Nature Journaling: April Flowers

April brings the emergence of woodland flowers, and Ferncliff Wildlife & Wildflower Preserve is home to Virginia bluebells, Dutchman's breeches, spring beauties, and plenty more. There is nothing more delightful than recording in one’s journal these early flowers and the pollinators they attract as the weather begins to warm. We will discuss a variety of techniques including drawing, painting, and writing.

What to Expect: This event will be held entirely outdoors. A walk will be taken on the relatively flat and wide trail that follows the creek. There will be instruction and demonstration as well as time for actively working on journals. There are no restroom facilities at Ferncliff Wildlife & Wildflower Preserve. There are restrooms at the state park.

Where to Meet: Attendees should park at Susquehannock State Park at 1:00 p.m. and hop aboard the Lancaster Conservancy mini-bus, which will depart at 1:15 p.m. to shuttle participants to the preserve. Upon completion of the nature journaling exploration, the shuttle will return to Susquehannock State Park.

What to Bring: Bring a journal as well as your choice of implements: watercolors, brushes, writing tools (pen/pencil/marker), or colored pencils. A phone can be a helpful tool for reference pictures. A portable chair or blanket for sitting is optional. Dress appropriately for the weather; layers are recommended. Bring a drink and a snack.

Presenter Bios:

Peggy Eppig, Conservation Educator with Lancaster Conservancy, is an environmental historian and dynamic conservation educator who offers a hands-on approach to every theme from deep-time history to 21st century conservation methods and practices. She brings over 30 years of experience in interpretive and experiential education. Her wilder interests include ornithology (birds), herpetology (reptiles and amphibians), forest ecology, and natural history illustration.

Carol Welsh has been a lifetime educator and a nature journal artist with PA Council on the Arts. She has studied native plants at Mt. Cuba Center and botany at Millersville University. Carol is a member of the Lancaster Butterfly and Entomology Club and Muhlenberg Botanical Group, and she is a regular presenter at the North Museum and other local venues.

Animal Policy: Service animals active or in training are welcome. Please leave all pets at home.

Refund Policy: If you are unable to attend this event after purchasing a ticket, refund requests must be made at least 48 hours before the event.

Cancellation Policy: This event will be held rain or shine, with cancellation at the time of the event for severe weather. If the Conservancy reschedules the event, attendees will be emailed, and tickets will be automatically moved to the new date. If the Conservancy cancels the event, attendees will be notified via email and refunded.

Photo: Michelle Johnsen

Thank you to our generous annual sponsors for making this event possible!