MAY – SEPTEMBER
VIEW A MAP OF BUILDING LOCATIONS
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| Flanders Clubs | Youth & Children |
| CT Wildlife Series | Hiking Series |
| Adult & Family | Forever Connected |
PLEASE NOTE: ALL VIRTUAL PROGRAM LINKS WILL BE E-MAILED BY NOON, DAY OF PROGRAM
You may be videotaped or photographed when attending events / programs and may appear in publications and social media
KEEP AN EYE OUT FOR UPCOING COMMUNITY EVENTS
CHILDREN & YOUTH PROGRAMS
K – 5 Next Generation Science Standards – Aligned Programs
Flanders offers an exceptional collection of field-based K-5 learning experiences to complement the Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS). These 2-hour immersive programs are fun, engaging, and authentic in a classroom of nature’s design.
Each NGSS program focuses on grade-specific standards, helping to prepare students to meet key grade-level performance expectations. Each can be incorporated into a teacher’s unit plans, or can stand as a self-contained experience. >> For More Information
Birthday Parties at Flanders!
We offer birthday parties on Saturdays or Sundays year round! Affordable and fun there are a variety of nature themed parties to choose from including animals and art to fairy fun. Hiking, games and stories, live animals and even tractor rides can all be made a part of the celebration! Call Amber McDonald at (203) 263-3711 x12 for more information to brainstorm what will make for an unforgettable party for your birthday child! For more information, download a new Birthday Flyer!
Scout Programs
We can help your Boy and Girl Scouts earn badges and complete community service projects! Programs can be tailored to the needs of individual troops. Eagle Scout and Gold and Silver Award projects have been done at Flanders. For a list of ideas which we feel would benefit Flanders—or with an idea of your own, email Program Coordinator, Ana Jordan, at ana@flandersnaturecenter.org.
Supervised Agricultural Experience
Do you know (or are you) an agricultural education student searching for placement in an organization to complete your Supervised Agricultural Experience (SAE)? Look no further, Flanders is the perfect place to obtain those SAE hours! We welcome students from the local area agricultural education programs. Our North Barn, under the guidance of our Farm Manager, offers an excellent opportunity to learn and apply knowledge about the care of livestock. Our sanctuary with its forest, fields, trails and ponds is a superb location to further your understanding and utilize your skills in environmental systems! Contact flanders@flandersnaturecenter.org for more information.
SUMMER TRAIL HIKE SERIES
Senior Hikes with Arthur
Join retired Flanders Executive Director, Arthur Milnor, for an easy to moderate casual walk taken on Conservation Partners of the Pomperaug (CPOP) preserved properties. Get outside, observe what’s happening in the natural world, learn something new and maybe even meet new friends. This hike is not just for seniors. Register for one or all hikes. All are welcome!
Thursday, May 9 | 10 AM | Steep Rock Preserve: Johnson Farm Trail, 37 West Mountain Road #2, Washington
Thursday, June 13 | 10 AM | Litchfield Land Trust: The Nancy Danaher trail. Clark Road, Litchfield
Tuesday, Sept 10 | 10 AM | White Memorial: Little Pond Boardwalk (Loop) Trail. Whites Wood Rd, Litchfield
Complimentary members & $5 non | REGISTER
Manville Kettle Hike
Join Flanders’ Land Management Volunteer Cameron Gardella on a summer hike of the first property held in trust by Flanders. This unique property contains an open field, mixed trees and a swamp. Located in the center of town the preserve is known as a “kettle” because geologists believe the depression was formed during the last ice age and filled with water from melting ice. The hike is easy, 60 minutes, 1 mile out and back.
Saturday, May 11 | 9 AM | Manville Kettle: School St and Judson Ave., Woodbury | Complimentary members & $5 non | REGISTER
ADULT & FAMILY PROGRAMS
Wildflower Walks
Celebrate spring and come partake in a wildflower walk on Flanders’ Botany Trail led by a member of the Pomperaug Valley Garden Club. The award-winning Botany Trail began in 1965 when wildflowers rescued from the proposed path of I-84 and other development projects found a haven at Flanders. Dress for walking in the woods. Please note that rain will cancel the hike.
