Midcoast Conservancy will offer an owl chat and full moon hike at Hidden Valley Nature Center, 131 Egypt Road in Jefferson on Sunday, March 24, from 7-9 p.m. Hikers can enjoy a crisp evening illuminated by the glow of the Worm Moon, so named because in March the soil begins to warm and the very first signs of life begin to return as earthworms, beetle larvae, and grubs emerge from their winter dormancy.

This final full moon hike of the season will feature a special treat: an owl meet and greet! Dan Weekes, from the Pollination Station in Alna, will be bringing a screech owl named Willow. He will introduce Willow to participants and do a 15-20 minute talk about the owl before the hike begins. On the hike, discover a new way of being in the woods; at night, sounds become more pronounced– the group will listen for more owls and the rustling of nighttime foragers along the trail.

Participants should meet at the Welcome Center at HVNC promptly at 7 p.m. for the program; hikers should dress warmly and bring a hiking stick if desired, along with a snack, drink and flashlight or headlamp. The hike guide will lead the group to shore of Little Dyer Pond to watch the moon rise over the water. The hike will be about 40 minutes each way, and of moderate ease. For more information or to register, go to https://bit.ly/OwlandFullMoon or call (207) 389-5150.

Midcoast Conservancy is a vibrant regional land trust that works to protect vital lands and waters on a scale that matters and to inspire wonder and action on behalf of all species and the Earth. The organization works throughout the Sheepscot River, Medomak River, and Damariscotta Lake watersheds. Midcoast Conservancy manages over 15,000 acres, including 55 preserves and 100 miles of trails; and Hidden Valley, a preserve with cabin and outdoor recreation equipment rentals and a low-impact forestry program.

Community members can get involved in the organization’s work as volunteers with water quality monitoring, habitat restoration, fish passage projects, forestry and oyster farming or outdoor recreation and education. For more information, go to www.midcoastconservancy.org or call (207) 389-5150.