ENERGY EFFICIENT HOUSE EXPLORATION AND AFTERNOON TEA
Vivienne Carey and Roger Webb
Sunday, January 24, 2 to 4 p.m.
Vivienne and Roger will welcome us to their home in South Amherst. Built in 2007, the house incorporates a number of energy-efficient technologies including geothermal heat pump, photovoltaic panels, good insulation, and passive solar heating. They will walk us through the technologies and how they function, and share with us the running costs and lessons they have learned from the process. After the tour we will sit down to an afternoon tea and continue the discussion and learning. Join us for an informative and enjoyable afternoon to learn about energy efficient home improvements.  Pre-registration is required; please call (413) 256-6006.

EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS AND HOUSEHOLD SELF-SUFFICIENCY
Frank Grindrod, Earthwork Programs
Held at Sirius Community, Baker Road in Shutesbury
Saturday, January 30, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.
During the ice storm in the hill towns last winter, emergencies arrived at many of our door steps. The storm was a powerful teacher, a reminder that we need each other and that we need a shift in awareness about meeting our needs in the face of adversity. This hands-on workshop will demonstrate practical skills you may need during an emergency. You will learn a variety of ideas and strategies, like creating a warm shelter in or outside your home, staying healthy through good hygiene and sanitation, making water safe to drink, and making fire when your matches are wet or your lighter fluid doesn't work due to extreme cold. We will also share information about finding the best food sources when grocery stores are closed or you can't get to them, preparing food when your stove or microwave doesn't work, and using your car as a shelter, for cooking food, and making a fire.  Pre-registration is required; please call (413) 256-6006.

TRANSITION TOWNS:  INCREASING COMMUNITY RESILIENCE IN A TIME OF CHANGE
Tina Clarke, Transition Towns Trainer
Sunday, January 31, 7 to 9 p.m.
Transition Towns are communities that are proactively addressing the "Triple Challenge" of long-term rising energy costs, economic instability and climate change. Launched in the U.K., where 1,000 communities are involved and The Transition Handbook was among the top ten books read by Members of Parliament in 2008, the Transition Towns model and process helps local citizens and groups work together to build resilience for economic and environmental changes unfolding locally and globally. Tina has become one of the Transition Town trainers in the U.S. She will present the process for engaging large numbers of people in creative transition from dependence upon non-renewable energy sources to greater community resilience and quality of life.  Pre-registration is required; please call (413) 256-6006.

ANIMAL TRACKING SLIDE SHOW
Alan Emond, Little Cree Spy Excursions
Tuesday and Wednesday, February 9 and 10, 7 to 9 p.m.
(snow date:  Thursday, February 11)
Alan has been leading tracking programs here at Hitchcock for a number of years and his programs are universally popular. He makes the winter woods come alive for those who have not spent much time out observing and learning how to see. Black bear scat, fisher kill sites and mating tracks, owl pellets … each image will deepen your understanding of local winter animal activities. His depth of knowledge about our local mammals and birds, together with his fun, informal style, will make for enjoyable and informative classes. Each evening will cover different information and the fee includes both nights.  Pre-registration is required; please call (413) 256-6006.

WINTER NATURE WALK
John Green
Saturday, February 13, 8 to 10 a.m.
Get out on a winter Saturday and see what is happening in nature in the cold. We will explore a portion of the Quabbin Reservation. How do plants and animals survive the subfreezing temperatures and snows of the season? John will share fascinating natural history details about the lives of our winter birds. He will open your eyes to the world of mammal tracks and teach you ways to recognize trees and shrubs in winter. Bring binoculars and dress to be outdoors in the cold. Directions to the meeting site will be provided upon registration.  Pre-registration is required; please call (413) 256-6006.

SPOTTED SALAMANDERS AND AMHERST'S FAMOUS AMPHIBIAN TUNNELS
Ted Watt
Thursday, February 25, 7 to 9 p.m.
As many of us know, the first amphibian tunnels in North America were installed on Henry Street in 1987. The history of the tunnels is a fascinating glimpse into the workings of international conservation and the interface with local species preservation efforts. Ted will speak about the history of the tunnels. He will also show images and describe the spotted salamanders' life history and adaptations. Don't miss this opportunity to catch up on your local and natural history. All will be invited to participate in the upcoming events to maintain the tunnels and census the Henry Street salamander population.  Pre-registration is required; please call (413) 256-6006.

