Field Trips for K-12 classes, home school students,
scouts, church groups, etc.
January 2009 – December
2009 FieldSchool Calendar of Events
DeSotoState Park Campfire
Talks 2009 (List of topics, dates and times)
FieldSchoolMission:
To provide in-depth programs designed to nurture appreciation of Alabama’s natural and
cultural significance, celebrate diversity, and foster stewardship of the
natural world.
We promote natural and cultural history education from the
“deepest canyon to the highest mountain” in Alabama.
The Little RiverCanyonFieldSchool is a project of
the
JSU Environmental Policy and InformationCenter (EPIC).
These programs are for everyone!!
Public
Programs: Hikes, Classes, Workshops, and Tours
On weekends
throughout the year, a variety of programs are presented for anyone who is
interested.These popular programs often
fill quickly, so early registration is recommended.Each program is described in detail below.
Call for more information or to pre-register for a program.
Registration is easy!
Phone: Call (256) 782-5697 and register with your
VISA, MasterCard or Discover. On-line:E-mail your request to
This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it
and we will reply to
you with details. Walk-in:Our office is located
on the campus of JacksonvilleStateUniversity Mail:Make checks payable to
the JSU Little River Canyon Field School:
Mailing
Address:JSU
Little River Canyon Field Schools JacksonvilleStateUniversity 700 Pelham Road North;Suite 246, Martin
Hall Jacksonville, AL36265
Physical Address:JSU Little RiverCanyonCenter
472 AL Hwy 35
Ft. Payne, AL35967
(Adjacent
to the Little RiverCanyon National Preserve)
Gift certificates are
available!!
Workshop sizes are limited
so early application is encouraged. Payment in full is required to
register. Cancellations must be made at least two weeks prior to the
workshop in order to receive a refund. Programs cancelled due to inclement
weather will not be refunded, but fees will be credited to another program.
Although paid pre-registration secures slot in program, registrant is not
considered officially a participant until JSU waiver and release form is signed
prior to the beginning of a program.
CanyonCenter Field Trips:
Bring your class, club, troop or group for a hands-on adventure they’ll
never forget at the new LEED registered CanyonCenter in Ft. Payne, Alabama.Group leaders choose 2 – 4 learning station
topics depending upon the size of the group and availability of CanyonCenter
instructors for an unforgettable hands-on environmental education and/or arts
experience.
Learning
Station Topics
Select from
topics that may include Interpretive Hikes, Archaeology, Native American
Pottery Making, Ecology, Herpetology, Ornithology, Botany, Water
Quality/Watersheds, What Makes a Building GREEN?, Climate Change/Weather,
Geology, Nature Art & Journaling, Canyon Creatures, Endangered Species,
Storytelling (Folk Tales, Fairy Tales or Ghost Stories), How to Tell Stories, Nature
Observation Skills, Observing Nature through Fairy Houses, Seasonal Programs,
or our national award-winning Naturalist Adventure.
CanyonCenter Outreach Programs:
Outreach Field Trips:
Select your location from “Alabama’s
deepest canyon to itshighest mountain”
including DeSoto State Park, Talladega National Forest,Cheaha State Park or JSU Digistar
Planetarium. Choose learning stations from the topics listed above.
Classroom Outreach:
Can’t come to the CanyonCenter?
The CanyonCenter can come to you! JSU Field School
instructors will visit your school, classroom or group to present unique
programs on Natural History topics such as Virtual Wilderness Presentation,
Can Snakes Crawl Backwards?(with live specimens), Native American Pottery
Making Workshop, Story Telling Presentations, Storytelling Workshops, andNature Journaling Workshops.
Fees are $15
per student (grades K4-12) and $10 per participating chaperone/parent/guardian.
There is a minimum fee of $300 per scheduled field trip. At least one adult
chaperone per five children is required to register.
2009 Calendar of Events (General Public
Programs)
January 2009
Second Saturday Space
Safaris: Larry Cat in Space
Travel through space and explore planet Earth during these exciting programs
for families and children led by Dr. Laura Weinkauf on an incredible dome 3D
screen. Larry Cat in Space is a about a curious cartoon cat who stows away on a
rocket for an exciting journey to the moon. Larry Cat’s adventures are
purrrfect for kids ages 10 and under. Date: Saturday, January 10, 2009 (Second
Saturdays: January – April) Where: JSU Planetarium (3rd Floor Martin Hall) in Jacksonville, AL Time: 1:30 pm – 2:30 pm Fee: $5 per person; website: http://epic.jsu.edu/stars/
Wilderness Survival 101
Let your instincts come alive and learn to survive.Captain Jerry Mize (JSU Department of
Military Science) and Larry Beane (National Park Service) will teach hands-on
methods of basic survival skills dealing with water, shelter, food, fire and
getting found. Skills are similar to those shown on popular TV. This program
will be outside, hands-on, hiking, collecting materials with hands so wear
appropriate clothing for a cold winter day in the wilderness. Participants will
be sitting on the ground, crawling on the ground as necessary, and will get “dirty”
so to speak. Dress in layers. Bring your own lunch, snacks and water/drink.
Date: Saturday, January 24, 2009 Where:JacksonvilleStateUniversity’s
Little River Canyon Center in Ft.
Payne, AL Time: 10:00 am – 2:00 pm Pre-registration
required Fee: $20 adult; $10 child/student
(ages 15—22); children under the age of 16 must have a parent/guardian attend
with them; children 16 - 19 must have signed parental consent form to attend
alone.
February 2009
Murdock’s Hidden Trails
& EXTREME Hike Join Dr. Chris Murdock, JSU Biologist and Little River native for this
EXTREME experience on hidden trails to the river; difficult trails and extreme
situations in some areas; dress for getting your feet wet. Not recommended for
children under the age of 16 years.
Date:
Saturday, February 7, 2009 Where: Meet at JSU’s Little River Canyon Center (Hwy 35 near
Little River Falls) in Ft. Payne,
AL Time: 9:00 am – 4:00 pm Fee:$20
per person; pre-registration required
Second Saturday Space
Safari: Love Stories In the Stars
Travel through space and explore planet Earth during these exciting programs
for families and children led by Dr. Laura Weinkauf. Many different people have gazed at the
sky and been inspired to tell stories.In honor of Valentine's Day, we'll look at love stories from many
cultures. Date: Saturday, February 14, 2009
(Second Saturdays February – April) Where: JSU Planetarium (3rd Floor Martin Hall) in Jacksonville, AL Time: 1:30 pm – 2:30 pmwebsite http://epic.jsu.edu/stars/planetarium.html Fee: $5 per person
Grand Opening: Little RiverCanyonCenter
Join us for the grand opening of the Little River Canyon Center, a LEED
registered arts/science facility near Ft.Payne.
