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InsideVolunteer News ContentsVolunteer Recognition for 2012 .........................7Volunteer Want Ads .............................................8Volunteer Calendar ........................................ 9-10

Guardians of Forest & Fields .............................2Wetland Pioneers ................................................3What’s Happenin’ ............................................. 4-6Spring Valley General Information ...................11

In this issue... The New Year always brings the promise of renewal and resolutions to change or improve something in our lives. At Spring Valley, we are all about renewal, change and improvement—not just every January 1 but throughout the year! Our business is helping people to renew their connections to the natural world, improve their knowledge and appre-ciation for nature and the land’s history, and change our local environment in ways that improve the land’s health and with it, the health of the local community. We do this by encouraging people to get involved in restoration, providing programs and events that inform, educate, and inspire, and by providing a place for people to relax, be active, or ex-perience nature and farming history directly. One highly anticipated change, which will help our visitors to learn more about Spring Valley’s natural communities, is the renovation of the interpretive exhibits at the Vera Meineke Nature Center. New exhibits have been in the planning stages for several years, and now, thanks to generous donors who have supported the Schaumburg Park Foundation’s fundraising campaign and a Public Museum Capital Grant from the Illinois Department of Natural Resources’ Illinois State Museum, these new exhibits are a reality. Instal-lation of Phase I took place in December, with Phase II planned for 2014. Stop by soon to see this exciting addition to the Nature Center!

Natural EnquirerNewsle t te r fo r Spr ing Va l l ey Suppor te rs and Vo lun tee rs vo l . 4 no .1 • J a n . /Fe b . ‘ 1 3

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nois, exceptionally large roosting areas are located near Danville and Springfield. Doubtless, other large roost sites exist but just haven’t been reported or docu-mented. This is surprising, since anyone living near a roosting site would certainly be aware of it, as the crows all begin talking to each other before the sun is up. At dawn, the individual flocks

begin dispers-ing to their feeding areas for the day, often fly-ing up to 50 miles away.These winter

roosting sites do shift in location from year to year, although some of the larger ones have been established for many years. Researchers have noted that they seem to have moved from rural areas into urban areas during the past 50 years or so. There is speculation that this may be happening due to the slight-ly warmer temperatures within cities, the concentration of tall mature trees in many cities, or the fact that crows have learned that the ‘no hunting’ rules within most cities afford them some protection from their primary enemy—humans. There is also the thought that crows take advantage of the artificial light provided in urban areas as protection from predators. Large owls such as the great-horned are their primary natural enemy (which explains why crows mob and harass owls any chance they can). Since owls hunt by stealth, a well-lit area allows the crows to see the owls before they can strike.

Guardians of Forest & Field by Dave Brooks

Unlike many of our native birds, crows are naturally gregarious. During the breeding season, young family members from previous years often remain on the breeding territory to help feed both the female incubating eggs as well as the newly hatched young. During the breed-ing season, crows vigorously and loudly defend their nesting territories from other crows (those outside of the im-mediate family). During autumn, behav-iors shift dramatically. For one thing, our area sees an influx of crows from farther north, migrating away from the North Country’s bitter winter weather. Some of our local crows will also shift their territo-ries, but breeding pairs generally remain on their breeding territory.From about November through late Feb-ruary, crows spend the day feeding in small flocks. During mid-afternoon, they begin flying well-established and regular flight lines towards a central roosting area. Along the way, they may meet up with other flocks heading in the same di-rection. Eventually, by dusk, they arrive at the central night-time roost. These areas are usually located within groves of tall trees and may hold anywhere between a few hundred to hundreds of thousands of crows overnight. In Illi-

Crows do have excellent vision and hearing. They are wary, observant, and ready to sound the alarm, alerting all other creatures to the presence of a threat—be it an owl, a hawk, or a human hunter. In spite of their raucous behavior and penchant for preying on young birds and nests, crows are highly intelligent birds and display many qualities that people would find endearing were they pets rather than large, noisy, black birds. Cornell University ornithologist Dr. Kevin J. McGowan alludes to this in describ-ing crow behavior on the website, http://www.birds.cornell.edu/crows/crowfaq.htm#migrate Crows do have one endearing charac-teristic that is apparently not shared by other birds. They will get to know people as individuals… If you toss them pea-nuts on a regular basis, they will wait and watch for you. Not just any person, but you. If you do this often enough, they will follow you down the street to get more. I have made a point of getting on the good side of a number of crow families around Ithaca. Some will follow my car down the street, and if I don’t notice them and toss them peanuts they will dash across the windshield to let me know they are there. Some of these crows recognize me far from their home territories, way out of context… So indulge yourself and make some personal friends with the crows. That is the preferred relationship, because they also are happy to turn this talent of rec-ognition to the darker side, and treat you as an enemy. (Again, not just all people, but YOU.) Because I climb to crow nests to band young birds, many crows in Ithaca know me and hate me. When-ever they notice me in their territory they will come over and yell at me. They will follow me around and keep yelling for as long as I am there. Believe me, it’s better to be on their good side than their bad side!

