SEVEN PONDS NATURE CENTER

SUMMER PROGRAMS for 2021

Summer is the perfect time to visit the nature center and participate in our programs. Seven Ponds offers something for everyone, from preschoolers and families to adults and seniors. Mark your calendar for some programs, walks, and classes. Unless indicated, program fees are $3.00 for adults, no charge for members or children 12 & under. COVID-19 precautions may be in place for various programs. 

All programs require pre-registration. Space is limted.

Click the program title for the registration link.

JUNE

Moth Exploration
Sunday, June 6, 9:00 PM

These beauties of the night are diverse in so many ways. On this walk we will talk about moths of all different kinds and set up “traps” to attract moths in for viewing. Cecropia moths will be emerging around this time of year. Maybe we will get the chance to see one or two.

 

Invasive Work Day
Sunday, June 13, 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM

Join our Land Steward for an afternoon of working on non-native invasive plants around the center. This is a great chance to earn community service or Master Gardener hours. Bring your own work gloves, water, and tools will be provided. If you wish to bring your own tools, you may.

 

Yoga at the Ponds with Peaceful Moon Yoga
Beginners/Basic Yoga Class
Thursdays, June 24 through July 29, 10:00-11:00 AM

Unwind, rejuvenate and relax with Cat Minolli and the ‘Peaceful Moon’ series. These classes are designed for newcomers and beginning yoga students and/or those who wish to become re-acquainted with the practice. Participants will experience the mind, body, spirit connection while learning basic yoga poses in a serene environment. You don't have to be able to touch your toes or twist into a pretzel to participate, however many postures are done from a seated or prone position on the floor. Participants should wear comfortable clothing and bring a yoga mat or a blanket. Pillows, additional blankets and any other "creature comforts" are also welcome. Fee is $10.00. Classes will be held inside the building with COVID-19 protocols in place. Register for specific weeks by selecting the date below.

Thursday, June 24

Thursday, July 1

Thursday, July 8

Thursday, July 15

Thursday, July 22

Thursday, July 29

 

Glow Walk
Saturday, June 26, 7:30 PM

You might be thinking, “What in the world is a glow walk??” Well, that is a great question!! As we walk around the fields and forest edges we will be on the lookout for our glowing insect friends, fireflies or lightning bugs! As we walk we will learn about their lifecycle, habits and conservation.

 

Native Pollinator Exploration
Sunday, June 27, 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM

June 27th is the last day of Pollinator Week this year. To show our support we will be wandering the gardens and other areas of the nature center to find and watch our native pollinators. As we explore we will talk about who our native pollinators are and what we can do to help protect them.

 

JULY

Butterfly Count
Saturday, July 3, 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM

Join our naturalists for our annual count for the North American Butterfly Association. We will check various habitats at Seven Ponds in search of all the butterflies we can find! Bring your favorite butterfly field guide, your trusty net, binoculars, and a sack lunch if you plan to stay through the afternoon. We have extra nets for those who don’t have their own. This program is for adults and older children who have an interest in butterflies. Fee: $3.00.

 

Fourth of July Holiday
Sunday, July 4, 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM

The building will be open and a naturalist on duty throughout the day. Stop by the nature center for a trail walk or enjoy a holiday picnic at the ponds!

 

Prairie Stroll
Saturday, July 17, 10:00 AM

Earl’s Prairie will be in top form during this time of the year. Join us as we take a stroll, identifying the plants and animals that live there.

 

Hop, Run, Fly! It’s Jonathan Woods in July!
Sunday, July 25, 9:30 AM -11:30 AM

A hop, run, or fly to our satellite property Jonathan Woods! As we hike along the trail we will admire the beautifully, green canopy of the forest as it sways in the wind. We will also be doing fun sensory activities for kids and adults along the way.

 

Pond Dipping!
Saturday, July 31, 11:00 AM

Grab a net provided by the naturalist and explore what lies below the waters of the ponds. This is a family program which looks at the aquatic insects that live in the waters around the center.

AUGUST

Corks & Caps Fundraiser
Friday, August 6, 6:00 PM

See Special Events page for more information.

 

Party at the Ponds!
Saturday, August 7, 11:00 PM – 6:00 PM

See Special Events page for more information.

 

Walk Around the Ponds
Sunday, August 8, 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM

Gather with a naturalist for a walk around the ponds. It may be warm but we will enjoy the afternoon breeze as we see what’s going on around the ponds.

 

Afternoon with a Naturalist
Wednesdays & Fridays at 2:00 PM

August 11 

August 13

August 18

August 20

August 25

August 27

Hang out with a Naturalist and learn about all things nature. Each afternoon will bring new and fun nature themed activities. Register by selecting the date(s) above.

 

Family Field Netting
Sunday, August 15, 2:00 PM

What lives in the fields and prairie of Seven Ponds? Join us for an excursion into the grasses to find what insects are active this time of year. All supplies will be provided. Just bring your curiosity.

 

Morning Paddle at the Ponds
Saturday, August 21st, 9:00 AM

Early morning is one of the best times to view wildlife on the lakes. Dress for the weather. Fee: $5.00 per person ($3.00 for members) Minimum: 5 years old to ride and 10 years old to paddle. Please pre-register online by August 19th.

 

Roving Naturalists

The naturalists will be spending more time on the trails exploring nature with our visitors this summer. You will find them out-and-about with something interesting to share. When you are hiking at Seven Ponds keep a look out for them, and the awesome nature with them!

Seven Ponds Nature Center Summer 2021 Bird Walks

This summer we are offering bird walks on select Wednesday mornings from June through mid-August. Highlighting numerous local natural areas, all walks take place at parks and preserves, generally within ~30 minutes driving time from Seven Ponds Nature Center (two of our walks – Shiawassee and Fish Point – require a longer drive). Our bird walks are open to birders of all skill and experience levels, and beginners are always welcome. Bring your binoculars, your enthusiasm, and be sure to dress for the weather.   These bird walks are free for Seven Ponds members and $5 for non-members. Online pre-registration is required, and bird walks are limited to twelve (12) participants. Summer bird walks begin promptly at 7:30 AM at the trailhead of the destination park or preserve (adresses will be emailed prior to the bird walk). Please arrive on time and ready to go birding!

SUMMER BIRD WALK #1

Wednesday, June 2 - 7:30 AM

Shiawassee National Wildlife Refuge - Wildlife Drive

Saginaw County

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SUMMER BIRD WALK #2

Wednesday, June 9 - 7:30 AM

Robert Williams Nature Park

Genesee County

SUMMER BIRD WALK #3

Wednesday, June 23 - 7:30 AM

Atlas County Park

Genesee County

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SUMMER BIRD WALK #4

Wednesday, July 14 - 7:30 AM

Lapeer State Game Area - Sawdel Unit

Lapeer County

SUMMER BIRD WALK #5

Wednesday, July 28 - 7:30 AM

Bay City State Park

Tuscola County

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SUMMER BIRD WALK #6

Wednesday, August 11 - 7:30 AM

Seven Ponds Nature Center

Lapeer County