Workshops and Programs 2024
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Beaver Creek Wildlife Education Center
2024 Programs and Events
Looking for a way to get out and explore the outdoors this year? Join us for a workshop or outdoor program or come visit the Wildlife Education Center. There is something for all ages and interests. Visit our web site at www.beavercreekwildlife.org for more information or follow us on our Facebook page.
Programs are offered free of charge. Donations are always appreciated!!
(C) Child/Family-Friendly Activity
April
Saturday, April 13 from 9:00 – 11:00 – Spring Wildflower Hike. Join BCWEC volunteers Cheryl Mattevi and Eileen Dray-Bardon as we welcome early spring wildflowers and wildlife. There is always something new and exciting in bloom in the Beaver Creek forests and hills. The trail ranges from gentle to moderately steep and may be muddy. Dress for the weather, wear sturdy shoes, and bring a walking stick if you like. The hike will be cancelled if there is a downpour. Please meet in the parking lot, 12021 Echo Dell Rd., Beaver Creek State Park.
Sunday, April 21 at 10:00 - "Wild & Scenic River 50th Anniversary Hike - Hellbender Bluff Park - Warblers & Wildflowers” . Meet at the Lones Rd. parking area at 10 AM. ODNR Scenic River Manager Matthew Smith, retired geologist and wildflower specialist Cheryl Mattevi, local mycologist Walt Sturgeon, naturalist Mike West and Beaver Creek Wildlife Education Volunteer and Mahoning Valley Audubon Society President Jason Short will be on hand to lead a hike to the West Fork of the Little Beaver Creek, and will be discussing the Scenic River designation and identifying birds, wildflowers, fungi and trees along the way. Approximately 2 miles round trip. Moderately strenuous.
**Saturday, April 27 from 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM – Wine and Wildlife. Invitation/registration is required. Join us at our annual fund-raising benefit event. You will tour the building and displays, grounds and gardens as you enjoy a variety of hors d’oeuvres, desserts, and Ohio wines. For more information and to request your invitation please call Karen Henry at 330-932-0908 or contact her by email at [email protected].
May
Saturday, May 4 from 11:00 – 12:30 – Grow a Butterfly Garden! Join BCWEC volunteers Cheryl and Eileen under the pavilion at the Wildlife Education Center. You will learn how to plant a garden that attracts butterflies and other pollinators, which plants host the different stages of these beneficial and beautiful creatures, where to purchase plants locally, how to collect seeds, and how to plant them. Participants will receive some sample plants and seeds while supplies last. This activity is suitable for adults and children over the age of 12.
Saturday, May 4 from 1:00 – 5:00 – Opening Day for the Beaver Creek Wildlife Education Center! The Center will be open for visitors each weekend through the first weekend of October. Come out for a visit!
(C) Saturday, May 4 from 1:00 – 4:00 - Milkweed Mud Pies. Children (and adults) of all ages will enjoy this crafty gardening activity. Join Wildlife Center volunteers Cheryl and Eileen under the pavilion at the Wildlife Education Center as each participant will choose milkweed and other wildflower seeds and make a seedball to take home to plant. Participants can also help us enlarge the wildflower meadow at the Wildlife Center by pitching in a few seeds. Be prepared to get muddy!
(C) Sunday, May 5 at 1:30, 2:30, and 3:30 – Vultures! Join Wildlife Center volunteer Kathy Cattrell in the Ohio Room for a 25 minute program on vultures. She will talk about their characteristics and interesting facts. The program will be repeated each of the times, so come learn about these amazing birds!
Saturday, May 11 from 11:30 – 1:00 - Spring Bees: Hive Sweet Hive! Join local beekeeper Maria Matthews as she explains what bees do after a long winter and how they get ready to multiply and start producing honey. She will also have some beekeeping equipment for you to explore. After her program, participants can look at the live bee display in the Live Animal Room and ask her questions. This program is suitable for adults and children age 12 and older.
(C) Saturday, May 11 from 1:00 – 4:30 – Outside activity – “Eat Like a Bird”. Join Wildlife Center volunteer Mary Spooner any time during the afternoon for this fun hands-on activity. Match beaks and birds and then attempt to eat what a bird would eat using the beak-like implements. Work at your own pace.
(C) Saturday, May 18 from 1:00 – 4:30 - Nature Activity – Planting Seeds. Kids and their adults can join BCWEC volunteers under the pavilion and plant some seeds to take home to grow into beautiful flowers. Participants will also take home a plastic baggie of seeds in wet paper towels to watch the germination of seeds.
(C) Sunday, May 19 from 1 – 4 – SCAVENGER HUNT on Logan’s Loop Trail!!