For those seeking peace and quiet in nature, the winter landscape can’t be beat. With bird variety and numbers diminished by migration and resident birds having placed their songs in storage until springtime, a walk through the woods and fields can be like a stroll down the

aisles at the local library (only colder). There is one local bird, though, that defies this unspoken rule of silence imposed on the rest of the natural world—the common crow. Crows are able to vocalize in many different ways throughout the year; however, during late fall and winter, they gather together in large, noisy flocks. With their signature caw-caw-caw echoing across the fields, they are definitely the loudest thing to be heard on most winter days.

Common Crow

Crow Landing

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The boy was listening to his grandfather tell of his life in pioneer times. The grizzled old man spoke of when he, at the age of five, came west from the Pennsylvania coal fields in a covered wagon with his family when its patriarch declared that mining would not be part of their future. They found what they were looking for—land that had never felt the bite of a plow, untouched as yet by man. What seemed enigmatic was that this erstwhile pioneer had landed in Indiana, not Idaho, and that the year in question was 1895. Wasn’t all the land there already taken, the boy mused? The old man added that fish were so numerous they could even be caught in the ditches along the roads. Unsaid was that it was a time when wetlands were considered to be wasteland, awaiting redemption. The old man’s saga was that of subduing sloughs and conquering quagmires—of being a wetland pioneer.

During the westward flow of settle-ment in North America, wetlands were avoided for a variety of reasons. The chief being that they made travel through them difficult to impossible. Many settlers from New York who came overland were blocked by the infamous Black Swamp that bordered the south-west section of Lake Erie. The area was so detested that some groups traveled through Canada to the north to avoid it. In addition, wetlands were regarded as reservoirs of disease, malaria in particu-lar, called “the ague” by the pioneers. Wetlands were also regarded as the lair of animals dangerous to both people and livestock—poisonous snakes, wildcats, bears, and in the south, alliga-tors. For most of 1800s, wetlands were bypassed by people who would rather trek 3,000 miles to the west coast or farm the high plains with its meager rainfall, than to take them on. Eventually it became neces-sary to fill in the blanks, as it were, and wet-lands became the prime target.Draining the wa-ter from wetlands was not a new idea. In order to create arable land for agri-culture, the two primary artificial drainage practices, sur-face drainage (ditches) and subsurface (tile) drainage were employed in Europe starting with the Romans. Americans were slow to take up either practice due to the wealth of naturally arable land, and the fact that all the work involved was done by hand. By 1895, however, new technology signaled the demise of

nearly a million acres. The Kankakee Marsh of northwest Indiana was at least 400,000 acres. Throughout the Midwest, sloughs, fens, swamps, and marshes of every size dotted the landscape, gener-ally of glacial origin. Within the space of a generation, with the aid of machines and mass-produced drain tiles, these areas were transformed into highly productive farmlands. The basis of this wealth was the very dark brown soil itself, referred to as “muck”, which ap-peared black when wet, and consisted of 80% organic matter. It was formed when dying vegetation sank to the bot-tom of the swamp and partially decayed due to the lack of oxygen. Over thou-sands of years of such sedimentation, a rich muck soil formed that contained high concentrations of plant nutrients, like nitrogen and phosphorus, which can be used for growing crops such as onions, carrots, celery, and potatoes. Over time, muck farming causes unique problems. Because the soil is very light, windbreaks must be provided to keep it from blowing away. Exposed to the atmosphere, oxidation completes the cycle that began thousands of years earlier, causing the soil to become thinner. It can also catch fire and burn underground for months. Because drain-ing wetlands destroys wildlife habitat, it is unlikely that any more muck farms will be created. In the future, the tide will be reversed and mucklands will be reclaimed for wildlife preserves.

