Enviro-News
May, 2007
Newsletter Contents:
· Articles
· Upcoming Activities
· Tips to Help the Environment
Articles:
Backyard Composter Sale
Erie County Dept. of Environment and Planning and the Northeast Southtowns Solid Waste Management Board announce a Backyard Composter Sale. On Saturday, May 5, you may purchase a composter at the Tops Market at 4250 McKinley Pkwy in Hamburg from 8am-2pm. Details on the composters are available at http://daemen.edu/~byoung/May-compostersale.pdf .
Household Hazardous Waste Collection
A household hazardous waste collection will be held on Saturday, May 12, 2007 from 9am-2pm at Erie Community College North Campus, Williamsville (enter from Wehrle Drive). For more information on acceptable items and a map to the site, visit http://daemen.edu/~byoung/ECCdropoff.pdf . For dropoff, please download and fill out the registration form available at http://daemen.edu/~byoung/haz_waste_reg_form.pdf .
SPCA Party with the Pack
Help the SPCA celebrate 140 years of changing lives at Party with the Pack. This event, presented by M&T Bank, will be held on Thursday, May 10 at Asbury Hall at The Church,341 Delaware Avenue beginning at 5:30pm with cocktails and a silent auction. The event includes a sit-down dinner at 7:30pm followed by a live auction. Tickets are $150 for individuals or $1500 for corporate tables of 10. For reservations, call 629-3523 or visit the SPCA website at www.yourspca.org .
Spring Rabbit Tips
Rabbits seem to magically appear as new sprouts emerge and gardeners add to their inventory. Rabbits and other mammals are deterred from eating plant material if it has been coated with capsicum, an ingredient in hot pepper. There are commercial hot pepper sprays and waxes that can be applied. You can also make your own by boiling chopped jalapeno peppers and ground cayenne pepper. The boiled mixture should be strained prior to use in a sprayer bottle. Spray liberally each day for several weeks, especially after rains, and rabbits will move on to less spicy areas.
Zoar Valley Achievements
The past year has been a banner year for Zoar Valley, with The Nature Sanctuary Society of WNY acquiring the Big Falls area of the South Branch Cattaraugus Creek (and protecting it by limiting access to Society members only), the Nature Conservancy acquiring three additional parcels of green space in Zoar Valley for protection, and the announcement by the DEC that Zoar's old growth forests and gorges have been placed in a Protection Area. Check events at www.zoarvalley.org\ for the Zoar Valley Nature Society'sslate of naturewalks, hikes and events. There is also a joint effort with the Springville Center for the Arts tohost a series of outingsin Zoar in conjunction with"The Art of Zoar Valley" exhibit at the Centerthis July and August. The artwork is gorgeous and the outings are not to be missed! Artist Tom Annear has made a limited number of prints of his painting "Zoar Valley #2 (Point Lookout)" available for purchase to benefit the Zoar Valley Nature Society.A view of the print and purchase information can be found on the Gallery page of the website.
The next Zoar Valley hike is scheduled for Sunday, May 13. Please join us for an amazing hike in one of our bio-regions most spectacular places---Zoar Valley. We will come together to enjoy the natural beauty and majestic cliffs of Zoar as we experience what is truly meaningful. The earth has never needed our loving kindness and nurturing more than she does now. Take this time to reflect, remember and engage your sacred connection to nature and all life. Details are given in the Upcoming Activities section.
Natural Building Colloquium
The PeaceWeaver Community is hosting its annual Natural Building Colloquium in Thunder Mountain (Bath), New York from Tuesday, July 31-Saturday, August 4. This colloquium is for anyone interested in building with natural materials and developing sustainable living practices. Workshops on straw bale and cob construction, solar energy, living roofs and much more will be included. For more information, call 607-776-4060 or email pw@peaceweavers.com . Information and registration for the event is available at http://www.peaceweavers.com/bws/ . Registration fees increase after June 1.
WNY Climate Action Coalition Booklet Available
What can you do to help in minimizing climate change? Walter Simpson has compiled a booklet for the WNY Climate Action Coalition that provides tips on ways that you can make a difference. A downloadable copy of the booklet is available at http://daemen.edu/~byoung/WNYCACbooklet.pdf . Please share the message with others!
Sustainable Farming Systems Research Grants Available
The Northeast Sustainable Agriculture Research and Education (SARE) program will provide funding for long-term, holistic studies of alternative and sustainable farming systems. These grants are also aimed at reducing our fossil fuel dependence. Preproposals from interested parties are due by May 31st and approved proposals will be allowed to submit full requests for funding. For more information, visit www.uvm.edu/~nesare/08agroecogrants.html or call 802-656-0471.
Forestry Education for Landowners
Landowners of forests and woodlots may subscribe to an educational program, the Forest Connect 2007 Letter Series, which will deliver information on ecological and sustainable forest management practices. The series will provide six, multi-page information bulletins on forest management building from the basics of forestry to more advanced forest stewardship. This initiative is a joint project between Cornell University Cooperative Extension and the New York Forest Owners Association. Registration is $25 ($18 for members of NY Forest Owners Assoc.) and the deadline is May 10. To register, call 800-836-3566 or visit www.forestconnect.info or www.nyfoa.org .
How, When and Why of Forest Farming
A new website is available to help individuals learn how to “farm forests”. In addition to tree farming, forests are resources for producing gourmet mushrooms, maple sugar and medicinal herbs such as American ginseng and goldenseal. The How, When and Why of Forest Farming Resource Center has video clips and PowerPoint presentations available for individuals to learn about best practices in sustainable agroforestry. The materials can be viewed at hwwff.cce.cornell.edu.
Straw Bale Construction used for Greenhouse Project
Local natural building experts have guided a community project to build a greenhouse in Buffalo. David Lanfear from Bale on Bale Construction along with Kevin Connors, a UB architecture instructor and green designer, directed volunteers on the project. The greenhouse has walls formed by straw bales which are covered by earthen plaster (sand, clay and straw) and coated with an exterior layer of lime plaster. The Massachusetts Avenue Growing Green Project has a number of community gardens and hires kids from the neighborhood to grow vegetables. The new greenhouse will allow them to start some plants earlier in the season as well as grow some “cash crops” such as herbs and flowers to be sold to restaurants. For some photos of the construction project, visit http://lackaff.net/ .
Plant Glue May Yield More Profitability from Cellulosic Ethanol Production
Cellulosic ethanol production has been limited by the availability of enzymes that can convert the cellulose from plant cell walls into usable fuel. Paul Weimer, a US Dairy Forage Research Center scientist, has found that a bacterium, Clostridium thermocellum, is able to break down cellulose as well as produce a bioadhesive. The “wood glue” produced by the bacterium could replace up to 70% of the petroleum-based formaldehyde used to manufacture plywood. This adhesive would help make the process of cellulosic ethanol production more profitable. For more info, visit www.ars.usda.gov/is/AR/archive/apr07/walls0407.htm .
Environmental Summer Camps
A number of opportunities exist to expose children to the outdoors and science during the summer months. Visit the websites or call to find out specifics about each program.
Buffalo Zoo day camp-1 week sessions from July 9 to August 17-call 837-3900.
Buffalo Museum of Science day camp-July 20 to August 17- www.buffalomuseumofscience.org or 896-5200, ext. 338
Charles E. Burchfield Nature and Art Center-August 20-24- www.thebnac.org or 677-4843.
Nature Ed-Ventures-July 22 to 28 - www.natureed-ventures.com or 479-9190.
Penn Dixie Paleontological & Outdoor Education Center-July 16 to August 10- www.penndixie.org or 627-4560.
Buffalo & Erie County Botanical Gardens-July 16-27- www.buffalogardens.com or 827-1584, ext. 291.
Cheektowaga Dept. of Parks, Recreation and Youth Services-July 2 to August 24-call 897-7207.
Gloria J. Parks Community Center-July 2 to August 17-call 832-1010.
Beaver Meadow summer day camps-www.buffaloaudubon.com or (585) 457-3228.