Kids and their adults can take a fun short hike on Logan's Loop trail, located behind the Beaver Creek Wildlife Education Center, and try to find all the animals on the scavenger hunt list. When the hunt is completed, families will receive a booklet about the animals they found on the trail. Adults can pick up the scavenger hunt paper, a pencil, and a clip board under the pavilion. The hike is .6 miles long and has a couple steeper areas. Participants should wear sturdy shoes. Come on out to the Beaver Creek Wildlife Education Center for some family fun and see how many of the hidden animals you can find!! Event will be canceled if bad weather.
(C) Sunday, May 19 from 1:00 – 4:30 - Story Time in the Discovery Room. Join volunteer Mary Spooner any time during the afternoon for a book reading Lost in the Woods by Carl R. Sams II and Jean Stoick. After the reading Mary will help you find the animals in the displays at the Wildlife Education Center that were mentioned in the book..
June
Sunday, June 2 at 8:30 AM - June Bird Walk! Join Wildlife Center volunteers Jason Short and Rudy Kobosky for a bird walk that will begin at 8:30 AM . The walk will take place rain or shine, unless there is a downpour or thunderstorms. Dress for the weather and wear sturdy shoes. Bring your bird ID books and binoculars if you have any. The walk will start at Sheepskin Hollow. Space is limited and registration is required by May 27 by emailing your contact information to Rudy at [email protected] or Jason at [email protected].
(C) Sunday, June 2 from 12:00 – 1:30 - Stream Stomp!! Meet Matthew Smith and Ryan Moss from ODNR Div. of Natural Areas and Preserves in the parking lot of Beaver Creek State Park for a fun time finding critters that live in Beaver Creek, a Wild & Scenic River. They will identify what is found and talk about water quality and how it affects these organisms. You must wear boots or closed-toe shoes to get in the creek for this activity. Come prepared to have fun and maybe get wet!! After the program you can have a picnic in the park and then visit the Wildlife Education Center in the afternoon. This event will be cancelled in the case of unsafe high water or rainstorms.
(C) Saturday, June 8 from 1 – 4:30 – Outside activity – “Learning to Look, Looking to See”. Join Wildlife Center volunteer Mary Spooner any time during the afternoon for this fun hands-on activity. Learn to look and then look closer to see what you can observe. Write the what, when, and where of your observations. Participate in a drawing activity and take home a naturalist journal to start you on your own nature journey. Work at your own pace.
(C) Saturday, June 8 from 2:00 – 3:00 – Raptor Hallow. Josh and his volunteers will be at the WEC with his birds of prey. He will talk about the birds and visitors can take pictures. You never know which birds will be here visiting us! Come out for an enjoyable program in the yard at the Wildlife Education Center!!
(C) Sunday, June 9 from 1 – 5 - Flint Knapping and Arrow Making. Spend some time under the pavilion this afternoon and watch Chip Hudson as he demonstrates how to make arrowheads from different materials and how to make arrows using the arrowheads. You can examine samples of his work, including knives, bows, and arrows, and ask questions. You can even try your hand making an arrowhead!
(C) Saturday, June 15 from 1:00 – 4:30 – Tree Cookie Pictures. Kids and their adults can join BCWEC volunteers under the pavilion and make a picture using tree cookies. All supplies are provided but are limited to the first 25 participants.
(C) Sunday, June 16 from 1 – 4 – SCAVENGER HUNT on Logan’s Loop Trail!!
Kids and their adults can take a fun short hike on Logan's Loop trail, located behind the Beaver Creek Wildlife Education Center, and try to find all the animals on the scavenger hunt list. When the hunt is completed, families will receive a booklet about the animals they found on the trail. Adults can pick up the scavenger hunt paper, a pencil, and a clip board under the pavilion. The hike is .6 miles long and has a couple steeper areas. Participants should wear sturdy shoes. Come on out to the Beaver Creek Wildlife Education Center for some family fun and see how many of the hidden animals you can find!! Will be canceled in case of bad weather.
(C) Sunday, June 23 from 1:00 – 4:30 – Ask Questions About Honeybees. Local beekeeper George Stacy will be at the Wildlife Education Center all afternoon in the live animal room to talk about honeybees and pollination. He will answer questions from our visitors regarding the live honeybee display and about honeybees in general. These amazing insects are vital to our food production!
(C) Sunday, June 30 from 1 – 4:30 – Story Time in the Discovery Room. Join volunteer Mary Spooner any time during the afternoon for a book reading The Secret Life of Bees by Moria Butterfield. After the reading Mary will help you locate the live honeybee display at the Wildlife Education Center.
July
(C) Saturday, July 6 from 1:00 – 5:00 – Wood Carving Demonstration. Spend some time under the pavilion at the Wildlife Education Center this afternoon and watch Chip Hudson as he demonstrates how to carve wooden items from various types of wood. You can examine samples of his work and ask questions.
(C) Sunday, July 7 at 1:30, 2:30, and 3:30 – Ohio’s Squirrels. Join Wildlife Center volunteer Kathy Cattrell in the Ohio Room for a 25 minute program on Ohio’s squirrels. She will talk about their characteristics and interesting facts. The program will be repeated each of the times, so come learn about the animal people either love or hate!
