PENFIELD – Staff members at Parker Dam State Park have announced the program schedule for Memorial Day weekend.
Friday, May 27
Elk, Coyotes, and Bears…Oh My!:
6:30 p.m. – Campground
Be on the lookout for one of the park’s educators as they travel the campground with the nature wagon! The wagon will begin at the campground host site and continue around the outer loop of the campground. Bring your questions along as you check out antlers, pelts, and skulls.
Saturday, May 28
Spring Walk
9 a.m. – outside Park Office
Enjoy this guided hike along the Beaver Dam Trail. Trees, ferns, birds, wildflowers, and more natural history will be shared on this 2.5-mile walk.
Parachute Games
11 a.m. – Beach House
One thing is for sure – there will be a parachute. How much fun you have is up to you. Bring along your friends and learn more about nature and wildlife with one of the park’s educators.
History Walk
2 p.m. – Beach House
If you went back 50 years, what might you see? Would Parker Dam be any different? How about if you went back 100 years? Or, five-hundred? Learn more about how the area of the park has changed over the years. We will be walking around the lake and crossing the spillway rocks, so please wear appropriate shoes for the journey.
Orienteering Basics:
4 p.m. – Environmental Education Classroom
It is a skill perhaps not necessary in a world full of GPS units. But knowing how to use a map and compass effectively could save your life – plus, it’s fun and rewarding when you can complete an entire orienteering course.
…In the Long Run
8:30 p.m. – Campground Amphitheater
As America’s first professionally trained forester, Gifford Pinchot worked to protect natural resources for “the greatest good, for the greatest number, in the long run.” If you are not familiar with Pinchot’s story, you might be surprised to learn of his legacy that is still felt today. Come enjoy this insightful look at an important Pennsylvanian.
Sunday, May 29
Backyard Bear: 11 a.m. – Beach House
Meet for story-time, as we head to the picnic area nearby. This week’s story will give us a look into common encounters with Black bears and what you should do if you are to encounter one. The story is best-suited for children between 4 and 10.
Timber Rattlesnakes
2 p.m. – Beach House steps
Do you really know the truth about these reptiles with such a bad reputation? Chances are, some of what you think that you know isn’t really true. Learn how they survive in their habitat and why the poor reputation of the Timber rattlesnake is so unfounded.
Monday, May 30
Memorial Day Flag Raising
12 p.m. – Beach House
Join us as we ceremoniously raise the flag from half-staff to full, as is tradition on Memorial Day at noon. Also learn a about this special day, our flag, its history and tradition.