Programs Supporting Science and Understanding of Environmental Systems
Nature Journaling

Every other Tuesday at 2 PM (Sept. 9 & 23; Oct. 7 & 21; Nov. 4 & 18)

FREE, No registration

Location: Meet at the Pavilion in the At Home in the Woods Family Garden

General Parking: JMU R5 lot, 664 University Blvd. (5 min. walk)

Accessible Parking: Pond parking lot

Nature Journaling is the act of recording your own intentional observations of the natural world through images, words, and measurements. Each session will feature a new focus or prompt. Participants are encouraged to bring their favorite art supplies and unlined journal, but basic supplies will also be made available. Instruction level will be aimed at late elementary/middle school students, however all ages (including adults) and whole families are welcome. Led by Kelli Hertzler, Education Coordinator at the Arboretum. Come to just one or all sessions.

Person creating a nature journal page for two kinds of ferns
Annual Event - Fun for the Whole Family
The Backpack Program

Pre-School - Elementary

Explore the Arboretum with themed activities! This program is FREE. Backpacks are located in the lobby of the Frances Plecker Education Center, Monday - Friday (8 AM - 4 PM)

Children participating in the backpack program
How It Works
Pick A Backpack
  • Reptiles & Amphibians
  • Flowers
  • Exploring Trees
  • Forest Mammals
  • Butterflies
  • Insects
  • Macroinvertebrates
Checkout

Leave a driver's license or car keys with us, to be picked up after the backpack is returned.

Explore!

Enjoy the backpack's activities and adventure onward!

Return Backpack

Once you're ready to depart the Arboretum, you can return your backpack(s).

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