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
COMMUNITY EVENTS
CHILDREN & YOUTH PROGRAMS
NEW! Early Childhood Education Programs – NATURE’S LITTLE EXPLORERS
Join us for one or all four of our engaging programs that are specifically designed for caregivers and toddlers to bond together in nature!
Make Some Noise!
Get into some noisy fun with us as we lead you and your little bean through some beats and rhythms using natural materials like rattling seed pods, crunchy leaves, resonant wood and more! You’ll create a few nature-based instruments to take home.
Monday, November 17 | 1:30 to 3:00 PM | Trail House | $10/member and $15/non-member per child | REGISTER
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.
FALL TRAIL HIKE SERIES
Fall Senior Hikes with Arthur & Kathy!
Join retired Flanders Executive Director, Arthur Milnor, and volunteer Kathy Haven for easy to moderate casual walks taken on forest trails. These hikes are a great opportunity to get outside, observe what’s happening in the natural world, learn something new, and maybe even meet new friends! Not just for seniors—all are welcome!
Tuesday, November 13 | 10 AM | Herron Pond Loop, White Memorial, Morris | Complimentary members & $6 non | REGISTER
Thursday, December 9 | 10 AM | Memorial Bridge and Thoreau Bridge via Bee Brook at Hidden Valley Preserve, Steep Rock Assoc. Washington | Complimentary members & $6 non | REGISTER
Black Friday Gratitude Hike
Get outside on Black Friday and join us for a Gratitude Hike. Former board president, Anne Westerman, will lead this hike as we give thanks and enjoy some time out in nature. This hike will traverse our main campus. The natural habitats of the sanctuary, including fields, meadows, forests, wetlands, marshes, streams, and ponds, support a great diversity of wildlife species. Open to ALL!
Friday, November 28 | 10 AM | Van Vleck Sanctuary—Sugar House Parking Area Church Hill Rd., Woodbury | Complimentary members & $6 non | REGISTER
FOR ALL HIKES DRESS FOR THE WEATHER AND WEAR TERRAIN-APPROPRIATE FOOTGEAR
ADULT & FAMILY PROGRAMS
Needle Felting Nights
Curious about needle felting? Come and explore the magic! Needle felting is an easy-to-learn craft in which you are able to 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 own project. Other kits will be available for purchase by cash or check.
Thurs., November 13 (Snowman or Holiday Tree) | 6:30 PM | Studio | $21 per class plus $25 (cost of kit) and tax REGISTER
Thurs., December 4 (Simple Gnome – choice of red, green or blue) | 6:30 PM | Studio | $21 per class plus $30 (cost of kit) and tax REGISTER
Our Connecticut Wildlife
Join DEEP Master Wildlife Conservationist Ginny Apple for engaging and informative talks this fall and discover Connecticut’s Wild Side! The presentations are packed with up-to-date research, practical tips, and compelling visuals and are perfect for all ages. Wildlife is closer than you think—come learn how to keep it wild and wonderful.
The Return of the Black Bear
Black bears are back in Connecticut—and they’re closer than you think. Once a rare sight, these powerful and intelligent animals are now making regular appearances in neighborhoods, parks, and backyards across the state. Curious, adaptable, and increasingly common, black bears are capturing the public’s attention and raising important questions about safety, conservation, and coexistence.
Thursday, November 6 | 6:30 PM | Studio | $6 members & $12 non | POSTPONED until further notice
Beavers: Nature’s Master Engineers
Dive into the world of beavers—Connecticut’s incredible, industrious mammals. Learn how these fascinating creatures shape our landscapes, create wetlands, and support biodiversity through their dam-building talents. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, a backyard observer, or simply curious about local wildlife, this program will offer surprising insights into the lives of beavers: how they build, where they live, what they eat, and why they’re vital to healthy ecosystems.
Thursday, December 4 | 6:30 PM | Trail House Lab | $6 members & $12 non | REGISTER
Please Note: Program processing fees are non-refundable
Flanders Letterbox Series
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
LAND TRUST HOT TOPICS SERIES
Are you currently a land trust volunteer and want to improve your stewardship work? Are you interested in getting involved in stewardship activities, helping to keep our lands preserved for future generations?
Come join Flanders as we explore the important roles we play as stewards of land trust properties. This 3-part series covers important areas of land trust work and will provide the opportunity for discussion and sharing. Register for one or all three.
Forest Tree Inventory: A Scientific Approach to Understanding Current Forest Health & Informing Forest Management Practices
Join Flanders Fellow, Jack Hatajik, as he discusses the baseline study he is completing of what tree species are currently present on Flanders’ preserves and a measure of their relative health. Jack Hatajik holds a Master of Forest Science degree at the Yale School of the Environment.
Thursday, November 13 | 7 PM |Online-Virtual | $11 members & $16 non | REGISTER
Liability on Land Trust Trails: Dog Use Policies and Other Liability Issues Explored
Every land trust or preservation group that opens its spaces to the public has probably had this happen… Folks who visit very much want to bring along their pets (dogs) to enjoy the spaces with them. However, many problems can and do occur when this is permitted. Join Southbury Land Trust President, Joe Ruggiero, as he discusses how LT’s can develop reasonable dog access policies and what constraints need to be applied. Doggone it, a legal, fair, and balanced policy can be achieved.
Thursday, December 4 |7 PM | Online-Virtual | $11 members & $16 non | REGISTER
FLANDERS CLUBS
Flanders Garden Club
Calling all green thumbs!!! Join the newly formed Flanders Garden Club dedicated to the preservation and conservation of the gardens surrounding our historic 1786 Van Vleck House and Natalie Van Vleck Studio both located at 5 Church Hill Rd in Woodbury. The garden club will meet regularly to discuss garden projects, conduct adult and children’s garden programs, visit notable gardens, and tend to the Flanders Van Vleck House & Studio Gardens. Professional gardener, Fabienne Audette, is heading up the club. Fabienne earned her Master’s degree in Horticulture from The Ohio State University. She has worked at both the Cleveland and New York Botanical Gardens. We are very lucky to have her!
FOR MORE INFORMATION and to join, please email program coordinator Ana Jordan at ana@flandersnaturecenter.org or call the office at 203.263.3711.
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.
Every 4th Tuesday | 7 – 8:30 PM | Studio | Complimentary, but registration required |REGISTER
Next Meeting Dates Meeting Date: Tuesday, October 28 | Book: Raising Hare by Chloe Dalton
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 2025
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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