In this class we will demystify the language and behavior of the birds, understand how birds can extend your awareness and deepen your connection with nature. We’ll learn the 5 voices of the birds, the shapes of alarm and what they tell you, and which birds to focus on learning first. We’ll also dig into the nuances of birding by ear, by learning bird groups, where to find common birds, mnemonics, and how to start identifying birds by their song.

$15 per person

To register click here

About the instructor: Jaybird is a Pennsylvania Master Naturalist, Certified Permaculture Designer, Certified Wildlife Tracker, Wilderness First Responder, ecological steward, and craftsman. Born and raised in the woods of Maryland’s Eastern Shore, he spent his childhood exploring the wonders of the forest and on the water. By living close to nature, he believes we can reclaim our natural place in the ecosystem, tending the earth in a manner that strengthens biodiversity and creates a truly regenerative and sustainable future for all life forms. He is the co-founder of the Northern Appalachia School.

Pennsylvania German Kitchen Gardens are gardens of purpose, not necessarily design. Typically, vegetables, culinary herbs and medicinal herbs were grown. Learn about how these gardens were sited, who managed them, and how folks successfully grew crops.

Alice Zepp has been a Master Gardener for four years. She has been a vegetable gardener for most of her adult life, which has introduced her to PA German kitchen gardens. She is involved in the Master Gardener Demonstration Gardens as well as the Vegetable Patch Series.

$10/person

Click here to register

Join Debbie Naha-Koretzky, “The Wild Edibles Lady,” for a three-part foraging adventure to discover the edible plants of our area. The program will include a slide show followed by a foraging walk, and a taste of wild tea.

Signed copies of her book, Foraging Pennsylvania and New Jersey (2021, Falcon Guides), will be available.

Debbie is a registered dietitian/nutritionist, Rutgers Master Gardener, Pennsylvania Master Naturalist, certified science teacher, and wild foods author. She has conducted countless foraging programs for state organizations, environmental centers, native plant societies, state parks and more. She received her master’s degree in Clinical Nutrition from New York University. This specialized training allows for a unique approach to wild edible plants.

The program will cover plant identification, safety, look-alike plants, sustainable harvesting, cooking with wild plants, and of course, nutrition.

Click here to register

CANCELED

As outdoor lovers, whether in the garden or in the woods, ticks are a normal occurrence. Join Master Gardener Margaret Stoddard for a discussion on identifying ticks and their impact on us. Learn ways to protect yourself from Lyme Disease so you can continue to enjoy the outdoors.  

Margaret Stoddard has been a Penn State Master Gardener for 7 years.  She knows first hand the impact of Lyme Disease. She shares her experience and knowledge on tick identification and protection from ticks so others can precautions.

$10/person

Click here to register

Join us for Nature Book Club in the Nature Classroom from 6:30-7:30pm. Bring your current nature and/or environmental-themed book to discuss and share! Light refreshments will be offered but feel free to bring something to share if you wish.

Free and open to the public. RSVP to Anne at education@strawberryhill.org

Join Strawberry Hill as we present at the NPS Campfire Programs!

What are the Campfire Programs? NPS rangers present evening campfire talks on a wide variety of topics on the Battle of Gettysburg and the American Civil War. Programs take place at 6:30 pm at the Pitzer Woods Amphitheater, near Auto Tour Stop #6.

More info to come.

Join us for a free nighttime nature hike under the Full Strawberry Moon!

What better way to celebrate the official start of summer than a hike under the glorious full moon? This is our favorite time of year. The forest is in bloom and wild strawberries are everywhere. We’ll explore some local history and discover the origins of our nature preserve.

Guided hike will start at 9:30pm and last about 60 minutes. We will have a limited number of flashlights to handout so please bring one if you can.

For Scouts: This program meets the requirements for the following badges - Junior Trail Adventure and Cadette Night Owl. You will receive a certificate of completion from Strawberry Hill upon request.

Email Anne at education@strawberryhill.org to register. Space is limited to 15 participants.

Due to the nature of a nighttime hike, this activity is recommended for older children who are comfortable walking in the woods at night.

Ancestral Skills is an all-new three part series!