Allegany Nature Pilgrimage
Plan now for the annual Allegany Nature Pilgramage to be held from Friday June 1 through Sunday June 3. This event is an outdoor learning experience that combines fun with a variety of nature-oriented activities. This traditional weekend of natural history welcomes both the seasoned naturalist and the inquisitive beginner. The pilgrimage is held in Allegany State Park in southwestern New York State. The park consists of over 60,000 acres of forested hillsides, lakes, and miles of bike paths and hiking trails. It is not uncommon to see deer, porcupines, raccoons, and the occasional black bear. There are also incredible numbers of wildflowers, birds, butterflies, and trees. The differences in habitat and altitude provide great birding. To register please visit www.alleganynaturepilgrimage.org or register at the pilgrimage.
“Green” Cleaners Helps to Make Buffalo Greener
Colvin Cleaners in Kenmore, one of the area’s only environmentally-friendly dry cleaners, has donated tree seedlings to local elementary schools in honor of Arbor Day. For more information on their services and a link to green dry cleaning, visit http://www.colvincleaners.com/environ.htm.
Ethanol Plant Gets Go-Ahead
The ethanol plant, proposed by RiverWright Energy for Buffalo’s Old First Ward has received two nods of approval. Buffalo’s Planning Board decided that no further environmental studies are required. The project also has approval to store additional flammable liquids on site as required for the business venture to proceed. The Buffalo Common Council and Zoning Board must also approve the project before it moves ahead. For details on the proposed project, visit http://www.buffaloethanol.com/projectoverview.html .
Nature and the Arts at Beaver Meadow
Nature and the Arts come together on July 14. Beaver Meadow Audubon Center is partnering with the Arts Council for Wyoming County to present a day to celebrate nature and the arts. From 1-6 pm, we're inviting artists, writers, photographers and musicians to experience the beauty of the 324 acre Beaver Meadow Nature Preserve while practicing their art. If you enjoy painting from nature, or reading and sharing nature-themed poetry and stories of your own; if you are a photographer interested in finding a perfectly enjoyable and lovely setting to shoot, or a musician who might be interested in playing in harmony with the birds, you are welcome to join us for this special day, set aside for the appreciation of art and nature! If you are not an artist yourself but appreciate both art and nature, we’d love to see you too! The entire arts day will culminate in a musical event at 6pm, right at the center's headquarters on Welch Road. If you are an artist who would like more info, please call the Arts Council for Wyoming County at 585-237-3517 and ask for Bethany, or email her at butler@artswyco.org . Or, just plan to join us! Musicians, please call for specific information.
Celebrate Urban Birds
From May 10-13, 2007, the Cornell Lab of Ornithology invites city residents to "Celebrate Urban Birds" through activities such as gardening, bird watching, art, and science. These events will raise awareness about birds in the city and help scientists learn how birds use urban habitats. People of all ages and backgrounds can participate in any way they wish, on their own or with local organizations. To aid scientists, they can watch city birds for at least 10 minutes, check off 15 target species of birds, and send the information through the mail or via the Internet to the Cornell Lab of Ornithology's Urban Birds Studies project.
While supplies last, everyone who signs up will receive a Celebration Kit in English and Spanish with a colorful urban birds poster, educational materials about birds and urban greening, data form, and packet of sunflower seeds to plant in pots and gardens. Sign up at www.urbanbirds.org/celebration . Despite the dramatic increase in urbanization, we can still help the birds and connect with nature!
Buffalo Audubon Birdathon
Help Buffalo Audubon raise some money while enjoying bird watching. This annual fund raiser is for all ages and birding skill levels. Simply gather sponsors then go out into the field and count bird species for any day between May 18th and May 21st. This is a great opportunity to meet other birders and get out into nature. We can set you up with a team or you can go out on your own. For more information or to receive a sponsorship form, please contact Paul at (585) 457-3228.
Globeo and Climate Change Film Fest at the Buffalo Museum of Science
The Buffalo Museum of Science’s “Globeo” Exhibit is underway until June 22. Stations allow visitors to appreciate the vast biodiversity on our planet and gain an understanding of how changing climactic conditions may impact our planet. Regional environmental groups and scientists will provide a special focus on climate change effects on the Great Lakes. For more information on the exhibit and related activities, visit http://daemen.edu/~byoung/Globeo.pdf .
In conjunction with the Sierra Club, the Buffalo Science Museum is hosting a film fest on Sunday, May 6. A number of short documentaries addressing climate change will be shown as follows: "Wind Over Water" which details America's first windfarm at 1:10pm, "Power Shift" which discusses how energy touches our lives at 1:30pm, "Earth to America" which provides a comedic look at global warming beginning at 2:00pm, "Kilowatt Ours" which describes the coal mines of West Virginia as well as solar panels of Florida at 3:40, and concluding with a 4:25pm showing of “Nobelity” which features nine Nobel laureates commenting on the world’s most pressing problems. For further information, call (716) 896-5200 or visit www.buffalomuseumofscience.org. Admission is free to Museum members. In order to defray the costs of its three month long GLOBEO global warming program, the Museum will be charging its regular admission of $7 for adults, $6 for seniors and $5 for students and children under three. The admission price includes entrance to GLOBEO and the museum, as well as to the festival.
Buffalo ReUse in Business
Buffalo ReUse aims to salvage materials from demolition sites and sell these for use in other building projects. Michael Gainer has founded the non-profit organization which hopes to reduce the amount of building materials ending up in landfills. The organization will be selling salvaged building materials and fixtures on Sunday, May 6 from 12-3pm at their warehouse at 459 Ellicott Street in downtown Buffalo. Buffalo ReUse accepts donated building materials and needs volunteers to assist in its salvage efforts. To contact the organization, phone 885-4131 or email info@buffaloreuse.org .
Important Bird Area Program Sponsored by Audubon Society
The aim of the Important Bird Area Program is to identify and conserve key breeding and feeding sites for birds. An Important Bird Area is a place that provides essential habitat for one or more species of bird, whether in breeding season, winter, or during migration. These sites are considered to be exceptionally important for bird conservation. Protection of the most critical of these sites is one important approach to the protection of many bird species. Within the United States, the IBA program is part of the larger Partners in Flight program that, in turn, is part of the North American Bird Conservation Initiative. These larger programs have additional landscape and management-based approaches to bird conservation. Taken together, these approaches are designed to help ensure the survival of all bird species. The National Audubon Society has developed an online searchable database of IBAs at http://iba.audubon.org/iba/siteSearch.do . You can search by species, site name, BCR, etc., or you can view a site summary for an IBA.
Beat Fest 2007
The Buffalo Environmentalist Action Team will host its 3rd AnnualBeat Fest on Saturday, June 2. This all day benefit concert raises money for PUSH (People United for Sustainable Housing) Buffalo, which is a grassroots 501 c3 non-profit company working to alleviate poor living conditions on Buffalo's West Side through advocacy, cooperative living, and community organizing.The festival will be held at Breezy Hill 10458 Chautauqua Rd. in New Albion, NY 14719.
The all day festival includes live music provided by theJony James Blues Band, Pseudo Slang, Todd Eberwine Band,DJ Cutler and Universal, Fresh Guac aka the Flagship Crew, Alex Mead, Jeff Campise, Laura Jean, andShane Walters (Australia).There will be two hand drum workshops provided byT.R. McKotch throughout the day. Beer will be provided byFlying Bison. There will be a chinese auction with items donated by Western New York businesses. The first fifty people willreceive a free BEAT FEST T-shirt.There will be plenty of opportunities to enjoy the outdoors whether you like to fish, hike, canoe, camp out, or just observe nature. Donations are greatly appreciated. BEAT FEST is sponsored by theAllen St. Hardware Cafe. For more information, contact Darren Kresge at 716-512-4187 or
darren@beatfest.com .
Citizen’s Regional Transportation Council Provides Speakers
With increased attention on ways to reduce our environmental footprint and save money on gasoline, many individuals are looking for alternatives to driving. Citizen’s Regional Transportation Council has speakers who are available to present the environmental benefits of Metro Rail to groups. Metro Rail is the ultimate in "green" transportation, since it runs on hydropower from Niagara Falls. To contact the group, visit http://www.citizenstransit.org/ .
Heartwood Sponsors Summer Wilderness Skills School
A unique learning adventure for kids is offered by Heartwood Wilderness Skills School. A day program is offered from August 6-10 for kids ages 9-12 and 13-15. The program includes adventure, hiking, tracking, forest ecology and a number of survival skills. For more information, visit http://daemen.edu/~byoung/Heartwood.pdf.
