Bird and nature walks, tree and plant identification, and more
For the first time ever, the Dallas Arboretum hosts a full-grounds musical event open to the general public. Local artists/musicians Salim Nourallah, John Lefler and Camille Cortinas and Sudie perform intimate sets at sundown in several gardens. Food trucks and BYOB round out a community event. $7. Free parking.
Class geared to those who are new to Texas or are new to camping. The class will cover the basics: Texas essentials, gear and equipment, local activities, great regional resources and areas to camp. Free.
Xerces Pollinator Conservation Specialist Anne Stine is excited to be working with the local naturalist community and the Fort Worth Nature Center to coordinate this year's summer butterfly count! Annual butterfly counts were initiated by the Xerces Society in 1974. Now maintained by NABA, these counts are intended to track changes in the butterfly community over time. 2015 is the 24th consecutive year that this count has been conducted in Tarrant County.
Advanced amateur lepidopterists will be on hand to guide 'apprentices' in the count methodology and identification. NABA's censuses take place over the course of one day within a 15-mi diameter. The count will start at the Nature Center and see how much ground it can cover. A minimum of 4 volunteers and 6 observation hours are needed to meet NABA guidelines. Volunteers do not need to commit 6 hours individually.
Volunteers should wear comfortable shoes and bring water, a sun hat, sunscreen, bug repellent, and paper + writing utensil(s) for their tally. Guide books and binoculars are also recommended.
Rain date: July 12th.
Enjoy a morning hike at the Greenbelt Corridor of Lake Ray Roberts. We will meet at 9 a.m. at the entrance off of U.S. Hwy. 380, weather permitting and if the park is open and not flooded. If the hike cannot occur due to imminent weather or flooding issues, we plan to resume the hike at 9 a.m. on Sat., July 25. For more information and to see a map of where to meet, please visit http://www.nhnct.org/nature/ntexas_greenbelt.html .
Info: Co-chairpersons Brandon Morton at brandonmorton@gmail.com or Harrison Wicks at harrisonwicks@gmail.com, or the Communications and Membership Coordinator Brandi Price at brandireneeprice@gmail.com.
Participants will leave with an understanding of the different types of climbing, what gear is necessary and the basics on how to get started. Note: this is an informational class, not an "on-the-wall" climbing session. Free.
In celebration of our nation’s independence, active and retired members of armed services will receive free admission on Friday, Saturday, Sunday and Monday, and everyone will enjoy patriotic music and flags throughout the garden. $10-$15.
Learn how to become a better wild bird landlord. Many birds have specific tastes when it comes to food, shelter and water. We will examine the bird feeding area at the Hardwicke Interpretive Center, discuss different feeding options for different seasons and discover creative ways to attract lesser known birds. Free (with paid admission).
Class at 1:30 pm & 3:30pm.
Go on a guided hike and view the wide variety of grasses on the prairies, savannas and forests of the FWNC&R. Learn why some grasses bloom in the spring and others bloom in the fall. We will identify the four major prairie grasses. We will also see some forest grasses and sedges, and discuss why the major prairies are in the central United States. Bring water and dress for the weather. Insect repellent highly recommended. Free (with paid admission).
Make Dad’s day extra special with a make and take craft for Father’s Day prepared just by you. We will provide the materials; all you need to do is bring your imagination as you design the perfect gift for him. This program is for children of all ages and their adult companion. Plan to spend 15 - 30 minutes preparing the perfect DIY craft. Free (with paid admission).
Native and Adaptive plants are not only beautiful water efficient additions to your landscape, but they can be useful tools to attract beneficial wildlife as well. Learn ways to attract and provide urban habitat for butterflies, song birds, hummingbirds, bees, and other animals that bring your landscape to life with activity. If you like to keep your landscape well manicured, take a more naturalistic approach, or even have an interest in native perennials, wildflower gardens, and/or rain gardens come on out. Plant list provided. Free.