Report
Available
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December 14 Saturday
Annual Christmas Bird Count
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December 14, 2002 Saturday - 10am - Noon
Winter Natural History Field Trip.
Explore signs of life in winter at North Common Meadow; the field, pond, stream and woodlands. Dress appropriately for the weather and bring field guides, hand lenses, and binoculars.
Met at the Petersham Town Common on Route 32 opposite the Petersham General Store.
Registration was required, open to 20 participants.
Call the Trustees Central office 978-840-4446 to reserve and to pay fees.
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December 3 Tueseday 6:30 to 9:30pm
SHAPING THE HISTORY OF THE REGION, AND MILLERS RIVER.
Join North Quabbin Guide Training Program Participants for an
evening of North Quabbin
History with Dick Chaisson and J R Green. Explored the region's Native
American roots, the history of immigration and the "sense of place" created
by the Quabbin Reservoir and Miller's River.
6:30 - 9:30 pm Millers RiverEnvironmental Center.
100 Main St. Athol, MA.
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November 18 Monday 7:30pm
November Meeting: Hampshire Bird Club
Robert Askins, Professor of Zoology at Connecticut College, program titled "Conservation of Birds of Open Habitats in New England" at Immanuel Lutheran Church, 867 N. Pleasant,
Amherst, MA
For further information: (413) 549-1768 or www.hampshirebirdclub.org
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November 13 Wednesday 6pm
Club Meeting: Arctic Discoveries
Annual Dinner Meeting at the North Orange Community Church at 6 pm. After our dinner, at 7 pm, Ethan Forbes explained his work in the Arctic where he participated in an archeological dig.
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November 10 Sunday 2pm
Explore the World of Crystals
Bob Coyle will guide us on this journey of discovery as we study mineral specimens and their structure.
Meet at the Center at 2 pm.
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November 9 Saturday 9:30am - 4:30pm
The annual Mass. Butterfly Club meeting
The annual Mass. Butterfly Club meeting at the Broad Meadow Brook Audubon Sanctuary on Massasoit Rd. in Worcester.
There will be a pot luck supper starting at 5:30-6:30pm. Please bring something to share.
A short club meeting 7:00- 7:30pm
Blair Nikula, well known Cape Cod birder, will present a program based on his new (this year) book Beginner's Guide to Dragonflies which he co wrote with Jackie Sones and Donald and Lillian Stokes.
Following the program members will show some of the season's slides with a 10 slide maximum per person.
We will have butterfly paper weights available for sale as a club fund raiser in lieu of next year's auction.
Hope to see you there
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November 9 Saturday 9:30am - 4:30pm
6th annual Gem, Mineral, Rock, and Fossil Show and Sale
Sponsored by the Pioneer Valley Institute at Greenfield High School.
"It's like having a natural history museum come to Greenfield for the day, plus you can buy great "treasures" from all over the world" GCC prof. Richard Little.
Special talks include:
Eric Greene on Fluorite at 11:00 AM
Nancy Koskie on Geodes at 1:00 PM
Admission: $2.00 adults, $1.00 13-17 years old, under 13 free with adult
Dave Small
Athol Massachusetts
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November 8 Friday 7:30pm
Astronomy Night
With Bob Coyle at MREC.
Telescopes will be available to share. Please bring your telescope if you have one.
Rain/snow date is Fri. Nov 15th.
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October 29th Tuesday 6:30 PM
Meeting: Millers River Watershed Council
Urban Rivers Vision - Maria Van Dusen EOEA Charrette coordinator
presented an update on Athol's Urban Rivers Vision Charrette.
A discussion for the next steps to implement our vision of the Millers River
For more information check: http://commpres.env.state.ma.us/content/urv.asp
A short business meeting including updates on
the status of local landfills, development in the watershed, school
programs, and water monitoring.Refreshments provided.
Location:
Millers River Environmental Center
100 Main Street Athol, Ma 01331
978-248-9491
Directions
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Report
Available
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October 26 Saturday 7:30am
Fall Migrants at Quabbin
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October 24, 25, 26
Call for volunteers - Fisher Hill School classroom and
trail project
An environmental education project for the Orange Elementary
Schools. Construction of the outdoor classroom and trails at
Fisher Hill School this Fri, Sat, and Sun from 10-5 pm. Other times
this week and next can be set up by arrangement with project organizer,
Jim Zingo, 978-544-5622 or Sue Cloutier, program coordinator
978-248-9491.
We plan to have this phase of the project done by November and appreciate your help, along
with other Club members, parents, and friends of the schools.
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October 23, 2002 Wednesday - 7pm -
Growing Mushrooms
 Anyone with a patch of woods can grow valuable gourmet mushrooms for sale or
personal enjoyment. Erik Hoffner grows 6 different kinds of mushrooms on
hardwood logs in Shutesbury, and he shows you how he does it
at this meeting.
Meet at the Center, 100 Main Street Athol.
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October 22 Tue 6:30-8:30 pm.
FORESTLAND TAXES WORKSHOP This topped the request list from our survey. Come straighten out your forestland tax questions.