Free Fish and Wildlife Festival and Youth Fishing Contest
The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Lower Great lakes Fishery Resources Office (LGLFRO) will be hosting a “Fish and Wildlife Festival and Youth Fishing Contest” on Saturday, June 2 to showcase local and regional aspects of fish and wildlife resources. This event provides a wonderful opportunity for children to learn more about our natural resources, as well as take part in the Niagara River Angler Association’s annual fishing contest for fun and awards. Many local natural resource agencies and conservation associations will be represented, and animal exhibits will be on display for the public. Registration for the youth fishing contest begins at 8am and the contest is held from 8:30-11:30am. The Fish and Wildlife Festival is scheduled from 11am to 5pm. The event is held in Hyde Park in Niagara Falls, NY. From Pine Avenue (NY 62A), enter at the Robbins Dr. entrance. For more info, call 716-691-5456, ext. 29.
Honeybee Demise Causes Speculation
Beekeepers in at least 28 states have reported extensive losses to their beehives. Various hypotheses have been posed to explain the dramatic reductions including disorientation due to cell phone signals, effects of the varroa mite and climate change. Recent evidence suggests that a fungus may be responsible for the Colony Collapse Disorder. Researchers have identified a single-celled fungus, Nosema ceranae, in some of the affected hives. While it may not be the only factor in the recent demise of beehives, it is probably a contributing factor along with pesticide exposure and other mites. If the fungus is widespread, there are some chemicals that can target this pathogen. For more technical information on the ability of bees to combat fungal infections, visit http://www.apimondia.org/apiacta/articles/2003/glinski_1.pdf .
Urban Roots Garden Center Now Open
Urban Roots has opened its westside community garden center at 428 Rhode Island Avenue in Buffalo. This cooperative project is accepting members and needs volunteers to assist in garden planning, planting, city beautification efforts, membership recruitment and more. Contact the organization at info@urbanroots.org or 886-2450.
Fast Growing Hardwood Trees Available
RPM Ecosystems advertises trees that grow three times faster. Native hardwoods are available and can be ordered from their website at www.rpmecosystems.com . The company has deliver to Olmstead Park on May 12 for several oak and maple species. To order for this dropoff date, visit http://www.rpmecosystems.com/RPM-Retail-Mail-Order.pdf .
Daemen College Receives Kresge Foundation Grant
The Kresge Foundation has awarded a challenge grant to Daemen College for $900,000. These funds will be used to assist the college in its fund-raising efforts for its new Center for Information, Research and Community Programs. This proposed building is a $10 million, 45,000 square foot facility which will house the college’s library and offices related to its community programs. The new structure will be built to meet LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) criteria for energy and water conservation and good land use strategies. Ground-breaking for the facility is scheduled for May 15.
The Kresge Foundation is a national foundation with $3 billion in assets. Through its challenge grant programs, The Kresge Foundation seeks to strengthen non-profits by catalyzing their growth, connecting them to their stakeholders, and challenging greater private support. In 2006, the Foundation awarded 205 grants totaling $146,187,060 to non-profit organizations in the United States, Canada, United Kingdom, South Africa and Mexico.
Animal Training and Enrichment Class at Hawk Creek
For the first time at Hawk Creek, Animal Training & Enrichment will be offered to the public by guest instructor Emily Insalaco, Denver Zoo Manager of Behavior Programs! Learn techniques to encourage appropriate behavior & healthy habits for any zoo animal or pet in your life! The training will be held from 9am-5pm on May 5 and 6. Get an inside look at a professional trainer in action! Cost is $150 per person for two full days of instruction. For registration, contact Hawk Creek Wildlife Center at 716-652-8646 or email info@hawkcreek.org .
Volunteer Opportunities at Tifft Nature Preserve and the Science Museum
The Buffalo Museum of Science has volunteer and internship opportunities available for teens, college students and adults. For information, contact Monika McFoy, Director of Community Programs, at 896-5200, ext. 343. Tifft Nature Preserve also needs volunteers for their programs, communications, fund-raising and other events. Call 662-1342 or email tifftfriends@yahoo.com .
Iroquois Observations
“Iroquois Observations” is a program designed to provide information to the public about migratory birds at the Iroquois National Wildlife Refuge as well as the ecological significance of the Refuge and the diversity of habitat and wildlife. Seasonally, knowledgeable birders equipped with spotting scopes, binoculars and reference books, are stationed at an overlook to provide visitors with a closeup view, identification and natural history of the visiting birds. Driving tours to other nearby locations and walking tours are also available to experience the full complexity of the Refuge. All programs are free and open to the public. Family days and other activities are also offered. For a schedule of activities, visit http://www.fws.gov/northeast/iroquois/CurrentEvents.html#Observations .
Make Every Day Earth Day Expo-Organizational Displays Needed
The summer “Make Every Day Earth Day Expo” at the Buffalo Zoo is just around the corner. We’re hoping that your organization will be able to join us at this year’s celebration on Saturday, June 23, 2007, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. It promises to be a great event. The event will be advertised in regional newspapers, newsletters, radio, posters, on our website and in the Buffalo Zoo newsletter that is sent to zoo members. Please feel free to advertise the Expo in your organizational newsletters to help us promote this great family fun event. Information on current sponsors and organizers is available at
http://daemen.edu/~byoung/WNY_EarthDay.doc .
The registration fee for the Expo is $ 25 and includes registration, a display table, 2 chairs and free zoo admission for display volunteers. Extra tables are $10. Parking is free on the streets surrounding the Zoo and $3.25 in the Zoo lot. Please fill out and return the registration form available at http://daemen.edu/~byoung/Family_Expo_Regist.doc along with your registration payment by May 26th if you would like to participate.
We hope you will join us in promoting this year’s Western New York Earth Day activities as we try to bring the message of protecting and enhancing the environment into every WNY household. If you have any questions, please contact Sharon Benz, Project Coordinator, WNY Earth Day Committee at Daemen College’s Center for Sustainable Communities and Civic Engagement at 716-839-8524 or sbenz@daemen.edu.
AAA Hosts Go Green
The American Automobile Association (AAA) has teamed up with General Motors for “Go Green” on May 5 from 10am-1pm. This event will include an opportunity for individuals to drop off batteries from cars, boats, tractors or lawn equipment for disposal. AAA will also conduct a mercury switch replacement program, providing installation of safer ball bearing switches at no cost. GM will be displaying their alternative fuel vehicles and will have experts on site to answer questions. AAA is located at 100 International Dr. (off Sheridan Dr.) in Amherst. For more information, call 633-9860.
Mark Your Calendar for the Third Annual Environmental Summit
Daemen College will host its Environmental Summit on Saturday, September 29 from 8:30am-1pm. This free event is designed to bring together members of environmental organizations in Western New York and interested citizens to share information on their activities and discuss future directions. Please mark your calendar and plan to attend.
Upcoming Community Activities:
Wednesday, May 2
Great Lakes Ecosystem Workshop-A Reinstein Woods workshop from 4-6pm. Learn about the Great Lakes and role that Lake Erie and Lake Ontario play in our lives in Western New York. The workshop will cover invasive species, biodiversity and current issues. The workshop will also introduce the Center for Ocean Sciences Education Excellence-Great Lakes (COSEE-GL), which offers teachers and non-formal educators information and updates on programs around the Great Lakes basin. Educational materials will be distributed as part of program. Advance registration required by April 27, 2007. Call 683-5959 to register.
Thursday, May 3
With Speed and Violence: Why Scientists Fear Tipping Points in Climate Change- Author and environmental consultant Fred Pearce discusses how environmental “tipping points” affect the speed of future climate change. His new book explains the speed and violence of past natural climate change and what it portends for our future. “With Speed and Violence” tells the stories of scientists and their work, enumerating the growing evidence for global warming and the large climatic effects it may unleash. Presentation is at 7:00 pm at the Roycroft Inn, 40 South Grove Street, East Aurora.
Wellness Walk-Join others from 10:00 AM 12:00 PM at Tifft Nature Preserve for a healthy outdoor walk with a botanical emphasis. This drop-in program runs all year. No advance registration needed. A $2.00 donation per person appreciated.
Directions on Directions-The Buffalo Orienteering Club will provide free instruction on how to use maps and compasses beginning at 6pm at the Chestnut Ridge Park Casino. Participation will require a $2 map fee. For details, call 903-1180 or visit www.buffalo-orienteering.bfn.org .
