Phenology Hike at Wizard Ranch Nature Preserve

Phenology is the science of seasonal change in nature, using observations collected over time to see how these changes affect flora and fauna. Join the Lancaster Conservancy phenology project team as we explore the newest trail at Wizard Ranch Nature Preserve for signs of summer change. We’ll look at plants, listen for birds, and even do a little bee watching to determine how living things in this mixed wooded and open meadow preserve adjust to summer conditions. In partnership with the USGS Phenology Network and Nature’s Notebook, the data we collect is not only useful to us, but to hundreds of phenology projects around the region and nation!

Learn more about this community science project at https://www.lancasterconservancy.org/engaging-our-community/phenology/.

What to Expect: We will traverse approximately 2 miles over rolling trail surface with some rocks and roots. There is a port-a-john available on site. This event is for ages 10 and up (participants must be accompanied by an adult if younger than 18).

What to Bring: Bring binoculars if you have them and a notebook or your phone for notetaking. Dress for the weather, wear sneakers or trail shoes, and be prepared for exposure to wind and/or cold on the high meadows. You’ll need to open a free account with Nature’s Notebook in order to contribute to our community science project!

Event Leader: 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.

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 for severe weather made at the time of the event. 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 Credit: Michelle Johnsen

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