Snag fall final digital

GULF BRANCH NATURE CENTER
3608 Military Road
Arlington, VA 22207
GulfBranchNatureCtr@arlingtonva.us
703-228-3403
LONG BRANCH NATURE CENTER
625 S. Carlin Springs Road
Arlington, VA 22204
LongBranchNatureCtr@arlingtonva.us
703-228-6535
FORT C.F. SMITH PARK
2411 N. 24th St.
Arlington, VA 22207
scasey@arlingtonva.us
703-243-4342
www.arlingtonva.us/dpr
WHAT’S HAPPENING
2 Volunteer
2 Go Birding
3 Adult Nature Programs
4 Learn about Gemstones
4-5 Kid’s Nature Programs
6 Family Nature Programs
6 Take a Hike!
7 Campfires
7 PreK andTinyTot Nature Programs
8 Fall Heritage Festival
8 Native Plant Sale
8 How to Register
FALL 2013
Welcome to the new SNAG, your guide to
nature and history programs in Arlington
County! We’ve updated the layout, but even
better...half of the paper you are holding was
used, collected, and recycled- it’s 30% to 60%
POST-consumer waste. And for our paperless
Snag, you can use the hyperlinks to directly
register for programs. Arlington County truly
values its limited natural resources. We need
to protect what we still have, and equally as
important, help Arlington County residents
benefit from these resources. Please continue
to share your ideas, volunteer your time and
support our community and its natural
habitats.
NATURE PROGRAM
REGISTRATION
BEGINS August 13, 2013
https://registration.arlingtonva.us
S
mall urban parks and the natural areas they harbor
might seem to be of little consequence compared to
great national parks such as Yosemite or Yellowstone.
Yet these small parks can have great significance now
that about 80% of Americans live in urban areas. For most of
us, local parks provide our main opportunity to enjoy nature.
Natural areas in Arlington represent only a small bit of the
county’s total land area, about 4.7% (including federal lands),
but they play a huge role in making this a livable, urban
community. Consider some of the free ecosystem services
Arlington’s natural areas provide:
Parks mitigate air pollution
A forested park is a natural air filter. Tree leaves absorb
pollutants and cause suspended air pollution particles to drop
out of the air. Trees in natural areas are especially valuable in
mitigating air pollution because they generally don’t need the
energy-consuming maintenance that street and backyard trees
require.
Parks keep it cooler
Temperatures in urban areas can run three to 10° F higher
than nearby rural areas. Shade from trees can reduce
temperatures by 20° F or more and evapotranspiration – the
release of water vapor through tree leaves – provides even
more natural air conditioning. Through a process called
advection, cooler urban forest air moves into adjacent
developed areas.
Parks protect streams and water quality
Stormwater runoff from roads, rooftops and other hard
surfaces pollutes local streams and causes flooding and erosion
problems. Lawns absorb only about 50% of the rain falling on
them with the rest going into nearby water systems. Forested
areas, on the other hand, absorb nearly all of it. Trees act as
natural pumps, releasing much of that rainfall back into the air.
Parks makes us feel better
Where else can you go in an urban area to get a dose of
nature? Green is good. Numerous studies have demonstrated
a link between access to natural areas and stress reduction,
faster healing, improved emotional outlook, and better mental
health.
Pays it forward
Love a park = love the future. Local parks naturally build
supporters. Who goes to a park on a nice day and wishes they
were inside? But even more, urban parks can also harbor rare
species or ecosystems, such as the magnolia bogs in Barcroft
Park. Arlington has 7 areas deemed Natural Resource
Conservation Areas, such as the Barcroft Magnolia Bog, that
provide the best quality habitat and natural resources we have
left in the County.
Natural areas in Arlington parks provide a great walk in the
woods – and a whole lot more!
What Good is a Park in the City?
Sign up to receive THE SNAG
and other information about our
nature and conservation
programs at www.arlingtonva.us/
dpr