Wetland Pioneers by Walter Plinske

the wetlands. Steam-powered earth-moving equipment proved to be the most popular method for draining the vast wetlands throughout the country. The formula was to mount a giant steam shovel aboard a barge to scoop out a channel in the marsh sediments. Aux-iliary barges foalted alongside, acting

as bunkhouses, cooking cabins, and repair shops. The channels had an average depth of nearly seven feet, 24 feet wide at the top and 12 feet at the bottom. When the channel was connected to a nearby river or stream, the water subsided, leaving a drainage ditch, with the bottom of the marsh now high and dry. Along with the ditches, existing

creeks and rivers flowing through the marshes were channelized and straight-ened, thereby hastening the waters to be carried away. Those floating bunkhouses were needed because of the enormous task that was at hand. The Black Swamp of Ohio was the site of a receded glacial lake of

SwamplandDrainage Ditch

Alligator

Steam-powered Dredge

Wildcat

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Click on program/icon for information and to register online.**To create a new account, visit the registration desk at the CRC or download an internet registration form from

www.parkfun.com. The form can be found under the registration tab.

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ADULT or TEENA Walk with the BirdsSaturday, Jan. 5 • 7:30-9:30ASaturday, March 2 • 7:30-9:30ABinoculars and field guides will be on hand to identify Illinois’ hardy winter residents.

All About PieSunday, Jan. 20 • 1:00-3:00PLet the Heritage Farm staff teach you how to make that perfect pie and bring home a sample.

Blacksmithing for BeginnersSunday, Feb. 24 • 1:00-4:00PParticipants will learn the basics of metal work-ing and take home a sample of their labors.

Good Clean Fun: Soap Making BasicsSunday, Feb. 17 • 1:00-4:30PLearn to make old fashioned lye soap and your own specialty artisan soap at Heritage Farm.

Nature Book ClubWednesday, Jan. 30 • 10:00-11:30AWednesday, March 27 • 4:00-5:30PEnjoy a hike to Merkle Log Cabin to discuss the selected book over coffee, tea and snacks.

Nature’s Night Life - ADULTS ONLY!Friday, Jan. 4 • 7:00-9:00PFriday, March 1 • 7:00-9:00PStart your weekend with a relaxing and enlightening evening walk at Spring Valley.

Weekly Yoga at the CabinTuesday, Jan. 8-March 19 • 6:00-7:00PTuesday, Jan. 8-March 19 • 7:30-8:30PThursday, Jan. 10-March 21 • 6:30-7:30PThursday, Jan. 10-March 21 • 8:00-9:00PNurture your mind and body in this rustic setting and connect with nature.

Teacher’s Workshop: Winter ExplorersSaturday, Jan. 19 • 8:30A-4:30P • Sring ValleySunday, Jan. 20 • 11:00A-5:00P • Brookfield ZooBecome an expert on mammal adaptations. Learn what makes winter so important to the plants and animals living here. For information, contact Lanis Petrik at lanispetrik@czs.org or Mary Rice at marice@parkfun.com.

Teacher’s Workshop: Early Childhood Educators’ ComboSaturday, Jan. 26 • 9AM-3PMReceive two nationally acclaimed curricula, Project Learning Tree Environmental Experiences for Early Childhood and Growing Up Wild. Both build on a child’s sense of wonder about nature and invite you to explore nature through art, music, science inquiry, math, reading, health and more!

Early Childhood Teacher Workshop: Growing Up WildSaturday, Feb. 16 • 9AM-NoonGrowing Up Wild builds on a child’s sense of wonder about nature and invites them to explore wildlife and the world around them.

Teacher’s Workshop: Project Learning TreeSunday, Feb. 24 • 9AM-3PMProject Learning Tree is an award-winning environmental education program designed for teachers, scout leaders and other educators, parents and community leaders working with youth from pre-school through grade 12.

Special Offer:Only $90!

Additional workshops are being developed. For up-to-date information, visit www.parkfun.com/Spring-Valley/programs.

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ALL AGESDeer WatchFriday, Jan. 4 • 4:00-5:30PTake a hike to look for this elusive mammal and discover its tracks, as well as the places where it eats and sleeps.

Free - Heaven’s WatchSat., Jan. 5 • 8:00P .....OrionNo program in Feb.Sat., March 2 • 8:30P .....Beehive Star ClusterJoin Chicago Astronomical Society as they set their telescopes for a peek at the night skies.