Participants are encouraged to bring their actual tax situations to work though.
West River Health Center, Orange, MA.
Contact Scott Maslansky (978)544-1527.
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October 20, 2002 Sunday - 9am - 1pm
Create Your Own Naturalist's Sketchbook.
Join artist and naturalist Annie Chappell to walk a woodland trail, make drawings in our journals, and note species. Bring pencil & sharpener, eraser, a small container for shavings, a couple of black ink pens, and a sketchbook or journal. Also bring water, a hat, long sleeves and pants, and something dry to sit on!
Meet at the Bear's Den on Neilson Road in New Salem.
Registration required, open to 10 participants.
Call The Trustees Central office, 978-840-4446,
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October 19 Sat 9am - 12pm
SAWMILL TOUR Fred Heyes of Heyes Forest Products will show us his mill in action. Learn about local species, lumber grades, and sawing methods.
34 Daniel Shays Hwy, Orange. 9am-12pm.
Contact Scott Maslansky (978) 544-1527.
Please register by Oct. 9th.
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October 16, 2002 Wednesday - 7pm
Celebrate the opening of our new Forestry Reference Library!
A panel of foresters will gather at the Millers River Environmental Center to discuss resources available to landowners and lead an informal discussion on Managing Your Forest for Fun and Profit. MREC Library materials will be on display. All who are interested in this material are invited
Refreshments will be available.
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October 15 Tues 6-8 PM.
OPEN HOUSE FOR GUIDE TRAINING PROGRAM -- Join us to learn more about the new North Quabbin Guide Training Program, an eight-month training program that will teach students the skills necessary to become successful guides of the North Quabbin region's natural and cultural history.
The open house will be held at the Millers River Environmental Center at 100 Main Street,
Refreshments will be provided.
For more information, contact Linda Leblanc at 978-248-9491.
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October 12 Sat
FOREST THINNING A woodswalk for do-it-yourselfers and those who want to get the most from working with a professional. Rich Valcourt and Jim Rassman return to examine the benefits of forest thinning and harvesting. Answering questions about your land.
1939 Chestnut Hill Ave, Athol.
Call (978) 249-4478
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October 12, 2002 Saturday - 9am - 1pm
Royalston Family and Community Biodiversity Events at Tully Lake Campground
Walks lead by Athol Bird and Nature Club expert naturalists.
Fees: $20/person for members and $40 for nonmembers includes all events ($6/$12 each).
Registration required, each activity is open to 20 participants.
- 7 am. A short hike from the Campground will give us an opportunity find sign of,
and perhaps see, beaver, deer, and moose.
- 10 am. Explore the nearby stream and wetlands to introduce participants to the
hidden treasures of these habitats - the frequently overlooked wildlife
living there.
- 3 pm. Dave Small will run a short field workshop to assist participants in photo-
documentation of animals, plants, and habitats using digital cameras.
- 7 pm. A presentation at the Campground on observing wildlife at night followed
by a walk.
The Trustees Central office, 978-840-4446,
Evening cook-out fee of $10/person.
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October 11 Friday, 7:30pm
Expanding Our Understanding of the Night Sky
Astronomy Night with Bob Coyle. A telescopes available to share.
7:30 pm at the Center.
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October 9 Wednesday, 7pm
Club Meeting: Westward Adventure
John Burk, wildlife and the scenery of Yellowstone, Badlands, Tetons, and the Bighorn Mountains that he captured on film during his trip to the western states this summer.
7 pm at the Center.
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October 6 Sunday, 11am
Explore Mt. Grace
Climb Mt. Grace with naturalist and story-teller Clare Green. We may witness fall peregrine migration, foliage, and mountain views of Monadnock, Ascutney, and Tom. Bring a picnic lunch, water, and spirit of adventure!
Meet at 11 am in Warwick Center by Library.
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October 5, 2002 Saturday, 2pm
Warwick Family and Community Biodiversity Event
Mushroom Habitats at the Iversen Property
Even with the dry weather, when looking for mushrooms with Lawrence
Millman of the Boston Mycological Society, we can always find something
-- a slime mold plasmodium or a polypore -- and we will have something
interesting to learn about.
Meet at the Millers River Environmental
Center at 2 pm for an introductory talk.
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September 29 from 7:00 to 9:00 PM
At the Cyprian Keyes Golf Club in Boylston, MA
The Nashua River Watershed Association (NRWA) presents:
Alaska Wilderness: An Incredible Journey into the Arctic National Wildlife
Refuge
In the endless daylight of an arctic summer, snowy owls nest and raise their
young on the Alaskan tundra. Throngs of migratory birds join the nesting
fray. The arctic wilderness teams with life, from the musk ox to the
lemming to the mosquito. The Nashua River Watershed Association (NRWA)
invites the public to join us for Alaska Wilderness: An Incredible Journey
into the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge. The event, which is a benefit for
the NRWA, will be held on Sunday, September 29 from 7:00 to 9:00 PM at the
Cyprian Keyes Golf Club in Boylston, MA.