Help Us to Remove
Invasive Plants!
Work parties are held every month and are making a real
difference. We are starting to see the return of ferns and
wildflowers in areas once covered in ivy. Adults, teens, and
families with older children are all welcome to join us! No
registration required. Free.
Second Sundays Meet at Gulf Branch Nature Center.
Information: 703-228-3403.
Sunday, Sept. 8, 2:00 - 4:30pm
Sunday, Oct. 13, 2:00 - 4:30pm
Sunday, Nov. 10, 2:00 - 4:30pm
Third Sundays Meet at Long Branch Nature Center.
Information: 703-228-6535.
Sunday, Sept. 15, 2:00 - 5:00pm
Sunday, Oct. 20, 2:00 - 5:00pm
Sunday, Nov. 17, 2:00 - 5:00pm
2 The SNAG — Arlington County’s Guide to Nature and History Programs
Habitat Hero
Adults are invited to come birding with us! Dress for the
weather and bring binoculars, a bag lunch and a drink and
snacks for the day.
JUG BAY WETLANDS SANCTUARY
Wednesday, Sept. 18, 8:00am - 4:00pm
Jug Bay Wetlands Sanctuary includes forests and freshwater
tidal marshes along the tidal Patuxent River in southern
Maryland. We will search for fall migrants, and enjoy the
sanctuary’s impressive diversity of birds, reptiles, amphibians,
and invertebrates. For more information call 703-228-6525.
Meet at the Lubber Run Recreation Center parking lot, 300
N. Park Dr., Arlington, VA 22203. $45 fee due upon
registration. Program #612943-D
PATUXENT RIVER PARK
Tuesday, Sept. 24, 7:30am - 4:30pm
We'll join a Patuxent River Park naturalist for a boat ride on
the river to look for rails and other marsh birds at this great
Maryland destination with boardwalks through wooded and
open marsh areas along the Patuxent River. We will also
walk a couple miles along the Critical Area Tour which is
paved and flat. For more information call 703-228-3403.
Meet at the Lubber Run Recreation Center parking lot, 300
N. Park Dr., Arlington, VA 22203. $45 fee due upon
registration. Program #612843-A
BATTLE OF SOUTH MOUNTAIN
Tuesday, Oct. 1, 8:00am - 5:00pm
The Battle of South Mountain was fought in 1862 just prior
to the battle of Antietam in Maryland. Our program will visit
several of the sites of the battle while also looking for birds
and wildlife. We'll also stop at Washington Monument State
Park and make a short hike up the hill to see the first
monument dedicated to George Washington, which also
happens to be a good spot for hawk watching during fall
migration. For more information call 703-228-3403. Meet at
the Lubber Run Recreation Center parking lot, 300 N. Park
Dr., Arlington, VA 22203. $45 fee due upon registration.
Program #612843-B
BLANDY FARM AND SKY MEADOWS
Tuesday, Oct. 15, 8:00am - 5:00pm
Join us on this excursion to parks on opposite sides of the
Blue Ridge Mountains in Virginia where we'll look for fall
migrants, including sparrows and raptors. For more
information call 703-228-3403. Meet at the Lubber Run
Recreation Center parking lot, 300 N. Park Dr., Arlington,
VA 22203. $45 fee due upon registration.
Program #612843-C
BIRDWALKS
Join members of the Northern Virginia Bird Club for an
informal walk through Long Branch and Glencarlyn Parks in
search of resident birds. Beginning and experienced
birders welcome. Bring binoculars and field guides
if you have them. For information: 703-228-6535.
Meet at Long Branch Nature Center parking lot.
Free.
Wednesday, Sept. 4,
8:30 - 11:00am
Program #612943-A
Wednesday, Oct. 2,
8:30 - 11:00am
Program #612943-B
Wednesday, Nov. 6,
9:00 - 11:00am
Program #612943-C
Go Birding
Be an environmental hero and help us develop Arlington County into a great place to
live, work and play! Any group, business, or individual 18 years or older can adopt a
park, playground, trail, sports field and many other areas in Arlington County's menu
of parks and recreation facilities. You can't imagine how much your help is
overwhelmingly appreciated.
Minimally we expect adoptive groups/individuals to support the area quarterly (spring,
summer, fall and winter) but it really depends on the group's goals and progress. For
more information go to www.arlingtonva.us or call 703-228-4730.

