Nature Classes & Field Trips

Leader: Joe Marx
Members $33; nonmembers $46
Location: Soldier’s Delight, MD
The same tectonic collisions that metamorphosed much of our local bedrock also moved oceanic rock from beneath an ancient sea floor and stranded it in scattered patches within the continental rock of the Piedmont. The Soldiers Delight Natural Environment Area, near Owings Mill, MD, preserves one of the largest of these ophiolite patches. The soil at Soldiers Delight tends to be thin, dry and nutrient-poor, producing a landscape observably different from most in the Mid-Atlantic. We will hike three miles or so on well-maintained trails within the preserve, studying the bedrock, soil and plant communities. A few places will be steep and several stretches of trail may be muddy.  REGISTER

Leader: Paul Pisano
Members $33; nonmembers $46
Location: Occoquan Bay NWR, VA
Immerse yourself in the phenomenon of spring migration with these field programs at nearby parks. Our walks are aimed at beginning and intermediate birders for whom the spring pulse of bird activity can often be overwhelming. We’ll search for both resident and migrating birds by sight and sound. As we develop skills for finding birds in the field, we’ll also discuss the arrival sequence of spring travelers–and the departure of overwintering species. Our field trips are undertaken on natural surface trails and/or boardwalks which may be muddy, uneven, and/or slippery. Some mild uphill/downhill is possible. Participants provide their own binoculars. REGISTER

Leader: Stephanie Mason
Members $35; nonmembers $49
Location: Swain’s Lock, MD
Spring has sprung and the towpath along the Potomac River is one of the finest places in the DC-metro area to experience this season’s richness. In order to cover more territory and visit more habitats, we’ll use bikes to explore the stretch from Swain’s Lock to Blockhouse Point, a nearly 9-mile round-trip ride. We’ll dismount often to look for spring wildflowers, butterflies and other insects, and reptiles and amphibians—all the while keeping an eye and ear open for spring bird activity. Bring your own bike. REGISTER

Join enthusiastic birders at Woodend to learn birding basics. One will learn binocular basics and how to identify common birds as well as explore the wonders of migration. Members $12; nonmembers $16. Second registrant is FREE. REGISTER

Four Saturdays, 9:30-10:30 am: May 11, May 18, May 25, and June 1 (via Zoom) 
Note: this is a series with four classes that build on each other each time.
Leader: Lorena Saavedra Smith 
Members $49, Nonmembers $74 
This 4-week program offers a pragmatic approach to exploring mindfulness integrated it into daily life. Participants will learn to recognize their emotions as a natural aspect of their biology and explore the concepts of mature and active compassion. Each session in this series is interconnected, allowing the participants to dive into mindful and wise activism, which can promote sustained well-being in environmental advocacy. This program is designed to address the participants’ need for sustainable coping alternatives, highlighting the importance of diverse communal support and an appreciation for nature, both of which can contribute to collective healing. This virtual program is geared towards environmental activists and advocates. REGISTER

Leaders: Rob Hilton and Lisa Shannon
Members $33; nonmembers $46
Location: Lois Green, MD
Immerse yourself in the phenomenon of spring migration with these field programs at nearby parks. Our walks are aimed at beginning and intermediate birders for whom the spring pulse of bird activity can often be overwhelming. We’ll search for both resident and migrating birds by sight and sound. As we develop skills for finding birds in the field, we’ll also discuss the arrival sequence of spring travelers–and the departure of overwintering species. Our field trips are undertaken on natural surface trails and/or boardwalks which may be muddy, uneven, and/or slippery. Some mild uphill/downhill is possible. Participants provide their own binoculars. REGISTER