SPRING BIRDING COURSE
Scott Surner
Evening Classes: Wednesdays, February 24, March 10, 24, 31, April 7, 14, May 5, 12, 6:30 to 8p.m. Field Trips: Saturdays, February 27, March 13, 27, April 3, 17, 24, May 1, 8, 15, 22, start times vary between 5 a.m. and 7a.m.
Take advantage of this opportunity to get out and really observe the pageant of our spring bird migration, the myriad colors, plumages, and behaviors. As the weeks pass, new species arrive, adding to the spectacular biodiversity of our area. Scott has taught this course for many years and is accomplished at gearing instruction for beginners and experienced birders alike. Evening classes preview species expected on the Saturday field trips using slides, stories from the field, and life history details. Field trips are planned to varied locations around the state, including two coastal trips on February 27 and May 22. Coastal trips begin at 5 a.m. and end at dusk. Call the Center for more field trip details. All field trips and classes meet at the Hitchcock Center. Registration is limited to 20.  Pre-registration is required; please call (413) 256-6006.

WINTER TRACKING EXPEDITION
Alan Edmond, Little Cree Spy Excursions
Saturday, March 6, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
(snow date:  Sunday, March 7)
Spend a winter's day out in the forests and fields with one of our most accomplished local trackers. Alan's knowledge of local natural history and winter tracking has been built through many hours of careful field study. His teaching style is accessible, fun and extremely informative. Alan will choose a location, probably in Franklin County, depending on animal activity as the date approaches. Dress to be outdoors for four hours in the winter cold. Bring a lunch and drink. Alan will provide homemade desserts. Meeting location will be provided upon registration. Space is limited.  Pre-registration is required; please call (413) 256-6006.

THE PUZZLE OF NEW ENGLAND'S PREDATORS
John Foster, New England Naturalist Training Center
Thursday, March 11, 7 to 9 p.m.
Join noted naturalist John Foster of the New England Naturalist Training Center, which is located in Northfield, MA, for a fascinating slide talk about our local predators including coyote, fisher, and bobcat. Through slide images and interactive discussion, we'll learn about their habitats and habits, and debunk common myths about these elusive animals. John's presentations are well researched, backed by plenty of field experience and current science. His inviting teaching style and depth of knowledge promise a most enjoyable evening.  Pre-registration is required; please call (413) 256-6006.

TALES FROM THE LIFE OF AN ANIMAL WELFARE OFFICER
Carol Hepburn, Town of Amherst
Tuesday, March 16, 7 to 8:30 p.m.
Carol has been the Town of Amherst’s Animal Welfare Officer for nine years. She is originally from South Dakota, managed the largest standard and thoroughbred breeding farm in Massachusetts, and has worked around animals for sixty plus years. Her responsibilities here in Town include both domestic and wild animals that find themselves in trouble in so many ways. Come listen to her stories about what she deals with every day. She will share advice on dealing with animal problems and she'll explain the dog licensing program and its importance to public health. There will be time for questions following her talk.  Pre-registration is required; please call (413) 256-6006.

SALAMANDER EGG MASS SURVEY
Ted Watt
A Saturday in April to b e determined by the weather
How do the Henry Street tunnels impact the population of spotted salamanders? Unfortunately, good population data do not exist from before the tunnels were installed in 1987. But, we have been keeping track of population trends over the years since then. The best way to census a population of these animals is not by counting the adults during migration or even in the pools. The conditions are challenging and the animals' movements can be unpredictable. Instead we survey the breeding area for egg masses laid by the females and use these to extrapolate the total number of the adults in the population. Join us in boots and waders as we inventory the red maple swamp for important data on Amherst's famous salamanders! Please call 413-256-6006 to add your name to the call list.

BOOK RELEASE AND SIGNING:  TRACKS AND SIGN OF INSECTS AND OTHER INVERTEBRATES
Charley Eiseman and Noah Charney
Thursday, April 1, 7:30 to 9 p.m.
Have you ever wondered what makes those little red, papery discs under rocks? Come to this program and find out. Insects and other invertebrates leave behind all sorts of distinctive patterns and mystery objects that pique our curiosity: egg cases, cocoons, galls, leaf mines, burrows, nests, and more. Local naturalists Charley Eiseman and Noah Charney have compiled the answers to hundreds of these riddles in their new book, Tracks and Sign of Insects and Other Invertebrates, due out in March. In this slide show, celebrating the book's release, they will share some of their favorite phenomena and discuss the natural history of the creatures that create them. If all goes according to schedule we expect to have copies of the book available for purchase and for the authors to sign.  Pre-registration is required; please call (413) 256-6006.