AUDUBON AT HOME AMBASSADOR TRAINING
Saturday, Sept. 14, 9:00 - 11:00am
Adults. Create bird and butterfly-friendly landscapes in the
place where we have the greatest potential to expand envi-
ronmentally sustainable habitats ----- around our homes!
The Arlington County Nature Center staff, Arlington Re-
gional Master Naturalists, Master Gardeners of Northern
Virginia, the Audubon Society of Northern Virginia Audu-
bon at Home Program, and Virginia Cooperative Extension
have joined forces to teach residents to create habitat on
your own property and how to assist other in creating
healthy habitat on their properties. Become a trained Audu-
bon at Home Ambassador in this introductory training. For
more information call 703-228-6535. Meet at Long Branch
Nature Center. Registration required but free program.
Program #612943-E
SPIDER ID AND NATURAL HISTORY
Sunday, Sept. 15, 1:00 - 3:30pm
Adults and teens. As both predators and prey, spiders play
vital roles in ecosystems around the world. Join us to learn
about the lives and identification of common local spider
families. We’ll divide our time between an indoor talk and a
field exploration. Information: 703-228-6535. Meet at Long
Branch Nature Center. $10 fee due upon registration.
Program #612943-F
PROJECT LEARNING TREE
Adults. Whether you are an formal educator or informal,
learn how to bring children outside to learn about the envi-
ronment. Project Learning Tree is an interdisciplinary,
award-winning environmental education program designed
by educators for educators. Each participant will bring home
a book with 99 lessons that help students connect class-
room concepts to the real world through a variety of hands
-on activities. Please bring a bag lunch and drink. $10
materials fee to be paid at the program. For infor-
mation call 703-228-3403. Meet at Gulf Branch Nature
Center.
K-8. Sunday, Sept. 22, 10:00am - 4:00pm
Program; #612843-D
Pre-K. Sunday, Sept. 29, 10:00am - 4:00pm
Program #612843-E
STARGAZING 101
Wednesday, Oct. 9, 7:00 - 8:30pm
Adults. Whether paired with our Astronomy Quest or just
on its own, this program will improve your stargazing skills!
Learn to find basic fall constellations, make a starfinder, and
get a cosmic sense of perspective. For more information:
703-228-3403. Meet at Gulf Branch Nature Center.
$5 fee due upon registration. Program #612843-F
ASTRONOMY QUEST
Saturday, Oct. 12, 6:00 - 10:30pm
Adults. Travel to the darker skies of the Shenandoah moun-
tains to celebrate Astronomy! We’ll join other space cadets
at Sky Meadows State Park as astronomy enthusiasts and
experts share their knowledge - and telescopes - with the
public. This is a great chance to see the universe! Partici-
pants are encouraged to take 'Stargazing 101' beforehand,
but raw beginners are welcome too. Vans leave from Lub-
ber Run Center parking lot, 300 N. Park Dr., Arlington, VA
22203. $15 fee payable on the day of the program.
Program #612843-G
DESIGNING A SUSTAINABLE GARDEN
Saturday, Oct. 19, 9:00am - 1:00pm
Adults. A beautiful and environmentally friendly home land-
scape grows from a workable design--one that you can
comfortably implement and maintain. Whether you are do-
ing it yourself or working with a designer or contractor, this
program organized by Virginia Cooperative Extension Mas-
ter Gardeners will give you the knowledge to evaluate your
site, identify your needs, and choose plants and materials
appropriate for local conditions. The program is a great
foundation for developing your own detailed plan in the
January 2014 Making Your Yard Sustainable Workshop Se-
ries. $15 registration fee. Register by contacting the VCE
Master Gardener Help Desk (703-228-6414 or mgarlalex@
gmail.com).
FABULOUS FUNGI 101
Thursday, Nov. 7, 7:00 - 8:00pm
Adults. Want to tell a toadstool from a 'bird's nest'? Come
learn to recognize some common families of fungi. We'll
also take a look at field guides, and learn some basic mush-
room 'anatomy' that will help you use them. Participants are
encouraged (but not required) to also join us on our Fabu-
lous Fungi Hike, too! For more information: 703-228-3403.
Meet at Gulf Branch Nature Center. $5 fee due upon
registration. Program #612843-H
FALL FUNGI HIKE
Saturday, Nov. 9, 2:00 - 4:00pm
Adults and teens. On the Turkey Run Trail, fantastic mush-
rooms, fungi and lichen abound. Join us on a walk with a
naturalist to explore our fabulous fungi. Hike is rocky and
steep in places. Wear sturdy shoes and bring a water bottle.
Participants are encouraged to join us beforehand for Fabu-
lous Fungi 101, but raw beginners are welcome too! For
more information: 703-228-3403. We’ll contact registrants
with directions to our meeting site at Turkey Run Park. $5
fee due upon registration. Program #612843-I
OF ALL THE GALL(S)
Saturday, Nov. 16, 9:00 - 11:30 AM
Adults. Have you ever wondered about those strange little
bumps, swellings and other growths on leaves and stems?
They’re galls and are usually made by gall-making insects and
mites. Through a lecture and field exploration, adults and
teens. Are invited to explore how insects hijack a plant’s
growing mechanism to make a home for themselves or
their young, what insects make galls, and how to recognize
common galls in the field. Information: 703-228-6535. Meet
at Long Branch Nature Center. $10 fee due upon regis-
tration. Program #612943-G
Workshops
& Walks
Fall 2013 3
The Forest Unseen: A naturalist’s manifesto
Join author David George Haskell as he relates his
year of scientific and personal observations of a
single square meter in the old growth forest of the
Cumberland Plateau. Haskell’s award-winning
book The Forest Unseen: A Year's Watch in Nature,
has been hailed as a "new genre of nature writing,
located between science and poetry". Monday,
September 30 at 7:00pm, Arlington Central Li-
brary. The program is co-sponsored by the Arlington
Regional Master Naturalists, the Potowmack Chapter
of the Virginia Native Plant Society and Friends of the
Library.

