Naturalist Led Walks and Talks

Animal Tracks and Signs Hike is Sunday, Jan. 26, 10 a.m. to noon at the NORGAL Preserve, Austin Road, Bristol.

Join naturalist Sarah Gladu to look for signs of coyote, snowshoe hare, a variety of rodents and turkeys. Learn about the winter habits of these mammals through first-hand observation. Recommended donation: $5. Call DRA to register.

Wetlands in Winter is Sunday, Jan. 26, 1 to 3 p.m. at DRA Great Salt Bay Farm, 110 Belvedere Road, Damariscotta

Participants will identify wetland plants as well as explore fresh and saltwater marshes. The group will also drill through the ice to identify aquatic invertebrates. Snowshoes welcome, no skis please. Call DRA to register. Recommended donation: $5.

Winter Ecology Hike with a Naturalist is Sunday, Feb. 2, 9 to 10:30 a.m. in Baker Forest, River Road, Newcastle. 

The group will learn about wildlife adaptations to winter conditions and identify trees and shrubs along the way. Snowshoes welcome, no skis please. Call DRA to register. Recommended donation: $5.

Special Event: Winter Party at Round Top Farm is Sunday, Feb. 2, noon to 3 p.m. (Rain or no-snow date: February 16) at DRA Round Top Farm, 3 Round Top Lane, Damariscotta.

Sledding, skating, animal tracks craft, free hot chocolate, sled dog demonstration, hockey shooting contest for a poster, hot dogs for $1 donation, warming hut open and campfire with marshmallow roasting. Nordic ski clinics with L.L.Bean Discovery School instructor (register in advance for hourly time slots and bring your own equipment or rent). Free except for Nordic clinics ($12/session).

Green Crabs in the Damariscotta Estuary Round Table Discussion: Friday, Feb. 28, 7 to 8 p.m. at DRA Great Salt Bay Farm, 110 Belvedere Road, Damariscotta

The serious impact of the invasive species green crab in the Damariscotta Estuary will be discussed by Dr. Dan Belknap of the University of Maine as well as several local clam diggers and oyster growers. Shoreline owners, those involved with any marine seafood industry and interested citizens should attend. Free.

Children’s Programs at DRA Great Salt Bay Farm

Wild Encounters: A regular program for homeschool families (age 5 and up). Classes are held from10 a.m. to noon the second Monday of each month (except March). Hike and nature journaling always included. Fee: $5/child. Call DRA to register. 

Outdoor Living Skills: Dogsledding and snow-shelter building on February 10.

Maple Syruping: On March 4, tap a tree and learn how trees work. Tree identification game.

Frogs and Pollywogs for preschoolers (ages 2-5) and their parents/guardians. Classes are held 10 to 11 a.m. Hike always included. Fee: $3/child. Call DRA to register.

Winter is a Wonderland: February 13, dogsledding and snow-shelter building.

Maple Syruping: On March 13 tap a tree and learn all about trees. Taste maple sap.

Jr. Naturalist After-School Program for Grades 1 to 5. Tuesdays & Thursdays, 3:15 to 5 p.m. Inquiry-based, hands-on learning in a safe outdoor environment. The DRA Great Salt Bay Farm is on a bus route from local elementary schools and close to Route 1. Month-long sessions that include school vacation week. Fee: $55/$50 members (scholarships available). Call DRA to register.

February Vacation Wildlife in Winter Day Camp for Ages 5 to 10. February 18-21, 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Hike for animal tracks and signs, go dog sledding, create art projects, play nature-inspired games. Fee: $176/$156 members (scholarships available). Call DRA to register.

The Damariscotta River Association, a nonprofit community-supported land trust located at 110 Belvedere Road in Damariscotta, has been working since 1973 to preserve and promote the natural, cultural, and historical heritage of the Damariscotta River region.

For more information, call 207- 563-1393, email dra@damariscottariver.org or check the website www.damariscottariver.org.