(C) Saturday, July 13 from 1 – 4:30 – Outside Activity – “H2Olympics”. Join Wildlife Center volunteer Mary Spooner any time during the afternoon for this fun hands-on activity. Participate in some water olympics as you explore two properties of water – adheasion and cohesion. See how many drops of water you can balance on a penny or how many paper clips you can float on the surface of water. No swimming suit needed! Work at your own pace.
(C) Saturday, July 13 from 1:00 – 2:00 – Live Skunks! Tina and Rob will be under the pavilion with their live pet skunks this afternoon. You will learn about the animals and how they care for them. After the program you can pet them and ask questions.
(C) Saturday, July 20 from 1:00 – 4:30 – Nature Craft – Seashells. Kids and their adults can join BCWEC volunteers under the pavilion to create a beautiful seashell collage. All supplies are provided but are limited to the first 25 participants.
(C) Sunday, July 21 from 11 – 1 - Stream Life Day. Join the ODNR staff for a fun, hands-on afternoon by the iron bridge in Beaver Creek State Park. This will include electro-fishing demonstrations, seining for critters in the creek, interactive activities, and a chance to meet your local ODNR staff.
(C) Sunday, July 21 from 1 – 4 – SCAVENGER HUNT on Logan’s Loop Trail!!
Kids and their adults can take a fun short hike on Logan's Loop trail, located behind the Beaver Creek Wildlife Education Center, and try to find all the animals on the scavenger hunt list. When the hunt is completed, families will receive a booklet about the animals they found on the trail. Adults can pick up the scavenger hunt paper, a pencil, and a clip board under the pavilion. The hike is .6 miles long and has a couple steeper areas. Participants should wear sturdy shoes. Come on out to the Beaver Creek Wildlife Education Center for some family fun and see how many of the hidden animals you can find!! Will be canceled in case of bad weather.
(C) Sunday, July 28 from 1:00 – 4:30 – Story Time in the Discovery Room. Join volunteer Mary Spooner any time during the afternoon for a special book reading The Tree in the Ancient Forest by Carol Reed-Jones. After the reading Mary will help you find the animals in the displays at the Wildlife Education Center that were mentioned in the book.
August
(C) Saturday, August 10 from 1:00 – 2:00 – Live Foxes. Tina and Rob will be under the pavilion with their live pet foxes this afternoon. You will learn about the animals and how they care for them. After the program you can pet them and ask questions.
(C) Saturday, August 10 from 1 – 4:30 – Outside Activity – “Wetland Metaphores”. Join Wildlife Center volunteer Mary Spooner any time during the afternoon for this fun hands-on activity and discover the importance of wetlands. A wetland serves many purposes and we will use common things to help us discover the jobs performed by wetlands. Reach into the bag, pull out an object, and determine how it represents a function of a wetland. Work at your own pace.
(C) Saturday, August 17 from 1 to 4:30 – Nature Craft – Butterflies. Kids and their adults can join BCWEC volunteers under the pavilion and create a unique butterfly and learn about the butterfly life cycle. The first 24 participants will also be able to make a butterfly life cycle flip book. All supplies will be provided.
(C) Sunday, August 18 from 12:00 – 1:30 - Stream Stomp!! Meet Matthew Smith and Ryan Moss from ODNR Div. of Natural Areas and Preserves in the parking lot of Beaver Creek State Park for a fun time finding critters that live in Beaver Creek, a Wild & Scenic River. They will identify what is found and talk about water quality and how it affects these organisms. You must wear boots or closed-toe shoes to get in the creek for this activity. Come prepared to have fun and maybe get wet!! After the program you can have a picnic in the park and then visit the Wildlife Education Center in the afternoon. This event will be cancelled in the case of unsafe high water or rainstorms.
(C) Sunday, August 18 from 1 – 4 – SCAVENGER HUNT on Logan’s Loop Trail!!
Kids and their adults can take a fun short hike on Logan's Loop trail, located behind the Beaver Creek Wildlife Education Center, and try to find all the animals on the scavenger hunt list. When the hunt is completed, families will receive a booklet about the animals they found on the trail. Adults can pick up the scavenger hunt paper, a pencil, and a clip board under the pavilion. The hike is .6 miles long and has a couple steeper areas. Participants should wear sturdy shoes. Come on out to the Beaver Creek Wildlife Education Center for some family fun and see how many of the hidden animals you can find!! Will be canceled in case of bad weather.
(C) Sunday, August 25 from 1:00 – 4:30 – Nature Craft – Seashell Craft. Younger kids and their adults can join Robin and other BCWEC volunteers under the pavilion and create a seashell picture. All supplies will be provided. Bring your creativity and have some fun!