Enjoy arts, crafts, music, interpretive hikes, nature demonstrations, live
animals, great food and more! Date: Sunday, February 22, 2009 Where: JSU’s Little River Canyon Center (Ft. Payne, AL
next to Little River Falls on Hwy 35) Time: 1:00 pm – 5:00 pm
Fee:
No Fee (Donations welcome!)
March 2009
First Saturday Series:
Early Spring Frog Pond Adventure Experience “love” from a frog’s point of view! Join the one-and-only, “Dr.
Frog” George Cline, for an unforgettable evening of romance and songs from the
first amphibian voices of the season. Learn to identify frog songs and get a
hands-on experience with theseslippery
creatures. Participate in Frog Watch USA. Subject to water level/drought
conditions.http://epic.jsu.edu/frogpond.html
Date: Saturday, March 7, 2009
Where: JSU Frog Pond in White
PlainsAlabama
Time: 7:00 pm - 9:00 pm
Fee: $5 per person
Second Saturday Space
Safari: St. Patty's Cosmic Serpents Watch out for snakes!See snake constellations and other wonders of
our universe in this St. Patrick's Day-themed show led by JSU’s Dr. Laura
Weinkauf.To learn about the JSU planetarium, visit our website http://epic.jsu.edu/stars/planetarium.html Date: Saturday, March 14, 2009 Where: JSU Planetarium (3rd Floor Martin Hall) in Jacksonville, AL Time: 1:30 pm – 2:30 pm Fee: $5/adult; $2.50/students
EEAA Conference: Woods
& Water…Connections in NATURE! Teachers, educators, naturalists, scout
leaders, home school parents…this Environmental Education Association of
Alabama conference is for YOU!! Date: Thursday March 19 through Saturday March
21, 2009 Where: 4H Center Columbiana (Near Birmingham AL) Time: Thursday evening through Saturday noon Fee: Scholarships available; Visitwww.eeaa.us
for more information
Waterfall
Tour & Easy Hike
Join Joan Alexander and others from
the Anniston Outdoor Association for this unique driving and hiking tour of
several beautiful waterfalls located around the CheahaState Park
area. These are easy short hikes on dirt trails. Dependent upon water
level. Date: Friday, March 27, 2009 Where:CheahaState Park(Meet at State Park and ride JSU Shuttle for
tour) in Cleburne County, AL Time:9:00 am
– Noon (Suggested lunch after hike at Cheaha Lodge Restaurant) Fee: $20 per person;
pre-registration is required.
April 2009
Lost Arts Series: Southern Storytelling
Workshop
Join Alabama’s national storyteller Renee Morrison (author of Calico Stories) for this workshop on how
to tell your own stories, story prompting, and building character sketches
through creative drama.
Date: Thursday April 2, 2009
Time: 6:00 pm – 7:30 pm
Fee:$20 per person
-.15 CEUs; pre-registration required (REGISTER AT JSU Continuing Education)
Location: JSU McClellan Auditorium, Anniston, ALCall JSU Continuing Education at (800)634-7199 or (256)782-5983 or visit www.coned.jsu.edu
DeepCanyon Hike
This is our most challenging and rewarding hike of the year! Join JSU Field
Schools for an unforgettable view of one of Alabama’s natural wonders, Little River
Canyon. Hike level: difficult/extreme.
Not recommended for children under 14.
Date:
Saturday, April 4, 2009 Where: Meeting at JSU’s Little River Canyon Center in Ft. Payne, AL Time: 9:00 am – 4:00 pm Fee: $25/person; Pre-registration is
required. This hike fills quickly so make reservations early.
Fly Fishing Techniques Join Dr. Chris Murdock to learn the basics of fly fishing (and join him on
Saturday morning to try out your skills)! Each participant will leave with a
set of hand-tied flies. Date: April 10, 2009 Where: JSU’s Little River Canyon Center (near Little River Falls
on Hwy 35) in Ft. Payne, AL Time: 6 pm – 8 pm Fee:$10
per person; Pre-registration is required
Fly Fishing on Little
River Join Dr. Chris Murdock, JSU Biologist and Little River native for an
opportunity to fly fish on Little River. Equipment supplied for a limited
number of participants or call for a list of needed equipment.
Date:
April 11, 2009 Where: Meet at Little River Canyon Center (near Little River Falls
on Hwy 35) in Ft. Payne, AL Time: 8:00 am – 3:00 pm Fee:$35
per person; Pre-registration is required
Second Saturday Space Safari: Stars of the Pharaohs How did Egyptians view the night sky?Find out in this fascinating show that merges
astronomy, geography, and archaeology for an unforgettable experience.Travel through
space and explore planet Earth during this exciting program viewed on a giant
dome screen.
Date: Saturday, April 11, 2009 Where: JSU Planetarium (3rd Floor Martin Hall) in Jacksonville, AL Time: 1:30 pm – 2:30 pmhttp://epic.jsu.edu/stars/planetarium.html Fee: $5 per person
Cultivating Shiitake Mushrooms
in Natural Logs
Join Dr. Safaa Al-Hamdani to learn how to
grow shitake mushrooms and how to make money doing it! Course begins at JSU
Martin Hall for a presentation on the specific “how to” of this process and
then moves to the green house for a four hour “hands on” step by step program. Date: Saturday, April 25, 2009
Where:Jacksonville State
University Martin Hall 700 Pelham Road North Jacksonville AL 36265 Time: 10:00 am – 3:00 pm Fee: $40 per participant; includes
supplies to complete one log (additional logs may be purchased after the
workshop); bring your own “brown bag” lunch. Pre-registration required.
Celebrate
National Junior Ranger Day at Little RiverCanyon National Preserve
National Park Junior Ranger programs will
be presented at various times on this date.