Wind Action Group Meeting-Join us from 5:30 to 7:00 PM in the Ciurczak & Co. Office at 628 Washington
Street, Buffalo, located between the entrance doors and the right exit door of the Market Arcade Theater on Washington Street between Tupper and Chippewa. Ring the Ciurczak & Co bell, and when we buzz you in, take the elevator to the 4th floor.
Saturday, May 5
Spring Ecology Hike-Join Earth Spirit for a leisurely hike through Orchard Park’s Birdsong Park from 10am-noon. The hike will focus on spring wildflowers and wildlife ecology. Contact the Orchard Park Recreation Department at 662-6450 for details.
Iroquois Observations-Join others at Iroquois National Wildlife Refuge to observe spring bird migration. From 8-10am Warbler walk, 1-5pm Scope watch, 1-2:30pm Hands on creating a backyard habitat, 6-8pm Secretive birds of the marsh, and 8:30-10pm Owl prowl. For more information, contact Garner Light at (716) 772-5110 or garnerlight@hotmail.com .
Boy Scout Merit Badge Workshop-This Beaver Meadow workshop is for scouts interested in earning the Environmental Science Badge. Cost is $12 for this 10am-4pm workshop and preregistration is required. Contact Beaver Meadow at 1-800-377-1520 or email info@buffaloaudubon.org for more info.
Tour Guide Training-Join a training session to become a volunteer tour guide at Reinstein Woods. No experience is necessary, just a love of nature and the desire to share it with others. Advance registration required for this 1pm session. Call 683-5959 to register.
Harris Hill State Forest-Join the Niagara Frontier Botanical Society on a field trip to this site in Chautauqua County. For trip information, contact Michael Siuta at 822-2544.
Spring Birding Hike-Mike Buccieri will lead a quest from 8am-11am to find all of the birds that have recently returned to the Kenneglenn Preserve. A Western New York birder for over 30 years, Mr. Buccieri freely shares his wealth of knowledge about flight patterns, bird calls and bird behaviors. His special area of interest is songbirds, especially warblers. Although the bare trees make the birds easier to see, you will still need binoculars. This event is sponsored by the Western New York Land Conservancy. For more information, call 716-687-1225 or email wnlyc@wynlc.org . Reservations are required and cost is $5 for non-members.
“Go Green”-AAA (American Automobile Association) is hosting a Great Battery Roundup and display of alternative fuel vehicles marketed by GM. Experts will be available to answer questions about the hybrids, fuel cell and flexfuel vehicles. The event will be from 10am-1pm at AAA, 100 International Dr. (off Sheridan between Hopkins and Youngs) in Amherst. For info, call 633-9860.
Astronomy Program-The Penn Dixie site will be the location for a program to view the flashing colors of the Dog Star Sirius in the West as well as other constellations. For more info, visit http://www.penndixie.org/cal/cal.html
Spring Wildflower Walk at Knox Farm State Park- Enjoy a free hike beginning at 9am in Knox Farm State Park. Contact Beaver Meadow at 1-800-377-1520 or email info@buffaloaudubon.org for more info.
Spring Wildflower ID course, Part 2- Enjoy the many varieties of spring wildflowers as we take you on this educational adventure from 10am-2pm. Cost is $20 ($15 members). Contact Beaver Meadow at 1-800-377-1520 or email info@buffaloaudubon.org for more info.
Landmark Society’s 21st Annual Regional Preservation Conference-This conference, sponsored by the Landmark Society based in Rochester, will be held from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. in historic Leroy, NY. It is the most comprehensive and enjoyable annual historic preservation conference in upstate each year. Find out how traditional villages are preserving property values and bringing new life to their historic main streets as part of this full day of preservation workshops. The one-day event covers everything from historic house maintenance and restoration to technical training sessions. For info, visit http://www.landmarksociety.org .
Animal Training & Enrichment Class- Learn techniques to encourage appropriate behavior & healthy habits for any zoo animal or pet in your life! The training will be held from 9am-5pm on May 5 and 6 at Hawk Creek. Get an inside look at a professional trainer in action! Cost is $150 per person for two full days of instruction. For registration, contact Hawk Creek Wildlife Center at 716-652-8646 or email info@hawkcreek.org .
Sunday, May 6
Family Walk at Beaver Meadow- Join us for a free walk beginning at 2pm through the woods as our naturalists help you seek out the natural wonders that abound at Beaver Meadow. Contact Beaver Meadow at 1-800-377-1520 or email info@buffaloaudubon.org .
Early Bird Walk- Start your day off on a 9:00am walk at Reinstein Woods Nature Preserve with volunteer Linda Arndt to look and listen for migrating birds. Bring binoculars if you have them. Advance registration required. Call 683-5959 to register.
Twenty First Century Survival- Turn everyday household materials into a life saving survival kit…learn to prevent and respond to common outdoor emergencies… investigate the link between mind & body in adverse conditions. Do a lot with very little! You’ll be surprised!!! Program meets from 1-6pm and costs $35 adults/$15 children. To register, call 716-655-7622 or email: deaheartwood@aol.com . This Heartwood Wilderness Skills School event will be held at the WNY Land Conservancy’s ‘Kenneglenn Nature Preserve’.
Tifft Nature Preserve Guided Tour-Free tours at 2pm are given every Sunday beginning April 1st. Learn about the rich history and bio-diversity of this “jewel in the crown of the Queen City of the Great Lakes”. For more information, please call (716) 825-6397 or tifftfriends@yahoo.com .
Sierra Club Film Festival-Festival will feature the following short films: “Power Shift”, “Wind Over Water”, “Earth to America”, “Kilowatt Ours” and “Nobelity”. Films will be shown from 1-5pm at the Buffalo Museum of Science. This event is free with admission to the Buffalo Museum of Science. For more info, call (716) 896-5200.
Wings of Spring-Come and celebrate International Migratory Bird Day (IMBD) at the Buffalo Zoo from 11:00 a.m.-3:00 p.m! This year, the theme is “Birds in a Changing Climate.” Birds are key indicators of environment change, sounding the alarm about the impacts of pesticides, polluted water and loss of habitat. Come to the Buffalo Zoo and be an honorary bird as you migrate to various stations, participating in activities and crafts, and meeting some of our bird ambassadors! Reservations are not required and the event is free with Zoo admission. Questions please call 837-3900 ext. 133.
Monday, May 7
Creating a Vintage Garden-An adult gardening class as part of the “How Does Your Garden Grow” series at the Buffalo and Erie County Botanical Gardens. Class meets from 6-8pm and is $11 or all 6 in the series (4/16-5/21) cost $60. Visit www.buffalogardens.com for information.
Tuesday, May 8
Ecology of Chaumont Barrens-David Griffin will discuss the rare Prairie Smoke and other unusual wildflowers in this Nature Conservancy preserve. This talk is part of the general monthly meeting for the Niagara Frontier Botanical Society at 7:30pm at the Harlem Road Community Center, Harlem Rd. and Lincoln St., in Snyder. This free program is open to the public.
"LISC Buffalo"-Michael Clarke will discuss LISC and its activities at the Buffalo Architecture Center from 12:15 to 1pm. LISC is a non-profit agency that helps communities build better housing, more vibrant commercial areas, safer streets, and employment and recreational opportunities.LISC invests in neighborhood organizations demonstrating a willingness to build capacity and sustainability in a broader community development framework.The Buffalo Architecture Center is located at 617 Main Street in the Market Arcade Complex. For info, call 852-3300.
Wednesday, May 9
“Back to the Late Cretaceous: Revisiting the Dinosaur Bonebed in South Dakota”-Glen LaPlaca, from Past & Present Rock Shop, will present this topic at 7pm in the auditorium at the Gateway Executive Office on Rt. 5 in Hamburg. Cost is $3 or free for Hamburg Natural History Society members. Call 627-4560 for more information.
Buffalo Ornithological Society Meeting-Organization will meet at 7pm in the Cummings Room of the Buffalo Museum of Science. Jerry Farrell will discuss “Bird Banding at Lewiston Station: Spring and Fall 2006”.
Thursday, May 10
Wellness Walk-Join others from 10:00 AM 12:00 PM at Tifft Nature Preserve for a healthy outdoor walk with a botanical emphasis. This drop-in program runs all year. No advance registration needed. A $2.00 donation per person appreciated.