(C) Sunday, August 25 from 1:00 – 4:30 – Story Time in the Discovery Room. Join volunteer Mary Spooner any time during the afternoon for a special book reading Do Beavers Need Blankets? by Stan Tekiela. After the reading Mary will help you find the animals in the displays at the Wildlife Education Center that were mentioned in the book.
September
(C) Saturday, September 7 from 1:00 – 4:00 – Build a Bird Feeder. Kids age 7 and older and their adults can join Wildlife Education Center volunteers under the pavilion and build a wood bird feeder. All supplies are provided but are limited to 30 participants.
(C) Saturday, September 14 – Outdoor Activity from 1:00 – 4:30 – “The Incredible Journey” Join Wildlife Center volunteer Mary Spooner any time during the afternoon for this fun hands-on activity. Become a water molecule as you travel through the water cycle. Will you be caught up in a cloud or trapped in an ice burg? Roll the special cube to determine the next move on your journey. Work at your own pace.
Saturday, September 14 from 11:00 to 12:30 - Geology of Little Beaver Creek. It is the 50th Anniversary of the Wild and Scenic River designation of Little Beaver Creek. Why is it such a beautiful area? Because of geology! Join Geologist and BCWEC volunteer Cheryl Mattevi under the pavilion as she explains how the rocks of the area formed, and how glaciers and streams carved the scenic valley. It is a gorgeous gorge! Pack a lunch and stay to see the Center, or take a hike along the stream afterward to see the rocks first hand. Suitable for teens and adults.
(C) Saturday, September 14 from 1 to 4 pm - Geology Road Show Rock Hounds of all ages are invited to join geologist Cheryl Mattevi under the pavilion. You can bring rocks, mineral, or fossil specimens to this open house geology time. Whether you just want rock identification, want to learn where to find interesting rocks, or would like some more information on your finds or tips on how to arrange your collection, this presentation is for you.
(C) Sunday, September 15 from 1 – 4 – SCAVENGER HUNT on Logan’s Loop Trail!!
Kids and their adults can take a fun short hike on Logan's Loop trail, located behind the Beaver Creek Wildlife Education Center, and try to find all the animals on the scavenger hunt list. When the hunt is completed, families will receive a booklet about the animals they found on the trail. Adults can pick up the scavenger hunt paper, a pencil, and a clip board under the pavilion. The hike is .6 miles long and has a couple steeper areas. Participants should wear sturdy shoes. Come on out to the Beaver Creek Wildlife Education Center for some family fun and see how many of the hidden animals you can find!! Will be canceled in case of bad weather.
(C) Saturday, September 21 from 1:00 – 4:30 – Tree Cookie Ornaments. Kids and their adults can join BCWEC volunteers in the classroom and make a tree cookie ornament. All supplies will be provided.
(C) Saturday, September 21 from 2:00 – 3:00 – Three Rivers Avian Center presents Wings of Wonder. Volunteers from the Three Rivers Avian Center from Hinton, WV will be under the pavilion at the Wildlife Education Center with six of their program birds of prey. They will talk about the birds and tell their stories of how they arrived at their rehabilitation center. The birds will include two owls, two falcons, a hawk, and a bald eagle.
(C) Sunday, September 22 from 1:00 – 4:30 - Story Time in the Discovery Room. Join volunteer Mary Spooner any time during the afternoon for a special book reading Every Autumn Comes the Bear by Jim Arnosky. After the reading Mary will help you find the bears in the displays at the Wildlife Education Center.
Saturday, September 28 from 11:30 – 1:00 – Winter Bees. Join local beekeeper Maria Matthews as she explains what happens to bees in the winter and how they are able to survive. She will also have some beekeeping equipment for you to explore. After her program, participants can look at the live bee display in the Live Animal Room and ask her questions. This program is suitable for adults and children age 12 and older.
October
(C) Saturday, October 5 from 10 – 5– The Wildlife Education Center will be open extended hours on Saturday for visitors. This is the final weekend the center will be open for the 2023 season.
(C) Saturday, October 5 from 1:00 – 4:30 – Leaf Pictures. Kids and their adults can join BCWEC volunteers under the pavilion and make picture with artificial leaves. All supplies will be provided.
(C) Sunday, October 6 from 10 – 5– The Wildlife Education Center will be open for visitors. This is the final day the center will be open for the 2024 season.
(C) Sunday, October 6 from 1:00 – 4:30 - Story Time in the Discovery Room. Join volunteer Mary Spooner any time during the afternoon for a special book reading First Snow in the Woods by Carl Sams II and Jean Stoick. After the reading Mary will help you find the animals from the story in the displays at the Wildlife Education Center.
Sunday, October 6 at 4:00 – Drawing for the raffle items. Will you be the lucky winner of the beautiful handmade quilt by Georgia Farmer, the fishing charter trip donated by Scott Dittrich, or the battery operated lawn mower provided by Calcutta Ace Hardware? Get your tickets in the gift shop at the Wildlife Education Center all season. Winner need not be present.