Date: Saturday,
April 25, 2009
Where: Meet at JSU’s
Little River Canyon Center (near Little River Falls on Hwy 35)
Time: Events and
information scheduled at various times and locations throughout the day. Fore
more info call Little River Canyon Center at 256-845-9605 or look on line at www.nps.gov/liri
Fee: No fee or
registration
Spring Fairy Houses
& Hobbit Hike (Children’s Nature Observation Skills)
Pausing in the
forest or along the river to create a small structure for the good folk gives
children the opportunity to bond with nature on a very personal level. Morrison
will also lead a short “hobbity” hike through an enchanted forest to identify
places where fairies might live or play to teach observation skills to budding
young naturalists. Award-winning storyteller and naturalist Renee Morrison was
taught to make fairy houses by her grandmother and has been making fairy houses
with her sons and nature campers for decades. CEUs available for this workshop.
Date:Saturday, April 25, 2009
Where:JSU’s Little River Canyon Center (near Little
River Falls on Hwy 35) Time:Noon – 3:00
pm
Fee:$10
per person; pre-registration required
May 2009
First Saturday Series:
Early Summer Frog Pond Adventure Learn to identify frog songs and get a hands-on experience with these
slippery creatures. Participate in Frog Watch USA. For more information on JSU’s
Frog Pond, visit our website at http://epic.jsu.edu/frogpond.html
Date: Saturday, May 2, 2009
Where: JSU Frog Pond in White
Plains, AL
Time: 7:00 pm – 9:00 pm
Fee: $5 per person; pre-registration required
Chief
Ladiga Trail Interpretive Bike Ride
Join USFS Biologist Jeff
Gardner for a bike ride on the Chief Ladiga Trail portion
that crosses through the TalladegaNational Forest.
Participants will bring their own bikes and meet at the new parking lot at
Borden Springs. Bikers will ride approximately 10 miles round trip. Bring
drink/snacks/lunch. Not recommended for children under 12 years.
Date:
Saturday, May 2, 2009
Where: Chief Ladiga Trail Parking Lot (Borden Springs, AL)
Time: 9:00 am – 12:00 pm
Fee: $10 per person; pre-registration
required
Bilingual
Spanish-English Hike (¡para los personas hablas Espanol!) Acompanenos a una caminata en el Parque Estatal de Soto y Canon de Rio Pequeno. Fecha: Sabado, Mayo 2, 2009 Donde: JSU’s Little RiverCanyonCenter
(Hwy 35 near Little River Falls) Hora: 10:00 am hasta las 1:00 mediodia Tarifa: $10 adulto (ninos gratis)
This easy hike is led by Dr. Kelly Gregg. It is designed for individuals who
are fluent and learning Spanish. Date: Saturday, May 2, 2009 Where:JSU’s Little River Canyon Center (Hwy 35 near Little River
Falls) Time: 10:00 am – 1:00 pm Fee: $10 per adult and children free with parent;
pre-registration required
17th Annual Wildflower Saturday at DeSotoState
Park
With its abundance of rhododendron and mountain laurel, there are few places
lovelier than DeSotoState Park
in May. Join DeSoto’s Brittney Hughes, NPS’s Larry Beane, and other botanists
for this incredible day of flora. Date: Saturday, May 2, 2009 Where:DeSotoState Park;
Visitwww.desotostatepark.com
or call 1-800-ALA-PARK (option 2) Time: Multiple hikes from morning through
afternoon (call for exact times) Fee: No fee
Paddling Tour of
Terrapin Creek
Imagine green pools with six foot alligator gar floating along side your boat,
wildflowers dripping over verdant banks, and spring birds trilling in the tree
tops. JoinJSUFieldSchool staff and seasoned paddlers for
this 4-6 mile float down lovely Terrapin Creek.If water levels are low, program may be
cancelled. Space is LIMITED.
Date:
Saturday, May 9, 2009 Where:TerrapinCreekOutdoorCenter (AL Hwy 9 near Centre, AL) Time: 9:00 am – 4:00 pm Fee: $50 per person kayak; $25 per
person canoe (double only); $25 per person to bring your own canoe or kayak;
Pre-registration is required.
CCC Historic HikeJoin DeSoto State
Park Staff on this historic hike to the Civilian Conservation
Corp’s ‘unfinished’ Bridge. Learn why the CCC left it ‘unfinished’ and see
several original structures. Meet in front of DeSoto’s Lodge in the CCCMemorial
Park. Moderate to Strenuous Hike on old CCC roadbed.
Not for children under the age of 5.Date: Saturday, May 9, 2009 Where:DeSotoState Park;
Visitwww.desotostatepark.com
or call 1-800-ALA-PARK (option 2) Time: 9:00 am – 12:00 noon Fee: No fee
Wildflower Saturday at Little River
Canyon National Preserve
National Park Ranger Larry Beane will guide you through a memorable wildflower
experience. Come enjoy a bloomin' good day! Call the National Park Service for
more information at 256-845-9605 Date: Saturday, May 9,
2009
Where:
Meet at JSU’s Little River Canyon Center (near Little River Falls on Hwy 35) in
Ft. Payne, AL Time: 9:00 am – 11:00 am or 1:00 pm – 3:00 pm Fee: No fee or registration
International Migratory Bird Day
Programs and information on migratory birds. Date: Saturday, May 9,
2009
Where:
Meet at JSU’s Little River Canyon Center (near Little River Falls on Hwy 35) in
Ft. Payne, AL Time: Events and information scheduled at various
times during the day. Call the National Park Service for more information at
256-845-9605 or visit www.nps.gov/liri Fee: No fee or registration
Murdock’s Hidden Trails
& EXTREME Hike Join Dr. Chris Murdock, JSU Biologist and Little River native for this
EXTREME experience on hidden trails to the river; moderate to difficult trails
in some areas; opportunities to swim in Little River (dress for getting wet).
Not recommended for children under the age of 16 years.
TEEN approved: visit www.geeksinthewoods.org
for more information on TEEN approved outdoor recreation.
