What's New at ORNC
THE HABITAT TEAM IS HABIT FORMING!
Aliens are overtaking Oregon Ridge Park — alien plants, that is! Help us control invasive plants, repair trails, plant trees and more! Wear long pants, a long sleeve shirt, and gloves. Beginning March 17, we will meet on the third Saturday of each month at 9:30 AM. Please call if you want to start a new habit by joining the Habitat Team!
JUNIOR EXPLORERS CLUB - Ages 6-10
Meets two Thursdays per month (4:30-5:30 PM) for a seasonal nature activity starting March 1. $24 ($18 members)
SPRING BUMBLEBEE GARDEN CLUB - AGES 5+
Meets the 2nd & 4th Saturdays of the month starting March 17. Students grow their own vegetables and flowers; make fresh salsa, ice cream and tea; create steppinig stones, bird feeders and more. 10-11:30 AM, $16 ($12 members)
HOME SCHOOL NATURE DAY
Children 5yrs+ and their parents can join our naturalist on the 2nd Friday of every month (starting Feb. 10, 10-12 PM) for a special seasonal program and hike. $20 ($15 members).
WOOLY BEAR PRESCHOOL
The first Wednesday of every month from 10:00 AM to 11:30 AM starting Feb. 1st. Children ages 3 and up can explore the wonders of nature during our Woolly Bear Preschool. Children can get in touch with nature using all of their senses. Join us for some fun nature exploration! $20 ($15 members), call to register.
NATURAL SCIENCE CLUB
Students (10-14 yrs.) will perform environmental science experiments with our naturalist. Meets first Tuesday (1-3 PM) of of every month, starting Feb. 7. $20 ($15 members).
SPRING KINDER-GARDEN CLUB
Meets Tuesdays starting April 17. Young sprouts (ages 2-5) can play in the garden while growing their little hearts and minds. Various nature activites each session. 9:30-11 AM, $16 ($12 members)
Calendar and Newsletter
Our Events Calendar and our current newsletter, The Trailblazer, are now available on-line!
Please Help Us By Using GoodSearch!
The Nature Center animals will benefit greatly if you use GoodSearch as your new search engine! Each time you search the web, just enter Oregon Ridge Nature Center into the "Who do you Goodsearch?" box and we will get a portion of their sponsor's proceeds. This is an easy way for you to help your favorite non-profit without spending any money of your own. Try it today!
Save the Bay and Endangered Species
The State of Maryland has designed a convenient way for you to donate money through your Maryland State Income Tax Return for the restoration of the Chesapeake Bay and the protection of Maryland's nongame and endangered species. Please consider a tax deductible contribution to these causes that affect the quality of life in our State. Simply check the box on your Maryland State Income Tax Return to show that you want to contribute, and enter the amount you choose to donate. The amount will be deducted from your refund or added to your tax payment. The donation is tax deductible in the following year.
Special Events
At ORNC, there are always many activities for all ages to enjoy. Here is a brief sampling of activities for you, your family and friends:
Maple Syrup Weekends, February 18, 19, 25 & 26, 2012
Annual Pancake Breakfast, March 3 and 4, 2012, 8 am - noon each day
Primitive Technology Weekend, May 5 & 6, 2012, 10 AM - 4 PM
Music in the Woods, May 12, 2012, 10 AM - 4 PM
Honey Harvest Festival, to be announced
Seeking Volunteer Opportunities?
Oregon Ridge Nature Center is currently looking for people who enjoy volunteering. Check out some of the opportunities for volunteers available at the Nature Center now.
Scholarships
Our Scholarship Committee is offering 2 scholarships this year. We are seeking individuals and companies to donate toward the scholarship fund as well as looking for scholarship candidates. The Scholarship Application form is available online (as a PDF).
Donations Needed for Mounted Specimens
One of the interesting features in the Nature Center is our collection of mounts of native animals and birds. To have these specimens mounted by a taxidermist is an expensive work of art. If you would like to sponsor the work of a taxidermist to mount some of our frozen specimens, a plaque with your name will be placed on the completed mount. Taxidermy costs range from $50 to $100 for small birds and $200 to $500 for large mounts. Donations are tax deductible.
More
We offer many other great activities, too numerous to mention here! Check out other areas of our website for details on some of our many programs and activities.