2024 Programs and Events
Looking for a way to get out and explore the outdoors this year? Join us for a workshop or outdoor program or come visit the Wildlife Education Center. There is something for all ages and interests. Visit our web site at www.beavercreekwildlife.org for more information or follow us on our Facebook page.
Programs are offered free of charge. Donations are always appreciated!!
(C) Child/Family-Friendly Activity
April
Saturday, April 13 from 9:00 – 11:00 – Spring Wildflower Hike. Join BCWEC volunteers Cheryl Mattevi and Eileen Dray-Bardon as we welcome early spring wildflowers and wildlife. There is always something new and exciting in bloom in the Beaver Creek forests and hills. The trail ranges from gentle to moderately steep and may be muddy. Dress for the weather, wear sturdy shoes, and bring a walking stick if you like. The hike will be cancelled if there is a downpour. Please meet in the parking lot, 12021 Echo Dell Rd., Beaver Creek State Park.
Sunday, April 21 at 10:00 - "Wild & Scenic River 50th Anniversary Hike - Hellbender Bluff Park - Warblers & Wildflowers” . Meet at the Lones Rd. parking area at 10 AM. ODNR Scenic River Manager Matthew Smith, retired geologist and wildflower specialist Cheryl Mattevi, local mycologist Walt Sturgeon, naturalist Mike West and Beaver Creek Wildlife Education Volunteer and Mahoning Valley Audubon Society President Jason Short will be on hand to lead a hike to the West Fork of the Little Beaver Creek, and will be discussing the Scenic River designation and identifying birds, wildflowers, fungi and trees along the way. Approximately 2 miles round trip. Moderately strenuous.
**Saturday, April 27 from 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM – Wine and Wildlife. Invitation/registration is required. Join us at our annual fund-raising benefit event. You will tour the building and displays, grounds and gardens as you enjoy a variety of hors d’oeuvres, desserts, and Ohio wines. For more information and to request your invitation please call Karen Henry at 330-932-0908 or contact her by email at [email protected].
May
Saturday, May 4 from 11:00 – 12:30 – Grow a Butterfly Garden! Join BCWEC volunteers Cheryl and Eileen under the pavilion at the Wildlife Education Center. You will learn how to plant a garden that attracts butterflies and other pollinators, which plants host the different stages of these beneficial and beautiful creatures, where to purchase plants locally, how to collect seeds, and how to plant them. Participants will receive some sample plants and seeds while supplies last. This activity is suitable for adults and children over the age of 12.
Saturday, May 4 from 1:00 – 5:00 – Opening Day for the Beaver Creek Wildlife Education Center! The Center will be open for visitors each weekend through the first weekend of October. Come out for a visit!
(C) Saturday, May 4 from 1:00 – 4:00 - Milkweed Mud Pies. Children (and adults) of all ages will enjoy this crafty gardening activity. Join Wildlife Center volunteers Cheryl and Eileen under the pavilion at the Wildlife Education Center as each participant will choose milkweed and other wildflower seeds and make a seedball to take home to plant. Participants can also help us enlarge the wildflower meadow at the Wildlife Center by pitching in a few seeds. Be prepared to get muddy!
(C) Sunday, May 5 at 1:30, 2:30, and 3:30 – Vultures! Join Wildlife Center volunteer Kathy Cattrell in the Ohio Room for a 25 minute program on vultures. She will talk about their characteristics and interesting facts. The program will be repeated each of the times, so come learn about these amazing birds!
Saturday, May 11 from 11:30 – 1:00 - Spring Bees: Hive Sweet Hive! Join local beekeeper Maria Matthews as she explains what bees do after a long winter and how they get ready to multiply and start producing honey. She will also have some beekeeping equipment for you to explore. After her program, participants can look at the live bee display in the Live Animal Room and ask her questions. This program is suitable for adults and children age 12 and older.
(C) Saturday, May 11 from 1:00 – 4:30 – Outside activity – “Eat Like a Bird”. Join Wildlife Center volunteer Mary Spooner any time during the afternoon for this fun hands-on activity. Match beaks and birds and then attempt to eat what a bird would eat using the beak-like implements. Work at your own pace.
(C) Saturday, May 18 from 1:00 – 4:30 - Nature Activity – Planting Seeds. Kids and their adults can join BCWEC volunteers under the pavilion and plant some seeds to take home to grow into beautiful flowers. Participants will also take home a plastic baggie of seeds in wet paper towels to watch the germination of seeds.
(C) Sunday, May 19 from 1 – 4 – SCAVENGER HUNT on Logan’s Loop Trail!!