Date:
May 9, 2009 Where: JSU’s Little River Canyon Center (near Little River Falls
on Hwy 35) in Ft. Payne, AL Time: 9:00 am – 4:00 pm Fee:$20
per person; pre-registration required
Edible & Interesting
Plants Workshop for ChildrenThis workshop is
designed for children that are naturally curious about nature. Join DeSoto's
naturalist Brittney Hughes for this fun & interesting program on the nature
of plants.Demonstrations & an easy
hike. No fee. Please Pre-register ahead of time.Date:
May 16, 2009 Where:DeSotoStateParkNatureCenterwww.desotostatepark.com Time: 10:00 am – Noon Fee:No fee;
pre-registration required
Beginning Bird
Identification Join USFS birding experts for a tour of the Shoal Creek District’s birding
“hot spots” including the endangered Red-cockaded Woodpecker managementareas (and possibly nestlings). Convoy behind
USFS biologist in your own vehicle.
Date: May 16, 2009 Where: Meet at the Shoal Creek District Office (256)-463-2272 in Cleburn County, AL Time: 7:00 am – 10:00 am Fee:$10
per person; Pre-registration required
Herbal
Medicine Making WorkshopJoin Herbalists
Darryl Patton and DeSotoState Park staff for an
introductory class geared toward learning medicinal properties of plants
including how to make salves and poltices. Class will include short hikes on
nature trails and demonstrations. Wear appropriate footwear and clothing for
hike.Date:
May 23, 2009 Where: Meet at DeSotoState Park’s NatureCenterwww.desotostatepark.com
(1-800-ALA-PARK) Time: 2:00 pm – 4:00 pm Fee:Pre-registration required (call Brittney Hughes at 256-845-0051)
CCC
Historic Hike: The Quarry TrailJoin DSP Staff on a
moderate hike to the CCC Quarry. Learn how the builders of DeSotoState Park constructed
the original structures that you can still see in the park today.Moderate to
strenuous climbs.Date:
May 30, 2009 Where: Meet at DeSotoState Park’s NatureCenterwww.desotostatepark.com
(1-800-ALA-PARK) Time: 9:00 am – 11:00 am Fee:No
fee; Pre-registration required
June 2009
Ethnobotany Weekend at DeSotoState Park
(June 5-6)
JSUFieldSchools
and DeSotoState Park
will offer fun activities Friday night, all day Saturday and Saturday night for
families who want to learn about nature together.Join ethno-botanist
Francine Hutchinson for Campfire Talks on Friday and Saturday nights, register
for the plants workshop on Saturday. For lodging information, visit www.desotostatepark.com
Campfire
Talk: Medicinal Plants of Little RiverCanyon
Join botanist Francine Hutchinson for a
presentation of local healing herbs, and learn how to grow many of them
yourself. Date: Friday, June 5, 2009
Where:DeSoto State Park Nature Center/Campground Time: 8:00 pm – 9:00 pm
Fee:Free
Medicinal & Edible
Plants Workshop & Hike
For centuries, local residents have used hundreds of different species of
medicinal plants found in our forests. Come learn about many of them with
botanist Francine Hutchinson. Date: Saturday, June 6, 2009 Where: Meet at DeSotoStateParkNatureCenter Time: 9:00 am – 3:00 pm Fee: $30/adult; $15 child;
Pre-registration is required.
Campfire Talk:
Ethno-botany/Edible Plants of Little RiverCanyon
There are many wild plants that have a wide range of uses. Join botanist
Francine Hutchinson for a presentation on what’s safe and what’s not. Date: Saturday, June 6, 2009 Where:DeSoto State Park Nature Center/Campground Time: 8:00 pm – 9:00 pm
Fee:Free
JuniorCatfish-FishingDerby JoinUnited
StatesForest Service
and JSUFieldSchools
for this event for kids which includes a cat fishing competition. Take
advantage of the beautiful location and camp for the weekend! Family friendly.
Date: Saturday, June 13, 2009 Where: Coleman Lake Recreational Area (near Heflin, AL) Info: Contact Jeff
Gardner at 256-463-2272 Fee: Free for kids 16 and under
Family Weekend DeSoto State Park (June 26-27) JSU Field Schools and DeSoto State Park
will offer fun activities Friday night, all day Saturday and Saturday night for
families who want to learn about nature together.Join Dr. Chris Murdock
for free Campfire Talks on Friday and Saturday nights with live critters.
Register for the family hike program on Saturday. For lodging information,
visit www.desotostatepark.com
Campfire Talk: Can
Snakes Crawl Backwards? JSU biologist Dr. Chris Murdock will talk about amphibians and
reptiles...meet some live creatures! Date: Friday, June 26, 2009 Where:DeSoto State Park Nature Center/Campground Time: 8:00 pm – 9:00 pm
Fee:Free
Herpetology Hike:Searching for Reptiles & Amphibians Join Dr. Chris Murdock, JSU biologist (and herpetologist) on a fun and
extremely unique adventure hike looking for creepy crawly creatures! This hike
gained national attention last year and drew a large crowd who said, “This is
one of the BEST hikes we’ve ever experienced!”
Date:
June 27, 2009 Where: Meet at DeSotoStateParkNatureCenter Time: 12:00 pm – 2:00 p.m. Fee: $10 per person; pre-registration required
Campfire Talk: Venomous
Snakes of Alabama JSU biologist Dr. Chris Murdock will talk about venomous reptiles: fact,
myth and misunderstandings. Meet some live creatures! Date: Saturday, June 27, 2009 Where:DeSoto State Park Nature Center/Campground Time: 8:00 pm – 9:00 pm
Fee:Free
JSU Field Schools Nature Camps
Hands-on science,environmental arts, exploration of the
natural world, outdoor adventure, live animal experiences, and nature
games...children who participate in these camps beg for “just one more week”
with JSU!Every participant builds his
or her own memory journal and receives a complete photo CD of camp week to share
with their families. These camps fill quickly with a long waiting list, so
register early! Fee includes lunch and supplies.
Canyon Camp for
Children (at JSUCanyonCenterFt. Payne, AL)
Hands-on
environmental education, outdoor fun, arts and exploration of the natural world
abound in this camp. Campers will experience hands-on nature study at the
Little River Canyon Center and they will explore the Little River Canyon
National Preserve, DeSotoState Park, and other areas in DeKalbCounty.
These camps leave children begging for more JSUFieldSchool fun! Every participant builds his
or her own memory journal and receives a photo CD of camp week to share with
their family and friends. These camps fill quickly so register early. Fee
includes lunch and supplies.