SUPER SPIDERS
Wednesday, Sept. 25, 4:00 - 5:00pm
Ages 6 - 10. Get ready for October scares by learning about
our 8-legged loveable (and not so loveable) friends.
Information: 703-228-3403. Meet at Gulf Branch Nature
Center. $5 fee due upon registration.
Program #612823-N
ACORNS TO OAKS
Saturday, Oct. 5, 10:00 - 11:00am
Ages 6 - 10. Which oaks are red, white or black and what
kind of acorns do they make? How do squirrels and blue
jays spread oaks around and what is an acorn weevil
anyway? Join us and find out! Information: 703-228-6535.
Meet at Long Branch Nature Center. $5 fee due upon
registration. Program #612923-L
NATURE DIGITAL PHOTOGRAPHY
Sunday, Oct. 6, 2:30 - 4:30pm
Ages 9 - 14. Learn about local wildlife and learn some tips
on how to take pictures. We'll take a short hike with our
cameras and also have an opportunity to photograph some
live nature center animals. Bring your own camera (camera
phones are fine too). The center has a couple of digital
cameras for loan. Information: 703-228-6535. Meet at Long
Program #612923-M
VULTURES
Ages 6 - 10. Come scavenge for facts and clues about
Vultures. We'll learn about the vital role they play in nature.
Information: 703-228-6535. Meet at Gulf Branch Nature
Program #612923-N
BONE TALES
Sunday, Oct. 13, 2:00 - 3:30pm
Ages 6 - 10. Backbones, ribs and skulls - oh my! Unravel the
mystery of bones and join the BSI - Bone Scene
Investigation. What do bones tell us about the animals that
once owned them? Discover the difference between
vertebrates and invertebrates, the five classes of
vertebrates, and which group you belong to. Come read the
clues and unearth the secrets of BONES! Information: 703-
228-6535. Meet at Long Branch Nature Center. $5 fee due
upon registration. Program #612923-O
TERRIFIC TOADSTOOLS
Ages 6 - 10. Register child only. We'll search the woods for
terrific -or terrifying - toadstools, strange shrooms like
'witches butter', make spore prints, and more. For more
information: 703-228-3403. Meet at Gulf Branch Nature
Center. $5 fee due upon registration. Program
#612823-O
LITTER CRITTERS
Wednesday, Nov. 13, 3:00 - 4:00pm
Ages 6 - 10. In the fall, the action moves down to the forest
floor along with the falling leaves. We’ll hunt for crickets,
centipedes, millipedes and other leaf litter critters and learn
how they enrich the soil and keep the leaves from piling up
to the tree tops. Information: 703-228-6535. Meet at Long
Program #612923-P
Kids Get Nature
FIRE BUILDING
Friday, Sept. 20, 4:00 - 5:00pm
Learn how to start a fire - and keep it alive! We'll cover
everything from where to find tinder and a sparking
rock, to making and using a bow drill.
Program #612923-A
SMOKE SIGNALS
Friday, Sept. 27, 4:00 - 5:00pm
We'll build off of our firestarting skills and learn how to
send smoke signals! We'll cover what to use to bellow
smoke and take home your own firestarter kit.
Program #612923-B
ID POISONOUS AND VENOMOUS
Friday, Oct. 4, 4:00 - 5:00pm
To survive, you need to know what plants and animals
to use - but knowing which ones to avoid can be even
more important! Program #612923-C
PURIFYING WATER
Friday, Oct. 11, 4:00 - 5:00pm
You can go days without food - but drinkable water is a
survival priority! Program #612923-D
KNOT KNOW- HOW
Friday, Oct. 18, 4:00 - 5:00pm
We'll learn a few basics that will help you out of a tangle.
Then we'll tie ourselves into a giant human knot!
Program #612923-E
CORDAGE
Friday, Oct. 25, 4:00 - 5:00pm
Learn how to wrangle some rope and other natural
stand ins so you'll never be left hanging!
Program #612923-F
BANDANAS
Friday, Nov. 1, 4:00 - 5:00pm
This pocket square can do amazing things. Bandage, dust
mask, hair tie and more! Program #612923-G
SHELTER BUILDING
Friday, Nov. 8, 4:00 - 5:00pm
In Shelter Building, you'll learn how - and where! - to
build temporary shelters to keep you warm and dry.
We'll cover defeating drafts and finding insulating
materials, too! Program #612923-H
SURVIVAL SKILLS
SURVIVAL SKILLS
SURVIVAL SKILLS
Ages 9 to 14 meet at Long Branch Nature Center to learn these traditional survival skills. Call 703-228-6535 for more
information. $7 fee due upon registration.

