncatcher with glass beads/wire, or a booklet of our senses in nature. This program is open to all, but Girl Scouts can earn requirements towards the Outdoors Badge.
A1, B1, C1  Rebecca Spinler

Nature in Song & Story: Revel in the wildness of nature, ponder nature’s mysteries and protection and laugh at its oddities, all in a program of folktales, music, myths and personal accounts for all ages. The song-story duo of Dee and George will entertain and inspire you with some of their favorite tales and songs that celebrate our natural world.
A1, B1, C1  George Crafts & Dee Kysor

Nature Journaling and Mindfulness: Settle in, unwind, and savor the beauty and wonder of nature with a sensory-rich immersive experience. We will use provided art materials and found natural elements to casually draw, paint, and write about our observations of what is in front of us while using our senses to reflect, stay present, and become mindful of this special moment in nature. (Sketch paper, watercolor paints and brushes, pencils, tracing paper, scissors and more provided.)
A1, B3, C1  Kimberly Adriaansen

Nature Mandalas:  This workshop aims to connect participants with nature through a creative and meditative experience. Using natural objects collected from the forest, participants will collaboratively create a mandala, drawing inspiration from the works of environmental artist Andy Goldsworthy. The activity fosters mindfulness, appreciation for natural forms, and community engagement.
A1, B3, C2  Amy Witman

Nature Symbols, Stories, and Healing: With the backdrop of Thunder Rocks, a sacred and spiritual area for the Seneca, Marvin, a Seneca Elder, will share the special relationships of people, animals and plants through stories. 
A1, B1, C2  Marvin Jacobs

Nature-Themed Yoga: Start the day's activities with outdoor nature themed meditation and yoga. Wear comfortable clothes and bring a mat or towel. No experience needed.
A1, B1, C1  Teresa Corrigan

Not Your Usual Dam Nature Tour: A 3 1/2 hour tour. A driving tour to visit the nature, history and impact of dams in Allegany State Park. We will travel to the Quaker area and work our way through the park to the Red House Dam. At each site we visit, expect a short to moderate walk.
A1, B1, C3  Brian Deck

NY Natural Heritage Activity Table: Informal, come and go. Ask an ecologist about plants and animals and big trees in the park. Learn what NY Natural Heritage Program is and what kind of information we record and map. See how to "read the landscape" from orthophotos. Take a tree quiz or learn how to identify a tree. Do the insect matching game or have fun with amphibian coloring pages.
A1, B1, C1  Julie Lundgren

Old Growth Forest Hike: This is a 2 1/2 hour field trip. Frank will lead an intrepid band of hearty explorers to an old growth stand in Allegany State Park. We will observe the characteristics of old growth forest as we go along. The reward for spending a time in such a unique area is well worth it for said band of hearty explorers. The walk will be considered strenuous due to the steep incline in hiking to and climbing up out of the area. Otherwise, the hike is relatively short.
A1, B1, C4  Frank Crombe

Orienteering for Beginners: This is an introduction to the map and compass sport that can be enjoyed by all ages and activity levels from walking to running. For this program we will remain at Camp Allegany. Maps will be provided and we have compasses to lend. We will describe the sport of orienteering, the maps that are used and how the compass is used with the map. Then each individual or family group can try a very short course on their own. A few controls will be placed for anyone who wants to try intermediate level controls. We'll regroup afterwards for any questions or feedback.
A1, B2, C3  Katy Carrier

The Outdoors Are for Everyone: It's true, the mountains, trees and animals do not care what you look like or what you can do, but that isn't always true about the people in the outdoors. Folks that don't fit a specific body size or have a disability can feel out of place and intimated to try things like hiking or traveling. Not seeing others that look like you in outdoor groups or spaces can feel exclusionary. Finding accessible options and properly fitting clothing and gear can be difficult, making some activities unnecessarily dangerous. This talk will discuss obstacles to true inclusion in the outdoor industry and how we can do better. Making the outdoors more welcoming to a larger range of people will greatly benefit us all. Open to anyone that wants to make the outdoors more welcoming.
A1, B1, C1  Andrea DiMaio

Outdoor Nature Games:  Participants (age 8 and older) will engage in fun games with an environmental twist. Games may include camouflage, bat and mosquito, and Oh Deer! It’s sure to be a family favorite! 
A1, B2, C2  Shannon Albert

Owl Prowl: Your leaders will imitate owl calls in an effort to lure in these secretive nocturnal raptors. Meet at the Big Tent for a brief introduction to owl calling; participants will then drive to the owl prowl location(s). Feel free to bring a small flashlight and/or binoculars (but neither is necessary).
A1, B1, C2  Charles Rosenburg