Leader: Stephanie Mason
Members $35; nonmembers $49
Location: Gathland State Park, MD
Spring rains, warming temperatures, and longer hours of daylight ignite a great burst of life in the valleys and ridges of the Appalachian Mountains. One of the best ways to explore this seasonal richness is on a hike along the renowned Appalachian Trail. Join a naturalist to search for spring blooms, butterflies, and breeding bird activity amongst the rocky terrain of Maryland’s South Mountain. Starting at Gathland State Park near Frederick, Md, our group will hike along the AT for around 1.5 to 2 miles before turning around and retracing our steps. The AT here is rocky and uneven–and there will be some moderately strenuous uphill/downhill. We’ll stop often to observe natural phenomena, but will then pick up the pace to try and cover the distance stated.  REGISTER

Leader: Stephanie Mason
Members $33; nonmembers $46
Location: Pennyfield Lock, MD
Enjoy these leisurely walks on the Towpath along close-in portions of the C&O Canal National Historical Park. The focus of our walks, starting from different locations, will be the general natural history of the varied habitats along the Potomac River and Canal. We’ll proceed at a slow “naturalist’s saunter” as we experience the wondrous unfolding of spring. We’ll stop often to observe birds, wildflowers and other plants, butterflies, snakes, turtles, and whatever else we might find.  REGISTER

Leader: Liz Guertin
Members $33; nonmembers $46
Location: Brookside Gardens, MD
Join Maryland Master Naturalist & Nature Photographer, Liz Guertin, for a journey into phone photography! Liz will cover how to compose the best shots possible using the many creative features & apps possible on your cell phone to achieve great nature photography. All phones welcome! As a special treat, our venue for the morning is the spectacular Brookside Gardens, where we’re guaranteed to see buzzing flowers, critters, insects, patterns, colors, and birds. Please bring a freshly charged device. REGISTER

Learn about the notable trees Woodend has to offer with Restoration Manager, Bradley Simpson. We will learn how to identify these trees and where you might find them in the wild. We will explore what wildlife uses these trees and how they benefit our native ecosystems. Members $12; nonmembers $16. Limited to 15 participants. REGISTER

Leader: Karoline Anders
Members $33; nonmembers $46
Location: Boyds, MD
Here’s your chance to visit the home garden of a Nature Forward member who has worked to reduce lawn coverage, increase food and shelter for wildlife, and incorporate native plants whenever possible. Karoline will share her successes and failures while guiding you on a leisurely stroll through her yard. Karoline’s half-acre yard includes more than 50 native plant species in multiple sun and moisture combinations, plus an extensive vegetable garden. REGISTER

Leader: Genevieve Wall
Members $33; nonmembers $46
Location: Woodend Nature Sanctuary (Fire Circle), MD
Writing can be a way to pause, reflect, and notice the world in keener detail. When we write, we capture a moment of our story – sometimes for an audience, and sometimes only for ourselves. In this workshop, we invite you to join a group of other people who love both nature and writing. Together, we will explore the natural setting of Woodend, and write together in response to a series of invitations and prompts to help us connect deeper to nature, to writing, and to each other. Please bring a writing utensil and something to write with – a notebook, journal, paper, etc. Expect a relaxed afternoon with some sitting and some invitations to mindfully relax and observe. REGISTER

Leader: Mark Garland
Members $120; nonmembers $168
Location: Cape May, NJ
Cape May explodes with vernal vibrance during the second half of May, especially in the few days around the full moon.  This is when thousands of horseshoe crabs crawl onto the Delaware Bay beaches to spawn, with huge flocks of shorebirds gathered to feast on the eggs.  Beach nesting birds are active, and some songbirds are setting up territories while others are passing through in migration.  Frogs are in full song, and on sunny days a good variety of butterflies may be seen.  High tide, when the greatest horseshoe crab activity occurs, will be in the evening, so on the 21st we’ll pause for an early dinner and then head back afield to witness this spectacle as the sun sets.  While the program formally ends at 5:00 pm on the 22nd, there’s an option to stay into the evening to watch the show again.  Note that like many natural phenomena, this is weather dependent – if storms pick up big waves in Delaware Bay, the horseshoe crabs won’t come ashore. Program cost covers field activities only; we’ll share information about lodging options to all registrants. REGISTER

