Get tips on paddling the Nippersink
As spring approaches, the McHenry County Conservation District offers some outdoor programs for adults and families. Visit www.MCCDistrict.org to view all program and event offerings or sign up to receive the seasonal magazine Landscapes. Register online, by phone (free programs only) at (815) 479-5779, by mail-in and drop-off at Prairieview Education Center, 2112 Behan Road in Crystal Lake, or drop-off only at Lost Valley Visitor Center, Route 31 and Harts Road in Ringwood.
Paddling the Nippersink:
Have you wanted to canoe or kayak the beautiful and peaceful Nippersink Creek but you aren't quite sure how to plan your trip? An information night for age 14 or older will be offered from 7 to 8:30 p.m. Wednesday, March 11, at Lost Valley Visitor Center in Glacial Park, Route 31 and Harts Road in Ringwood. Get all the information you need to know before you go, including how to dress, how to plan your shuttle, how to read the United States Geological Survey water level website, where to get equipment, and more. It is free or $5 for nonresidents. Registration required.
Color-changing Bacteria:
You may know some of the larger animals that call the Nippersink Creek home, but what about the microscopic ones? Learn all about the bacteria that live in the local bodies of freshwater and how they change color on Thursday, March 19, from 6:30 to 8 p.m. at Lost Valley Visitor Center in Glacial Park, Route 31 and Harts Road in Ringwood. After learning about the important role they play in the world, participants, age 7 or older, will be able to make their own bacteria garden to take home and observe its amazing color-changing abilities. It is $5 or $7 for nonresidents. Registration required.
Constellations from the Kames:
Take advantage of this rare opportunity to be on the Glacial Park kames after sunset! It will be 7 to 9 p.m. Tuesday, March 24. They will meet at the Keystone Landing and hike up to the top of the kames for a night of stargazing. Listen to some historical star folklore and learn how to identify some of the major constellations in our night sky. Dress for the weather and wear appropriate footwear. It is free or $2 for nonresidents. Registration required.
Cabin Fever Campfire:
Spring has officially arrived, which means warmer weather, a bounty of birds, and beautiful blossoms are on the way! Winter may have kept you cooped up indoors. This is your chance to get out and enjoy the beginning of the spring season. On this evening of fireside fun, take a short night hike through the woods, look at the night sky through a telescope (weather permitting), warm up around the fire with snacks and play a few fun games. It will be 7 to 8:30 p.m. Saturday, March 28, at the Prairieview Education Center. It is free or $5 for nonresidents. Registration required.