Painting WNY Landscapes in Acrylics: This is 2 1/2 hour field trip. Participants will select their subject of interest from teacher-supplied photos of areas within Allegany State Park and its surrounding areas. Working in small groups within a 2 hour time frame, the leader will guide the students in planning, beginning, and successfully completing a beautiful painting. Acrylic paints, brushes, palettes, and small canvasses will be provided for class use by the instructor. This class will focus on representing the subject while developing each individual's own impressionistic style. This class is limited to 6 students. Pre-signup in the Registration Building. 
​A1, B4, C1  Patricia Masso-Welch

Photographing Birds in Allegheny State Park: We will see some of the best spots in Allegany State Park photographing birds and learn how to use the environment the bird is in to compose the shot. We will discuss the best camera settings in a given situation for capturing the image.
A2, B1, C2  Wade Aiken 

Primitive Skills 101 - Fire and Shelter: Fire and shelter are the basic building blocks of human survival. In this family-friendly program, you will learn how to build a debris hut and create a friction fire with a bowdrill. Students will put their survival skills to the test and develop an entirely new respect for lighters.
A1, B3, C2  Siegrid Tuttle

Quaking Mats, Muck and Mire: The Magic and Mystery of Bogs: Peatlands (bogs and fens) are among the rarest, and most poorly known/visited, ecological communities in western New York. In this PowerPoint program, Wayne will describe the differences between bogs and fens, and how peatlands form. Most of his armchair-tour will focus on the unique assemblage of plants found in our local bogs and fens--peat mosses, heaths, carnivorous plants, and orchids, among others--plus a few insects, and even an amphibian and reptile or two.
A1, B3, C1  Wayne Gall

Red House Sawmill Tour: The Sawmill is near completion and will now be open for public tours on Sundays from 10am until 12 noon throughout mid spring until Columbus Day weekend. This endeavor took three grants, thousands of dollars in donations and nine years to be put online as one of the park’s latest and greatest attractions. The tour, conducted by Friends of Allegany State Park’s President Paul Crawford, will last approximately forty five minutes.
A1, B1, C1  Paul Crawford

The Salamander Walk: Explore the remarkable world of salamanders with us! On this walk you will get to learn all about the habitats, behaviors and species of salamanders that live in Allegany State Park! Plan on getting a little dirty and dress for the weather as we search for some of these amazing creatures! This field trip will be limited to the first 30 participants at the signpost.
A1, B1, C2  Chris Duckett

Science Lake / Allegany School of Natural History / School in the Woods: We will be walking the Science Lake Trail # 22 around the lake learning about the lake history and exploring some of the Allegany School of Natural History (School in the Woods) ruins and its history.
A1, B1, C3  Randal Fabritius

Science Lake Pond Creatures: Get in the water with your net and look for aquatic insects, amphibians and other aquatic creatures in Science Lake.
A1, B1, C3  Tom Kerr

Seneca Cultural Tree Walk: While walking around Camp Allegany, Marvin, a Seneca Elder will identify the local trees which have cultural, medicinal, food, and utilitarian uses for the Seneca who lived on this land. He will use both the common names and those that the Seneca used.
A1, B1, C3  Marvin Jacobs

Seneca Nation of Indians Fish Hatchery/Eastern Hellbender Presentation: This field trip is outside the Red House gate. Split session located at the Seneca Nation Fish Hatchery. The Hatchery Manager will provide overview of fisheries program and information on the green facility. Seneca Nation staff will present on the Eastern Hellbender and provide information and have a live hellbender for a question and answer session. Both presentations will be held outside the park at the Seneca Nation Fish Hatchery off Hatchery Road ASP 2 just outside of the Red House park entrance.
A1, B1, C1  Andrew Howard/William Miller

Shades of Green: Learn about some wild plants that grow in your backyard, some that don’t, some that are edible and beneficial, and one or more of the invasives. We will partially follow a nearby stream. This will be more of a leisurely stroll than a hike.
A1, B1, C2  Nancy Jager

The Skeptical Naturalist: Have you heard the claims that some people are immune to poison ivy or that you can remove a tick with a match? Are monarch caterpillars really poisonous? Are snipes really a thing? We all have bits of nature lore that we love sharing, but how many of these claims hold up to scrutiny? Join Bill, Daniel and Steve, co-hosts of The Field Guides podcast, for a lighthearted hike looking at some seriously interesting claims about the natural world and whatever else they find along the trail. 
A1, B3, C2  The Field Guides

Splash Hike! Needing to escape the summer heat? Come with us and cool off in the woods as we make our way up a streambed identifying fish, crayfish, salamanders, and more. Bring water shoes and prepare to get wet. A fun activity for the whole family! Field trip attendance is limited to the first 30 people at the signpost.
A1, B1, C2  Karen Speers

Storytime with Make & Take: Come to our program to listen to a nature-themed story, make a simple craft and meet new friends! Perfect for kids to practice active listening skills and get creative! Short walk and seated tent program.
A1, B2, C1  Maggie Myers