Part 1 - Fire

Controlling fire was the cornerstone of human evolution. This step allowed humans to survive the cold and disperse through varied landscapes, increase the diversity of our diets, create tools, deter predators, increase visibility at night and become ecological engineers. In this class we will learn the ins and outs of selecting and collecting material needed to build fires, carve a bow drill, make kindling and feathersticks, use a ferro rod, and understand the use of a hand drill. 

$30 per person

To register click here

Save by registering for all three classes in this series by clicking here.

About the presenter: Jaybird is a Pennsylvania Master Naturalist, Certified Permaculture Designer, Certified Wildlife Tracker, Wilderness First Responder, ecological steward, and craftsman. Born and raised in the woods of Maryland’s Eastern Shore, he spent his childhood exploring the wonders of the forest and on the water. By living close to nature, he believes we can reclaim our natural place in the ecosystem, tending the earth in a manner that strengthens biodiversity and creates a truly regenerative and sustainable future for all life forms. He is the co-founder of the Northern Appalachia School.

For more information on Jay and the Northern Appalachia School, click here.

Join us for Nature Book Club in the Nature Classroom from 6:30-7:30pm. Bring your current nature and/or environmental-themed book to discuss and share! Light refreshments will be offered but feel free to bring something to share if you wish.

Free and open to the public. RSVP to Anne at education@strawberryhill.org

Join Strawberry Hill as we present at the NPS Campfire Programs!

What are the Campfire Programs? NPS rangers present evening campfire talks on a wide variety of topics on the Battle of Gettysburg and the American Civil War. Programs take place at 6:30 pm at the Pitzer Woods Amphitheater, near Auto Tour Stop #6.

More info to come.

In this class you will meet some common toxic plants of our region. We'll discuss what makes a plant toxic, different plant constituents, and ethnobotanical uses of toxic plants. We will also cover positive plant ID skills and safe foraging practices. 

$15 per person

To register click here

About the presenter: Calyx Liddick

Calyx is a bioregional herbalist, ethnobotanist, holistic nutritionist, wildcrafter, writer of poetry and prose, wildlife tracker, and mother of two. She was born and raised in the mountains of Central Pennsylvania. Calyx graduated with honors from the Colorado School of Clinical Herbalism’s Fundamental and Advanced Medical Herbalism intensives, and completed the Clinical Program for Herbalism, Nutrition, and Flower Essence Therapy. She also holds certifications in Holistic Aromatherapy and Reiki. She has over 2,000 hours of training and over a decade of experience in her field.

For more information on Jay and the Northern Appalachia School, click here.

Ancestral Skills is an all-new three part series!

Part 2 - Water

Water: In this class we will discover multiple methods to filter and purify water for drinking and avoiding waterborne illness.  A variety of primitive methods of water locating and purification will be discussed and demonstrated, from coyote wells to solar distillation, as well as modern methods of filtration. 

$30 per person

To register click here

Save by registering for all three classes in this series by clicking here.

About the presenter: Jaybird is a Pennsylvania Master Naturalist, Certified Permaculture Designer, Certified Wildlife Tracker, Wilderness First Responder, ecological steward, and craftsman. Born and raised in the woods of Maryland’s Eastern Shore, he spent his childhood exploring the wonders of the forest and on the water. By living close to nature, he believes we can reclaim our natural place in the ecosystem, tending the earth in a manner that strengthens biodiversity and creates a truly regenerative and sustainable future for all life forms. He is the co-founder of the Northern Appalachia School.

For more information on Jay and the Northern Appalachia School, click here.

Join us for a free nighttime nature hike under the Full Buck Moon!

The cold, dark days of winter are a distant memory. The forest is teeming with life and her hard work is on display - from the brilliantly flashing lightning bugs to the lush green grass at our feet. Summer is in full swing and the forest is celebrating. Let’s join in the celebrations!

Guided hike will start at 9:30pm and last about 60 minutes. We will have a limited number of flashlights to handout so please bring one if you can.

For Scouts: This program meets the requirements for the following badges - Junior Trail Adventure, Senior Science Expert, Brownies Bugs, and Cadette Night Owl. You will receive a certificate of completion from Strawberry Hill upon request.

Email Anne at education@strawberryhill.org to register. Space is limited to 15 participants.