Advanced Tour Leader Training- For anyone interested in helping with Audubon Days or classroom presentations.“Nature in Action” will be the subject of this Beaver Meadow Nature Center session from 10am-noon. Contact Beaver Meadow at 1-800-377-1520 or email info@buffaloaudubon.org for more info.
Saturday, May 12
Iroquois Observations-Join others at Iroquois National Wildlife Refuge to observe spring bird migration. From 8-10am Warbler walk, 10-11am Bird Banding Demo, 11am-12:30 Nature Walk, 1-2:30pm Focus on Bluebirds, and 1-5pm Scope Watch. For more information, contact Garner Light at (716) 772-5110 or garnerlight@hotmail.com .
Tour Leader Training- This is your chance to make a difference in a child’s life. Learn how to lead tours at Beaver Meadow. Session 1 of 2 (Beaver Meadow Audubon Center). Training is from 10am-2pm. A donation is appreciated. Contact Beaver Meadow at 1-800-377-1520 or email info@buffaloaudubon.org for more info.
Nature Series- Topic to be announced for this 12-2pm session at the Beaver Meadow Audubon Center. Cost is $5 ($3 members). Contact Beaver Meadow at 1-800-377-1520 or email info@buffaloaudubon.org.
Birding for Beginners- Can’t tell a wren from a warbler? Learn the basics of birdwatching and how to use binoculars. Join us at Reinstein Woods Nature Preserve at 9:00 am. Advance registration required. Call 683-5959 to register.
“Flyway by the Skyway”- Celebrate the spring bird migration on the nature trails at Tifft Nature Preserve (from 8-10:30am) and Times Beach Nature Preserve (10:45-11:45am) with this guided birding tour. Meet at Tifft Nature Preserve and our experienced bird enthusiast will lead you on Tifft’s trails. Then, after a short drive to Times Beach, participate in a guided birding opportunity along the shoreline of Lake Erie. Both Tifft and Times have the distinction of nearly 200 bird species sightings annually, many during peak migration times like this, and are recognized by the Audubon Society as an Important Bird Areas.! Beginners and intermediates encouraged to sign-up. Pre-registration required. Cost to members $4/nonmembers $5. Please call 896-5200, ext. 338.
Nature Series, “An Inconvenient Truth Party”- Come to Beaver Meadow Audubon Center and watch the Al Gore documentary about global warming followed by a brief talk from UB Greenfounder Walter Simpson and Nan Simpson from 12-2pm. Donation is requested.
Household Hazardous Waste Collection-Dropoff at Erie Community College North Campus, Williamsville (enter from Wehrle Drive) from 9am-2pm. For info, visit http://daemen.edu/~byoung/ECCdropoff.pdf.
Sunday, May 13
Spring Harvest and Gourmet Dinner-Join Earth Spirit for a wild edible plant hike and gathering followed by a four-course dinner featuring both wild and organically grown seasonal foods. The event will be at The Woodlands in Sardinia from 2-6pm and cost is $40 ($32 members). For more info, contact earthspiritedu@verizon.net or 716-941-6267.
Family Walk at Beaver Meadow- Join us for a free walk beginning at 2pm through the woods as our naturalists help you seek out the natural wonders that abound at Beaver Meadow. Contact Beaver Meadow at 1-800-377-1520 or email info@buffaloaudubon.org .
Tifft Nature Preserve Guided Tour-Free tours at 2pm are given every Sunday beginning April 1st. Learn about the rich history and bio-diversity of this “jewel in the crown of the Queen City of the Great Lakes”. For more information, please call (716) 825-6397 or tifftfriends@yahoo.com .
Zoar Valley Hike-Meet at 12:30 pm, at the Valentines Flats parking space. If you are coming from Buffalo and want to carpool meet at 11 am across Delaware Park at the Albright-Knox Art Gallery. We will take a mindful hike into Zoar and observe her beautiful vistas, hike up the pyramid, cross the Cattaragus Creek together (be prepared to get wet or go barefoot across the creek), hike to a waterfalls, hug a ancient tree and enjoy the splendor that is Zoar. Call Albert at 465-3927 if you have any questions or ideas.
Monday, May 14
Attracting Birds and Butterflies-An adult gardening class as part of the “How Does Your Garden Grow” series at the Buffalo and Erie County Botanical Gardens. Class meets from 6-8pm and is $11 or all 6 in the series (4/16-5/21) cost $60. Visit www.buffalogardens.com for information.
Tuesday, May 15
Jack Hanna’s Animal Adventure-Jungle Jack’s live show features many of his favorite animal friends as well as stories and footage from his adventures around the world. This event is presented by Shea’s Performing Arts Center and the Buffalo Zoo. Tickets for this 7pm event are available from Ticketmaster at 852-5000, www.ticketmaster.com , or the Shea’s ticket office.
Citizens Regional Transit Corp Meeting-Monthly meeting will be held 12:00-1:30pm at 3330 Main Street, Buffalo. The CRTC meets in the educational wing of University Presbyterian Church, corner of Main Street and Niagara Falls Blvd. Enter through the parking lot door, take elevator to "ML." The meeting will concentrate on recent developments in support for expanding Metro Rail in Buffalo, to the Cobblestone District. Meetings are free and open to the public. Bag lunches welcome!
Wednesday, May 16
Babes in the Woods- “Exploring Ponds” is the focus of this nature discovery program at Beaver Meadow Audubon Center designed for 3-5 year olds and their parents from 10am-11:30am. Registration is required. Cost is $5 child & adult/ $3 each additional child. Contact Beaver Meadow at 1-800-377-1520 or email info@buffaloaudubon.org for more info.
Tour Leader Training- This is your chance to make a difference in a child’s life. Learn how to lead tours at Beaver Meadow. Session 1 of 2 (Beaver Meadow Audubon Center). Training is from 10am-2pm. A donation is appreciated.
Evening with Creepy Crawlies- Join us at Reinstein Woods at 6:30pm to experience the breath-taking film “Microcosmos” and meet the worms that turn our garbage into compost! Advance registration required. Call 683-5959.
Thursday, May 17
Wellness Walk-Join others from 10:00 AM 12:00 PM at Tifft Nature Preserve for a healthy outdoor walk with a botanical emphasis. This drop-in program runs all year. No advance registration needed. A $2.00 donation per person appreciated.
Friday, May 18
"Salvaging/Using salvaged materials in your historic home"-Talk beginning at 6:30pm at Karpeles Porter Hall, 453 Porter Ave. For more information, contact the Allentown Association at 881-1024 or allentown@bfn.org .
Saturday, May 19-Sunday, May 20
Spring Wildflower Weekend-Join us at Allegany State Park for a weekend of wildflower walks and folklore, fossil hunting, stream studies and star watches. Add games, a campfire, good food and the sense of freedom of being “out in the woods” and you have an unforgettable experience. Ideal for families with young children. For additional information, please call Nature Ed-Ventures at 716-479-9190 or visitwww.natureed-ventures.com .
Saturday, May 19
Buffalo Audubon Society Field Trip-Join Wayne Gall for a 9am trip to Protection Bog in Holland. Space is limited so call to register. Cost is $7 ($5 members). Contact Beaver Meadow at 1-800-377-1520 or email info@buffaloaudubon.org .
Raw Foods Workshop-Join Earth Spirit for a lecture and discussion focused upon a raw foods diet and lifestyle followed by hands-on preparation techniques and samples. The event will be at Twin Pond Hollow from 6:30-9pm and cost is $30 ($24 members). For more info, contact earthspiritedu@verizon.net or 716-941-6267.
Geocaching/Letterboxing Workshop- Learn all about these two outdoor treasure hunt games. A short indoor session will be followed by some actual “treasure” hunting at Beaver Meadow Audubon Center. Session is from 10am-12pm. Contact Beaver Meadow at 1-800-377-1520 or email info@buffaloaudubon.org .
Bug-tastic Crafts- Get buggy with us at Reinstein Woods and put your creative talents to work as we make spring bug crafts to celebrate their renewed activity. A short walk in the woods will also take place. Advance registration required. Call 683-5959 to register for this 10:30am session.
“Dig with the Experts”-Join others at Penn Dixie for fossil collecting, viewing of sunspots and solar flares and a special program with the experts. To register, call 627-4560.
“Green and Growing Conference”-Join others to explore the best ways for tree planting to move forward from 8:30 am-1:30 pm at Buffalo State College.