Mark and Marcia Wilson, two seasoned naturalists, will share a breathtaking
view of their nineteen-day canoe trip on Alaska's Canning River through a
slide presentation with stunning photos of mammals, birds, and plants that
thrive in this remote wilderness. Their keen interest in birds is reflected
in a special focus on the migratory birds of the Arctic Refuge. A highlight
will be an interactive introduction of three LIVE birds of prey that inhabit
both the Arctic and New England, including a Snowy Owl. This event will
captivate bird enthusiasts, outdoor adventurers, and armchair explorers!
Mark Wilson is a Boston Globe photojournalist and a wildlife photographer
whose photos have appeared in such publications as National Geographic and
National Wildlife magazines. Marcia Wilson has 30 years experience in
natural history, field ornithology, and environmental education. Together
the couple offers lively lectures through WILDSHOT, natural history
programs, and Eyes on Owls, live owl programs.
The Nashua River Watershed Association is an environmental, non-profit
organization that works to protect water and land resources in 31
communities in central Massachusetts and southern New Hampshire. Proceeds
from this event will support the NRWAs environmental education, water
quality, and land protection programs.
Ticket price is $15 and reservations are required.
For reservations or more information, contact
Joan Nelson, NRWA Membership Director, at (978) 448-0299
or visit our website at www.NashuaRiverWatershed.org.
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Sunday, September 29 at 12 noon
Millers River Clean-up
Sunday, September 29:
Jim Foley and the Millers River Chapter Trout Unlimited has organized a Millers River clean-up day. TU members will provide trucks and have arranged a hauler for the tires. Additional volunteers are encouraged to help.
To join the clean-up meet between noon -12:30 at Flaggs Bait shop on
202 Daniel Shays Highway in Orange.
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September 28, 2002 Saturday - 9am - 3:30pm
Project Learning Tree Workshop
Wendell State Forest, Wendell MA
Please pre-register by September 21.
For Landowners, loggers, and other forestry professionals. If you've ever wanted to speak to school groups or the general public about forests and forestry, this is the workshop to take. We will model hands-on, "minds on" activities that bring to life trees, forest ecology and forest management. We will spend some time discussing public presentation techniques.
This FREE Workshop Includes:
- Participation in hands-on activities
- The Project Learning Tree Activity Guide and other handouts
- Lunch, snacks and beverages
- Tips, discussion and exercises on making presentations
- Sharing ideas, information and other resources with fellow foresters, landowners, and loggers
Pre register
Contact Gini Traub
Skinner State Park,
413 584 6788
Sponsored by Massachusetts Department of Environmental Managment
MAF, and NEFF
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Saturday, September 28 at 8:30 am
Geology Field Trip
Join Bob Coyle to examine rock and mineral outcrops and collect specimens. Bring a lunch, collecting equipment, and safety glasses.
Meet at the Center.
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September 28 Saturday 8 am
Sparrows of Northhampton's Meadows
Jacob Morris-Siegel will guide us on this search for sparrows and other birds of the Connecticut Valley.
Meet at the Center at 8 am or at the Wendy's on Rt. 9 (north side) in Hadley.
For more information call Jacob at (413) 546-7449.
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COMMUNITY
Urban River Visions is a project designed to capitalize on the potential of the Millers river as a focal point for revitalization of downtown Athol. Planning sessions will help the community develop visions and action steps for the reuse or revitalization of sites along the waterway. Athol is one of
seven communities in Massachusetts personally chosen by Secretary of Executive Office of Environmental Affairs Bob Durand to participate in this exciting project.
Friday, September 27th at 5:30 PM
Athol Depot South and Traverse Street, Athol
Join ABNC president Dave Small, GCA community experts, and Town officials on a leisurely walk from the Athol train Depot through riverside neighborhoods to the Millers River Environmental Center for some refreshments and discussion of the Urban River Visions Charrette (see below). (in case of heavy rain we may travel by automobile)
Saturday, September 28th at 8:30 AM to 3:30 PM
Athol Town Hall 584 Main Street
Refreshments and lunch provided. The all day workshop will focus on strategies for enhancing access to the river and strengthen the downtown waterfront and help shape the future of our community.
DHoward
617-850-6535
This is an exciting opportunity for our community and the North Quabbin Region.
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Sept. 22, 2002 Sunday
The Massachusetts Bluebird Association will hold its third
Annual Bluebird Conference at the Auburn Sportsmen's club, Auburn MA.
The Bluebird conference is a wonderful opportunity for members and
non-members alike to enjoy a day at one of the area's premiere
federal migratory bird banding stations. The activities begin with
participation in banding migratory birds conducted by a Master Bander
Mark Blazis of Grafton, MA. Throughout the morning there will be
workshops on the supplemental feeding of bluebirds and how to
winterize your nest boxes for extreme cold during the nesting season.
Bring a bag lunch, snacks and drinks will be provided.
In the afternoon there will be a presentation about bluebirds by
award winning photographer Gail Hansche including beautiful slides
choreographed with music. There will be an open discussion for
anyone with questions about attracting and interacting with these
magnificent birds. A variety of bluebird related items will be
raffled as well as a short business meeting.