GEMSTONE CLUB
Ages 7 - 11. Register child only. Budding geologists and gem
lovers are invited to join us for a year's worth of fun and
collecting at the Gemstone Club. Attend one or all of the
sessions; we meet once each month. We will learn about
birthstones and the alternate stones for each month. There
will be polished gems and uncut crystals to examine, and we
will find out about the geology, mining, legends, and litera-
ture for each gem. All participants will take home a beautiful
gemstone in a protective display box. Collect a year's worth
of gems, as well as an attractive color photo card to go with
each month's birthstone. For more information: 703-228-
3403. Meet at Gulf Branch Nature Center. $12 fee due
upon registration.
SAPPHIRE
Wednesday, Sept. 4, 4:00 - 5:00pm; Program #612823-A
Saturday, Sept. 14, 10:30 - 11:30am; Program #612823-B
OPAL
Wednesday, Oct. 2, 4:00 - 5:00pm; Program #612823-C
Saturday, Oct. 5, 10:30 - 11:30am; Program #612823-D
TOPAZ
Wednesday, Nov. 6, 4:00 - 5:00pm; Program #612823-E
Saturday, Nov. 9, 10:30 - 11:30am; Program #612823-F
GRADUATE GEMOLOGISTS
Ages 8 - 12. Register child only. Kids who have completed 12
months of the Gemstone Club at Gulf Branch Nature Center
can add to their knowledge of gems and increase their col-
lections at this monthly program. For more information call
703-228-3403. Meet at Gulf Branch Nature Center. $12 fee
due upon registration.
IOLITE
Wednesday, Sept. 11, 4:00 - 5:00pm
Sometimes called "water sapphire," Iolite's violet color makes
it a popular gemstone. Legends tell that it was used by
Viking navigators to find the sun in the foggy waters of
the North Atlantic. Program #612823-G
TOURMALINE
Tourmaline, October's alternate birthstone, occurs in an
amazing variety of colors. The last empress of China adored
the deep pink variety. Collect your own tourmaline at this
program. Program #612823-H
APATITE
Wednesday, Nov. 20, 4:00 - 5:00pm
November's gem, apatite, is not usually seen set in jewelry
because it is one of the softer gems. It's astonishing blue and
teal colors can compete with the more famous gems in in-
tensity. #612823-I
TREE BARK
Saturday, Sept. 21, 10:00 - 11:30am
Hear stories and legends explaining and exploring why trees
have different bark, and learn to sketch their different
textures and subtle colors. Program #612823-J
AUTUMN LEAVES
Saturday, Oct. 12, 10:00 - 11:30am
By fall, every leaf has a story to tell. Learn to read some of
them by observing closely, then try to capture the colors and
details yourself. Program #612823-K
SNAKES IN WINTER
Saturday, Nov. 2, 10:00 - 11:30am
Look at the winter behaviors and biology of Arlington's most
common snakes, and learn their unique appearances by
making detailed drawings of the patterns on their backs.
Program #612823-L
DEER AND WINTER DEER YARDS
Saturday, Nov. 23, 10:00 - 11:30am
What are the winter habits of our white-tailed deer? We
learn about coat colors, falling antlers, deer tracks and other
changes and signs, and sketch our own deer portraits.
Program #612823-M
See, Hear, Sketch
Ages 5-9 meet at Gulf Branch Nature Center. Budding artists and attentive observers are invited to attend one or all of these
sessions. Art supplies will be provided, but feel free to bring your own sketchbook and pencil. Call 703-228-3403 for more
information. $5 fee due upon registration.
Fall 2013 5
Learn about Gemstones
The Snag is published quarterly by Arlington County’s Department of Parks and Natural Resources. The
Arlington County Department of Parks and Recreation is one of 100 agencies nationwide to have received
national accreditation from the Commission for Accreditation of Park and Recreation Agencies. For more
information go to www.arlingtonva.us/dpr.

