Howard Christensen Nature Center Offers New Events and Activities

Lily’s Frog Pad Inc. manages Howard Christensen Nature Center (HCNC) and is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization., so fund-raising is an ongoing endeavor. On Sunday October 16, a Bird Seed Sale will be held at Cedar Springs Mill, 112 W. Beech St, from 10:00 a.m.-2:00 p.m. to benefit your birds, and HCNC! Proceeds from all fundraisers help keep the nature center buildings open and the trails maintained for school field trips, public workshops and snowshoe days during the winter.

Another new fund-raiser is the first Red Pine 5K Walk, Run & Relay on Sunday, October 23. “Outdoor lovers” of all ages and abilities are invited to enjoy running or walking the flat, scenic double loop through the nature center on well-marked trails. The race begins at 2:00 p.m. with refreshments and an award presentation afterwards. For participants 19 years old and older, the registration fee is $25, and for participants 18 years and younger it is $20. Registration forms and details are available on the website at www/lilysfrogpad.com, and late registration is from noon to 1:30 p.m. on race day.

New, fun events for the family include a “one day only” Bike Cyclist Ride on Thursday, October 19 when bikes will be allowed on specially marked trails from 8:00 a.m.-5:30 p.m. The cost is $5/adult, $4/students and seniors or $12/family. Registration is due by October 16. To end the month and celebrate Halloween, a Night-Owl Walk is scheduled on Saturday, October 29 from 8:00-10:00 p.m. This is another “one day only” opportunity, since the trails regularly close at dusk. The trails will be lined with lack-o-lanterns for this spooky, family-friendly guided hike. Registration is requested, but not required. The cost is $5/adult, $4/students and seniors, or $12/family.

Other events scheduled for November and December include workshops about white-tailed deer, winter survival and a full-moon hike, a special day for horse-back riders on the trails, holiday crafts, snowshoe rental, and a quilt raffle. Directions and details about these events can be found at www.lilysfrogpad.com.

For visitors who are interested in the moon and stars, a small planetarium that seats 15 has been added to the natural science exhibits in the Red Pine Interpretive Center. Please contact Cindy with questions about the planetarium and other events or programs at (616) 675-3158, or cperski@lilysfrogpad.com.