Garden Day at Martin Luther King Park-Family event about gardening, trees and city nature presented with Cornell Cooperative Extension and Buffalo Olmsted Parks Conservancy from 10am-4pm outside the Buffalo Museum of Science. For more info, call (716) 896-5200.
“A Quiet Walk” at Knox Farm State Park- Enjoy a free hike to explore the sights and sounds of nature beginning at 9am in Knox Farm State Park. Contact Beaver Meadow at 1-800-377-1520 or email info@buffaloaudubon.org for more info.
Tour Leader Training- This is your chance to make a difference in a child’s life. Learn how to lead tours at Beaver Meadow. Session 2 of 2 (Beaver Meadow Audubon Center). Training is from 10am-2pm. A donation is appreciated. Contact Beaver Meadow at 1-800-377-1520 or email info@buffaloaudubon.org for more info.
Sunday, May 20
Family Walk at Beaver Meadow- Join us for a free walk beginning at 2pm through the woods as our naturalists help you seek out the natural wonders that abound at Beaver Meadow. Contact Beaver Meadow at 1-800-377-1520 or email info@buffaloaudubon.org .
Brownie Girl Scout Merit Badge Workshop-This Beaver Meadow workshop is for Brownies interested in earning the Wildlife patch. Cost is $8 for this 1pm-4pm workshop and preregistration is required. Contact Beaver Meadow at 1-800-377-1520 or email info@buffaloaudubon.org for more info.
Spring Bird Walk at Penn Dixie-Join Marilyn O’Connell at Penn Dixie for this free hike beginning at 9am.
Tifft Nature Preserve Guided Tour-Free tours at 2pm are given every Sunday beginning April 1st. Learn about the rich history and bio-diversity of this “jewel in the crown of the Queen City of the Great Lakes”. For more information, please call (716) 825-6397 or tifftfriends@yahoo.com .
“Wind Energy: What the World Needs Now”-A talk presented by Bill Nowak of The Wind Action Group at 2pm at the Buffalo Museum of Science. This event is free with admission to the Buffalo Museum of Science. For more info, call (716) 896-5200.
Bird Watching in Zoar Valley-Join others from 7-9:30am to bird watch in various habitats including meadow, forest, wetland and ponds. The hike will be on easy terrain on the North Rim trails. For more information, email Julie@zoarvalley.org or call 716-380-1430 to register.
Monday, May 21
Orchids and Exotics-An adult gardening class as part of the “How Does Your Garden Grow” series at the Buffalo and Erie County Botanical Gardens. Class meets from 6-8pm and is $11 or all 6 in the series (4/16-5/21) cost $60. Visit www.buffalogardens.com for information.
Tuesday, May 22
Sierra Club Monthly Meeting-Join others to discuss Sierra Club activities and issues. The group meets in room 221, Duns Scotus Hall, Daemen College at 7pm. Visit www.daemen.edu/maps for directions.
Wednesday, May 23
Tour Leader Training- This is your chance to make a difference in a child’s life. Learn how to lead tours at Beaver Meadow. Session 2 of 2 (Beaver Meadow Audubon Center). Training is from 10am-2pm. A donation is appreciated. Contact Beaver Meadow at 1-800-377-1520 or email info@buffaloaudubon.org for more info.
Buffalo Ornithological Society Meeting-Organization will meet at 7pm in the Cummings Room of the Buffalo Museum of Science. Dr. Wayne Gall will present the lecture “The Birds and the Bugs: Avian Relationships with West Nile Virus and Lyme Disease”.
Thursday, May 24
Wellness Walk-Join others from 10:00 AM 12:00 PM at Tifft Nature Preserve for a healthy outdoor walk with a botanical emphasis. This drop-in program runs all year. No advance registration needed. A $2.00 donation per person appreciated.
Saturday, May 26
Earth Pigment Paints and River Cane Vials- Learn to identify, process, apply mineral paints to bark and stone using primitive brushes. Make and take your own set of pigment containers made of river cane! Program meets from 1-5pm and costs $35 adults/$15 youth. To register, call 716-655-7622 or email: deaheartwood@aol.com . This Heartwood Wilderness Skills School event will be held at the WNY Land Conservancy’s ‘Kenneglenn Nature Preserve’.
Sunday, May 27
Family Walk at Beaver Meadow- Join us for a free walk beginning at 2pm through the woods as our naturalists help you seek out the natural wonders that abound at Beaver Meadow. Contact Beaver Meadow at 1-800-377-1520 or email info@buffaloaudubon.org .
Tifft Nature Preserve Guided Tour-Free tours at 2pm are given every Sunday beginning April 1st. Learn about the rich history and bio-diversity of this “jewel in the crown of the Queen City of the Great Lakes”. For more information, please call (716) 825-6397 or tifftfriends@yahoo.com .
Thursday, May 31
Blue Moon Walk- Will the moon really be blue? Take a walk with us at Reinstein Woods Nature Preserve under the light of the second full moon in May and learn more about the folklore behind this rare lunar occurrence. Advance registration required for this 8:00PM walk. Call 683-5959 to register.
Wellness Walk-Join others from 10:00 AM 12:00 PM at Tifft Nature Preserve for a healthy outdoor walk with a botanical emphasis. This drop-in program runs all year. No advance registration needed. A $2.00 donation per person appreciated.
Friday, June 1-Sunday, June 3
Annual Allegany Nature Pilgrimage-This event is an outdoor learning experience that combines fun with a variety of nature-oriented activities at Allegany State Park in southwestern New York State. To register please visit www.alleganynaturepilgrimage.org or register at the pilgrimage.
Saturday, June 2
Healing with Herbs Seminar-Join Earth Spirit for a full day immersion into the practice of medical herbalism focused upon history, philosophy, fieldwork and preparation processes. The event will be at The Woodlands in Sardinia from 10am-4pm and cost is $35 ($25 members). For more info, contact earthspiritedu@verizon.net or 716-941-6267.
Tour of “Toxic” Communities-Joe Gardella, UB Professor, will host a tour of impacted communities in Erie County that identifies community engagement by residents who live near toxic sites. Planned visits include 858 E. Ferry, Hickory Woods, Seneca Babcock, Tonawanda Coke, and the Huntley Plant in Tonawanda. Check the Sierra Club website for details.
Behind the Scenes at the Buffalo Zoo-This 1pm-3pm workshop offers an exciting experience for family members to go behind closed doors at the Buffalo Zoo. Cost is $20 per person ($25 nonmembers). To register, call 995-6128.
Star Lights, Drinks & Bites-Buffalo Science Museum is the site for this celestial gala from 7-11pm. Guests will enjoy local wine, beer and hors d’oeuvres while exploring the museum and viewing the skies through telescopes. Tickets for this fundraise are $25 until 6/1 and $30 at the door.
National Trails Day-Hike into the Niagara Gorge at Niagara Fall State Park. For info, call 761-745-7848.
Third Annual Beat Fest 2007-Join the Buffalo Environmentalist Action Team for an all day benefit concert for PUSH (People United for Sustainable Housing) Buffalo at Breezy Hill, 10458 Chautauqua Rd., New Albion. Live music will be provided by theJony James Blues Band, Pseudo Slang, Todd Eberwine Band,DJ Cutler and Universal, Fresh Guacaka the Flagship Crew, Alex Mead, Jeff Campise, Laura Jean, andShane Walters (Australia).Two hand drum workshops will be provided byT.R. McKotch. Beer will be provided byFlying Bison. There will be a chinese auction with items donated by Western New York businesses. The first fifty people willreceive a free BEAT FEST T-shirt. Donations accepted. Contact Darren Kresge at 716-512-4187 or darren@beatfest.com for more info.
“What’s Bugging You?”- Enjoy a free hike to search for the many types of insects beginning at 9am in Knox Farm State Park. Contact Beaver Meadow at 1-800-377-1520 or email info@buffaloaudubon.org for more info.