MAKING CIDER
Friday, Sept. 6, 4:00 - 5:00pm
Families, with children ages 6 and up. We’ll enjoy some
different varieties of apples, make apple cider, and help
protect several apple trees we planted last year! For more
Program #612853-G
MILKWEED SAFARI
Sunday, Sept. 15, 4:00 - 5:00pm
Families, ages 5 and up. Register children only, but adults
encouraged to attend. Who lives in and on our milkweed
plants? From mighty monarchs to tiny ants, we'll meet a
whole community of critters. For more information: 703-228
-3403. Meet at Gulf Branch Nature Center. $5 fee due
upon registration. Program #612853-I
FALL INTO GEOCACHING!
Saturday, Sept. 28, 10:00am - 12:00pm
Families. Geo-caching combines old-fashioned treasure
hunting with modern technology. We'll learn the basics on
how to participate in this great activity for all ages as we
search for some of the caches in the park. Bring your GPS
device if you have one. For more information: 703-228-3403.
Meet at Gulf Branch Nature Center. $5 fee per person
due upon registration. Program #612853-J
CITIZEN OF EARTH? WRITE ON!
Tuesday, Nov. 5, 1:00 - 2:00pm
Families, ages 6 to adult. Register children and adults. We're
all citizens of planet earth, and kids are citizens, too! After
voting, the next step is to let politicians know what specific
issues you care about. We'll have cool stationary, postcards,
stamps and envelopes. Write a few letters, and make a
difference! For more information: 703-228-3403. Meet at
Gulf Branch Nature Center. Free. Program #612853-K
Family Fun
LONG BRANCH
PUPPETTHEATER
Come one, come all to the exciting return of
the Long Branch Puppet Theater. Children ages
3-12 can watch as stories come to life in this
rompin' puppet play. Stick around to meet the
cast and (live animal) characters afterward. In-
formation: 703-228-6535. $5 fee per child due
upon registration. Register child only; however
an accompanying adult must attend. Meet at
Long Branch Nature Center. $5 fee due upon
registration.
Tuesday, Nov. 5
10:00 - 10:45am, Program #612923-I
11:15am - 12:00pm, Program #612923-J
3:30 - 4:15pm, Program #612923-K
NOTABLE NATURE
Families. The whole family is invited to join us
at Long Branch for a lesson in nature
journaling. Information: 703-228-6535. Free.
Sunday, Sept. 29, 3:00 - 4:00pm — We'll begin by
constructing our own nature journal, then head out to
reconnect and record nature's wonders… focusing on
seeds, nuts, and the critters that eat them!
Program #612953-F
Sunday, Oct. 27, 3:00 - 4:00pm — We'll begin by
constructing our own nature journal, then head out to
reconnect and record nature's wonders… focusing on
migrating ducks and geese! Program #612953-G
Sunday, Nov. 24, 3:00 - 4:00pm
We'll begin by constructing our own nature journal,
then head out to reconnect and record nature's
wonders… focusing on the 'bones' of the earth found
in winter landscapes! Program #612953-H
Take a Hike
FAREWELL TO SUMMER SWAMP ROMP
Saturday, Sept. 7, 2:00 - 4:00pm
Families, with children ages 6 and up. Register children and
adults. Did all those tadpoles grow up? Are the red-winged
blackbirds still calling? What's happening in the swamp on the
last days of summer? Registered participants will be sent
direction to our meeting spot. For more information: 703-228
-3403. $5 fee due upon registration. Program #612853-
H
FIRST OF FALL HIKE
Sunday, Sept. 22, 2:00 - 3:30pm
Families, age 6 and up. Explore the trails, woods, and
streamsides of Glencarlyn Park with a naturalist on the first
day of fall. We’ll look for signs of the new season and for
lingering signs of summer. Children must be accompanied by
an adult. Information: 703-228-6535. Meet at Long Branch
Nature Center.$5 fee due upon registration.
Program #612953-I
FULL MOON HIKE
Families. Wonder what animals are out and about in our local
parks at night, and what they're doing? Experience our trails
under the beauty of a full 'Beaver Moon'! What's that? Find
out first hand as we learn to separate moon folklore and facts
under the night sky! For more information: 703-243-4342.
Meet at Fort CF Smith. $5 fee due upon registration.
Program #612753-A
STILL FEELING FULL? LET'S HIKE!
Ages 6 and up. Register children and adults. Still feeling full?
Unlike most animals getting ready for winter, humans seem to
want to burn off the calories these days… Join us on a late fall
hike, to see what's happening in the woods. For more
Center. Free. Program #612853-L