For more information, please visit our Website
or call Gail Hansche 508-528-6159
Come and join us for a special day celebrating the recovery of the bluebirds!
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September 22, 2002 Sunday - 8am - 11am
Natural History Tour from Tully Campground.
Join naturalists Sue and Ron Cloutier to explore varied habitats along the trail. Bring binoculars, hand lenses, and your favorite field guides. We will focus on the natural history of trees and forests while taking time to follow up on the varied interests of participants.
Meet at the Tully Lake Campground on Doane Hill Road in Royalston.
Registration required, open to 20 participants.
Call The Trustees Central office, 978-840-4446, to reserve and to pay fees.($10)
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September 21, 2002 Saturday - 10am (rain date Sun Sep 22)
Gloucester
Eastern Point may be full of migrating Monarchs. A good chance of seeing Fiery Skippers, and Long-tailed Skipper has been sighted in previous years. Because of abundance of poison ivy at Eastern Point, long pants are recommended. Meet at Para Reasearch Building parking lot. Bring lunch, as this trip always goes well into the afternoon.
Doug Savich - 978-283-7869
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September 21, 2002 Saturday - 10am - 5pm
Garlic Arts Festival
Forsters Farm Field
60 Chestnut Hill Road
Orange, Massachusetts
Admission: $3 Adults Kids under 12 FREE!
Festival Website
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September 19 Thursday
Autumn Odes: the hardiest hunters hunting the hardiest hunters
Meet Earle Baldwin at 5 pm in the field by the parking lot at Tully Campground off Doane Hill Road in Royalston. We will also explore the lake and stream for nymphs.
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September 18, Wednesday 7pm
Athol Bird and Nature Club Meeting: Bobcats and More
Scott Maslansky will share his studies of bobcats and describe their winter habitat use in this region. After a short break for refreshments, Clare Green will entertain us with Nature Storytelling.
The public is invited to this meeting at 7 pm at the
Millers River Environmental Center,
100 Main Street, Athol.
Dave Small ()
www.gis.net/~dhsmall
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September 15, 2002 Sunday - 10am - 2pm
Birds & Butterflies of North Common Meadow and Swift River Reservation
Join the Athol Bird and Nature Club's president, Dave Small, to study the variety of beautiful flying birds and insects in fields and woodland trails. Learn about the life cycle of these organisms and how to identify them in the field. Bring a lunch, binoculars, and field guides.
Meet at the Petersham Town Common on Route 32 opposite the Petersham General Store.
Registration is required, open to 20 participants.
Call The Trustees Central office, 978-840-4446, to reserve and to pay fees ($10).
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September 13, Friday,7:30pm
Understanding the Night Sky
Join us for the Athol Bird and Nature Club's fall Astronomy Night with Bob Coyle. A telescope will be available to share. Please bring your binoculars or a telescope if you have one.
Meet at 7:30 pm at the Millers River Environmental Center, 100 Main Street, Athol.
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Thursday, September 5 and Saturday September 7, 9:30am
Exploring Characteristics of Mushroom Groups
Noah Siegel, of the Athol Bird and Nature Club, assisted us as we learned to ID gill mushrooms, their family characteristics, at 7 pm at the Millers River Environmental Center, 100 Main Street, Athol. Field trip to find specimens representing these groups will be held the following Saturday.
Meet at 9:30 am at the Center to carpool to the field sites.
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August 31, Saturday 9:00 AM
Ode News Dragonfly Trip for Subartic Darner and other late season species
Meet behind the Millers River Environmental Center 100 Main Street Athol.
Leader Blair Nikula 508-432-6348
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August 23, 2002, 10am - 4:30p.m.
Project Learning Tree Workshop
Time exploring Wendell State Forest, itself a rich and diverse educational resource.
Program was FREE
Handouts and the Project Learning Tree PreK-8 Activity Guide
Contact Gini Traub
Skinner State Park,
413 584 6788
Email Gini.Traub@state.ma.us
Massachusetts Department of Environmental Managment
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August 22, Thursday 7:30 PM
Public meeting at Mt. Wachusett Community College
A public meeting to explain the process of
Green certifying state forestland owned and managed by the MDC, DEM, DFW.
For more information on Green certification of forestland check the
following link.
www.scs1.com/forestry.shtml
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August 18, 2002 Sunday - 10am - 1pm
Massachusetts Audubon Society Broad Meadow Brook Wildlife Sanctuary, Worcester
With diverse habitats, there is a good variety of species. We should find Leonard’s Skippers on this trip.
Jo-Anne Mullen
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August 11, 2002 Sunday - 10am
Longmeadow and Springfield
Hackberry and Tawny Emperors, Zabulon Skippers. Meet at Fannie Stebbins Refuge parking lot at end of Bark Haul Road, off Rt. 5 in Longmeadow.
After, Forest Park in Springfield.
Tom Gagnon -
Karen Parker -
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August 10, 2002 Saturday - call for time
Forbush Bird Club, "Birds and Butterflies"
Worcester area. Broad Meadow Brook WS and other areas.