Leader: Mark England
Members $33; nonmembers $46
Location: Blue Mash and Rachel Carson Conservation Park, MD
Do you hear what I hear? The various songs and calls of birds can help enthusiasts find and ID species, especially when the landscape is fully leafed out. But for beginning and mid-level birders, interpreting this wide variety of voices can be confusing and frustrating. Our leader will help you to learn to listen for and begin to recognize some of the species breeding in our region. He’ll also discuss the upsides/downsides of using Voice ID apps. This walk is intentionally scheduled after the migratory pulse of through-species in order to focus on local breeders – both resident and migratory. The walk will split field time between the Blue Mash Nature Trail and nearby Rachel Carson Conservation Park. REGISTER

Leader: Rita Peralta
Members $33; nonmembers $46
Location: Dyke Marsh, VA
Join Naturalist and Naturally Latinos speaker Rita Peralta for a walk on the wild side at Dyke Marsh. Tidal freshwater marshes are gems of biodiversity and play an important role in filtering water and mitigating floods and storm surges. On this wander, we’ll explore the trails and boardwalks of Dyke Marsh, and encounter wildlife like bald eagles and beavers. When you take a walk on the wild side, you never know what you’ll find. Expect a mixture of paved and natural surface trails; depending on rainfall, some muddy and puddly terrain may be possible. REGISTER

Leader: Stephanie Mason
Members $33; nonmembers $46
Location: Swain’s Lock, MD
Enjoy these leisurely walks on the Towpath along close-in portions of the C&O Canal National Historical Park. The focus of our walks, starting from different locations, will be the general natural history of the varied habitats along the Potomac River and Canal. We’ll proceed at a slow “naturalist’s saunter” as we experience the wondrous unfolding of spring. We’ll stop often to observe birds, wildflowers and other plants, butterflies, snakes, turtles, and whatever else we might find. REGISTER

Leader: Marney Bruce
Members $33; nonmembers $46
Location: Rachel Greenway Trail, MD
As spring gives way to summer, enjoy blooming Mountain Laurel and other plants of the oak/hickory woodlands along the Rachel Greenway Trail adjacent to Northwest Branch Creek in upper Silver Spring, MD. Be prepared for uneven and rocky natural surface trails with some gentle uphll/downhill stretches. Depending on recent rains, there may also be several small stream crossings. REGISTER

Join naturalist, Ana Ka’ahanui, in a soothing exploration and mindfulness walk through the forests at Woodend. Relax and take in the fresh air and cool shade these trees have to offer. Members $30; nonmembers $40. REGISTER

Leader: Marney Bruce
Members $33; nonmembers $46
Location: Third parking lot upriver at Carderock, MD
Ever wanted to learn more about your local trees? Take a deep dive into tree identification, habitat, and ecology all around the parking lot off the tow path. Join our tree-hugging leader for an introduction to the many trees and habitats that surround the parking lot. Easy, level terrain suitable for those with disabilities. Don’t expect an aerobic workout! REGISTER

Leaders: Ron Hilton and Lisa Shannon
Members $33; nonmembers $46
Location: Pine Lake, Wheaton Regional Park, MD
Immerse yourself in the phenomenon of spring migration with these field programs at nearby parks. Our walks are aimed at beginning and intermediate birders for whom the spring pulse of bird activity can often be overwhelming. We’ll search for both resident and migrating birds by sight and sound. As we develop skills for finding birds in the field, we’ll also discuss the arrival sequence of spring travelers–and the departure of overwintering species. Our field trips are undertaken on natural surface trails and/or boardwalks which may be muddy, uneven, and/or slippery. Some mild uphill/downhill is possible. Participants provide their own binoculars. REGISTER

Join enthusiastic birders at Woodend to learn birding basics. One will learn binocular basics and how to identify common birds as well as explore the wonders of migration. Members $12; nonmembers $16. Second registrant is FREE. REGISTER