PRESCHOOL NATURE FUN!
Hands on interactive learning and nature play for children 3 -
5 years old. $5 per child due at registration.
Out Came the Sun
Come discover light and join in as we explore our sun's
incredible power at Gulf Branch Nature Center.
Wednesday, Sept. 4, 1:00 - 2:00pm #612813-J
Thursday, Sept. 5, 1:00 - 2:00pm #612813-K
Friday, Sept. 6, 1:00 - 2:00pm #612813-L
Saturday, Sept. 7, 10:30 - 11:30am #612813-M
The Great Pumpkin
Follow the life of these orange orbs and learn fun facts about
this autumn fruit at Gulf Branch Nature Center.
Tuesday, Oct. 1, 1:00 - 2:00pm #612813-N
Wednesday, Oct. 2, 1:00 - 2:00pm #612813-O
Thursday, Oct. 3, 1:00 - 2:00pm #612813-P
Friday, Oct. 4, 10:30 - 11:30am #612813-Q
Fabulous Fossils
Let’s dig into great fun with fossils at Gulf Branch Nature
Center. Discover the past with trace fossils and more.
Tuesday, Nov. 5, 1:00 - 2:00pm #612813-R
Wednesday, Nov. 6, 1:00 - 2:00pm #612813-S
Thursday, Nov. 7, 1:00 - 2:00pm #612813-T
Friday, Nov. 8, 10:30 - 11:30am #612813-U
The Harvest Moon
Explore harvest games and stories. Find out why Native
Americans called the September moon, the harvest moon at
Long Branch Nature Center.
Tuesday, Sept. 24, 3:30 - 4:30pm #612913-J
Wednesday, Sept. 25, 3:30 - 4:30pm #612913-K
Thursday, Sept. 26, 10:30 - 11:30am #612913-L
Thursday, Sept. 26, 3:30 - 4:30pm #612913-M
Beneficial Bats
Bats should be cheered not feared. Join us at Long Branch
Nature Center as we shed some light on these nocturnal
creatures.
Wednesday, Oct. 23, 10:30 - 11:30am #612913-N
Thursday, Oct. 24, 10:30 - 11:30am #612913-O
Thursday, Oct. 24, 3:30 - 4:30pm #612913-P
Friday, Oct. 25, 10:30 - 11:30am #612913-Q
Busy Bears
Fall is a busy time for bears! Find out what bears are up to and
where they spend the winter at Long Branch Nature Center.
Tuesday, Nov. 12, 10:30 - 11:30am #612913-R
Tuesday, Nov. 12, 3:30 - 4:30pm #612913-S
Thursday, Nov. 14, 10:30 - 11:30am #612913-T
Friday, Nov. 15, 10:30 - 11:30am #612913-U
Saturday, Nov. 16, 10:00 - 11:00am #612913-V
Fall 2013 7
Themes are repeated during the month, so please register for only one session at each nature center per
month. Parents must stay with their child ages 18-35 months. Parents of preschoolers, ages 3-5 years, are
invited to stay and observe, or those with siblings may visit the rest of the building during the program.
Parents must remain on-site.
TINYTOT NATURE FUN!
Introduce your child, 18 - 35 months to nature. Come enjoy
hands-on learning with a variety of activities like songs, crafts,
and mini-hikes. $5 per child due at registration.
Gulf Branch Nature Center
Wednesday, Sept. 4, 10:00 - 10:45am #612813-A
Thursday, Sept. 5 10:00 - 10:45am #612813-B
Friday, Sept. 6, 10:00 - 10:45am #612813-C
Tuesday, Oct. 1, 10:00 - 10:45am #612813-D
Wednesday, Oct. 2, 10:00 - 10:45am #612813-E
Thursday, Oct. 3, 10:00 - 10:45am #612813-F
Tuesday, Nov. 5, 10:00 - 10:45am #612813-G
Wednesday, Nov. 6, 10:00 - 10:45am #612813-H
Thursday, Nov. 7, 10:00 - 10:45am #612813-I
Long Branch Nature Center
Tuesday, Sept. 24, 10:00 - 10:45am #612913-A
Friday, Sept. 27, 10:00 - 10:45am #612913-B
Saturday, Sept. 28, 10:30 - 11:15am #612913-C
Tuesday, Oct. 8, 10:00 - 10:45am #612913-D
Thursday, Oct. 10, 10:00 - 10:45am #612913-E
Friday, Oct. 11, 10:00 - 10:45am #612913-F
Thursday, Nov. 21, 10:00 - 10:45am #612913-G
Friday, Nov. 22, 10:I00 - 10:45am #612913-H
Saturday, Nov. 23, 10:30 - 11:15am #612913-I
Falcons — Saturday, Sept. 7, 7:00 - 8:00pm
Long Branch Nature Center. Information: 703-228-6535.
Program #612953-A
Wasps & Hornets — Friday, Sept. 13, 7:00 - 8:00pm
Gulf Branch Nature Center. Information: 703-228-3403.
Program #612853-A
Southbound Migrants — Saturday, Sept. 21, 6:30 -7:30pm
Program #612953-B
Bats — Friday, Sept. 27, 6:30 - 7:30pm
Program #612953-C
Insanely Insects — Saturday, Oct. 5, 6:30 - 7:30pm
Program #612853-B
Popcorn — Saturday, Oct. 12, 6:00 - 7:00pm
Program #612953-D
Snakes — Friday, Oct. 18, 6:00 - 7:00pm
Program #612853-C
Wildlife Folktales — Saturday, Oct. 26, 6:00 - 7:00pm
Program #612853-D
Black Bears — Saturday, Nov. 2, 6:00 - 7:00pm
Program #612953-E
Coyote Stories — Saturday, Nov. 9, 6:00 - 7:00pm
Program #612853-E
Blacksmithing —Saturday, Nov. 16, 6:00 - 7:00pm
Program #612853-F
Campfires
The whole family is invited to join us lots of old-fashioned fun -
including s'mores - as we gather around the fire to learn about our
natural world. Register adults and children; children must be
accompanied by a registered adult. $5 fee due upon registration.
Pre-School & Tiny Tot Programs
Photo by Edmond Joe

