#NatureExplorerBackpacks

"#MaineAudubon #NatureExplorer Backpacks are designed to encourage children and families to explore the outdoors together while learning about wildlife and habitat. Each backpack includes authentic scientific tools and resources, along with a custom-made user’s guide that walks the borrower through each item in the backpack and provides activities, games, book lists, and more. You’ll find tips for spending time outdoors with children, seasonal exploration prompts, nature journal templates, and even ways to use your smartphone to connect with wildlife.

We currently offer:

- Library packs for public library patrons to borrow and use in their communities (see a list of participating libraries below)
- #GilslandFarm packs for sanctuary visitors to check out for a small fee to use on-site
- A set of student packs at #FieldsPond to help educators facilitate field work and nature-based STEM learning with their classes

For more information, or to purchase Nature Explorer Backpacks for your library, please contact Molly Woodring at [email protected].

Library List

Albion Public Library, Albion
Bangor Public Library, Bangor
Berwick Public Library, Berwick
Boothbay Harbor Memorial Library, Boothbay
Bremen Library, Bremen
Brewer Public Library, Brewer
Buck Memorial Library, Bucksport
Cary Memorial Library, Houlton
Casco Public Library, Casco
Chase Emerson Library, Deer Isle
Dyer Library, Saco
Ellsworth Public Library, Ellsworth
Fort Fairfield Public Library, Fort Fairfield
Harrison Village Library, Harrison
Julia Adams Morse Memorial Library, Greene
Lewiston Public Library, Lewiston
Liberty Library, Liberty
McArthur Public Library, Biddeford,
Millinocket Memorial Library, Millinocket
Norridgewock Public Library, Norridgewock
Old Town Public Library, Old Town
Orono Public Library, Orono
Prince Memorial Library, Cumberland
Readfield Community Library, Readfield
Rockland Public Library, Rockland
Scarborough Public Library, Scarborough
Skidompha Public Library, Damariscotta
Skowhegan Free Public Library, Skowhegan
Springvale Public Library, Springvale
Thomas Memorial Library, Cape Elizabeth
Thomaston Public Library, Thomaston
Thompson Free Library, Dover-Foxcroft
Vassalboro Public Library, Vassalboro
Veteran’s Memorial Library, Patten
Walker Memorial Library, Westbrook
Waterboro Public Library, Waterboro
Windham Public Library, Windham
Winterport Memorial Library, Winterport
Zadoc Long Free Library, Buckfield

Nature Explorer Backpacks are made possible by the Stephen & Tabitha King, and the Leonard C. & Mildred F. Ferguson Foundations."

Source:
https://maineaudubon.org/education/early-childhood/nature-explorer-backpacks/

#SolarPunkSunday #SpendTimeInNature #NatureBasedLearning #MaineLibraries #LibrariesRule! #AdventureBackpacks #BorrowingBeyondBooks #BorrowDontBuy #AdventureBackpacks #WildlifeBackpacks #NatureBackpacks #Birding #PlantIdentification #NatureBasedLearning

#Online and #InPerson - #FalmouthME and #HoldenME

Winter Tracking – Online Program
Thursday, February 26, 6:30-8 pm

"This online program [held on February 26] will cover the basics of winter tracking, including prints, scat, and other signs of wildlife. Following this program, there will be companion walks at both our Gilsland Farm and Fields Pond centers on Saturday, February 28. Please register separately for online and in-person programs."

Saturday, February 28, 10:30 am-12:30 pm: Winter Tracking at #GilslandFarm

Saturday, February 28, 11:30 am-1 pm: Winter Tracking at #FieldsPond

Maine Audubon strives to provide inclusive and accessible programs for all members of the community. If you require accommodations to participate in this program, please email [email protected]. Maine Audubon can best meet the needs of requests submitted at least seven days before the event start date."

Events are free [donations accepted], but pre-registration is required.

FMI and to register:
https://maineaudubon.org/events/winter-tracking-online/

#SolarPunkSunday #MaineEvents #VirtualEvents #Wildlife #AnimalTracking #SpendTimeInNature #MaineAudubon

I somehow missed seeing this event (going on right now). I'll keep an eye on future #MaineAudubon events!

#WinterSolstice Celebration at #FieldsPond

"Celebrate the winter solstice with us at this family-friendly event! Immerse yourself in the magic of Eve Bunting’s The Night Tree as we read the story aloud and create #wildlife-friendly ornaments to decorate a tree for Maine winter creatures. Then, join the #PenobscotValleyStargazers for a fascinating look at the astronomical significance of the shortest day of the year. Warm beverages and snacks will be provided—come cozy up and enjoy a festive afternoon with nature and loved ones!"

Date: Dec 20 2025
Time: 3:00 pm - 7:00 pm

https://maineaudubon.org/events/winter-solstice-celebration-at-fields-pond/

#SolarPunkSunday #MaineEvents #SpendTimeInNature #MoreGreenTimeLessScreenTime