Public Programs 2013

BREAKFAST WITH THE BIRDS
Join naturalist Eric Volden for an entertaining morning of bird watching and bird lore at Bethel Horizons’ bird feeding station. A hearty breakfast will be served with each session as Eric identifies birds coming to the feeders and relates bird feeding information and stories. Cost for the breakfast and program is $8/adult, $5/child. To register or for more information, contact Eric Volden at 608-574-1992. February 2 & 16, March 16 & 30, and May 4; 9-11 am

EXPLORING THE HEAVENS
Bethel Horizons has planned several astronomy programs for the public in 2013. An indoor program will be followed by telescope viewing of distant planets, nebula and galaxies. A laser pointer will be used to acquaint participants with seasonal constellations and the night sky. If the sky is too cloudy for good viewing, the activity will be cancelled. Cost:$5/adult, $3/ child. To register or for more information, contact Eric Volden at 608-574-1992. March 9, 7pm (Jupiter). April 27, 8pm (Saturn). October 18, 6pm (Moon Madness). December 7, 7 pm, (Winter Astronomy).

EARTH CELEBRATION
Enjoy beautiful wildflowers, magnificent view and an abundance of migrating birds as we offer a variety of environmental activities, hikes, demonstrations and speakers emphasizing the beauty and importance of nature. This celebration combines Earth Day, Astronomy Day, and Arbor Day while you get outside and explore the Nature Center, trails, and God’s handiwork firsthand. The celebration is free of charge. For more information, contact Eric Volden at 608-574-1992. April 20, 9 am-5 pm

BUTTERFLY DAY
Here’s your chance to learn all about southern Wisconsin’s butterflies. What plants attract them, what their caterpillars look like, how to identify them, and where to find them will be discussed in the morning. The afternoon will be spent identifying and counting butterflies for anyone who would like to participate in Bethel horizon’s annual count. Cost: $5.00 July 6th, 8:30 am

PORTABLE PRAIRIE
Join us for this all-day van excursion as we explore several area prairies. Asters, blazing stars, gentians and goldenrods are a few of the plants that should be blooming. Prairie grasses should be at their finest and a multitude of birds are possible. We’ll leave Bethel Horizons at 9am and return by 4:30pm. Sack
lunches and refreshments will be provided. Reservations required and limited. Contact Eric Volden at 608.574.1992. Cost: $20/person September 7th

KICKAPOO RIVER CANOE TRIP
The Kickapoo Valley should be displaying its beautiful fall colors as we paddle down the scenic Kickapoo River. Join us for this family outing on one of the most crooked rivers in America. A naturalist’s dream, we’ll experience a variety of rare plants and animals as we explore the upper stretches of the Kickapoo River. Lunch, transportation, and canoes are all provided. Reservations required and limited. Contact Eric Volden at 608.574.1992.
Cost: $35/adult, $25/child 12 and under. September 28, 9 am-5 pm.

BETHEL STAR PARTY
Join us for this weekend of star gazing under the dark skies at Bethel Horizons. We’ll have programs, guided hikes, and exploration on your own during the day on Saturday, with Friday and Saturday evenings reserved for observing the night sky with telescopes. Cost: $20/person. Rooms and camping are available for a separate fee. To register and for more information, call Eric Volden at 608-574-1992. October 4-5

CHRISTMAS SUPPER AND CAROLING
Experience a special Christmas evening featuring a supper with traditional foods of ‘Christmas Past’ in front of Bethel Horizons’ glowing fireplace. We’ll have a special Christmas program, and caroling along a luminary trail with decorated Christmas trees in a woodland setting. Reservations required and limited. To register and for more information, call Eric Volden at 608.574.1992. Cost: $15/adults, $10/children. December 14, 5-8 pm