Boy Scout Merit Badge Workshop-This Beaver Meadow workshop is for scouts interested in earning the Wilderness Survival Badge. Cost is $12 for this 10am-4pm workshop and preregistration is required. Contact Beaver Meadow at 1-800-377-1520 or email info@buffaloaudubon.org for more info
Fish and Wildlife Festival and Youth Fishing Contest-The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Lower Great lakes Fishery Resources Office (LGLFRO) is hosting this event. Youth may take part in the Niagara River Angler Association’s annual fishing contest for fun and awards. Many local natural resource agencies and conservation associations will be represented, and animal exhibits will be on display for the public. Registration for the youth fishing contest begins at 8am and the contest is held from 8:30-11:30am. The Fish and Wildlife Festival is scheduled from 11am to 5pm. The event is held in Hyde Park in Niagara Falls, NY. From Pine Avenue (NY 62A), enter at the Robbins Dr. entrance. For more info, call 716-691-5456, ext. 29.
Sunday, June 3
“Wind, Water, Energy and the Great Lakes”-A talk presented by Dave Bradley of The Wind Action Group at 2pm at the Buffalo Museum of Science. This event is free with admission to the Buffalo Museum of Science. For more info, call (716) 896-5200.
Family Walk at Beaver Meadow- Join us for a free walk beginning at 2pm through the woods as our naturalists help you seek out the natural wonders that abound at Beaver Meadow. Contact Beaver Meadow at 1-800-377-1520 or email info@buffaloaudubon.org .
Saturday, June 9
Backpacking Class-First of two sessions starts in the classroom from 10am-2pm. Learn what to pack for heading on a long hike into the wilderness followed by a weekend in the forests of Pennsylvania. Cost is $25 ($20 members). Contact Beaver Meadow at 1-800-377-1520 or email info@buffaloaudubon.org .
Sunday, June 10
Miss Buffalo Nature Cruise and Buffalo Lighthouse Tour-The 8th Annual Miss Buffalo Nature Cruise will begin boarding at 8:30 am at the entrance to the Erie Basin Marina. The trip will return at noon and will be followed by a tour of the Buffalo Lighthouse. Experts in aquatic biology, birding, fisheries and geology will provide information. Cost of the tours is $18 adults ($15 members) and $15 children ($12 members). Early registration is suggested at 716-627-4560 or the downloadable form at www.penndixie.org .
“Reefs in Hot Water: Corals and Climate Change”-A talk presented by Dr. Mary Alice Coffroth, UB Marine Ecologist, at 2pm at the Buffalo Museum of Science. This event is free with admission to the Buffalo Museum of Science. For more info, call (716) 896-5200.
Family Walk at Beaver Meadow- Join us for a free walk beginning at 2pm through the woods as our naturalists help you seek out the natural wonders that abound at Beaver Meadow. Contact Beaver Meadow at 1-800-377-1520 or email info@buffaloaudubon.org .
Thursday, June 14
Herbs Under the Dome- Head to The Buffalo and Erie County Botanical Gardens from 6-9pm to enjoy the wonderful world of herbs. The Western New York Herb Study Group will put on fantastic herb demonstrations and teach us how to care for your kitchen herbs. Watch and learn from Curly’s chefs as they discover some interesting ways to cook with herbs. Don’t forget to purchase your herbs at this event. Tickets include samples of herb creations and herb dishes. Cost is $10. Call 716.827.1584 ext. 204 for tickets.
Saturday, June 16
Exploring Forest Lawn-Join Earth Spirit for a fascinating walking tour through a Buffalo Landmark focused upon its unique history and ecology. The event will be at Forest Lawn Cemetery in Buffalo from 6:30-8:30pm and cost is $7 (free to members). For more info, contact earthspiritedu@verizon.net or 716-941-6267.
Family Fossil Fun Days- This experience will teach participants about fossil digging and preparation, identification and the display of fossils in museums. The program begins at 10am at the Penn Dixie site. At noon, families will drive and have their lunch prior to arriving at the Buffalo Museum of Science at 1pm. The afternoon program runs from 1-3pm. Preregistration is required-call 896-5200 ext. 338. Cost is $20 adults ($15 members) and $15 children ($10 members).
Dedication Ceremony and Hikes-Join others for the dedication of the new Rodger Sweetland Memorial Preserve at Zoar Valley, presented by The Nature Sanctuary Society of WNY and The Nature Conservancy. For more information, email Julie@zoarvalley.org or call 716-380-1430 to register.
Backpacking Class-Second of two sessions beginning on June 9. Enjoy a long hike into the wilderness followed by a weekend in the forests of Pennsylvania. Cost is $25 ($20 members). Contact Beaver Meadow at 1-800-377-1520 or email info@buffaloaudubon.org .
“The Wild Side of Knox Farm State Park”- Enjoy a free hike beginning at 9am in Knox Farm State Park. Contact Beaver Meadow at 1-800-377-1520 or email info@buffaloaudubon.org for more info.
Iroquois Observations-Join others at Iroquois National Wildlife Refuge from 8-11pm for a special program on Creatures of the Night. Meet at Kanyoo Trail and bring a flashlight. For more information, contact Garner Light at (716) 772-5110 or garnerlight@hotmail.com .
Wine and Wags Social- Join other from 5-8pm at the Erie County SPCA on Ensminger Road in Tonawanda for their 2nd Annual Wine and Wags. Tickets are $35 pre-sale ($45 at the door). Admission for dogs is free! For tickets, call 629-3523 or order online at www.yourspca.org .
Sunday, June 17
Family Walk at Beaver Meadow- Join us for a free walk beginning at 2pm through the woods as our naturalists help you seek out the natural wonders that abound at Beaver Meadow. Contact Beaver Meadow at 1-800-377-1520 or email info@buffaloaudubon.org
Tuesday, June 19
Citizens Regional Transit Corp Meeting-Monthly meeting will be held 12:00-1:30pm at 3330 Main Street, Buffalo. The CRTC meets in the educational wing of University Presbyterian Church, corner of Main Street and Niagara Falls Blvd. Enter through the parking lot door, take elevator to "ML." The meeting will feature UB's transportation system.
Wednesday, June 20
Babes in the Woods- “Let’s Learn about Birds” is the focus of this nature discovery program at Beaver Meadow Audubon Center designed for 3-5 year olds and their parents from 10am-11:30am. Registration is required. Cost is $5 child & adult/ $3 each additional child. Contact Beaver Meadow at 1-800-377-1520 or email info@buffaloaudubon.org for more info.
Saturday, June 23
Paleontologist for a Day-This program for 8-14 year olds is a joint program between Penn Dixie and Past 7 Present Rock Shop and Museum. Children will visit both facilities and will learn how to collect, prepare and assemble their personal fossil collection. Preregistration (716-627-4560) is required. Cost is $50 ($45 members) for this 9am-4pm program.
Earth Day Expo at the Buffalo Zoo-Join many environmental organizations for another celebration of Earth Day at the Buffalo Zoo from 10am-4pm.
Sunday, June 24
Family Walk at Beaver Meadow- Join us for a free walk beginning at 2pm through the woods as our naturalists help you seek out the natural wonders that abound at Beaver Meadow. Contact Beaver Meadow at 1-800-377-1520 or email info@buffaloaudubon.org
Tuesday, June 26
Sierra Club Monthly Meeting-Join others to discuss Sierra Club activities and issues. The group meets in room 221, Duns Scotus Hall, Daemen College at 7pm. Visit www.daemen.edu/maps for directions.
Buffalo Philarmonic Orchestra at the Gardens- Join Paul Ferington, conductor, The BPO at The Buffalo and Erie County Botanical Gardens to celebrate patriotic music selections as well as selections from West Side Story, Howard Hanson’s Symphony No 2, and Beckel’s Night Vision “The American Dream”. This free concert is a lovely way to spend a summer evening! The concert will be held outside on The Gardens front lawn from 7-8:15pm.
Friday, June 27
Starry Night in the Garden- Join Star 102.5 and The Botanical Gardens to celebrate their beautiful grounds. Popular musical groups, local restaurants, wineries and breweries come together to party into the night to benefit The Gardens. Tickets are $35 for this 6-9pm event. Go to www.mystar1025.com for more information.
Saturday, June 30
Astronomy Program-Come to Penn Dixie at 8:30pm to view Saturn and Venus close to each other as well as Jupiter, the Star Cluster M13 and the Ring Nebula M57. For info, call 627-4560.
Saturday, July 7
Adventure Hike-Join Earth Spirit for a family oriented hike at Birdsong Park in Orchard Park from 6:30-8:30pm. The hike will be through fields, forests and wetlands focused upon local plants, animals and the communities that support them. Please contact the Orchard Park Recreation Dept. at 662-6450 for details.