How to Sign Up!
REGISTRATION BEGINS for Arlington resi-
dents on Tuesday, August 13.
Registration of Non-residents begins Thursday,
August 15.
Registration deadline: Participants must regis-
ter by 4:00pm the day before the program. Call
the program site the day of the program if you
have not yet registered to check availability.
HOW TO REGISTER:
Online: If you have a digital SNAG, all you need
to do is click on the hyperlinked program num-
ber and you will automatically got to program
registration. You can also register online by go-
ing to https://registration.arlingtonva.us. You can
browse our offerings as a ‘Guest’, but you must
log in to register for a program. If you do not
have an account, you can create one online or
call 703-228-4747 for help.
Phone: Call at 703-228-4747, Monday to Friday,
between 8:00am and 5:00pm.
Walk-in: Go to the Registration Office at 3700
S. Four Mile Run Dr., Arlington, VA 22206, ,
Monday to Friday, between 8:00am and 5:00pm.
CANCELLATIONS
Notify Registration as soon as possible so we
may contact someone from the waiting list. Can-
cellations on the day of the program should be
made directly with the program site.
FEES
The listed fee is per participant unless otherwise
stated. Most program fees are charged at regis-
tration (web and phone - credit card only; in
person - checks or cash). Some program fees will
be charged at the program (in cash or by check).
See program write-up for details.
REFUNDS
A household credit will be issued to our account
automatically for any program cancelled by Ar-
lington County. To request a refund for a pro-
gram that was not canceled, call 703 228-4747.
FEE REDUCTION
We do not want our fees to be a barrier to par-
ticipation. Call 703-228-4747 for information on
the County’s fee reduction policy.
ACCOMMODATIONS
TTY: 311. Arlington County can provide upon
request reasonable accommodations for people
with disabilities. Two weeks advance notice is
preferred. Call 703-228-6535.
WEATHER
Programs are cancelled in conjunction with the
Arlington County’s school closings policy.
FAMILY PROGRAMS
Children must be accompanied by an adult (who
is registered for the program) to attend most
‘Family’ programs.
Fall Heritage Festival Saturday, Oct. 19, 1:00 - 5:00pm
Each fall we gather around the Walker Log House to celebrate our nation’s heritage. Won’t
you join us this year for a family friendly day of interactive fun? Step back into history and try
your hand at some old time games and crafts. Bring your own old pants and shirt to make a
scarecrow. Child size clothing works just great! Drop in anytime between 1:00 and 5:00 p.m.
Gulf Branch Nature Center parking lot closed for the event. Park on Military Rd. or 36th Rd.
North. Close in neighbors are encouraged to walk. For more information: 703-228-3403. $5
fee due at the program
Take advantage of this wonderful
opportunity to help wildlife by growing
native, and support Long Branch Nature
Center at the same time! The vast
majority of our plants are native,
propagated right in our own gardens and
our prices can't be beat! We will feature
sun-loving and butterfly-attracting plants
and also have a nice selection of
wildflowers, shade lovers, ferns, and even
a few shrubs. Rain date is Sunday,
September 22, same time. Fee per plant
as marked. Payment can be made by cash
or check (sorry no credit cards). For
information call 703-228-6535.
Fall Plant Sale, September 21, 1-3pm

Snag fall final digital

Recommandé

Recommandé

Contenu connexe

Tendances

Tendances (19)

En vedette

En vedette (7)

Similaire à Snag fall final digital

Similaire à Snag fall final digital (20)

Dernier

Dernier (20)

Snag fall final digital