Date:June
23 – 26, 2009 (Tuesday – Friday)
Age/Grade:Ages
6 – 8 years Where:JSU’s Little River Canyon Center
(Near Ft. Payne, AL) Time:9:30 am – 2:30 pm at the CanyonCenter Fee: $200
per participant (includes lunch); pre-registration required (Camp is limited;
register early)
July 2009
Little RiverCanyon
Adventure Camp
Hands-on
environmental education, arts, exploration of the natural world AND outdoor
adventures abound in this camp. This camp travels to Little River Canyon, DeSotoState
Park, TalladegaNational Forest, and/or CheahaState
Park. Children who participate in Renee
Morrison’s camps beg for “just one more week” with JSU Field Schools. Every
participant receives a photo CD of camp week to share with their family and
friends. These camps fill quickly so register early. Fee includes lunch and
supplies.
Date: July
7 – 10, 2009 (Tuesday – Friday)
Age/Grade:Ages
9 - 11 Where:Meet
at the Little River Canyon Center in Ft.
Payne, AL Time:8:30 am – 4:30 pm Fee:$200 per participant;
pre-registration required (Camp is limited so register early)
Learn to play the
HARMONICA Musician Tony Thomas teaches this fun class. There will be harmonicas for
sale. Date: Saturday, June 27, 2009 Where:DeSoto State Park Nature Center/Campground Time: 1:00 pm – 4:00 pm
Hands-on
environmental education, arts, exploration of the natural world AND outdoor
adventures abound in this camp. This camp travels to Little River Canyon, DeSotoState
Park, TalladegaNational Forest, and/or CheahaState
Park. Children who participate in Renee
Morrison’s camps beg for “just one more week” with JSU Field Schools. Every
participant receives a photo CD of camp week to share with their family and
friends. These camps fill quickly so register early. Fee includes lunch and
supplies.
Date:July
14 – 17, 2009 (Tuesday – Friday)
Age/Grade:Ages 9 - 11 Where:Meet
JSU Campus
Time:8:30 am—4:30 pm
Fee:$200 per
participant; pre-registration required (Camp is limited so register early)
Hands-on environmental
education, arts, exploration of the natural world AND outdoor adventures abound
in this camp for teenagers who have completed at least 3 years of advanced camp.
This camp, led by Renee Morrison, will provide adventurous trips through WILD Alabama habitats while
studying field biology. Fee includes
lunch and supplies.
Date:July
28 – 31, 2009 (Tuesday – Friday)
Age/Grade:Teens who have graduated from JSU’s
Advanced Camp Series
Where:Meet/Pick
Up on JSU Campus
Time:8:30 am—4:30 pm
Fee:$250 per
participant; pre-registration required
Native
American Pottery Workshop
Join nationally renown potter, Tammy Beane, to learn how pottery was made on
Lookout Mountain thousands of years ago. We’ll provide the clay as well as bone
needles and paddles to make designs on your pots. This workshop is very popular
and fills with a long waiting list. Pre-register early to assure your place.
Date: Saturday,
July 18, 2009 Where:JSU’s Little River Canyon
Center (near Little River Falls on Hwy 35) in Ft. Payne, AL Time: 10:00 am
– 12:00 noon OR 1:00 pm – 3:00 pm Fee:$20
adult/$15 child; Pre-registration is required
August 2009
DeSotoState Park: Little River Plant
Hike
Join Brittney Hughes and Darryl Patton for a medicinal plant hike along the
west fork of the Little River. Moderate to difficult hike. Wear appropriate
foot wear. Date: Saturday, August 15, 2009 Where: Meet at DeSotoStateParkNatureCenter Time: 9:00 am – 11:00 am Fee: No fee (Visit www.desotostatepark.com for more
information)
Guided Archaeology Tour of Calhoun & St. Clair
Counties
Come along with JSU’s Dr. Harry Holstein for a guided archaeology tour of
various sites throughout Calhoun and St. Clair counties. We will visit Janney
Iron Furnace, a 19th century battlefield and river locks, a prehistoric Indian
village, and much more. Participants should bring their own lunch and drinks.
Transportation is provided. Space is limited. This is one of our most of
our most popular programs so register early! Date: Saturday, August 22, 2009 Where:Jacksonville,
AL (Meeting location to be disclosed
upon registration) Time: 9:00 am – 3:00 pm Fee: $30 per person (ages 14 and older)
Pre-registration is required.
September 2009
Family
Weekend DeSoto State Park (September
11-12) JSU Field Schools and DeSoto
State Park will offer fun activities Friday night, all day
Saturday and Saturday night for families who want to learn about nature
together.Join JSU’s Dr. Jim Rayburn for fun “live animal” Campfire
Talks on Friday and Saturday nights. Register for the family Woodsy Stroll on
Saturday. For lodging information, visit www.desotostatepark.com
Campfire
Talk: Frog Metamorphosis Explore how amphibians transform from a single cell to
the wonderful hopping creatures we adore with JSU’s Dr. Rayburn. Date: Friday, September 11, 2009
Where:DeSoto
State Park Time: 7:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Fee:FREE
Woodsy Stroll
Explore the trails of DeSotoState Park
and hike along the Little River with Dr. Jim Rayburn. Be sure to wear
appropriate footwear and clothing. Easy to moderate level hike. Pre-registration
is required. Date: Saturday, September 12, 2009 Where: DeSotoStateParkNatureCenter Time: 9:00 am – 12:00 p.m. Fee: $10.00 per person (Pre-registration
required)
Campfire
Talk: Venomous Organisms of Alabama Some plants and animals really get your attention with
their special lines of defense. Presented by toxicologist Dr. James Rayburn. Date: Saturday, September 12, 2009 Where:DeSotoState Park Time: 7:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Fee:FREE
Murdock’s
Hidden Trails & EXTREME Hike Series Join Dr. Chris Murdock, JSU Biologist and Little River
Canyon native for this EXTREME experience on hidden trails to Little River; prepare
to get your feet wet. Moderate to difficult (and extreme) level hike. Not
recommended for children under 14 years of age.