Lyn Lovell -
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August 10, 2002 Saturday - 9am
Connecticut River canoe trip
An Ode News trip to search for late flying river specialties.
Leaders: Blair Nikula
and
Fred Morrison
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August 10, 2002 Saturday - 7pm
METEOR ALERT
 Bob Coyle leads a class at the MREC
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This weekend the sky over the North Quabbin will light up
with the annual Perseid meteor shower. As noted by Dr.
Tony Phillips of NASA, "the Perseids have been strong in
recent years--a promising sign for 2002. And the moon sets
early in mid-August; lunar interference will not be a
problem. Sky watchers can expect to see dozens to hundreds
of meteors per hour."
Millers River Environmental Center,
100 Main Street, Athol
at 7 pm on Saturday August 10th
to learn more
about these wonders of the night sky from Bob Coyle of the
Athol Bird and Nature Club. After a brief discussion, we
will take to the field to look for these meteors.
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Report
Available
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August 4, 2002 Sunday 9am
Birds, Butterflies, and Dragonflies of the North Quabbin. All Day.
Biodiversity on Massachusetts back roads. This trip was co-sponsored with the Brookline Bird Club.
Meeting Place: Millers River Environmental Center, 100 Main Street, Athol. 9:00 a.m.
Dave Small, Athol (978)249-2094
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August 3, 2002 Saturday 9:30am
Wenham Canal or Cherry Hill Reservoir
At Massachusetts Audubon Society Ipswich River Wildlife Sanctuary. Check on Fred’s beautiful Butterfly Garden. Then carpooled to site. An abundance of species and individuals found here, including Common Buckeyes and Variegated Frittillaries.
Fred Goodwin - 978-887-9264 E-mail:
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August 3, 2002 Saturday 10am
Wachusett Reservoir
Expect to see Silver-spotted Skippers (in good numbers), Variegated Fritillary, Common Buckeye. Beautiful walk along shore, Indian hemp in bloom, common loons nesting nearby.
Tom Dodd - 508-529-3392
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July 28th, 2002 Sunday 10am - 4pm
ABNC Garden Tour
There are fifteen Orange, North Orange, and Warwick gardens of various sizes and styles from small to large, sunny to shady, and natural to cultivated. There is a vernal pool, a meadow for butterflies, historic homesteads, a labyrinth, a certified backyard wildlife habitat, water gardens and more.
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July 27, 2002 Saturday 10am
Butterfly Day at Rock House Reservation, West Brookfield
(TheTrustees of Reservations property, Rt. 9).
Trail leading past boulders and ledge and small lake. Flowers and bushes specific for butterflies (butterfly bushes, coneflower, other perennials and annuals) have been planted in an informal garden where the trail crosses the power line.
Lyn Lovell
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July 24, Wednesday 7pm
A Citizen's Guide to Organic Land Care
Are you interested in establishing organic land care practices in your yard?
This presentation, based upon the newly written NOFA Standards for Organic Land Care, will introduce you to the essential qualities and basic practices of organic land care.
Free and open to the public. at the MREC Center
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July 24, Wednesday to July 27, Saturday
BUTTERFLIES OF CAPE COD
Field School Course for Adults offered by the MAS Wellfleet Bay WS. The majority of the time will be spent in the field observing behavior, searching for larva and their host plants and understanding the habitat needs of the local butterflies and moths.
Melissa Lowe -
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July 24, Wednesday 7:30pm
BAYSIDE TALK
“Butterfly Basics” (in weekly lecture series at the MAS Wellfleet Bay WS). Gail Howe (MAS Broad Meadow Brook WS) will share her extensive knowledge and focus on natural history and identification
Melissa Lowe
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July 20, Saturday 9:30am to noon
Odonate Field Workshop
Workshop at the Squannacook River Wildlife Management and Bertozzi Conservation Land
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July 13-14 and 20-21
MassWWP announces:
STREAM HEALTH AND AQUATIC INVERTEBRATES
A Workshop for Volunteer Monitors
Program offered over two weekends
Dates: July 13-14 and 20-21, all day
Location: UMass Amherst
Cost: $25 (covers materials and light refreshments - bring your own lunch)
Workshop Leaders: Jerry Schoen, Françoise Walk, Sean Werle and Leilia Knight
Sponsored by: EOEA Massachusetts Watershed Initiative
Marie-Françoise Walk, Outreach Coordinator
Mass. Water Watch Partnership
Blaisdell House, UMass, Amherst, MA 01003
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July 8 through August 26, 2002
Mondays 10am
BUTTERFLIES AND GARDENS: A NATURAL ATTRACTION
Wellfleet, Cape Cod
Butterflies found on the Cape and what types of flowers and plants attract them and their caterpillars.
Meet at the MAS Wellfleet Bay WS.
Melissa Lowe
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June 30, 2002 Sunday 10am
Turkey Hill (TheTrustees of Reservations), Hingham
Turkey Hill is home to a large population of Baltimore Checkerspots, as well as other species. A former horse pasture, grasses and flowers are lush. Baltimore Checkerspot eggs, chrysalises, and adults will be highly visible, possibly larvae.