Due to the nature of a nighttime hike, this activity is recommended for older children who are comfortable walking in the woods at night.

Relationships have existed between humans and not-humans for millennia. Join us as we explore practical tips for building and maintaining a healthy relationship with the Forest (and one's own property). Discover what to do when visiting a new natural space and learn about strengthening the Genius Loci (spirits of the land/area) after hardship such as bad owners, storms, etc.

$15 per person

To register click here.

Rev. Monika Kojote is a Druid shaman serving the North American, Ireland, European Union, and United Kingdom communities for over 14 years. Monika uses she/her pronouns and is a member of the hearing-impaired community (ASL-inclusive). In her practice, she works consistently to create safe & sacred space for all marginalized and disabled populations. Her education & experience ensure that she is a trauma-informed clergy person and healer.

Although she is based in Washington County (Maryland), her in-person services and workshops span the East Coast & Mid-Atlantic regions. Her practice includes individual and group/family ceremonies, as well as house clearings, journey workshops, spiritual mentoring, divination, and clergy services(weddings, baby blessings, end-of-life care, and funerals).

Monika uses the term “shaman” as a job title, describing healing that occurs in ethical relationship with Spirits. Her ancestry and personal spirituality reflect the practices of the Indo-Europeans; she follows a Druid path.

Monika received her master’s degree in forensic psychology in 2005, and has over 20 years experience working in the public domain of health & human services. She has extensive spiritual training, including her master level certification in Usui Reiki, completion of a 2.5 year program from Gryphons Grove School of Shamanism (now closed), soul retrieval, Druid Apprentice training programs from AODA , and training in Nepalese healing techniques from her jhankri, Bhola Banstola.

Join us for Nature Book Club in the Nature Classroom from 6:30-7:30pm. Bring your current nature and/or environmental-themed book to discuss and share! Light refreshments will be offered but feel free to bring something to share if you wish.

Free and open to the public. RSVP to Anne at education@strawberryhill.org

Ancestral Skills is an all-new three part series!

Part 3 - Shelter

Shelter: The first protection in a survival situation is shelter. Shelter provides camouflage and protects from the elements, insects, predators, and cold. Whether for a day, a week, or indefinitely. In this class we will discuss finding materials, locating a safe location depending on conditions, and the construction of a shelter. 

$30 per person

To register click here

Save by registering for all three classes in this series by clicking here.

About the presenter: Jaybird is a Pennsylvania Master Naturalist, Certified Permaculture Designer, Certified Wildlife Tracker, Wilderness First Responder, ecological steward, and craftsman. Born and raised in the woods of Maryland’s Eastern Shore, he spent his childhood exploring the wonders of the forest and on the water. By living close to nature, he believes we can reclaim our natural place in the ecosystem, tending the earth in a manner that strengthens biodiversity and creates a truly regenerative and sustainable future for all life forms. He is the co-founder of the Northern Appalachia School.

For more information on Jay and the Northern Appalachia School, click here.

Join Strawberry Hill as we present at the NPS Campfire Programs!

What are the Campfire Programs? NPS rangers present evening campfire talks on a wide variety of topics on the Battle of Gettysburg and the American Civil War. Programs take place at 6:30 pm at the Pitzer Woods Amphitheater, near Auto Tour Stop #6.

More info to come.

Join us for a free nighttime nature hike under the Full Sturgeon Moon!

August’s full moon is the first of four super full moons in 2024! When a full moon takes place when the moon is near its closest approach to Earth, it is called a Super Full Moon. Join us as we explore this astrological phenomenon and learn what it means for life on Earth.

The guided hike will start at 8:30pm and last about 60 minutes. We will have a limited number of flashlights to handout so please bring one if you can.

For Scouts: This program meets the requirements for the following badges - Junior Trail Adventure, Senior Science Expert, Brownies Bugs, and Cadette Night Owl. You will receive a certificate of completion from Strawberry Hill upon request.

Email Anne at education@strawberryhill.org to register. Space is limited to 15 participants.

Due to the nature of a nighttime hike, this activity is recommended for older children who are comfortable walking in the woods at night.

Join Debbie Naha-Koretzky, “The Wild Edibles Lady,” for a three-part foraging adventure to discover the edible plants of our area. The program will include a slide show followed by a foraging walk, and a taste of wild tea.