EArLY ChiLDhOODHot Cocoa and Cookies at the Farm-houseSunday, Jan. 27 • 12:30-3:00PLearn how to make these delightful treats from scratch and with all natural ingredients!

Lincoln, Logs and LoreTuesday, Feb. 12 • 2:45-4:15Take a hike to Merkle Cabin, read a Lincoln story, make a Lincoln craft and play with Lincoln logs

Stranger in the WoodsSaturday, Jan. 12 • 10:00-11:00AListen to the story Stranger in the Woods, dis-cover the animals that are active in winter and build a snowman using food to attract animals.

Who Goes There?Sunday, Jan. 13 • Noon-4PMTracks have an interesting tale to tell if we know how to read the words. Come down to the Cabin and dive into the language of tracks. There will be track games to play and an opportunity to decode what’s out there. Once you’ve become a track expert, feel free to hike around and decide who has gone before you.

Winter Explorers: Snow and IceSunday, Feb. 10 • Noon-4PMExplore the winter world of snow and ice. Experiments, games and activities using snow and ice take the chill from the February air. This free program takes place at Merkle Cabin, so take a short hike from the Nature Center to enjoy an afternoon of snowy fun.

FrEE MErkLE CABiN PrOGrAMS

FAMiLYThe following programs have a special family rate. By registering ONE child, it is assumed that a minimum of two people (one adult and child) or a maximum of four people are attending. Do NOT register additional people, they may pay on the day of the program.

Cooking Like a SettlerSaturday, March 9 • 10:00A-NoonShell and grind corn, while cornbread cooks over a fire in a Dutch oven.

Snowshoe RambleSaturday, Feb. 2 • 1:00-2:30PIf there’s enough snow, participants will strap on snowshoes and explore Spring Valley.

Sundown Supper in the Sugar BushSaturday, March 2 • 4:00-6:00PTap maple trees, gather sap, tend the boil down and enjoy pancakes with real maple syrup.

Winter Campfire in the CabinSaturday, Jan. 26 • 6:30-8:00PParticipants will tell stories, sing songs, enjoy hot chocolate and practice pioneer skills!

Winter habitats: Spring Valley StyleSaturday, Feb. 9 • 9:30-11:00A ... PrairieSaturday, Feb. 23 • 9:30-11:00A ... WetlandSaturday, March 9 • 9:30-11:00A ... WoodlandExplore the prairie, wetlands and woodlands to discover their amazing diversity.

TEENSMammal Study Merit Badge WorkshopSaturday, Jan. 19 • 10:00A-3:00PBoy Scouts, join with certified merit badge coun-selors to earn your Mammal Study badge.

Home School Naturalist Group ProgramsSpring Valley Nature Center and Heritage Farm is the perfect place for hands-on, exploration-based science programs. Offerings change seasonally, so check the program guide regularly.

Winter 2012-13 topics:• Stars & Constellations – Explore the far-out world of stars while traveling the life cycle of a star, telling constellation

stories and star-hopping across the winter sky.• Pioneer Living – Travel back in time and practice pioneer

skills, including weaving and cooking over a fire.• Winter Insects – Discover what insects need to do to

survive the winter while searching under logs, leaves and ice for these tiny animals.

Available every Winter: Biscuits and Butter, Conservation in Action, Woodlands, Owls: Predators of the Night, Winter Ecology, Farms and Food, Nighttime Nature

For more information or to schedule a program, call 847-985-2100.

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Click on program/icon for information and to register online.**To create a new account, visit the registration desk at the CRC or download an internet registration form from

www.parkfun.com. The form can be found under the registration tab.

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Snowshoe Rentals Available: Beginning Dec. 1Experience the beauty of the winter landscape in a new way! The following rental policies apply:• There must be at least 4 inches of snow on the ground before rentals will be made available.• First-time renters will be asked to view a short video on the proper way to use snowshoes prior to taking them out.• A rental application and liability waiver must be filled out at the Nature Center Visitor Center.• A driver’s license or some other form of ID is required as deposit.• Rental rate is $4 for a maximum of 3 hours for use at Spring Valley.• Rentals are available on a first-come, first-serve basis from 9AM until 3PM. All rentals must be returned by 4:30PM.• Special youth group rates are available after 3PM on weekdays. Call to inquire. No youth groups on weekends.• To take snowshoes off site, a deposit of $50 is required. The cost is $10 per day.Call 847/985-2100 for more information.

