Special for homeschool families, Damariscotta River Association (DRA) offers Wild Encounters, a monthly hands-on nature program from September through June. Classes are held 10 a.m. to noon the fourth Monday of each month.

The next Wild Encounters class is scheduled for Monday, Jan. 22. Families will learn about beavers and muskrats, and explore the wetlands at Great Salt Bay Farm. Highlights of the Feb. 26 “Winter Wonderland” class will be dogsledding and snow-shelter building.

“Wild Encounters was an enriching experience for my homeschooled kids for years,” shared homeschool parent Sherrie Holbrook. “We loved the hands-on learning and spotting the alewives and horseshoe crabs in their natural habitats. My daughter loved using a real microscope, and we all looked forward to the walk around the DRA each time.”

Families should come prepared for the weather, as each class includes a hike and other outdoor activities. Classes cost $5.00 per child, though families can prepay for five classes and get a sixth class for free. Scholarships are available. Registration is required by calling (207) 563-1393.

For more information call 207-563-1393, email dra@damariscottariver.org, or visit DRA online at www.damariscottariver.org.