Kids and their adults can take a fun short hike on Logan's Loop trail, located behind the Beaver Creek Wildlife Education Center, and try to find all the animals on the scavenger hunt list. When the hunt is completed, families will receive a booklet about the animals they found on the trail. Adults can pick up the scavenger hunt paper, a pencil, and a clip board under the pavilion. The hike is .6 miles long and has a couple steeper areas. Participants should wear sturdy shoes. Come on out to the Beaver Creek Wildlife Education Center for some family fun and see how many of the hidden animals you can find!! Event will be canceled if bad weather.
(C) Sunday, May 19 from 1:00 – 4:30 - Story Time in the Discovery Room. Join volunteer Mary Spooner any time during the afternoon for a book reading Lost in the Woods by Carl R. Sams II and Jean Stoick. After the reading Mary will help you find the animals in the displays at the Wildlife Education Center that were mentioned in the book..
June
Sunday, June 2 at 8:30 AM - June Bird Walk! Join Wildlife Center volunteers Jason Short and Rudy Kobosky for a bird walk that will begin at 8:30 AM . The walk will take place rain or shine, unless there is a downpour or thunderstorms. Dress for the weather and wear sturdy shoes. Bring your bird ID books and binoculars if you have any. The walk will start at Sheepskin Hollow. Space is limited and registration is required by May 27 by emailing your contact information to Rudy at [email protected] or Jason at [email protected].
(C) Sunday, June 2 from 12:00 – 1:30 - Stream Stomp!! Meet Matthew Smith and Ryan Moss from ODNR Div. of Natural Areas and Preserves in the parking lot of Beaver Creek State Park for a fun time finding critters that live in Beaver Creek, a Wild & Scenic River. They will identify what is found and talk about water quality and how it affects these organisms. You must wear boots or closed-toe shoes to get in the creek for this activity. Come prepared to have fun and maybe get wet!! After the program you can have a picnic in the park and then visit the Wildlife Education Center in the afternoon. This event will be cancelled in the case of unsafe high water or rainstorms.
(C) Saturday, June 8 from 1 – 4:30 – Outside activity – “Learning to Look, Looking to See”. Join Wildlife Center volunteer Mary Spooner any time during the afternoon for this fun hands-on activity. Learn to look and then look closer to see what you can observe. Write the what, when, and where of your observations. Participate in a drawing activity and take home a naturalist journal to start you on your own nature journey. Work at your own pace.
(C) Saturday, June 8 from 2:00 – 3:00 – Raptor Hallow. Josh and his volunteers will be at the WEC with his birds of prey. He will talk about the birds and visitors can take pictures. You never know which birds will be here visiting us! Come out for an enjoyable program in the yard at the Wildlife Education Center!!
(C) Sunday, June 9 from 1 – 5 - Flint Knapping and Arrow Making. Spend some time under the pavilion this afternoon and watch Chip Hudson as he demonstrates how to make arrowheads from different materials and how to make arrows using the arrowheads. You can examine samples of his work, including knives, bows, and arrows, and ask questions. You can even try your hand making an arrowhead!
(C) Saturday, June 15 from 1:00 – 4:30 – Tree Cookie Pictures. Kids and their adults can join BCWEC volunteers under the pavilion and make a picture using tree cookies. All supplies are provided but are limited to the first 25 participants.
(C) Sunday, June 16 from 1 – 4 – SCAVENGER HUNT on Logan’s Loop Trail!!
Kids and their adults can take a fun short hike on Logan's Loop trail, located behind the Beaver Creek Wildlife Education Center, and try to find all the animals on the scavenger hunt list. When the hunt is completed, families will receive a booklet about the animals they found on the trail. Adults can pick up the scavenger hunt paper, a pencil, and a clip board under the pavilion. The hike is .6 miles long and has a couple steeper areas. Participants should wear sturdy shoes. Come on out to the Beaver Creek Wildlife Education Center for some family fun and see how many of the hidden animals you can find!! Will be canceled in case of bad weather.
(C) Sunday, June 23 from 1:00 – 4:30 – Ask Questions About Honeybees. Local beekeeper George Stacy will be at the Wildlife Education Center all afternoon in the live animal room to talk about honeybees and pollination. He will answer questions from our visitors regarding the live honeybee display and about honeybees in general. These amazing insects are vital to our food production!
(C) Sunday, June 30 from 1 – 4:30 – Story Time in the Discovery Room. Join volunteer Mary Spooner any time during the afternoon for a book reading The Secret Life of Bees by Moria Butterfield. After the reading Mary will help you locate the live honeybee display at the Wildlife Education Center.
July
(C) Saturday, July 6 from 1:00 – 5:00 – Wood Carving Demonstration. Spend some time under the pavilion at the Wildlife Education Center this afternoon and watch Chip Hudson as he demonstrates how to carve wooden items from various types of wood. You can examine samples of his work and ask questions.
(C) Sunday, July 7 at 1:30, 2:30, and 3:30 – Ohio’s Squirrels. Join Wildlife Center volunteer Kathy Cattrell in the Ohio Room for a 25 minute program on Ohio’s squirrels. She will talk about their characteristics and interesting facts. The program will be repeated each of the times, so come learn about the animal people either love or hate!
