The Friends of Schmeeckle host several programs and events throughout the year. Explore upcoming events below.
Begin creating artwork, taking photos, and writing for the annual arts contest! Categories include Artwork of a medium of your choice (paintings, sculptures, etc.), Writing in the form of an essay, poem, story, etc., and Photography with images being high resolution and suitable for print and digital display. For more information and guidelines, visit Friends
Do you want to learn how to bird watch in winter? We will meet some of Schmeeckle Reserve’s cold loving birds, listen to their songs, and discuss how to find them. Presented by Elaina Seputis.
What happens in a lake when it freezes over? During a visit to Lake Joanis, we will observe the effects that the ice has on the different wildlife of Schmeeckle Reserve. Presented by Cameron Collins.
Raccoons in the garbage, foxes in the hen house, and bats in the attic.... How did we get here in the first place? Explore the complex connections we have with wildlife. Presented by Eli Struck and Brandon Wagner.
Join us to investigate the survival strategies of some of the creatures that can be found in Schmeeckle! Presented by Mich Kraemer and Natalie Strong.
Have you seen an injured animal and wondered what you should do next? Join us for a thought-provoking discussion about the delicate balance between human intervention and the natural world. Presented by Brenna Ripplinger and Eric Janko-Gunderson.
How do animals like bats and flying squirrels adapt to living in the dark? Test your senses, encounter critters, and try out the nocturnal lifestyle by exploring some of Schmeeckle’s research hot spots. Presented by Rae Henneman.
What’s the difference between a possum and an opossum? Experience the storybook Possum in the House by Kiersten Jenson and uncover the traits of these marvelous marsupials. You can even craft a friend of your own! Presented by Kristina Striston.
Are you interested in the history of leather and leather crafting? Join us to discover more about the history and process of leather crafting. Explore a variety of leather crafts and have a chance to make your own key tag! Presented by Becca Ostrowski.
Craft your own nature journal. Experience a series of writing and drawing activities along the trail to explore nature and de-stress. Presented by Sydni Albrecht.
Have you ever wondered what squirrels that live in Schmeeckle are up to? Squirrels gather nuts and that helps humans and nature too. We’ll begin by reading Squirrel’s Family Tree by Beth Ferry before heading outside for a short walk. Bring a coat. Presented by Sarah Montzka.
From beaks to tail feathers, discover the special features of raptors that make them stand out from any other species. Come discover the fantastic traits of native birds of prey! Presented by Abigail Rajnicek.