THE ART OF MENTORING AND NATURE EDUCATION
Frank Grindrod, Earthwork Programs
Thursday, April 8, 6:30 to 8 p.m.
Come experience Frank's introduction to youth mentoring. Whether you are a teacher, parent, grandparent, caretaker or friend, there are ways of supporting young people that foster a deeper sense of connection to the earth, community, family and self. Learn the importance of putting the QUEST back into Question and the SEARCH back in Research! Create a thirst for learning, draw out knowledge about the natural world through active engagement, and inspire your young people to be their best! We will cover philosophy, the power of stories, mentoring principles and techniques. Through practicing these skills we can contribute to a village of mentors, inspiring hope while investing in our children and future generations.  Pre-registration is required; please call (413) 256-6006.

SPRING BIRD WALK
John Green
Sunday, April 18, 7 to 10 a.m.
In April most spring migrants have yet to return to our area and many trees have not leafed out, both good reasons to get out and see what birds we can find. John emphasizes finding birds both with binoculars and by call. He will share fascinating life history information about the birds you see. You may find phoebes, male red-wings, blue-headed vireos, hermit thrushes, and others. Get out early in the season and tune your ear for the coming   Pre-registration is required; please call (413) 256-6006.

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CHILDREN AND FAMILY PROGRAMS

NATURE'S STORYTIME 
Due to low attendance, Nature's Storytime has been discontinued.

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WINTER HOMESCHOOL:  BIRDS OF PREY (Ages 6-9)
Colleen Kelley
Tuesdays, January 12 to February 9 (5 weeks), 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
This winter we will meet our powerful but graceful friends in flight:  the birds of prey. Through games, activities, and explorations we will learn who these creatures are and their unique adaptations and behaviors. We will have a special visit with Tom Ricardi and his magnificent birds to learn more about them up close! Please come dressed to spend time outdoors! Limited to 12 participants.  Pre-registration is required; please call (413) 256-6006.  Partial scholarships may be available.

Member:  $215       Non-member:  $230         Register

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WINTER HOMESCHOOL:  ANIMAL TRACKING EXPLORATIONS (Ages 8-11)
Ted Watt
Tuesdays, January 12 to February 9 (5 weeks), 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Winter wonders await us as we step outside the nature center and into the snowy woods and fields. Which animals have passed this way since the last snow? What were they doing and how can we tell? Tracks and signs are everywhere. Mammals share our spaces all year long, but suddenly their movements are visible as we learn how to see what they leave behind. Each day begins with morning meeting and sharing, then a hands-on exploration of some aspect of tracking to deepen knowledge, and after lunch we go out to see what we can discover. Optional home projects to extend the learning and build excitement for each upcoming class are suggested. Please come dressed to spend time outdoors in the cold. Limited to 12 participants.   Pre-registration is required; please call (413) 256-6006.  Partial scholarships may be available.

Member:  $215       Non-member:  $230         Register

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NATURE PLAY AFTERSCHOOL PROGRAM (AGES 6-9)
Colleen Kelley
Winter Session (11 weeks)
  Wednesdays, January 13 to March 31 (No meeting February 17), 1:45 p.m. to 5 p.m.
  Members:  $360   Non-members:  $375
Spring Session (10 weeks)
  Wednesdays, April 7 to June 16 (No meeting April 21), 1:45 p.m. to 5 p.m.
  Members:  $325  Non-members:  $345
Transportation:  Bus transportation is available from Wildwood, Crocker Farm and Fort River Schools 
Our Wednesday afterschool program, newly established in the fall of 2009, will continue with both a winter and a spring session. This program is focused on connecting children to nature through active outdoor play and adventure. We will explore and discover the wonders of the outdoors under the care and tutelage of one of Hitchcock's favorite environmental educators. Please come each week dressed for outdoor play and bring a complete set of dry clothes. Limited to 10 participants.  Pre-registration is required; please call (413) 256-6006. 

 Register

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NATURE DISCOVERY PRESCHOOL:  WINTER WONDERS (Ages 3-5)
Seal LaMadeleine
Fridays, January 8 to February 12 (6 weeks)
Session 1: 9:30-11:30 a.m.
Session 2: 1-3 p.m.
Enjoy the beauty and wonder of winter with cozy indoor activities and fun outdoor exploration. See how nature changes with the winter season. Discover the ways animals adapt to the cold and snow. Find out who is still awake and who isn't! And look for signs of those creatures out and about! Each day will include a combination of hands-on activities, songs, stories, games, movement and crafts. This program is designed for children ages 3-5 accompanied by an adult. The group will go outside for a short exploration each day unless temperatures are extreme. Space is limited!  Pre-registration is required; please call (413) 256-6006.  Partial scholarships may be available.