YOUThAnimal SurprisesSunday, Feb. 10 • 9:15-11:15ASearch the prairie, wetlands and woodlands of Spring Valley looking for wildlife.

Cooking at the CabinFriday, Jan. 4 • 6:00-8:00PLeave the stove at home and explore the art of cooking with fire.

Dolls, Dolls, DollsSunday, March 3 • 1:00-3:30PUse your imagination to make three historic dolls to take home and enjoy.

icy ExperimentsSunday, Jan. 20 • 1:00-3:00PHave fun on a cold winter day with a thermom-eter, frozen plants, a block of ice, burrows, trees, snow and tracks.

Paper Bead MakingSaturday, Feb. 2 • 10:30A-NoonMake paper beads with only a few simple items.

Pretzel Making for KidsSunday, Feb. 10 • 1:00-2:30PGather around the wood burning stove at the farm house and make pretzels.

Rock Hounds for BeginnersSunday, Feb. 17 • 1:00-3:00PExplore rocks, play rock games, sing rock songs and the examine the rock cycle.

Sleeping with the TurtlesSaturday, March 8-9 • 7:00P-8:00ASpend the night in the Nature Center, explore the new exhibits, and see what awaits you.

Trees-Dead or AliveSunday, Jan. 13 • 10:00-11:30AExplore the differences between deciduous and evergreen trees.

Maple Sugaring-Originally published by Currier & Ives

Free Admission!

Presented by

Enjoy a pancakes breakfast with real maple syrup, sausage, juice and coffee. See authentic demonstrations of maple syrup produc-tion, a pioneer sugar camp, children’s puppet show, hayride and sales of syrup and other goodies. Click here for more information.

Saturday & Sunday, March 16 & 17

Sugar Bush FairSchaumburg park District's

School Day-Off Field TripsFriday, Jan. 18 • 9:00A-4:00P ...........Field MuseumMonday, Jan. 21 • 9:00A-4:00P ...........MSI

Join Spring Valley staff and explore a great Chicago museum. Bring a lunch; dress for the weather. Be prepared for fun and adventure!

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Volunteer NewsSpring Valley Volunteer recognition for 2012

Spring Valley held its Volunteer Holiday Celebration and Recognition event on Saturday, December 15. It was wonderful that so many volunteers could join us for the evening’s festivities. Activities included the chance to socialize with fellow volunteers, the toasting of wassail, the pleasure of delectable food, and of course, the recognition of our fantastic volunteers. Spring Valley volun-teers, along with the help of local church, corporate, school, and scout groups, contributed 12,149.25 hours in 2012. It’s wonder-ful to see such strong community support. Thank you to everyone who has contributed their time and talent to Spring Valley. We simply could not accomplish as much as we do without you! As is traditionally done this time of year, we would like to specifically recognize people for their accomplishments over the past year.

First 25 hours of service:Megan BonneyKathy DeGeusDaryle DrewEllen HanesDave KivesVicki Mann

Katrina MileyRyan Ochs

Bob PautschAnn Scacco

Julie TucknottScott Walsh

50 to 99 hours:Bill Bidlo

Leon BlumMegan BonneyChristine Curin

Daryle DrewNancy Fallen

Venus GintowtAmanda Greco

Rick JeskeArlene KrizkaKaren KusekCharlie Loh

Melina LynchMike Lynch

Nancy LyonsNancy Mamsen

Barb MuehlhausenJanet NeallyPatty Ochs

Sharon OgorzalekPenny PerlesTom PopekBarb RoyceLeo Salais

Laurie TatomBill Tucknott

Jean TucknottAngela Waidanz

100 to 199 hours:Gail Ameer

Carol AnagnostopoulosKaitlyn BallDuane Bolin

Dean BrucknerEve CarterRay Deibert

Barb DochtermanDonna JohnsonSusan LaDore

Mary MatzSandy Meo

Ken OgorzalekMert RutledgeDonna Turner

Amy VitoCarolyn White

200 to 299 hours:Victor Franks, Jr.