Sunday Morning Book Chat: To coordinate with our speaker Eli Knapp's presentation, we have chosen 'A Sand County Almanac' by Aldo Leopold as our ANP book of the year. Please feel free to come and discuss any of Eli’s wonderful books too. Join us for a lively discussion and we will extend our time to allow a review of the favorite nature books we’ve read this year. This is also a time for reflection and sharing as we continue to navigate through the environmental issues we face each day. BYOB (book or books for show and tell) and your morning beverage of choice. Homemade cookies will be provided. Format similar to a book club with hopes of a lively exchange of ideas.
A1, B4, C1  Linda Smolarek

Trees and Shrubs of ASP - "Brush Hour": This group of explorers will seek woody plants--mainly concentrating on those trees and shrubs native to Allegany State Park. Some others that have been naturalized will be investigated also. Their natural histories, characteristics, commercial, food and medicinal uses will be shared while walking. 
A1, B1, C2  Frank Crombe

Turtles and Tortoises: Join us as we explore the amazing world of turtles! We will learn the differences and similarities between turtles and tortoises, special adaptations, natural history and much more! There will also be several different species of turtles and tortoises to meet throughout the program!
A1, B1, C1  Chris Duckett

Underwater Monsters of Science Lake: Participants will collect aquatic creatures from Red House Brook immediately upstream of Camp Allegany with D-framed aquatic nets, then return them back to the water. Discussion will focus on the identifying characteristics and natural history of the organisms collected and observed alive. 
A1, B1, C2  Wayne Gall

Waste Not, Want Not: A Fun Dive into Recycling and Circular Economy:  Join us for an engaging and interactive workshop designed to empower participants with practical knowledge about recycling, reducing wasted food, and embracing circular economy principles. Through discussion, hands-on activities, and creative challenges, attendees will learn how to make sustainable choices in their daily lives. Participants will explore the importance of waste minimization and recycling, discover innovative ways to reduce food waste at home, and understand the benefits of a circular economy. By the end of the workshop, everyone will leave with actionable tips, resources, and a renewed commitment to making a positive impact on the environment. This workshop will be fun and informative for sustainability novices and seasoned eco-warriors alike!
A1, B3, C1  Frank Gardner

Watercolor Birding: 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--this year's we'll include a discussion of techniques using natural and man-made materials to enhance your painting. 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 ages 5 to 105.
A1, B1, C1  Liz Urbanski Farrell

Water Quality and Harmful Algal Blooms: Let's take a look at the equipment required for monitoring the health of our lakes and waterways and have a discussion about the cause and effect of the naturally occurring bacteria that cause harmful algal blooms. Wear shoes that can get wet or plan to stay out of the water; a small amount of wading is encouraged.
A1, B1, C2  Emilie Nobles

Wetland Birding: Let's see how many different birds we can find in the wetland interpretative area on the Maintenance Road. The boardwalks and observation platforms there make for easy access and great birding.
A1, B1, C2  Frank Gardner

What a Looker: Appreciating Nature at Smaller Scales: Many a naturalist heads outdoors with a binoculars with the intention of magnifying objects that are far way. Far fewer head out with a hand lens. The level of complexity a simple hand lens can add is dumbfounding. For this hour-long stroll, we’re going to do just that, reveling in the spellbinding wonder of the Lilliputian world we so often miss. This is an easy field trip meant for all types. Hand lenses will be provided (limited to 25).
​A1,B1,C2  Eli Knapp

What Lurks in the Wetland:  Wetlands are a unique habitat filled with dragons, toe biters, and water scorpions. Join naturalist, Mike Adriaansen, as we search for the mysterious creatures of the wetland.  A limited number of nets and binoculars will be available to borrow. 
A1, B3, C2  Michael Adriaansen

Wild Connections: Hike & Yoga: A short, inclusive, flat hike with pauses to include (optional) yoga poses and breathwork. Connecting with nature and moving towards peace in our bodies. What does being in the outdoors and yoga have in common? They both expose the interconnectedness of all things. They show us the true nature of ourselves. As we are in nature, we see the differences in each tree, each flower and we see the beauty in all. As we explore this truth that we find in the natural world, we can turn inwards and see the same in ourselves as we are also, nature. An invitation to explore this idea and turn it towards our relationship with our own bodies.
A1, B1, C2  Andrea DiMaio

Wildflowers Walk: Explore the area around the camp looking for wildflowers and how the features of the flowers can be used to identify the plant and determine other related wildflowers.
A1, B1, C2  Laura Dustin

WNY Wildway: As landscape fragmentation isolates wildlife on small islands of habitat without the ability to migrate, forage, or breed, species are unable to survive in a changing climate. Come and learn how the Western New York Land Conservancy is leading a landscape-scale conservation initiative to create a network of protected cores and corridors from the Allegheny Plateau of Appalachia to the Great Lakes and beyond, called the WNY Wildway. With its connection to the larger Eastern Wildway, the WNY Wildway will allow plants and animals to safely roam across the land as they once did, to expand their ranges in order to ensure their survival as the climate changes, and allow wildlife that have disappeared from our region to return home.
A1, B3, C1  Marcus Rosten