Co-sponsored by The Trustees of Reservations.
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June 30, 2002 Sunday
Breeding Birds & Biodiversity on the Tully River, Royalston. All Day.
A leisurely canoe trip up the Tully River and onto Long Pond
Seek out the resident breeding birds, butterflies, wildflowers, and wildlife.
This trip is co-sponsored with the Athol Bird and Nature Club and Trustees of
Reservations.
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June 23, 2002 Sunday 2pm
Arnold Arboretum, Jamaica Plain
265 acres, including an extensive collection of hardy trees, shrubs and vines from all over the world.
Dale Rhoda -
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June 23, 2002 Sunday 10am - 1pm
5th Annual Royalston Ramblen
9:00 a.m. for breakfast provided by the library at the library on the Common
10:00 am meet at the library for the field trip. Harvesters and Harris’ Checkerspots and both forms of the Red-spotted Admiral have been frequent fliers.
Carl Kamp
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June 22, 2002 Saturday 10am
Martin Burns WMA, Newburyport
Harris’ Checkerspot and other species. Directions: From Rt. 1 heading North turn left onto Middle Rd. after crossing Parker River. Follow Middle Rd., bearing right at a fork onto Orchard St. (no sign). MBWMA is on the right after passing Newbury Perennial Gardens. Meet in parking lot.
Doug Savich -
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June 22, 2002 Saturday 10am - 1pm
Holland, MA.
Call for meeting place and itinerary.
Lyn Lovell -
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June 15, 2002 Saturday 10am - 4pm
Butterfly Day at Foxfire Farm, Uxbridge
Foxfire Farm is 27 acres of house and barns, open fields, woodlands, riverbeds, and granite outcropping. The owner, Ann Hanscom, has been working to make this land attractive to butterflies. This is an “open house” type of event, you are welcome to come anytime, walk around, bring a lunch. Gail Howe will be giving a presentation about Creating Butterfly Habitats, and MBC members will be available to lead walks and answer questions. Call for directions and presentation times.
Fee (discounted for MBC members).
Call for directions and presentation times.
Madeline Champagne - 508-543-3380
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June 9, 2002 Sunday 10am - 1pm
Massachusetts Audubon Society Broad Meadow Brook Wildlife Sanctuary, Worcester
Diverse habitats, a good variety of species. We should find Arctic Skippers on this trip, possibly Harvesters.
Jo-Anne Mullen - 508-757-2168
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June 8, 2002 Saturday - 7:30pm
FREE CONCERT
Blues Night in Royalston Town Hall
After enjoying the nature of Central Massachusetts take a little time to socialize in a wonderful historic setting.
The "Blues Night" on June 8th begins at 7:30 with the Funky Door Boys (Phil Leger & company) opening; then The Everyday Blues Band from New Hampshire will
headline shortly after 8 PM.
Casual seating, free admission, cash beer & wine bar, sodas & munchies.
Sponsored by The Royalston Arts Council.
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June 8, 2002 Saturday - call for time
Dauphainais Park, Grafton
This park includes open field areas, meadows, small pine barren. Good assortment of early summer butterflies. Harvester sighted on a previous field trip to this location!
Call for directions.
Dolores Price - 508-839-2299
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June 8, 2002 Saturday - 9:30am
Mt. Greylock and the high elevation Berkshires
We will search for for Mustard and West Virginia white, Early Hairstreak and other Canadian zone species
Mark Fairbrother - 413-367-2695
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May 31-June 3 Friday through Monday.
Biodiversity Days 2002
Participate!
A great many trips and events for these four days
are listed on our Biodiversity web site
Follow the link above
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June 2, 2002 Saturday, call for time
Gloucester, Waring Field
Expect to see Common Riglets, Pearl Crescents, and Silver-bordered Fritillaries.
Call for time and directions.
Doug Savich - 978-283-7869
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June 1st Saturday at 7 pm.
Nightjars (Whip-poor-wills and Nighthawks) with Dave Small.
Meet at the Center for a short talk on nightjars and we will take a trip to hear them in the field.
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May 26, 2002 Sunday 9 am - 2 pm (rain date: Sunday, June 16)
Tracking Field Trip with Nick Wisniewski
We will focus on interpreting animal sign, and will spend some time
making plaster casts of animal tracks. Meet at the Millers River Environmental Center and carpool to the location.
4 to 5 hrs door-to-door, or longer, depending on the wishes of
the participants.
Some easy bush-whacking will be required; Rubber boots are highly recommended. Bring a bag lunch and
bug repellent if you are so inclined.
Millers River Environmental Center - 978-248-9491
100 Main Street in Athol, MA
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May 25, 2002 Saturday - call for time
Delaney WMA, Stowe
Large fields of vetch have produced large numbers of Silvery Blues in recent years, many other species in various habitats.
Barbara Walker - 508-754-8819
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May 24th Friday at 7 am.
Migrant Birds with Jeff Johnstone.
Meet at the Center to explore the region for late migrants and interesting nesting birds.