Pete GigousArthur JeczalaBarb Mitchell

Roger NelsonDick Ruffolo

300 to 399 hours:Jay Laski

John Witkowski

400 to 499 hours:Chuck Henry

500 to 599 hours:Lynn Eikenbary

Tony Meo

Two Years:Amanda Greco

Dan GryzikJay LaskiMary MatzRyan Ochs

Sharon OgorzalekMartin Sliwka

Amber StringerElizabeth Tatom

John TatomBob Winter

Five Years:Leon Blum

Nancy FallenVenus GintowtChuck HenryMelina LynchBecky Lyons

Dave MargolisJoan Vodraska

Tom Walsh

Ten Years:Jan Costis

Victor Franks, Jr.Karen KusekBarb Mitchell

Ken Ogorzalek

Fifteen Years:Alan KrausJanet KrausJanet NeallyDick RuffoloEileen Skiba

Twenty Years:Julie Margolis

Note: If you are due an award and haven’t yet re-ceived it, please stop by the Nature Center by February 1 so we can personally present it to you. Thanks you.

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New Volunteer Interpretive Meeting at Volkening Heritage FarmFebruary 16 or February 19Have you ever considered becoming a historic interpreter at the Farm? If so, plan to attend one of the two meetings offered where you can obtain informa-tion regarding the interpretive program and learn more about an interpreter’s responsibilities and duties. We’ll meet Saturday, February 16, 9am-Noon and Tuesday, February 19, 5:30-8:30pm. Please RSVP to Judy with your meeting date choice by Wednesday, February 8.

Sugar Bush Set-UpMarch 14 & 15Can’t help at the Sugar Bush Fair, but still want to be part of it? Join us the Thursday and Friday before the event to help set-up. We have a variety of activities which need to be done. Come at 10am and stay for all or part of the day!

Dates to Remember• Monday, Jan. 14 ......... 1-4pm

Handy Crafters Meeting• Saturday, Jan. 26 ....... 9am-1pm

Conservation Workday• Wednesday, Feb. 6 .... 6:30-9pm

Volunteer Meeting• Monday, Feb. 11 ......... 1-4pm

Handy Crafters Meeting• Saturday, Feb. 16 ....... 9am-Noon

New Interpreter Meeting• Saturday, Feb. 16 ....... 9am-2pm

Burn Training• Tuesday, Feb. 19 ....... 5:30-8:30pm

New Interpreter Meeting• Saturday, Feb. 23 ....... 9am-1pm

Conservation Workday

Volunteer News

Pats on the back to the following volunteers...• Gail Ameer, Carol Anagnostopoulos, Deanna

Bruckner, Lynn Eikenbary, Mike Gear, Jean havlir, Becky Lyons, Sandy Meo, and Barb Mitchell for decorating the Farm and Cabin in preparation for Christmas in the Valley and the holidays.

• Joy Bertone, Leon Blum, ray Deibert, karen Delmonico, Daryle Drew, Amanda Greco, Ron Haskell, Chuck henry, rick Jeske, Amanda, Janet and Al kraus, Susan LaDore, Jay Laski, Mary Matz, Janet Neally, roger Nelson, Donna Nicolaisen, Patty Ochs, ryan Ochs, kristi Overgaard, Tina rokoszewski, Barb and Bob Royce, Dick Ruffolo, Mert Rutledge, Amy Vito and John Witkowski for their continuing weekly animal care assistance at Volkening Heritage Farm.

• Pat Campbell and Arthur Jeczala who help with a variety of administrative support activities on a regular basis.

February 2 Donna Nicolaisen 6 Randee Lawrence 8 Ray Deibert 9 Jeff Huebner Arthur Jeczala Steve Larson 10 Sandy Meo 11 Tom Popek Scott Walsh 14 Leo Salais Bill Flesch

16 Mike Gear Bob Winter 17 Dave Krein Charlene Miles 23 Roger Nelson 24 Carolyn Bowden 25 Dean Bruckner 27 Janet Neally

Happy Birthday to…January 5 Jim Sears 11 Barb Dochterman 12 Marilyn Dvoratchek 19 Karen Delmonico 21 Arlene Krizka 23 Eileen Skiba

24 Norina Waugh Pat Floreani 27 Kaitlyn Ball 28 Dan Greco 30 Ann Scacco

Volunteer Want AdsIf you are interested in helping with any of the following activities, please call Judy at 847/985-2100 or e-mail her at juvito@parkfun.com.

Conservation WorkdayJanuary 26 and February 23

Put on your grubby clothes, dress for the

weather, and help us at our upcoming

workdays. The workdays run from 9am to

1pm.

