Learn to make soap, take a hike, more at Ansonia Nature Center

ANSONIA - The Ansonia Nature and Recreation Center has scheduled a variety of fun activities in November and December.

FULL BEAVER MOON HIKE – Nov. 4, 6:30 p.m.

This was the time to set beaver traps before the swamps froze, to ensure a supply of warm winter furs. 
Another interpretation suggests the name Full Beaver Moon comes from the fact the beavers are now actively preparing for winter. It is sometimes also referred to as the Frosty Moon. 
Join the Nature Center guides as we lead you around our park by the light of the moon. For all ages (children must be accompanied by an adult). Wear comfortable shoes for uneven terrain. FEE: $1. Please call to register.

FIELD TRIP: Rowanwood Farm in Newtown – Nov. 5, meet at farm at 1:45 p.m.; tour starts 2 p.m.

During our visit, participants learn firsthand about the animals that live on Rowanwood Farm. 
Everyone has an opportunity to interact up close and personal with these amazing creatures. At the same time, we share the animals’ history, characteristics and care. Topics include where llamas come from, how they are sheared, what they eat, and many other interesting particulars that participants learn about our animals. 
FEE: $10 per person; must pre-pay by Nov. 1. Go to www.rowanwoodfarm.com for directions.

BACK TO BASICS: Soap Making – Nov. 11, 1 p.m.

This two-hour class will provide the basic skills you’ll need to make wonderful soaps! Attendees will learn basic safety and traditional techniques required for this time-honored craft which makes great gifts—or soaps to keep for your own use. Soap samples and recipes will be provided. Bring a small container for your take-home samples. Instructor is Dawn Sotir. FEE: $10 per person. Please call to register.

SUNDAY GUIDED HIKE: Woodlore – Nov. 12, 1 p.m.

Join Ranger Jess to learn how to identify trees by their bark and branches. Hear stories of how people have used wood over the years for many different things. Discover how magical trees really are!  FREE. Please call to register.

TWO COYOTES WILDERNESS SCHOOL: Nature Connection – Nov. 18, 1 p.m.

Join Two Coyotes Wilderness School naturalist Karianna Rosenberg and embark on nature connection games where you will become the cougar, the tracker and the tracked!  Hone in on your awareness and stealth as we lead games for all ages outside in the crisp fall air.  Karianna has a deep respect for nature and a passion to help others discover their personal connection to the Earth. Great program for families and scout groups.  
FEE: $5 per person. Please call to register.

SUNDAY GUIDED HIKE: History Hike: How These Trails Came to Be – Nov. 19, 1 p.m.

Learn from Ranger Dan how ancient people utilized their tracking skills and followed animal signs. Gain a long list perspective on who created the trails we walk and the roads we drive today. 
FREE. Please call to register.

DECEMBER PROGRAMS

WINTER WREATH WORKSHOP – Dec. 2, 10 a.m. 

Celebrate winter and the festive season as you create a wreath from fresh locally grown greens, then decorate your masterpiece with natural trimmings. Enjoy some warm mulled cider and a cookie too! 
Wreath frames and wire will be provided. Please bring your own hand clippers.. MATERIALS FEE: $15. Please call to register. 

PRINCIPLES OF FIRECRAFT – Dec. 9, 1 p.m. 

Basic firecraft principles are very important to know. Whether or not you’re the family camp-out fire starter, knowing how fire works is paramount to safety. Join Ranger Dan in learning about wood-gathering, fire safety, and fire starting with only one match! Children must be accompanied by an adult. Dress for the outdoors. FREE. Please call to register. 

***ONGOING PROGRAMS***  

Creature Features – Saturdays, noon  

Come to meet our furry, scaly, and feathery animal ambassadors. You’ll have the chance to touch and hold them in this FREE family program for all ages.

Sunday Guided Hikes – 1 p.m.

Join a Nature Center guide on Sunday afternoons for fun, exercise, and learning about our trails! See the above listings for hikes with a specific theme.

Monday Night Trail Run – 5:30-6:30 p.m.

For all the runners who want something out of the ordinary! Ranger Dan will lead you through our 156-acre network of trails, while you burn off the weekend's extra calories. This FREE program is the best way to start off your week.  Please register and wear appropriate footwear.

Fiber Arts Group – Tuesdays, 6 p.m.

Get together with others to work on your fiber arts projects! Bring any kind of fiber work—knitting, felting, crocheting, etc. A great way to dedicate time to your handiwork and socialize too. FREE.

For information on all programs call 203-736-1053. 

This is a press release from the Ansonia Nature Center,10 Deerfield Road.