Signed copies of her book, Foraging Pennsylvania and New Jersey (2021, Falcon Guides), will be available.

Debbie is a registered dietitian/nutritionist, Rutgers Master Gardener, Pennsylvania Master Naturalist, certified science teacher, and wild foods author. She has conducted countless foraging programs for state organizations, environmental centers, native plant societies, state parks and more. She received her master’s degree in Clinical Nutrition from New York University. This specialized training allows for a unique approach to wild edible plants.

The program will cover plant identification, safety, look-alike plants, sustainable harvesting, cooking with wild plants, and of course, nutrition.

Click here to register

Nature is the best classroom! The world around us is immense and can teach us far more than we realize. Join us as we learn the biological information of our local species (for both conservation and survival), but also how our local species can bring symbolic and creative problem-solving ideas to stressors within our own life. Includes a hike.

$15 per person

To register click here.

Rev. Monika Kojote is a Druid shaman serving the North American, Ireland, European Union, and United Kingdom communities for over 14 years. Monika uses she/her pronouns and is a member of the hearing-impaired community (ASL-inclusive). In her practice, she works consistently to create safe & sacred space for all marginalized and disabled populations. Her education & experience ensure that she is a trauma-informed clergy person and healer.

Although she is based in Washington County (Maryland), her in-person services and workshops span the East Coast & Mid-Atlantic regions. Her practice includes individual and group/family ceremonies, as well as house clearings, journey workshops, spiritual mentoring, divination, and clergy services(weddings, baby blessings, end-of-life care, and funerals).

Monika uses the term “shaman” as a job title, describing healing that occurs in ethical relationship with Spirits. Her ancestry and personal spirituality reflect the practices of the Indo-Europeans; she follows a Druid path.

Monika received her master’s degree in forensic psychology in 2005, and has over 20 years experience working in the public domain of health & human services. She has extensive spiritual training, including her master level certification in Usui Reiki, completion of a 2.5 year program from Gryphons Grove School of Shamanism (now closed), soul retrieval, Druid Apprentice training programs from AODA , and training in Nepalese healing techniques from her jhankri, Bhola Banstola.

Join us for Nature Book Club in the Nature Classroom from 6:30-7:30pm. Bring your current nature and/or environmental-themed book to discuss and share! Light refreshments will be offered but feel free to bring something to share if you wish.

Free and open to the public. RSVP to Anne at education@strawberryhill.org

Join us for a free nighttime nature hike under the Full Harvest Moon!

Autumn is almost upon us and the forest is setting the stage for her arrival. Join us as we hike and celebrate all things autumn under the Harvest Moon.

Also - September’s full moon is the second of four super full moons in 2024! When a full moon takes place when the moon is near its closest approach to Earth, it is called a Super Full Moon. Join us as we explore this astrological phenomenon and learn what it means for life on Earth.

The guided hike will start at 8:00pm and last about 60 minutes. We will have a limited number of flashlights to handout so please bring one if you can.

For Scouts: This program meets the requirements for the following badges - Junior Trail Adventure, Senior Science Expert, Brownies Bugs, and Cadette Night Owl. You will receive a certificate of completion from Strawberry Hill upon request.

Email Anne at education@strawberryhill.org to register. Space is limited to 15 participants.

Due to the nature of a nighttime hike, this activity is recommended for older children who are comfortable walking in the woods at night.

Join us for Nature Book Club in the Nature Classroom from 6:30-7:30pm. Bring your current nature and/or environmental-themed book to discuss and share! Light refreshments will be offered but feel free to bring something to share if you wish.

Free and open to the public. RSVP to Anne at education@strawberryhill.org

Join us for a free nighttime nature hike under the Full Hunter’s Moon!

Let yourself experience the fall forest in a whole new way. Take a deep breath. The air is crisp and lovely this time of year, carrying a hint of sassafras and pine. The crunch of leaves echoes as you wander the twisting paths. Join us as we use our senses to explore the hidden corners of the forest under the Hunter’s Moon!

Also - October’s full moon is the third of four super full moons in 2024! When a full moon takes place when the moon is near its closest approach to Earth, it is called a Super Full Moon. Join us as we explore this astrological phenomenon and learn what it means for life on Earth.