Leader: Bradley Simpson
Members $33; nonmembers $46
Location: Turkey Run Park, VA
Join Habitat Manager Bradley Simpson to track the seasonal flow as spring warms the landscape and invites trees into bud, bloom, and full-leaf. By visiting the same location multiple times throughout the season, we’ll be primed to observe the changes over time, and to cultivate a keener understanding of the dynamic forest ecosystem–and the trees within. The natural surface trails, which will include some fairly steep uphill/downhill, may be muddy and/or slippery. Depending on the route and water levels, there may be a stream crossing.  REGISTER

Leader: Lorena Saavedra Smith
Members $40, Nonmembers $49 
Location: Pohick Bay Regional Park near Lorton, VA
Join this transformative outdoor program to navigate life’s challenges. which often induce feelings of being alone and overwhelmed, leading to self-neglect while prioritizing others’ well-being. Through practical guidance, participants learn to prioritize self-care and find solace in nature, recovering strength and resilience amidst external turmoil. Cultivate mature compassion within a supportive community, empowering you to understand that nature is a steadfast ally. This program is geared towards environmental activists and advocates, and is intended as a continuation of the month-long Eco-Mindfulness Series – though you do not have to participate in the virtual series to join Lorena in-person! REGISTER

Leader: Jen Brown
Members $33; nonmembers $46
Location: Woodend Nature Sanctuary, MD
We’re happy to offer this introductory workshop where you’ll learn how to create sketches using ink and a limited number of watercolor pencils. This approach is especially useful if you want to do field sketching as you only need to carry your journal and a few supplies in your backpack. Nature Forward member and artist Jen Brown will guide you through the following–ink techniques, color mixing, and shading. This tutorial will be based at our Woodend Sanctuary where our native plant gardens will offer many eye-catching late spring blooms. A list of suggested materials for this program will be sent two weeks in advance. REGISTER

Join Garden Manager, Alice Sturm, in the exploration of the many native plant gardens Woodend has to offer. Learn what native herbs do well in certain conditions and gather ideas for your own home garden! Members $12; nonmembers $16. Limited to 15 participants. REGISTER

Join enthusiastic birders at Woodend to learn birding basics. One will learn binocular basics and how to identify common birds as well as explore the wonders of migration. Members $12; nonmembers $16. Second registrant is FREE. REGISTER

Leader: Rita Peralta
Members $33; nonmembers $46
Location: Theodore Roosevelt Island, DC
There’s a whole world of organisms that we can’t easily see. In this leisurely exploration we’ll use Foldscopes to look for the microbiota around us. Foldscopes are a foldable optical microscope that allows you to observe those living beings so small they normally escape our awareness. Join naturalist Rita Peralta for an adventure at Theodore Roosevelt Island, where she will introduce you to Foldscopes and explore the microbes in the soil and water that populate the world as we know it. Expect a mixture of paved and natural surface trails; depending on rainfall, some muddy and puddly terrain may be possible. REGISTER

Join Nature Forward naturalists to explore the meadows, forests and stream at Woodend. Learn about the work we do to improve our native habitats for our local wildlife. Members $12; nonmembers $16. REGISTER

Join enthusiastic birders at Woodend to learn birding basics. One will learn binocular basics and how to identify common birds as well as explore the wonders of migration. Members $12; nonmembers $16. Second registrant is FREE. REGISTER

Learn about the notable trees Woodend has to offer with Restoration Manager, Bradley Simpson. We will learn how to identify these trees and where you might find them in the wild. We will explore what wildlife uses these trees and how they benefit our native ecosystems. Members $12; nonmembers $16. Limited to 15 participants. REGISTER

Join enthusiastic birders at Woodend to learn birding basics. One will learn binocular basics and how to identify common birds as well as explore the wonders of migration. Members $12; nonmembers $16. Second registrant is FREE. REGISTER

Join Garden Manager Alice Sturm in the exploration of the many native plant gardens Woodend has to offer. Learn what native herbs do well in certain conditions and gather ideas for your own home garden Members $12; nonmembers $16. Limited to 15 participants. REGISTER