Date: September 26, 2009 Where: JSU’s Little River Canyon Center (near Little River Falls
on Hwy 35) in Ft. Payne, AL Time: 9:00 am – 4:00 p.m. Fee:$20per person; pre-registration
required
Family Weekend DeSoto State Park
(September 25-26) JSU Field Schools and DeSoto
State Park will offer fun activities Friday night, Saturday
and Saturday night for families who want to learn about nature together.Join
JSU’s Dr. Kelly Gregg for Campfire Talks on Friday night (Cherokee Trail of
Tears) and Saturday night (Geologic History of the Canyon). Join us for the
casual canyon “stroll” on Saturday afternoon. For lodging information, visit www.desotostatepark.com
Campfire Talk: Cherokee Trail of Tears Thousands of Native Americans were taken from their
homelands and sent to Oklahoma
on this infamous trek. JSU's Dr. Kelly Gregg will share this tragic story. Date: Friday, September 25, 2009 Time: 7:00 pm - 8:00 pm FREE
Casual Canyon Hike
Join Dr. Kelly Gregg for this easy to moderate hike along DeSotoState Park trails to
learn more about the natural history of the area.
TEEN approved: visit www.geeksinthewoods.org
for more information on TEEN approved outdoor recreation.
Date:
Saturday, September 26, 2009 Where: Meet at DeSoto State Park
Nature Center Time: 1:00 pm – 4:00 pm Fee: $10 per person; pre-registration
required (Walk-ins welcome if space is available)
Campfire
Talk: Geologic History of Little RiverCanyon Join geologist Dr. Kelly Gregg to learn about the ancient
inhabitants of Little River: sharks, corals, ferns, ancient trees, and even
giant salamanders. Date: Saturday, September 26, 2009 Where:DeSotoState Park Time: 7:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Fee:FREE
October 2009
Family Weekend DeSoto State Park
(October 2-3) JSU Field Schools, JSU Little River Canyon Center and DeSoto State Park will offer fun activities Friday
night, Saturday and Saturday night for families who want to learn about nature
together.Join JSU’s Dr. Harry Holstein for Campfire Talks on Friday
night (Prehistoric Cultures) and Saturday night (Spanish Exploration) Register
for the Native American Tools & Weapons workshop on Saturday or join us for
the casual canyon “stroll” on Saturday afternoon. For lodging information,
visit www.desotostatepark.com
Campfire
Talk: Prehistoric Cultures of Little RiverCanyon JSU’s Dr. Harry Holstein will fascinate you with stories
of from the Ice Age toDeSoto's 16th
century Spanish expedition. Date: Friday, October 2, 2009 Where:DeSotoState Park Time: 6:00 pm - 7:00 pm
Fee:FREE
Native
American Pottery Workshop
Join expert potter, Tammy Beane, to learn how pottery was made on LookoutMountain thousands of years ago. We’ll
provide the clay as well as bone needles and paddles to make designs on your
pots. Date: Saturday, October 3, 2009 Where:JSU’s Little River Canyon
Center (Hwy 35 near Little River Falls) Time: 10:00 am – Noon AND 1:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m. Fee: $20 adult/$15 child; Pre-registration
is required. Fills quickly so register early!
NativeAmericanTools & Weapons JoinNational
Park Service archaeologist Larry Beane for a
demonstration of how Native Americans utilized natural resources to hunt and
gather food, to make weapons, to start fires, and more!
Date: Saturday, October 3, 2009 Where: Little River Canyon Center (Hwy 35 near Little River Falls) Time: 10:00 am – 12:00 pm AND 1:00 pm – 3:00 pm Fee:Free
Campfire
Talk: Spanish Exploration of Northeast Alabama JSU's Dr. Harry Holstein will take you through their
amazing adventures of the first European explorers search for the ancient town
of "Coosa". Date: Saturday, October 3, 2009 Where:DeSotoState Park Time: 6:00 pm - 7:00 pm
Fee:FREE
Autumn
Gathering: Medicinal Plants Join herbalist Darryl Patton and Brittney Hughes for a hike on DeSotoState
Park’s trails.
Date: Saturday, October 17, 2009 Where: Meet at DeSotoState Park’s NatureCenter Time: 9:00 am – 11:00 am Fee:Free
Storytelling Weekend at DeSotoState Park & Storytelling
Workshop at Little RiverCanyon
Join Alabama storytellers Renee Morrison
and Jenny Whitman for a weekend of storytelling fun, spooky story shivers, and
a “how to” workshop to learn practical techniques for telling your own stories.
JSUFieldSchools, JSU Little River Canyon
Center and DeSotoState Park
will offer fun activities Friday night, Saturday and Saturday night for
families who want to learn about nature and storytelling together.Join
JSU Field Schools naturalist and storyteller Renee Morrison (author of Calico Ghosts) for fun Campfire Talks on
Friday night (Ghosts in the Valley) and Saturday night (My Life as a Hound
Dog). For lodging information, visit www.desotostatepark.com;
for information about the CanyonCenter visit http://fieldschool.jsu.edu
.
Storytellin’ Campfire
Talk: Ghosts on the Mountain Spooky stories guaranteed to put shivers up your spine! Learn about Alabama’s finest spooks, legends and folklore from JSUFieldSchools’ Renee Morrison and
Jenny Walker Whitman. Date: Friday, October 23, 2009
Where:DeSoto State Park Large CCC Pavilion (across
the road from NatureCenter) Time: 6:00 pm -7:00 pm
Fee:Free
Storytellin’ &
Creative Writing Workshop (How to tell and record your own family stories!) Join Renee Morrison, Jenny Whitman, and other
tellers to learn more about oral traditions, preserving family stories, telling
your own stories, creative writing and more! Date: Saturday, October 24, 2009
Where:Little RiverCanyonCenter (Hwy 35 near
Little River Falls) Time: 10:00 am –2:30 pm
Fee:$35 per adults; $25 per youth (not
recommended for children under age 15): pre-registration required
CEUs available for teachers/educators
Storytellin’ Campfire
Talk: Calico Stories (My Life as a Black & Tan Coonhound) Fun farm-raised folklore from JSU Field Schools’ Renee Morrison and her
aunt Jenny Whitman. Date: Saturday, October 24, 2009
Where:DeSoto State Park Large CCC Pavilion (across
the road from NatureCenter) Time: 6:00 pm -7:00 pm
Fee:Free
November 2009
Canyon Fest: A Celebration of Arts and Nature
Enjoy live music, nature & arts
activities, arts demonstrations & sales, great food, vendors, children’s
activities & fun at this festival designed to celebrate our natural world
and to benefit the children of our community.
