Event-Full September at the Landis Arboretum

Who Could Ask for More – Until October, of course!

ESPERANCE, NY (08/21/2007)(readMedia)-- Now’s the time to save the dates for family fun and easy learning at Landis, the Capital Region’s Arboretum.

SEPTEMBER

1 (Saturday) 8:30 am — until the excitement ends!

THE FIRST ANNUAL ARBORETUM 5K CROSS COUNTRY FOREST RUN

Run/Walk/Compete for Family Fun! Achieve your Personal Best! AND enjoy the spectacular views of the Schoharie countryside at the beautiful Landis Arboretum. Prizes awarded to runners in each age group in this timed event. All proceeds to benefit the non-profit Landis Arboretum. Race start:10 am, Meeting House lawn. Race Day Registration: 8:30 am–9:30 am. For more information: 518-231-2290 or online, www.landisarboretum.org or www.mapmyrun.com/event/united-states/ny/ esperance/61542703. Tee shirts courtesy of Kintz Plastics, Howes Cave, NY. Run/Walk for the thrill of it!

7–8 (Friday and Saturday) 8:30 pm

PUBLIC STAR PARTY

(see Star Parties, below).

8 (Saturday) 2–3:30 pm

ANIMAL TRACKS AND TRACES

Location: Meeting House.

Many of the animals that live at the Arboretum are secretive and hard to find. Sometimes the only way we know they are there is by the tracks and traces—scat, chewings, nests they leave behind. Come and explore the woods to see what we might find. If the situation presents itself, we will make plaster casts of animal tracks that we find. Suggested free will donation, $5; Instructor: George Steele

15–16 (Saturday–Sunday), 10 am–4 pm

ANNUAL ARBORETUM FALL PLANT, BOOK & BAKE SALE

An annual winner! Free admission and free parking

25 and October 2, 9 & 16 (Tuesdays). 6–8 pm

TREE AND SHRUB IDENTIFICATION

Location: Landis Arboretum Harkness Herbarium Complex (Library)

Using the outdoor laboratory of 548-acre Landis Arboretum, participants will learn how to recognize major trees and shrubs of the Northeast. They will also learn the basic plant structures used in identification. This course includes an introduction to many new and unusual ornamental trees that are available for use in the landscape. Broader knowledge and understanding of plants will guide participants in plant maintenance and health care decisions. Call the Arboretum to register. $110. Instructor: Fred Breglia, Director of Horticulture and Operations

30 (Sunday) 2–3:30 pm

BIRD FEEDER WORKSHOP

Location: Meeting House

Enjoy a workshop learning about bird feeding. We’ll build some simple recycled bird feeders. (Bring three identical plastic sports drink containers—Gatorade works best). We’ll discuss what feed to use, setting up feeders, and identifying the feathered visitors. Suggested free will donation: $5. The wonderful outdoor educator George Steele at your service.

OCTOBER

5–6 (Friday–Saturday) 8 pm

PUBLIC STAR PARTY

(see Star Parties, below).

6 (Saturday) 2–3:30 pm

FALL FOLIAGE BIRD WALK

Location: Meeting House

Join members of the Hudson-Mohawk Bird Club as we enjoy an easy walk through the woods for glimpses of resident and migrant birds in the fall foliage. Suggested free will donation, $5. George Steele, Instructor.

13 (Saturday) 9 am–3 pm

FALL WORKFEST

Bring your friends and your work gloves to Landis to get the grounds ready for winter. Come for part of the day or the full day. Light lunch provided. Bring a dessert to share. Always fun and a great way to meet nature-minded folk!

13 (Saturday) 7:30 pm

A WALK AMONG THE STARS

Constellation Tour (see Star Parties, below).

Star Parties

Location: Meeting House

At public star parties, telescopes are set up to show guests sights in the night sky. The Walk Among the Stars programs include constellation tours, the myths and stories associated with the constellations, and hints on enjoying the night sky. Star Parties and A Walk Among the Stars programs are cancelled if the skies are mostly cloudy. Registration is encouraged by calling Alan French at 374-8460 so that we can call you if an event is canceled. You can also call to check about two hours before the start time if you did not register.

George Steele is a seasoned, award-winning environmental education consultant since 1992 working with a wide range of programs including children’s summer camps, museums, nature centers, outdoor education centers, state agencies, libraries and schools throughout the northeast.

About Landis

The Capital Region’s Arboretum, Landis is a multifaceted natural jewel. It now encompasses 548 acres of trees, shrubs, old growth forest and, of course, breath-taking vistas and memorable gardens. Long a destination of choice among Capital District gardeners, environmentalists, nature lovers, hikers, bikers, and birders, the Landis Arboretum may be one of the best-kept secrets among Capital Region residents.

The Arboretum is located 1.5 miles off Scenic Route 20 in Esperance, NY, an easy drive from anyplace within the Capital Region. www.landisarboretum.org; info@landisarboretum.org; 518-875-6935.

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