Various local parks will offer programs that folks may be interested in attending. All children must be accompanied by an adult in order to participate. The programs may be modified or cancelled in the event of severe weather or community guidelines.

Virtual Series

HOWARD — Join the Bald Eagle State Park naturalist each week in February to learn about the natural world and Pennsylvania history! Programs will occur virtually on Microsoft Teams. Pre-registration is required on the DCNR Calendar of Events. The program link will be sent in a confirmation email following registration.

On Wednesday, Feb. 25, at 12 p.m., the virtual series will give attention to vernal pools. With March creeping up, it is time to start looking for vernal pools to form and amphibians to reappear on the landscape! Vernal pools, or seasonal ponds, are a vital ecosystem that we see pop up with the spring rain and snow melt. In this program we are going to discuss what a vernal pool really is, why they are so special and who lives in them.

Each virtual series lesson lasts about 30 minutes.

Ice Candles

PHILIPSBURG — On Saturday, Feb. 21, from 1-2:30 p.m., you can learn how to make an ice candle by using ice from the lake (if still frozen) at Black Moshannon State Park. Pre-registration is required and is limited to the first 15 people. You’ll get to take your ice candle home, too!

Beeswax

PHILIPSBURG — On Sunday, Feb. 22, at Black Moshannon State Park, you will discover the old fashioned skill of making beeswax. You’ll learn how beeswax is made and how it has been used throughout history! Beginning at 1 p.m., we will be making a dog paw balm which you can use, even if you don’t have a dog, during the program. The program is designed for those eight years and older. Pre-registration is required and is limited to the first 12 people.

Snow and Ice Science

PHILIPSBURG — On Saturday, Feb. 28, from 1-3 p.m., visit Black Moshannon State Park where you will discover interesting facts about snow and ice. Make fake snow, see how animals are able to survive winter, fish for ice cubes and see a snowstorm in a jar. We will also be doing other science experiments related to snow and ice! This program is geared towards ages 7-10, but other ages are welcome to attend. This program will be held mostly indoors, but there will be a short hike outdoors. Pre-registration required and is limited to 15 people.

Nature Journaling Club

HOWARD — The Bald Eagle Nature Journaling Club will be meeting on Saturday, March 21 from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. at Bald Eagle State Park. This event is free to the public. The session for March will be indoors in the Environmental Learning Center (ELC). They will have an introduction to nature journaling, perfect for beginners or a nice refresher for experienced nature journal keepers.

Bring your nature journal and journaling supplies to this meeting. Organizers also recommend a water bottle. Camp chairs will not be needed at this session.