Date: Saturday,
November 7, 2009 Where: Little River Canyon Center Time: 10:00 am – 3:00 pm Fee: No Fee; Donations welcome
Guided
Archaeology Tour of Cherokee and DekalbCounties Come along with JSU archaeologist Dr. Harry Holstein for
a guided tour of sites throughout Cherokee and Dekalb counties. Participants
will visit the 19th century Cornwall Iron Furnace, a Spanish contact site at Coosa village, a rock shelter in use as early as 3000
B.C., and much more. This will be an unforgettable all-day event. Bring your
own food and drinks. Transportation is provided. Space is limited so register
early! Date: Saturday, November 7, 2009 Where: Near Fort Payne, AL (Meeting location disclosed at
registration) Time: 9:00 am - 3:00 pm Fee: $30 per person (Ages 14 and
over); pre-registration required
International
TELLABRATION!! Storytelling in the Canyon
The International
Tellebration is a worldwide event devoted to storytelling. This grass-roots
movement is endorsed by the National Storytelling Network. Join Renee Morrison
and other Alabama
storytellers for this fun event.
Date: Saturday, November 21, 2009 Where: Little River Canyon Center Time: 1:30 pm - 3:30 pm Fee: $5.00 per person
Pausing
in the woods or along the river to create a small structure for the good folk
gives children the opportunity to bond with nature on a very personal level.
She’ll also lead a short “hobbity” hike through an enchanted forest to identify
places where fairies might live or play to teach observation skills to budding
young naturalists.Award-winning storyteller
and naturalist Renee Morrison was taught to make fairy houses by her
grandmother and has been making fairy houses with her sons and nature campers for
decades. CEUs available for this workshop.
Date:Saturday,
December 5, 2009
Where:JSU’s Little River Canyon Center
(near Little River Falls on Hwy 35) Time:Noon – 3:00
pm
Fee:$10
per person; pre-registration required
Second Saturday Space Safari: Star of Bethlehem
Travel through space and explore planet Earth during these exciting programs
for families and children. Date: Saturday, December 12, 2009 Where: JSU Planetarium (3rd Floor Martin Hall) Time: 1:30 pm – 2:30 pmwebsite http://epic.jsu.edu/stars/planetarium.html Fee: $5 per person; groups please
call to pre-register.
DeSotoState Park Campfire Talks
What: JSU Field Schools partner with Alabama State Parks
to offer an interesting, educational and entertaining series of FREE programs known
as “Campfire Talks.”
When and Where: These programs are offered every Friday
and Saturday evening (May – October) at DeSotoState Park’s Campfire Circle.
Thousands of families enjoy these programs annually.
Seating is limited, so bring your own comfortable chair. In case of rain,
programs will be held in the nature center. Plan a family camp out or a weekend
at DeSotoState Park’s
lovely lodge, cabins or chalets…or just drop by one evening and enjoy the
program!
For more information, directions or reservations for
lodging call 1-800-568-8840 or visit www.desotostatepark.com
Topic, Date and Time:
Fishes of Little RiverCanyon
Join JSU Biologist Mark Meade to learn more about what is lurking underneath Alabama’s streams and
rivers! Date: Saturday, May 8, 2009 Time: 8:00 pm – 9:00 pm
DeSotoState Park’s Founders: The CCCIn honor of DeSoto’s 70th
Anniversary, JoinDeSotoState Park staff to
learn about DeSoto’s founders and builders; the Civilian Conservation Corps.
See historic photos and artifacts from the 1930s.
Leave No Trace for Children JoinState
Park
ranger Josh Hughes to learn how to be gentle when you are hiking through
natural areas…how to be kind to nature. Date: Friday, May 15, 2009 Time: 8:00 pm – 9:00 pm
Useful and Edible
Plants for Children
Nature provides so many wonderful things…children need to know where “things”
come from…what do we get from plants? You will be surprised by what a DeSoto State Park Naturalist Brittney Hughes can
tell you about how you depend on plants to survive! Date: Saturday, May 16, 2009 Time: 8:00 pm – 9:00 pm
Introduction
to Musical Instruments in Story & Song (Part 1)
Join musician Tony Thomas for this program
introducing acoustic instruments such as fiddle, guitar, mandolin, and banjo by
using stories and songs to give appreciation for each. Bring the kids for
s’mores! Date: Friday, May 22, 2009 Time: 7:00 pm –8:00 pm
Introduction
to Musical Instruments in Story & Song (Part 2)
Join musician Tony Thomas for this program
introducing acoustic instruments such as fiddle, guitar, mandolin, and banjo by
using stories and songs to give appreciation for each. Bring the kids for
s’mores! Date: Saturday, May 23, 2009 Time: 7:00 pm –8:00 pm
Constellations from LookoutMountain An out-of-this world experience! JSU astronomer Dr. Laura Weinkauf will
explore the science and myths of the constellations that can be seen from DeSotoState
Park. Date: Friday, May 29, 2009 Time: 8:00 pm -9:00 pm
Moon Views Join astronomer Dr. Laura Weinkauf as she reveals the science and mysteries
of our closest celestial neighbor and other moons in our solar system. Take a
CLOSE look at our moon through a telescope! Date: Saturday, May 30, 2009 Time: 8:00 pm - 9:00 pm
Medicinal Plants of
Little River
Join botanist Francine Hutchinson for a presentation of local healing herbs,
and learn how to grow many of them yourself. Date: Friday, June 5, 2009 Time: 8:00 pm – 9:00 pm
Ethno-botany/Edible
Plants of Little RiverCanyon
There are many wild plants that have a wide range of uses. Join botanist
Francine Hutchinson for a presentation on what’s safe to touch and eat…and
what’s not! Date: Saturday, June 6, 2009 Time: 8:00 pm – 9:00 pm
Introduction to Musical
Instruments in Stories and Song
Join Tony Thomas for this interesting program where fiddle, guitar, mandolin
and banjo are the instruments used to teach stories and songs. Date: Friday, July 10, 2009 Time: 7:00 pm – 8:00 pm
Introduction to Musical
Instruments in Stories and Song
Join Tony Thomas for this interesting program where fiddle, guitar, mandolin