Prescribed Burn TrainingSaturday, February 16Learn the philosophy behind controlled burns and why we use this important management tool at Spring Valley. Volunteers who attend the training will then be eligible to assist with the prescribed burns we do in spring and fall. Training is scheduled from 9am-2pm in the Nature Center classroom. Please let Judy know if you’re interested in attending.

Sunday WednesdayMonday Tuesday Thursday Friday Saturday

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JANuARy 2013

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Farm Closed

Cabin Closed

Bold indicates volunteer activitiesItalics indicates programs which may be taken as complimentary by volunteersSee “What’s Happening” for program descriptions

•Winter Break Camp 10amW-F

•Deer Watch 4pm•Cooking at the Cabin 6pmNature’s Night Life 7pm

A Walk with the Birds 7:30am

Heaven’s Watch 8pm

•Weekly Yoga at Cabin 6:30pm•Weekly Yoga at Cabin 8pm

•Stranger in the Woods 10am

•Weekly Yoga at Cabin 6pm•Weekly Yoga at Cabin 7:30pm

•Weekly Yoga at Cabin 6:30pm•Weekly Yoga at Cabin 8pm

•School Day-Off Field Trip 9am •Mammal Study Merit Badge Workshop 10am

•Trees – Dead or Alive? 10amWho Goes There? Noon

Handy Crafters Meeting 1pm

Schaumburg Community Garden Club 7pm

•Weekly Yoga at Cabin 6pm•Weekly Yoga at Cabin 7:30pm

•Weekly Yoga at Cabin 6:30pm•Weekly Yoga at Cabin 8pm

Conservation Workday 9am

•Winter Campfire in the Cabin 6:30pm

•Icy Experiments 1pm•All About Pie 1pm

•School Day-Off Field Trip 9am

•Weekly Yoga at Cabin 6pm•Weekly Yoga at Cabin 7:30pm

•Weekly Yoga at Cabin 6:30pm•Weekly Yoga at Cabin 8pm

•Hot Cocoa and Cookies at the Farmhouse 12:30pm

•Nature Book Club 10am

•Weekly Yoga at Cabin 6pm•Weekly Yoga at Cabin 7:30pm

Martin Luther King Jr. Day

New Year’s Day

Sunday WednesdayMonday Tuesday Thursday Friday Saturday

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FeBRuARy 2013

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Farm Closed

Cabin Closed

Bold indicates volunteer activitiesItalics indicates programs which may be taken as complimentary by volunteersSee “What’s Happening” for program descriptions

•Paper Bead Making 10:30am•Snowshoe Ramble 1pm

•Weekly Yoga at Cabin 6:30pm•Weekly Yoga at Cabin 8pm

•Winter Habitats 9:30am

Volunteer Meeting 6:30pm•Weekly Yoga at Cabin 6pm•Weekly Yoga at Cabin 7:30pm

•Weekly Yoga at Cabin 6:30pm•Weekly Yoga at Cabin 8pm

New interpreter Meeting 9amPrescribed Burn Training 9am

•Animal Surprises 9:15am•Winter Explorers: Snow and Ice Noon•Pretzel Making for Kids 1pm

Handy Crafters Meeting 1pm

Schaumburg Community Garden Club 7pm

•Lincoln, Logs and Lore 2:45pm

•Weekly Yoga at Cabin 6pm•Weekly Yoga at Cabin 7:30pm

•Weekly Yoga at Cabin 6:30pm•Weekly Yoga at Cabin 8pm

Conservation Workday 9am•Winter Habitats 9:30am

•Rock Hounds for Beginners 1pm•Good Clean Fun: Soap Making Basics 1pm

New interpreter Meeting 5:30pm•Weekly Yoga at Cabin 6pm•Weekly Yoga at Cabin 7:30pm

•Weekly Yoga at Cabin 6:30pm•Weekly Yoga at Cabin 8pm

•Blacksmithing for Beginners 1pm

•Weekly Yoga at Cabin 6pm•Weekly Yoga at Cabin 7:30pm

Valentine’s Day

Presidents’ Day

S p r i n g V a l l e y • N a t u r a l E n q u i r e r • J a n u a r y / F e b r u a r y 2 0 1 3

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SCHAUMBURG PARK DISTRICT WEBSiTE: www.parkfun.com

E-MAiL: springvalley@parkfun.com

MEMBEr:

Vera Meineke Nature CenterThe earth-sheltered visitor center provides an introduction to Spring Val-ley’s 135 acres of restored prairies, woodlands and wetlands and three miles of trails. The center contains natural history exhibits that change seasonally, a demonstration Backyard for Wildlife, an observation tower, classrooms, an extensive library, gift sales area and restrooms.