(C) Saturday, July 13 from 1 – 4:30 – Outside Activity – “H2Olympics”. Join Wildlife Center volunteer Mary Spooner any time during the afternoon for this fun hands-on activity. Participate in some water olympics as you explore two properties of water – adheasion and cohesion. See how many drops of water you can balance on a penny or how many paper clips you can float on the surface of water. No swimming suit needed! Work at your own pace.
(C) Saturday, July 13 from 1:00 – 2:00 – Live Skunks! Tina and Rob will be under the pavilion with their live pet skunks this afternoon. You will learn about the animals and how they care for them. After the program you can pet them and ask questions.
(C) Saturday, July 20 from 1:00 – 4:30 – Nature Craft – Seashells. Kids and their adults can join BCWEC volunteers under the pavilion to create a beautiful seashell collage. All supplies are provided but are limited to the first 25 participants.
(C) Sunday, July 21 from 11 – 1 - Stream Life Day. Join the ODNR staff for a fun, hands-on afternoon by the iron bridge in Beaver Creek State Park. This will include electro-fishing demonstrations, seining for critters in the creek, interactive activities, and a chance to meet your local ODNR staff.
(C) Sunday, July 21 from 1 – 4 – SCAVENGER HUNT on Logan’s Loop Trail!!
Kids and their adults can take a fun short hike on Logan's Loop trail, located behind the Beaver Creek Wildlife Education Center, and try to find all the animals on the scavenger hunt list. When the hunt is completed, families will receive a booklet about the animals they found on the trail. Adults can pick up the scavenger hunt paper, a pencil, and a clip board under the pavilion. The hike is .6 miles long and has a couple steeper areas. Participants should wear sturdy shoes. Come on out to the Beaver Creek Wildlife Education Center for some family fun and see how many of the hidden animals you can find!! Will be canceled in case of bad weather.
(C) Sunday, July 28 from 1:00 – 4:30 – Story Time in the Discovery Room. Join volunteer Mary Spooner any time during the afternoon for a special book reading The Tree in the Ancient Forest by Carol Reed-Jones. After the reading Mary will help you find the animals in the displays at the Wildlife Education Center that were mentioned in the book.
August
(C) Saturday, August 10 from 1:00 – 2:00 – Live Foxes. Tina and Rob will be under the pavilion with their live pet foxes this afternoon. You will learn about the animals and how they care for them. After the program you can pet them and ask questions.
(C) Saturday, August 10 from 1 – 4:30 – Outside Activity – “Wetland Metaphores”. Join Wildlife Center volunteer Mary Spooner any time during the afternoon for this fun hands-on activity and discover the importance of wetlands. A wetland serves many purposes and we will use common things to help us discover the jobs performed by wetlands. Reach into the bag, pull out an object, and determine how it represents a function of a wetland. Work at your own pace.
(C) Saturday, August 17 from 1 to 4:30 – Nature Craft – Butterflies. Kids and their adults can join BCWEC volunteers under the pavilion and create a unique butterfly and learn about the butterfly life cycle. The first 24 participants will also be able to make a butterfly life cycle flip book. All supplies will be provided.
(C) Sunday, August 18 from 12:00 – 1:30 - Stream Stomp!! Meet Matthew Smith and Ryan Moss from ODNR Div. of Natural Areas and Preserves in the parking lot of Beaver Creek State Park for a fun time finding critters that live in Beaver Creek, a Wild & Scenic River. They will identify what is found and talk about water quality and how it affects these organisms. You must wear boots or closed-toe shoes to get in the creek for this activity. Come prepared to have fun and maybe get wet!! After the program you can have a picnic in the park and then visit the Wildlife Education Center in the afternoon. This event will be cancelled in the case of unsafe high water or rainstorms.
(C) Sunday, August 18 from 1 – 4 – SCAVENGER HUNT on Logan’s Loop Trail!!
Kids and their adults can take a fun short hike on Logan's Loop trail, located behind the Beaver Creek Wildlife Education Center, and try to find all the animals on the scavenger hunt list. When the hunt is completed, families will receive a booklet about the animals they found on the trail. Adults can pick up the scavenger hunt paper, a pencil, and a clip board under the pavilion. The hike is .6 miles long and has a couple steeper areas. Participants should wear sturdy shoes. Come on out to the Beaver Creek Wildlife Education Center for some family fun and see how many of the hidden animals you can find!! Will be canceled in case of bad weather.
(C) Sunday, August 25 from 1:00 – 4:30 – Nature Craft – Seashell Craft. Younger kids and their adults can join Robin and other BCWEC volunteers under the pavilion and create a seashell picture. All supplies will be provided. Bring your creativity and have some fun!