Sunday, May 12 (Rain Date: May 19) | 2 PM | Sugar House | Complimentary, but registration required | REGISTER
Plein Air Watercolor Workshop
Join us for this three session workshop with watercolor artist Diane Dubreuil (www.dianedubreuil.com). The class is designed for anyone who wishes to begin painting ‘en plein air’ with watercolors or for those with some experience who may need help redirecting their creative thinking. Together we will establish our painting vocabulary, explore the basics of equipment, and use transparent watercolor paints outdoors. Step-by-step we will organize our painting thoughts, make a plan, paint, and have some fun! Class size is limited for this adult beginner and intermediate-level watercolor class. The sessions will be held outside, weather permitting. Bring your art supplies and a bag lunch.
Wed, May 8, Thurs., May 9, & Fri., May 10 | 9:30 AM – 12:30 PM | Studio | $80 members & $95 non | REGISTER
Goat Yoga is Back!
Connect with nature and furry baby Nigerian dwarf goats at Flanders. Experienced yoga instructor, Sharon Poarch, will lead guests in this one-hour gentle class suitable for all levels, from beginners to advanced! Adorable goats will be frolicking & cuddling with you as you flow on the picturesque Van Vleck Farm. Participants will be outside, practicing with live animals and some degree of messiness (and a LOT of silliness) may be involved so they should dress accordingly, wear comfortable clothes, and bring along a yoga mat or towel.
Sundays, June 2, July 14 & 28, and September 15 | 6 PM | North Barn | $15 members & $25 non, $10 ages 15 & under | REGISTER
Wild Edible Plants & Fungi of Summer
Join The 3 Foragers as they teach the edible plants and fungi of summer with their original photos and recipe ideas featured in an educational slideshow, and finish with a walk outside to put some of those newly learned skills to the test. Learn how to identify, sustainably harvest, and prepare the wild foods of summer, from beach plums to invasive wineberries, including some of the choice summer fungi like chanterelles and the myriad of pored boletes.
Saturday, June 15 | 10 AM | Sugar House | $10 members & $15 non | REGISTER
Flanders Artist Day 2024
CALLING ARTISTS IN ALL MEDIA! Join us for a day of creating en plein air art inspired by the picturesque grounds of Flanders’ Van Vleck Farm & Nature Sanctuary. Then participate in a group show of the resulting work. The exhibit will run from Oct. 4–13 with on artists’ reception on opening day.
Saturday, June 29 (Rain date: Sunday, June 30) | 9AM to 2 PM | Van Vleck Sanctuary | Complimentary | REGISTER
Nature Journaling
Join wildlife artist Melody Asbury as she guides adult participants on a nature discovery to create their nature journals using mixed media in a two-session class. Melody will provide ideas and inspiration for subjects for a journal and working time and guidance in starting a nature journal. She will show examples of fun materials that can be used in a journal and show examples from her journal. Bring a journal and any materials you would like to use.
Saturdays, July 13 & 20 | 9:30 AM to 12:30 PM | Studio | $70 members & $85 non | REGISTER
Conversations With A Beekeeper
An introduction to the life of the honey bee and its keeper. Equipment management, harvesting practices past and present, the challenges beekeepers face, and the importance of honey bees to our ecosystem and sustainable agriculture are some of the topics of discussion.
Saturday, July 20 |2 PM | South Barn | $10 members & $15 non | REGISTER
Fun With Pesto
You might be surprised how many different herbs and leafy vegetables can be used in pesto to transform any meal into a taste sensation! Nancy Taylor and Anne Westerman will bring fresh ingredients, demonstrate techniques, talk about the health benefits of fresh greens, and share recipes for you to enjoy at home.
Wednesday, July 24 | 6:30 PM | Van Vleck House | $10 members & $15 non | REGISTER
Rhythm Of The Elements
Create rhythms and melodies that invoke fire, water, air, earth, and ether through drumming and vocal play. Connect to each other and the nature that surrounds us in this electrifying workshop. Anitra Brooks, a CT-grown musician and teaching artist, will demonstrate basic technique and rhythms on the djembe and other hand percussions to create a drum circle groove. Participants will learn songs from different countries, sing in multiple languages, and engage in vocal improvisation. Build community, nurture joy, and have fun!