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May 19, 2002 Sunday 10am
Frosted Elfins in Foxboro
Soon to be on the state endangered species list, the Frosted Elfin population here is the largest recorded sighting in Massachusetts. The site includes open field of blue-stemmed grass and wild indigo, as well as woods and ponds.
Madeline Champagne
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May 19th Sunday at 1 pm.
Butterfly Gardening with Kathy Morris.
Helpful hints on bringing the beauty of butterflies to your garden throughout the growing season. Held at the Center.
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May 17th Friday at 7 am.
Migrant Birds with Jeff Johnstone.
Met at the Center to explore the region for spring migrants.
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May 15th Wednesday
Dragonfly Institute 2002
The 3rd annual Dragonfly Institute held at the Millers River Environmental Center. The class coordinated by ABNC president Dave Small. Some of New England's premier naturalists shared their knowledge and enthusiasm for odonates.
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May 12, 2002 Sunday 1-4pm
Elfin territory at Whipple Hill in Lexington
The bearberry and blueberry are in bloom.Lots of hill-topping activity. Elfin species hopefully will include Henry’s. Continue on to Horn Pond Hill in Woburn if time permits.
Betty Wright - 781-643-6404
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May 11th Saturday at 6 am.
Birding Around Northfield with Bob Coyle.
Met at the Center or at the Northfield Golf Club at 8:30 AM.
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May 10th Friday at 7 am
Migrant Birds with Jeff Johnstone.
Met at the Center to explore the region for waves of spring migrants.
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May 8th Wednesday at 7 pm.
ABNC Meeting: Mike Tougias, Quabbin Past & Present.
Held at the Center
Co sponsored with Amherst Camera Club
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May 5, 2002 Sunday 10am
ELFIN GRAND SLAM (Amherst)
Searched for Frosted, Brown, Henry’s and Eastern Pine.
Met at the Hitchcock Center in Amherst (on Rt. 116, 1 mile south of Amherst Center)
Tom Gagnon - 413-584-6353
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Report
Available
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May 4th Saturday at 8 am.
Birch Hill Reservoir Area with Dave Small.
Birch Hill Dam in South Royalston. Travel the back roads of this wildlife management area where last year we discovered a new species of dragonfly for the region.
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May 3rd Friday at 7 am.
Migrant Birds with Jeff Johnstone.
Met at the Center to explore the region for early arriving spring migrants.
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May 2nd Thursday at 7 pm.
Warbler Warm-Up with Dave Small.
Get re-acquainted with our colorful wood warblers returning to the area from their tropical wintering grounds. Held at the Center.
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May 1st Wednesday at 7 pm.
Woodcock walk with John Burke
(rain date Thursday the 2nd)
Met at the Harvard Forest Fisher Museum on Route 32 in
Petersham. A short walk on nature trail before viewing at the
pasture (the 'display' areas are fairly close, so if we have two cooperative
males people might be able to see them both.
John Burk - Biodays Petersham Town Coordinator
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April 28th Sunday at 1 pm
Early Flights of Butterflies with Dave Small.
After a short introduction to butterflies at the Center, we toke a short walk to find some of these earliest butterflies.
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April 28 Sunday 11am
Kick-off SPRING FLING MEETING
at Magic Wings in South Deerfield.
Reduced price admission for the morning (opens at 9:00 a.m.) to the exhibits and live displays, welcoming meeting scheduled for 11:00 – 12:00 p.m., followed by lunch and an afternoon field trip leaving from Magic Wings to look for Virginia Whites and other early spring fliers.
Carl Kamp - 978-249-9675
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April 27th Saturday at 6 pm.
Woodcock Evening with Linda and Mark.
Join hosts Linda Mahoney and Mark Taylor for a quiet evening as we share a simple potluck supper and observe the mating dance of woodcocks from their deck and garden.
For details and to reserve a space call our hosts at 413-498-4380.
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April 27th, Saturday 10 am - Noon
Community Biodiversity Event
Mount Grace Land Trust’s Skyfields Property
- Survey plant species present on a disturbed site
- Observe the effects of edge on habitat and biodiversity
- Learn to identify some common woody plants in Massachusetts
- Discover how plants indicate soil type, moisture content, and aspect
- Observe the wildlife and wildlife sign present on this site
Please bring:
Field guides, binoculars, hand lens (if you have them)
Insect repellant or long sleeves/pants
Dress in layers, wear good hiking shoes
This walk will be led by Amy L Hinshaw, Biodiversity Events Coordinator at the Millers River Environmental Center in Athol.
Directions:
Take 2A in Athol to 32N.
Go over river and take immediate right (at T-intersection) to Chestnut Hill Ave.
Take Chestnut Hill Rd to Old Keene Rd on the left (before Cass Farm).
Mt Grace is #1461, white cape farmhouse on right, use small parking area on left.
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April 24th, Sunday 7-9 pm
Community Meeting to Discuss Ecotourism in the North Quabbin:
A community task force has been meeting for nearly a year to discuss ways to develop the North Quabbin's economy through developing tourism that is based on our forests, rivers, lakes, and other natural resources. They will present their research and recommendations at a community meeting to be held on Wednesday, April 24 from 7-9 PM at the Millers River Environmental Center at 100 Main Street in Athol.