and banjo are the instruments used to teach stories and songs. Date: Saturday, July 11, 2009 Time: 7:00 pm – 8:00 pm
Landscaping with NativePlants DeSotoState Park Naturalist, Brittney
Hughes, will be teaching the effectiveness and benefits of using plants native
to Alabama
for landscaping your yard. Date: Friday, June 12, 2009 Time: 8:00 pm - 9:00 pm
Plants and People: How
are we connected? JSU plant physiologist Dr. Safaa Al-Hamdani will explain the essential
mysteries of the human/plant relationship. Date: Saturday, June 13, 2009 Time: 8:00 pm - 9:00 pm
Can Snakes Crawl
Backwards? JSU biologist Dr. Chris Murdock will talk about amphibians and
reptiles...meet some live creatures! Date: Friday, June 26, 2008 Time: 8:00 pm - 9:00 pm
Venomous Snakes of Alabama JSU biologist Dr. Chris Murdock will talk about venomous reptiles: fact,
myth and misunderstandings. Meet some live creatures! Date: Saturday, June 27, 2009 Time: 8:00 pm - 9:00 pm
Ecology of the Canyon
for Children A program geared toward introducing children to local environmental issues
presented by National Park Ranger Larry Beane. Date: Friday, July 17, 2009 Time: 8:00 pm - 9:00 pm
13 Ways Not to Die at
Little River Canyon As part of the NPS safety program, National Park Ranger,
Larry Beane, will share some stories of the rescues, and misadventures that
occur every year in and around Alabama 's deepest gorge. Date: Saturday, July 18, 2009
Time: 8:00 pm – 9:00 pm
The Legend of Granny
Dollar
Granny Dollar is one of the most colorful
characters and rugged individualists who ever lived in the FortPayne
area. She has long captured the imagination of those who have heard of this
Cherokee Indian’s century of varied experiences. Date: Friday, July 31, 2009 Time: 8:00 pm - 9:00 pm
The Legend of Sequoyah
Sequoyah is celebrated as a Native American genius who, solely from the
resources of his mind, endowed a whole tribe with learning; the only man in
history to conceive and perfect in its entirety a syllabary. Sequoyah, is known
to have taught in the DeKalbCounty area for years after his mother took up
residence in Willstown, Alabama
during the movement of the Cherokee Nation to Oklahoma. Date: Saturday, August 1, 2009 Time: 8:00 pm - 9:00 pm
The Legend of the Wolf
JSU’s Teje Sult will discuss the natural history of the wolf…how it once
thrived in Alabama
and where you can find these amazing predators today.
Birds of Prey Anniston Museum of Natural History curator, Dan Spaulding, will present this
program with LIVE birds of prey. Date: Friday, August 14, 2009 Time: 8:00 pm -9:00 pm
Rare Plants and Animals
of Little RiverCanyon Little RiverCanyon is home to over 100 rare species.
National Park Ranger Larry Beane will introduce you to a number of them. Date: Friday, August 21, 2009 Time: 7:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Animal Camouflage Join Larry Beane, Little River Canyon National Park Ranger, to learn about
animal camouflage. Date: Saturday August 22, 2009 Time: 8:00 pm - 9:00 pm
Invisible Wonders of Little RiverCanyon JSU microbiologist Dr. Benjie Blair will explain how the creatures you
can't see affect you every day. Date: Friday, August 28, 2009 Time: 8:00 pm – 9:00 pm
Parasites of Little
River Dr. Benjie Blair of JSU returns to talk about more creepy crawlies that
would like to make a home...inside of you! Date: Saturday, August 29, 2009
Time: 8:00 – 9:00 pm
Frog Metamorphosis Explore how amphibians transform from a single cell to the wonderful
hopping creatures we adore with JSU’s Dr. Rayburn. Meet live tadpoles…and
perhaps adopt your own non-native tadpole pet! Date: Friday, September 11, 2009 Time: 7:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Venomous Organisms of Alabama Some plants and animals really get your attention with their special lines
of defense. Presented by toxicologist Dr. James Rayburn. Date: Saturday, September 12, 2009 Time: 7:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Cherokee Trail
of Tears Thousands of Native Americans were taken from their homelands and sent to Oklahoma on this
infamous trek. JSU's Dr. Kelly Gregg will share this tragic story. Date: Friday, September 25, 2009 Time: 7:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Geologic History of
Little RiverCanyon Join geologist Dr. Kelly Gregg to learn about the ancient inhabitants of
Little River: sharks, corals, ferns, ancient trees, and even giant salamanders. Date: Saturday, September 26, 2009 Time: 7:00 pm -8:00 pm
Prehistoric Cultures of
Little RiverCanyon JSU’s Dr. Harry Holstein will fascinate you with stories of from the Ice
Age toDeSoto's 16th century Spanish
expedition. Date: Friday, October 2, 2009 Time: 6:00 pm - 7:00 pm
Spanish Exploration of
Northeast Alabama JSU's Dr. Harry Holstein will take you through their amazing adventures of
the first European explorers search for the ancient town of "Coosa". Date: Saturday, October 3, 2009 Time: 6:00 pm - 7:00 pm
Creepy Critters Dan Spaulding of the Anniston Museum of Natural History will be showing
some creepy crawly critters at this fun educational program. Date: Saturday, October 10, 2009 Time: 6:00 pm - 7:00 pm
Global Warming: Climate
ChangeHurricanes in June…droughts…cold spells in May.
What is going on?Join Dr. Jonathon Herbert as he explains the science
behind global warming.
Why do the leaves change color? Why don’t
we get much snow in Alabama?
Join Dr. Jonathon Herbert as he explains the science behind the seasonal
changes in our beautiful state.
Ghosts on the Mountain Spooky stories guaranteed to put shivers up your spine! Learn about Alabama’s finest spooks,
legends and folklore from JSU Field Schools’ Renee Morrison and her
storytellin’ aunt Jenny Walker Whitman. Date: Friday, October 23, 2009 Time: 6:00 pm -7:00 pm
Storytellin’ Campfire
Talk: Calico Stories (My Life as a Black & Tan Coonhound) Fun farm-raised folklore from JSU Field Schools’ Renee Morrison and her
aunt Jenny Whitman. Date: Saturday, October 24, 2009