Lancaster Conservancy Events

Local musician Andrew Paul-Thomas marks the start of winter’s traditional storytelling season with a wonderful evening of song and song-craft. Help compose a song, sing-a-long, or sit back enjoy the sweet sounds of gathered music. Bring a picnic dinner to eat inside and your own instrument to play with friends before and after Andrew’s beautiful concert.

Where to Meet

The Russo Barn at Climbers Run Nature Center

What to Expect

Recommended for ages 6 and up. The event will run rain or shine – if the weather is good, we’ll sit outside around a campfire! Restrooms are available onsite.

What to Bring

Dress for the weather. Bring your own drink, and even a picnic dinner to enjoy! Bring your own instrument to play if you’d like to join in the music!

Cuffs Run is one of the most beautiful, remote places in the Susquehanna Riverlands region. It is at risk of development since a pump storage hydroelectric project has been proposed for this area which will destroy it. We will explore the amazing geology and ecology of Cuffs Run, discuss the fallacy of pumped storage energy production in general, and why this is a bad idea for Cuffs Run specifically.

Where to Meet

We will meet at the Lock 12 recreation area in Holtwood and shuttle people in our minibus to our starting point at Green Branch Road.

What to Expect

This hike is for experienced hikers only, aged 16 and up and will run rain or shine. Cancelations for severe weather events will be made 24 hours in advance.

What to Bring

Each participant must have their own day pack with water and food. Dress for the weather, with layers and sturdy hiking shoes. Hiking or trekking poles are recommended but not required.

Nature Journaling is a great way to hone your observational and artistic skills, all while enjoying the therapeutic benefits of spending time in nature – whatever the season! Come dressed for the weather join us as we enjoy the beauty of the winter landscape along the Pequea Creek.

Where to Meet

The parking area at Fox Hollow Nature Preserve

What to Expect

Recommended for ages 10 and up. No restrooms available onsite. This event will include a short hike to the nature journaling spot. This event will run rain or shine, with cancellations for severe weather being made 24 hours in advance.

What to Bring

Dress for the weather and bring journaling materials, a journal and camp chair if you need one rather than sitting on the ground/a log or rock. Bring any drinks or snack you may want.

Join us as we explore the importance of bird surveys and how you can actively contribute to conservation efforts through community-based science!

This event will consist of two parts — an educational presentation indoors, followed by a guided birding event outdoors. Learn how to accurately track your bird watching observations utilizing field guides, online apps, and traditional survey resources. We will review a brief history of the Christmas Bird Count (CBC), best practices to employ for successful surveys, and also present a slideshow on the top 25 bird species you will likely encounter during the winter in Lancaster County. This presentation is designed to help prepare you for birding surveys, including upcoming events like the Lancaster CBC. Then we will put our skills to use out on the trail at Climbers Run Nature Preserve to make observations during the day of the Solanco 2023 CBC. Learn how to gather information, submit data accurately, and explore the ways that bird surveys are used to monitor environmental changes and make conservation decisions in our area.

About Your Presenters

Derek Stoner – Derek Stoner is a Lancaster County native, published author, wildlife photographer, and avid outdoorsman. He conducts bird surveys and provides habitat consultation for a wide range of conservation organizations and private landowners working to improve biodiversity on their lands. Derek is also a member of the Lancaster County Bird Club.

Sarah Gotwols – Sarah is also a Lancaster County native, an active volunteer with the Lancaster Conservancy and the current secretary of the Lancaster County Bird Club.

Where to Meet

The Russo Barn at Climbers Run Nature Center

What to Expect

This event is recommended for ages 13+ (anyone under the age of 18 should be accompanied by at least 1 adult). Restroom facilities will be available. The event will be held rain or shine, with cancellations for severe or inclement weather made the day prior.

What to Bring

Binoculars if available, a small notebook and pen/pencil, and a smartphone for app instruction is recommended. If you have a field guide that you prefer to use, please bring along. Dress appropriately for weather, including rain/snow apparel if needed. Waterproof boots are encouraged.