Wednesday, July 11
Paleontologist for a Day-This program for 8-14 year olds is a joint program between Penn Dixie and Past 7 Present Rock Shop and Museum. Children will visit both facilities and will learn how to collect, prepare and assemble their personal fossil collection. Preregistration (716-627-4560) is required. Cost is $50 ($45 members) for this 9am-4pm program.
Saturday, July 14
Nature and the Arts- Beaver Meadow Audubon Center is partnering with the Arts Council for Wyoming County to present a day to celebrate nature and the arts. From 1-6 pm, artists of all types are invited to use the space at Beaver Meadow to be inspired and share their work. If you are an artist who would like more info, please call the Arts Council for Wyoming County at 585-237-3517 and ask for Bethany, or email her at butler@artswyco.org.
Saturday, July 21
An Ecology Dog Walk-Join Earth Spirit for an ecology hike from 6:30-8:30pm through one of the little known and rarely visited Erie County Forest lands. This free event welcomes your leashed pet. For more info, contact earthspiritedu@verizon.net or 716-941-6267.
Tuesday, July 24
Sierra Club Monthly Meeting-Join others to discuss Sierra Club activities and issues. The group meets in room 221, Duns Scotus Hall, Daemen College at 7pm. Visit www.daemen.edu/maps for directions.
Wednesday, July 25
Wines in the Wild-the Pro Zoo Board and the Women's Board will host the annual Wines in the Wild event, sponsored by Bank of America, at the Buffalo Zoo. For only $30 pre-sale or $40 at the door, your ticket includes a variety of food and dessert items, along with wines and beers from local distributors. Live music and visits from some of your favorite animal ambassadors will highlight the evening. Enjoy a balmy summer evening in one of the most unique environments around as you try your luck at our fantastic Basket and Silent Auctions. This event takes place from 6:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m., rain or shine. Guests MUST BE 21 years or older. The more the merrier, so bring your friends and neighbors to enjoy this wonderful, casual evening to benefit the Zoo's Adopt an Animal program. For further information, or to purchase tickets, please call (716) 995-6131 or visit www.buffalozoo.org for online purchase.
Tips for the Environment:
May brings Mother’s Day, Spring Cleaning and Garden Planting!
1. Remember mom and Mother Nature at the same time…..
-Adopt an animal in her name
World Wildlife Federation has adoptions at https://secure.worldwildlife.org/forms/acdev/adoptionCenter_1.cfm
Our Buffalo Zoo animals can be adopted at http://www.buffalozoo.org/adopt.html
-Pesticide free flowers can be ordered at http://www.organicbouquet.com/ .
-Organic chocolate
For other environmentally-friendly Mother’s Day tips or gifts, see http://www.environmentaldefense.org/article.cfm?contentID=5232 .
http://www.findgift.com/Categories/Eco-Friendly/
2. Choose online statements for your NYSEG, credit card, satellite and other bills. Do away with the paper statements, you can archive these online and as electronic backup on your own computer.
3. Reduce your idling. Get EZ-Pass for your car for toll roads (a Hybrid discount is also available) at http://www.e-zpassny.com/ . Stretch those legs and avoid the drive-thrus when the line is long.
4. Reduce your junk mail. For $1, you can register with the Direct Marketing Association to be removed from mailing lists. For info, visit https://www.dmaconsumers.org/cgi/offmailing .
5. Let your spring cleaning benefit others. Wearable clothing can be donated to shelters, Goodwill, Salvation Army and others. Eyeglasses can be given to the Lions Club. Use Freecycle for some items-visit http://www.freecycle.org/ .
6. Keep your spring cleaning “green”. Drop off hazardous chemicals at designated sites (note May 12 event at ECC above). For non-toxic cleaning tips, visit http://www.seventhgeneration.com/living_green/toxic_cleaning/cleaning_tips.html .
To see our previous newsletters with additional tips for the environment, go to: http://www.daemen.edu/academics/affairs/news.html#envnews
Additional Links to area activities and organizations and regularly scheduled activities:
AWARE-Association for Wild Animal Rehabilitation and Education
http://www.scwrc.com
Beaver Meadow Nature Center-Buffalo Audubon
Every Wednesday 10am-2pm is Volunteer Day, just bring a lunch.
http://www.buffaloaudubon.com
Braddock Bay Bird Observatory
http://www.bbbo.org
Buffalo and Erie County Botanical Gardens
www.buffalogardens.com
Buffalo Museum of Science
http://www.sciencebuff.org/
Buffalo Niagara Riverkeeper
http://www.bnriverkeeper.org/
Buffalo Olmsted Parks Conservancy
www.buffaloolmstedparks.org
Buffalo Ornithological Society
www.BOSbirding.org
Buffalo ReUse
http://www.buffaloreuse.org/
Buffalo Zoo
www.buffalozoo.org
Center for Environmental Information (Rochester)
http://ceinfo.org/
Center for Great Lakes Environmental Education
www.greatlakesed.org
Citizens Campaign for the Environment
www.citizenscampaign.org
Citizens' Environmental Coalition
www.cectoxic.org/index.html
Citizens Regional Transit Corporation
Regular CRTC monthly meetings are the third Tuesday, at noon except August.
http://www.citizenstransit.org/
Earth Spirit Educational Services
www.earthspiritedu.org
Erie County Soil and Water Conservation
http://www.ecswcd.org/
First Hand Learning
www.firsthandlearning.org
Friends of the ancient Forests
Friendsoftheancient@yahoo.com
Foothills Trail Club
www.foothillstrailclub.org
Genesee County Nature Center
www.gcv.org
Great Lakes Beach Sweep
www.greatlakesbeachsweep.com
Great Lakes United
www.glu.org
Hawk Creek Wildlife Center, Inc.
www.hawkcreek.org
Iroquois National Wildlife Refuge
http://www.fws.gov/northeast/iroquois/
Jamestown Audubon Center & Sanctuary
www.jamestownaudubon.org
Landmark Society of the Niagara Frontier
www.landmark-niagara.org
Massachusetts Avenue Project
www.mass-ave.org
Messinger Woods Wildlife Care and Education Center, Inc
www.messingerwoods.org
Nature Conservancy-Central and Western New York Chapter
http://Nature.org/centralwestern
Nature Ed-Ventures
www.natureed-ventures.com
New Millennium Group
http://www.nmgonline.org/
New York Upstate Chapter of the Green Building Council
http://www.greenupstateny.org/greenevents.html
Niagara County Soil and Water Conservation District
http://www.niagaraswcd.com
Paths, Peaks and Paddles
www.pathspeakspaddles.com
Peace Weavers
www.peaceweavers.com
Penn Dixie Natural History Site-Hamburg Natural History Society
Open Saturdays 9am-4pm May through October for fossil collecting. Also open on April 5-7 and 9-13 from 9am-4pm. $6 for adults, $5 for child 12 and under (free for members). No pre-registration required.
http://www.penndixie.org/cal/cal.html
Preservation Coalition
http://preserve.bfn.org/
Reinstein Woods
716-683-5959, 93 Honorine Dr., Depew
10 am Saturday public guided tours, 9am-4pm Monday-Saturday Self-guided trails
http://www.dec.state.ny.us/website/reg9/reinstein/
Reptile Adoption, Rehabilitation and Education, Inc. (RARE)
http://rarerehab.org/
Retree Western New York
http://whtt.com/retreewny
Roger Tory Peterson Institute
www.rtpi.org
The Buffalo and Erie County Botanical Gardens
www.buffalogardens.com
The Niagara Group of Atlantic Chapter of the Sierra Club
http://newyork.sierraclub.org/Niagara
UB Green Office
http://wings.buffalo.edu/ubgreen
Urban Roots
http://www.urbanroots.org/
Western Chapter New York Water Environment Association
http://www.wnywea.org/
Western New York Climate Action Coalition
wnyclimateaction@gmail.com
Western New York Coalition for Progress
http://wnyprogress.org/
Western New York Herpetological Society
http://www.wnyherp.org/
Western New York Hiking Trails and resources
www.wnyhikes.com/hiking-trails.htm
Western New York Land Conservancy
www.wnylc.org
Western New York Sustainable Energy Association
http://www4.bfn.org/wnysea/
Wind Action Group
www.greengold.org/wind
Zoar Valley Nature Society
www.zoarvalley.org