Member:  $105       Non-member:  $120     Register

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SATURDAY FAMILY SCIENCE:  ANIMAL TRACKING (Ages 5-8)
Helen Ann Sephton
Saturday, February 13, 10-11:30 a.m. 
The world is very much alive in winter. We can find out about that life by following the tracks and signs that the animals leave behind. We will learn to recognize tracks and signs that tell a story about an animal's life and adaptations during the cold season. Family science days are designed for families with children ages 5-8, with adults participating along with their children.  Pre-registration is required; please call (413) 256-6006.

Member:  $4 per person       Non-member:  $6 per person   

Maximum of 3 children per adult                    Register

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SATURDAY FAMILY SCIENCE:  FAIRY HOUSES (Ages 5-8)
Casey Beebe
Saturday, March 13, 10-11:30 a.m. 
Join Casey for a fun morning building Fairy Houses. Explore the trails of Larch Hill and look for micro-habitats. We'll gather natural materials and construct houses on a miniature scale! Family science days are designed for families with children ages 5-8, with adults participating along with their children.  Pre-registration is required; please call (413) 256-6006.

Member:  $4 per person       Non-member:  $6 per person   

Maximum of 3 children per adult                    Register

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SPRING HOMESCHOOL:  HIP-HOPPIN' HERPETOLOGY (Ages 6-8)
Colleen Kelley
Tuesdays, March 23 to June 15 (No class April 20, May 11, & June 1; 10 weeks), 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
We'll hop, slither, crawl, and slide into the spring season learning about amphibians and reptiles. We will search for snakes emerging from their hibernacula and sneak a peak at frogs and salamanders defrosting from the long winter. Our days will be full with our morning meeting and sharing, an activity introducing the creature of the day, and then an afternoon exploration searching our local habitats for these interesting animals. Be sure to pack a bag of extra clothing and water boots! Limited to 12 participants.  Pre-registration is required; please call (413) 256-6006.  Partial scholarships may be available.

Member:  $415       Non-member:  $435      Register

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SPRING HOMESCHOOL:  BIRDS AND BIODIVERSITY (Ages 8-11)
Ted Watt
Tuesdays, March 23 to June 15 (No class April 20, May 11, & June 1; 10 weeks), 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
This spring we will explore the wonderful world of birds. What are the common ones? Which ones are rare? What do they eat? Where do they live? We will also learn about feeding birds and placing nest boxes. We will start our life lists and see how many species we can find over the course of the spring. We will practice identifying birds by their sounds. During the season there will be two off site van trips to visit different habitats. Days begin with a morning meeting and sharing time, followed by a hands-on exploration of some aspect of birds' lives, and a field exploration to see what we can see. All students will need access to a decent pair of binoculars. Please come with a complete set of dry clothes since we never know what we might get into during the day! Limited to 12 participants.  Pre-registration is required; please call (413) 256-6006.  Partial scholarships may be available.

Member:  $415       Non-member:  $435      Register

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NATURE DISCOVERY PRESCHOOL:  MAMMAL FRIENDS (Ages 3-5)
Colleen Kelley
Fridays, March 26 to June 18 (No class April 23, May 7 & 28; 10 weeks)
Session 1: 9:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.
Session 2:  1 to 3 p.m.
Come join us this spring as the weather warms up and the animals become more active. Through live animal observations, puppets, stories, games and crafts, Colleen will introduce the children to local mammals living right in our backyards. Squirrels, deer, skunks, and raccoons will be just a few of the friends we'll make during our ten weeks. An adult is required to attend with each child. Space is limited!  Pre-registration is required; please call (413) 256-6006.  Partial scholarships may be available.

Member:  $175       Non-member:  $195      Register

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ZOOBILEE!  A LIVE ANIMAL FAIR
Saturday, April 10, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Visit our spring family animal fair to see, maybe handle, and learn about a variety of critters. There will be amphibians, reptiles, insects and more. There will also be hands-on crafts and outdoor activities.   Pre-registration is required; please call (413) 256-6006. 

Member:  $5 per person or $20 for family up to 6      
Non-member:  $8 per person or $30 for family up to 6      Register

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Questions or comments?  E-mail us at hcenter@crocker.com