The effort was sponsored by the New England Forestry Foundation (NEFF) as a part of their five-year community forestry initiative. The project is designed to improve the North Quabbin economy through sustainable use of the region's natural resources, and includes work with forest landowners, local woodworkers, and local forest and wood-related businesses.
The task force worked with UMass Marketing Consultant Cynthia Barstow to develop marketing strategies for tourism in the North Quabbin. A summary of Barstow's final report and the task force recommendations is available online at www.northquabbinwoods.org, or by contacting Jim Heyes at NEFF's Orange office, at 978-544-1525.
We are making an active effort to involve the entire community in this effort. Businesses, town officials, interested community members, non-profits, and others are all encouraged to attend this meeting. Please tell your friends and forward this email to others! We look forward to seeing you next Wednesday.
Millers River Environmental Center - 978-248-9491
100 Main Street in Athol, MA
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April 20th, Saturday 9am-Noon
Spring Clean-Up
A fun morning of camaraderie as we got our properties ready for summer use. Rakes, gloves, and clippers to 100 Main Street and 210 Canal Street in Athol. A picnic/barbecue after the clean-up. Sponsored by Millers River Greenway, Millers River Watershed Council, and the Athol Bird and Nature Club.
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April 14th, Sunday
1 pm to 3 pm Riverside Walk
Join us on a leisurely walk with Cindy
Delpapa, Stream Ecologist and Riverways Programs
Coordinator. Meet at the Millers River Environmental
Center. Walk along a nearby section of the river
and take a fresh look a look at the fascinating story of
this river system.
Noon -2 pm Woods and Watersheds
A walk with Mary Wigmore.
Millers River Environmental Center and carpool
to a woodlot in North Orange. Explore how sound
forestry techniques can maintain water quality.
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RIVER RAT WEEKEND River Rat Race Web Site
April 13th, Saturday 10am - 12:30
Millers River Environmental Center Open for Celebration
Visit the Millers River Environmental
Center to meet representatives from area organizations. See
the displays, join the fun, and learn about the river and
river related recreational opportunities. The Center’s
collection of local birds and mammals and several hands-on
exhibits will also be of interest to visitors.
Free and open to the public.
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April 10th Wednesday at 7 pm.
ABNC Meeting: Iceland, Land of Fire and Ice.
Ron and Sue Cloutier will take us on a slide show trip to Iceland and will tell about their Earthwatch Expedition when they studied Icelandic volcanoes. Held at the Center.
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April 6th Saturday at 7 am.
Birding Trip to Plum Island with Jacob Morris-Siegel.
Meet at the Center, or at 8:30 AM at the Burger King Rte. 110 in Amesbury.
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March 23rd Saturday at 8 am.
Birding for Ducks with Jeff Johnstone.
Explored winter “hot spots” for spotting ducks. Met at the Center.
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March 19th Tuesday at 7 pm.
Introduction to Vernal Pools. Betsy Colburn
Working inside discovering key features of vernal pools and the creatures that inhabit them. Field trips to identify vernal pools arranged. Held at the Center.
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March 13th Wednesday at 7 pm.
ABNC Meeting: Turtles and Wetlands
David Carroll, author of the Year of the Turtle, presented his experiences with wetlands and wildlife. Refreshments. Held at the Center.
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Feb. 24th Sunday at 1 pm..
An Introduction to Winter Astronomy with Bob Coyle
Join us to learn about the Highlights of the Night Sky. An evening trip to observe the sky will be scheduled.
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Feb. 21st Thursday at 7 pm..
Planning for Stream Monitoring Activities
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Feb.17th Sunday at 1 pm.
Dave Small’s Introduction to North American Owls
At the Center. Follow-up field trips.
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Feb. 16th Saturday at 7:30 am,
Birding Trip to Southeastern MA with Rick Magee
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Feb. 9th Saturday at 10 am.
Snow shoeing and Twig ID with Rick Magee
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Feb. 7th Thursday at 7 pm,
Biodiversity Days Planning Meeting
Call the Center 978-248-9491 for details.
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Jan. 27th, Sunday, 1pm - Intro to Animal Track and Sign
By Nick Wisniewski
Millers River Environmental Center, 100 Main Street., Athol
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Jan. 20th, Sunday, 1pm - Peter Alden
Author and world traveler - keynote speaker on Biodiversity
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Jan. 19th, Saturday 8:30 - Quabbin Eagle Watch
with Dale Monette
Enfield Lookout.
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Jan. 18th, Friday 7pm - Eagle Presentation
By Dale Monette
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Jan. 13th- Owl Presentation
NOTICE: Postponed to February 17, 1pm
Fill your feeders and enjoy the winter.
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Jan. 12th 7am- BIRDING GLOUCESTER/ROCKPORT
MREC, 100 Main St., Athol 7:00 a.m.
Linda Mahoney & Mark Taylor
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This Years Trip Reports and Index
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