Volkening Heritage FarmStep back into the past for a look at Schaumburg as it was in the 1880s – a rural German farm community. Help with seasonal farm chores, participate in family activities and games of the 1880s, or simply visit the livestock and soak in the quiet. Authentically dressed interpreters will welcome and share activities with visitors throughout the site.

Spring Valley is a refuge of 135 acres of fields, forests, marshes and streams with over three miles of handicapped-accessible trails, a museum featuring natural history displays and information, and an 1880s living-history farm. Spring Val-ley is open to the general public. Admission is free.

Environmental Outreach ProgramWe’ll bring our outreach program to your site. Topics include forests, worms, spiders, mammals, owls, food chains, food webs, wetlands, and the water cycle. Students will participate in hands-on activities, songs, and games. Topics may be adapted to students in grades one through six, and are correlated with Illinois State Standards.

Programs at Spring ValleySchool, Scout and adult groups are encouraged to take ad-vantage of Spring Valley’s Environmental Education Program. Programs change seasonally and are geared for specific age groups. Correlations to the state standards and activity sheets are available on the SPD website, www.parkfun.com.Learn local history with a visit to the Heritage Farm. Elementary and high school students recreate farm life in the 1880s with Hands on History; second graders experience it through Heritage Quest. Children from the age of four through second grade will learn about food, farmers, and farm animals in Farms and Foods.

Scout BadgesWe offer many opportunities for scouts. Our programs will help with your badge, pin or patch requirements. Call for more information or stop in for a brochure.

SCHAUMBURG PARK DISTRICTBOArD OF COMMiSSiONErS:Mike DanielsSharon DiMariaDavid JohnsonGeorge LongmeyerBob Schmidt

EXECUTiVE DirECTOr:Tony LaFrenere

SPriNG VALLEY MiSSiON STATEMENT:Spring Valley’s mission is to educate area residents regarding the natural and cultural history of the Schaumburg area and how people have and continue to interact with and upon the landscape.

Spring Valley • Schaumburg Park District • 1111 East Schaumburg Road • Schaumburg, Illinois 60194

Vera Meineke Nature Center

Volkening Heritage Farm

Schaumburg Rd.

Plum

Gro

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135 acres

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NATUrAL ENqUirEr STAFF:Mary RiceEditorJudy VitoVolunteer CoordinatorDave Brooks“In this Issue...”Scott StomporGraphic Artist

Spring Valley Birthday PartiesLooking for a unique, fun, and educational venue for your child’s birthday? Spring Valley is the answer! Two party themes are avail-able. A hayride can be added for an extra fee. Call Spring Valley for more information.

Spring Valley Firepit and Shelter RentalsMake your next scout group, business or family gathering something special! Spring Valley offers the use of a picnic shelter and fire pit in a wooded setting near the Merkle Log Cabin. Use of the site includes firewood, trash/recycling receptacles and benches, as well as picnic tables. No alcohol or amplified music permitted. Restrooms are available at the Heritage Farm or Nature Center, a 5–10 minute walk. The adjacent Merkle Log Cabin contains a restroom and may be rented for additional fees.

hourly use fees:Residents: .............$25 Civic groups: ..............................$25Non-residents: ......$40 Corporate/business groups: ......$55

hOUrSNature Center Grounds & Trails ..............Open Daily ..............8AM-5PMVolkening Heritage Farm Grounds .........Closed .....................Dec.1-March 1

NATUrE CENTEr/MUSEUM hOUrS:Year round ............Daily* ......... 9AM-5PM

FArM iNTErPrETiVE PrOGrAM hOUrS:Nov. - March ...........Open for Special EventsApril 1 - Oct. 31 ......Sat/Sun ...... 10AM-4PM Tue-Fri ....... 9AM-2PM Mon ...........Buildings Closed

*All facilities closed on Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s Day

Unless otherwise noted, all programs are held rain or shine.

Participants should dress appropriately for weather conditions.

PhONEVERA MEINEKE NATURE CENTER ..............................................847/985-2100VOLkENiNG hEriTAGE FArM .....................................................847-985-2102