The guided hike will start at 7:30pm and last about 60 minutes. We will have a limited number of flashlights to handout so please bring one if you can.

For Scouts: This program meets the requirements for the following badges - Junior Trail Adventure, Senior Science Expert, Brownies Bugs, and Cadette Night Owl. You will receive a certificate of completion from Strawberry Hill upon request.

Email Anne at education@strawberryhill.org to register. Space is limited to 15 participants.

Due to the nature of a nighttime hike, this activity is recommended for older children who are comfortable walking in the woods at night.

Explore the streams found on the Strawberry Hill property and gain insights into their critical role in maintaining the health of the waters. Join us for a guided fall hike to explore the stunning Strawberry Hill Preserve while learning about the vital role its streams play in providing clean drinking water to over 5 million people downstream. Strawberry Hill Preserve, in the northern reaches of the Potomac River watershed, is the gateway for clean water downstream. Join the dedicated staff of Strawberry Hill and the Interstate Commission on the Potomac River Basin (ICPRB) as they partner to share their mission to protect and preserve vital water resources. Explore the streams found on the Strawberry Hill property and gain insights into their critical role in maintaining the health of the watershed.

This event is not just a hike; it's an opportunity to connect with nature, understand the importance of preserving our water resources, and be part of a collective effort to safeguard our environment.

Expect to walk about 2-3 miles on moderate terrain. Please bring your own water bottle, snacks, and bug spray (if needed).

This event is free but please register in case of delays or rescheduling due to bad weather. Register here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/walk-in-the-woods-strawberry-hill-preserve-tickets-817002034077?aff=oddtdtcreator

Each participant will be required to complete the following form (copies will be available at the beginning of the hike):

https://www.potomacriver.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/Liability-Waiver-and-Medical-Form_2020.pdf

This event is produced in partnership with the Interstate Commission on the Potomac River Basin (ICPRB) and Strawberry Hill Preserve. It is part of ICPRB’s Walk in the Woods series of hikes.

Join us for Nature Book Club in the Nature Classroom from 6:30-7:30pm. Bring your current nature and/or environmental-themed book to discuss and share! Light refreshments will be offered but feel free to bring something to share if you wish.

Free and open to the public. RSVP to Anne at education@strawberryhill.org

Join us for a free nighttime hike under the full Beaver Moon!

Discover how animals and insects are settling in as the cold begins to take hold over the forest.

Also - November’s full moon is the last of four super full moons in 2024! When a full moon takes place when the moon is near its closest approach to Earth, it is called a Super Full Moon. Join us as we explore this astrological phenomenon and learn what it means for life on Earth.

The guided hike will start at 7:00pm and last about 60 minutes. We will have a limited number of flashlights to handout so please bring one if you can.

For Scouts: This program meets the requirements for the following badges - Junior Trail Adventure, Senior Science Expert, Brownies Bugs, and Cadette Night Owl. You will receive a certificate of completion from Strawberry Hill upon request.

Email Anne at education@strawberryhill.org to register. Space is limited to 15 participants.

Due to the nature of a nighttime hike, this activity is recommended for older children who are comfortable walking in the woods at night.

Join us for Nature Book Club in the Nature Classroom from 6:30-7:30pm. Bring your current nature and/or environmental-themed book to discuss and share! Light refreshments will be offered but feel free to bring something to share if you wish.

Free and open to the public. RSVP to Anne at education@strawberryhill.org

Join us for a free nighttime nature hike under the Cold Moon! Enjoy the beauty of an early winter trek around Strawberry Hill as the forest prepares for the long winter ahead.

Guided hike will start at 6:00pm and last about 60 minutes. We will have a limited number of flashlights to handout so please bring one if you can. Snow and/or ice is likely so please plan and dress accordingly.

For Scouts: This program meets the requirements for the following badges - Senior Sky, Senior Science Expert, and Cadette Night Owl. You will receive a certificate of completion from Strawberry Hill upon request.

Email Anne at education@strawberryhill.org to register. Space is limited to 15 participants.

Due to the nature of a nighttime hike, this activity is recommended for older children who are comfortable walking in the woods at night.