Saturday, July 27 | 7 PM | Sugar House | $10 members & $15 non | REGISTER
*Program sponsored by the Green Feather Foundation http://www.greenfeather.org/
Leaf Printing
Join local artist Joan Anthony as she demonstrates the technique of leaf printing, shows examples of leaf printing, and leads adult participants in learning how to print with leaves. Participants will make several cards and a small artwork using leaves and acrylic paint to create a leaf print. All materials will be supplied. Participants may bring fresh leaves, special papers, jars of acrylic paint, or rubber stamps.
Saturday, Aug 3 | 9:30 AM | Studio | $40 members & $45 non | REGISTER
Journey Dance!
Come move mindfully while exploring the elements with live music, surrounded by flowers. Open your heart through music, dance, and art. Get grounded in nature, inspire your mind, balance your emotions, and connect with the community. Meditation and movement expert, JoJo Keane, will guide you through a joyful flow of movement to embody more grace in our lives and world. Bring a yoga mat or blanket. All ages, bodies, and abilities are welcomed and accommodated.
Saturday, Aug 10 | 2 PM | Sugar House | $30 members & $35 non | REGISTER
*Program sponsored by the Green Feather Foundation http://www.greenfeather.org/
Tales Of The Earth: A Handmade Puppet Dreams Film Screening
Calling puppet lovers of all ages! Join us for a collection of short puppet films from producer Heather Henson that celebrate the natural world, screened under the stars. Bring your picnic blankets and baskets early for a craft inspired by the films. The film screening will start once dark at about 8 PM. See the full lineup of films and learn more at www.handmadepuppetdreams.com/earth.
Saturday, Aug 10 | 5 PM | Sugar House | Complimentary members & $5 non | REGISTER
*Program sponsored by the Green Feather Foundation http://www.greenfeather.org/
Insects At Night!
Are you curious about nocturnal insects? Everyone’s familiar with daytime insects, but rarely have a chance to see the array of moths, beetles, and other insects that wait until dark to emerge from their daytime hiding places. We will collect, observe, and learn about nocturnal insects and their relatives. This is a great family program. Please bring a headlamp or flashlight and a sense of adventure!
Friday, Aug 16 | 8 PM | South Barn | $10 members & $15 non | REGISTER
Needle Felting Nights
Curious about needle felting? Come explore the magic! Needle felting is an easy-to-learn craft in which you sculpt wool fiber into anything imaginable simply by poking it with a single barbed needle. Participants will learn to achieve the desired form, firmness, and surface quality in the process. The featured kit includes all materials needed. Choose to bring your own materials for guidance and support on your project. Other kits available for purchase by cash or check.
Thursdays, Aug 29: Hens or Sept 26: Bats | 6:30 PM | Studio | $20/class, plus $25/kit (+ tax) | REGISTER
Edible Plants & Mushrooms of Autumn
Learn how to identify, sustainably harvest, and prepare the wild foods of autumn, from acorns through minty wintergreen leaves, including golden honey mushrooms and maitake, the “dancing mushroom.” Join us for an engaging talk with The 3 Foragers to learn about edible plants and fungi, how to identify them, and recipe ideas! We will start with a slide show and head outside to walk around the grounds.
Saturday, Sept 14 | 10AM | Sugar House | $10 members & $15 non | REGISTER
Sweet History Of Honey & Harvest
Learn the history of the honey harvest, the history of purposeful beekeeping, hives of past and present, the composition of honey, and why honey crystallizes. What makes honey so dark or so light? How many varieties of honey are there? Why doesn’t honey need to be pasteurized? Learn the answers and much more during this engaging talk and taste five varieties of honey from The Humble Bee Honey Company!
Saturday, Sept 28 | 2 PM | South Barn | $10 members & $15 non | REGISTER
Flanders Letterbox Series – New Botany Trail Hike Added!