(C) Sunday, August 25 from 1:00 – 4:30 – Story Time in the Discovery Room. Join volunteer Mary Spooner any time during the afternoon for a special book reading Do Beavers Need Blankets? by Stan Tekiela. After the reading Mary will help you find the animals in the displays at the Wildlife Education Center that were mentioned in the book.
September
(C) Saturday, September 7 from 1:00 – 4:00 – Build a Bird Feeder. Kids age 7 and older and their adults can join Wildlife Education Center volunteers under the pavilion and build a wood bird feeder. All supplies are provided but are limited to 30 participants.
(C) Saturday, September 14 – Outdoor Activity from 1:00 – 4:30 – “The Incredible Journey” Join Wildlife Center volunteer Mary Spooner any time during the afternoon for this fun hands-on activity. Become a water molecule as you travel through the water cycle. Will you be caught up in a cloud or trapped in an ice burg? Roll the special cube to determine the next move on your journey. Work at your own pace.
Saturday, September 14 from 11:00 to 12:30 - Geology of Little Beaver Creek. It is the 50th Anniversary of the Wild and Scenic River designation of Little Beaver Creek. Why is it such a beautiful area? Because of geology! Join Geologist and BCWEC volunteer Cheryl Mattevi under the pavilion as she explains how the rocks of the area formed, and how glaciers and streams carved the scenic valley. It is a gorgeous gorge! Pack a lunch and stay to see the Center, or take a hike along the stream afterward to see the rocks first hand. Suitable for teens and adults.
(C) Saturday, September 14 from 1 to 4 pm - Geology Road Show Rock Hounds of all ages are invited to join geologist Cheryl Mattevi under the pavilion. You can bring rocks, mineral, or fossil specimens to this open house geology time. Whether you just want rock identification, want to learn where to find interesting rocks, or would like some more information on your finds or tips on how to arrange your collection, this presentation is for you.
(C) Sunday, September 15 from 1 – 4 – SCAVENGER HUNT on Logan’s Loop Trail!!
Kids and their adults can take a fun short hike on Logan's Loop trail, located behind the Beaver Creek Wildlife Education Center, and try to find all the animals on the scavenger hunt list. When the hunt is completed, families will receive a booklet about the animals they found on the trail. Adults can pick up the scavenger hunt paper, a pencil, and a clip board under the pavilion. The hike is .6 miles long and has a couple steeper areas. Participants should wear sturdy shoes. Come on out to the Beaver Creek Wildlife Education Center for some family fun and see how many of the hidden animals you can find!! Will be canceled in case of bad weather.
(C) Saturday, September 21 from 1:00 – 4:30 – Tree Cookie Ornaments. Kids and their adults can join BCWEC volunteers in the classroom and make a tree cookie ornament. All supplies will be provided.
(C) Saturday, September 21 from 2:00 – 3:00 – Three Rivers Avian Center presents Wings of Wonder. Volunteers from the Three Rivers Avian Center from Hinton, WV will be under the pavilion at the Wildlife Education Center with six of their program birds of prey. They will talk about the birds and tell their stories of how they arrived at their rehabilitation center. The birds will include two owls, two falcons, a hawk, and a bald eagle.
(C) Sunday, September 22 from 1:00 – 4:30 - Story Time in the Discovery Room. Join volunteer Mary Spooner any time during the afternoon for a special book reading Every Autumn Comes the Bear by Jim Arnosky. After the reading Mary will help you find the bears in the displays at the Wildlife Education Center.
Saturday, September 28 from 11:30 – 1:00 – Winter Bees. Join local beekeeper Maria Matthews as she explains what happens to bees in the winter and how they are able to survive. She will also have some beekeeping equipment for you to explore. After her program, participants can look at the live bee display in the Live Animal Room and ask her questions. This program is suitable for adults and children age 12 and older.
October
(C) Saturday, October 5 from 10 – 5– The Wildlife Education Center will be open extended hours on Saturday for visitors. This is the final weekend the center will be open for the 2023 season.
(C) Saturday, October 5 from 1:00 – 4:30 – Leaf Pictures. Kids and their adults can join BCWEC volunteers under the pavilion and make picture with artificial leaves. All supplies will be provided.
(C) Sunday, October 6 from 10 – 5– The Wildlife Education Center will be open for visitors. This is the final day the center will be open for the 2024 season.
(C) Sunday, October 6 from 1:00 – 4:30 - Story Time in the Discovery Room. Join volunteer Mary Spooner any time during the afternoon for a special book reading First Snow in the Woods by Carl Sams II and Jean Stoick. After the reading Mary will help you find the animals from the story in the displays at the Wildlife Education Center.
Sunday, October 6 at 4:00 – Drawing for the raffle items. Will you be the lucky winner of the beautiful handmade quilt by Georgia Farmer, the fishing charter trip donated by Scott Dittrich, or the battery operated lawn mower provided by Calcutta Ace Hardware? Get your tickets in the gift shop at the Wildlife Education Center all season. Winner need not be present.