Flanders has planted several letterboxes on the family friendly trails at their preserves and sanctuaries. Combining art and nature in a fun interactive way, letterboxing is a popular treasure hunting activity done world-wide. GET MORE INFORMATION
FLANDERS CLUBS
Flanders Environmental Book Club
Join reading enthusiasts and book club leaders, Adele Falco and Ingrid Manning, in discussing reading that will focus on mostly non-fiction books about nature and the environment. The club would like to investigate and remain open to all aspects of these subjects from science-based teachings to cultural and political influences. It is our hope to have the opportunity to delve deeply into aspects of these topics that affect our community directly, particularly the environmental and natural history of our region, its agrarian history and current trends. The group collectively decides on future titles. We welcome anyone interested in sharing and learning more about these topics to join us for a friendly, educational and hopefully, enlightening discussion on a monthly basis. The May book is Fen, Bog & Swamp by Annie Proulx. More information
The June book is Litchfield Country Journal by Edwin Matthews. More information
Every 4th Tuesday – May 28 & June 25 | 7 – 8:30 PM | Studio | Complimentary, but registration required | REGISTER
Flanders Trail Blazers 4-H Club
Do you have a child age 7-18 that loves animals and being outdoors? Then joining the Flanders 4-H Club is the perfect fit! UCONN 4-H is a youth organization whose mission is engaging youth to reach their fullest potential with a motto “To Make the Best Better.” Members will learn all about caring for a variety of farm animals, beekeeping, responsible land care, gardening and forestry. Also, as a club member you will have the opportunity to attend educational meetings, go on field trips or show off your new skills at a 4-H Fair. In the process, you will make new friends, solve problems and make a difference in your neighborhood or even in the world! More information.
The Van Vleck 200-acre campus with our North Barn animals presents perfect opportunities to learn the responsibilities of raising livestock and many land management challenges. For more information, please contact the Flanders office at 203-263-3711 x12.
Meetings are Once a Month | Date, Time & Location to be Announced | Complimentary, but registration required | REGISTER
Photography Club 2023
Want to join the Flanders Photography Club? Our focus is outdoor nature photography “to foster understanding and appreciation of nature, art and the wonders of the natural world . . .” The Club’s purpose is to promote the development of photographic skills and the art of photography. Meetings will include instruction on the basics of outdoor photography, camera operation, features, techniques and tips as well as presentations, forums, and guest speakers. Plus there will be outdoor exercises and projects, such as macro, wildlife and bird photography.
Third Wednesday of the Month | 5:30 PM | Studio |$20 members & $40 non per year | REGISTER
FOREVER CONNECTED
Volunteer Your Time – A gift of your time and talent is a very important contribution. Flanders offers regular opportunities for members and friends to share their skills and interests with the organization and community. Seasonal events at Flanders, such as Maple Sugaring, Flanders Festival, Field & Forest 5K, Flanders Annual Benefit & Auction, and our Holiday Wreath Making Workshops depend upon the work of hundreds of dedicated volunteers to make them successful. From a Land Trust perspective, Flanders relies on its volunteers to carry on its mission of preserving and caring for more than 2,400 acres of protected property in the region. Whether you would like to volunteer regularly or just help when you have the time, Flanders needs you!
Consider Joining A Committee – Ready to get more involved with Flanders and share your expertise? Join one or more of our volunteer lead committees to help us meet our goals and objectives and further our mission and vision. By being a committee member you will help grow Flanders and make a deep impact! Here is a list of our committees with a brief description:
» LEARN Committee—Promoting and teaching the understanding and appreciation of art, farming, and nature to adults and families.
» Art Committee—Organize art related programs and conserve founder Natalie Van Vleck’s history and archives.
» Land Management Committee—Managing Flanders’ 2,400+ acres of open space.
» Land Acquisition Committee—Acquiring important open space lands.
» Development/Fundraising Committee—Helping raise funds to support Flanders’ Mission.
» Historic Van Vleck Committee—Ensuring Flanders facilities are properly maintained and/or restored.
Want To Lead A Hike, Program Or Class? Do you have a talent that you would like to share? Flanders is always looking for new instructors.
TO LEARN MORE – Contact Flanders’ volunteer coordinator Ana Jordan to learn more about becoming a Flanders ambassador or other available volunteer opportunities today!
Flanders Wish List!
To help reduce expenses, the donation of supplies, services and/or equipment that are used for fulfilling our mission are greatly appreciated! >Learn more
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for any programs, call 203.263.3711
or click on the registration link next to the program.
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