Flower Focus Group Walk
2021-06-16 10:00 - 12:00 (America/Edmonton) | Red Deer Polytechnic, 100 College Blvd, Red Deer, Alberta, T4N 5H5, Canada
Flower Focus Group Walk June 16, 2021 10:00 a.m.
Your Host: Don Wales
Location: South of the Red Deer College. The new Nova Chemicals Waskasoo Creek Nature Walk – an accessible one kilometre loop circling a pond in a natural area just south of the Gary W. Harris Canada Games Centre.

Contact Don at don@hexapod.ca to register your attendance.
Meet in the southwest parking lot by the weather station, all are welcome, you do not have to be a RDRN member to attend.

Guided Nature Walk
2021-06-26 10:00 - 12:00 | J. J. Collette Natural Area, H956+42 Morningside, Alberta, Lacombe County, Alberta, T4L 2N4, Canada
Guided Nature Walk June 26, 2021 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.

Your Host: Shaye Hill
Location: J. J. Collett Natural Area, located NE of Lacombe and south of Morningside. You must register to attend.

If you’re interested please register at https://www.naturecentral.org/nature-walks.html

This natural area has well groomed trails throughout a mature forest and some grassland areas. There are a few wetland areas interspersed throughout the area. The nature walk will include bird identification, plant identification, history of the area, and speaking about the beauty of the natural world.
Recommended items to bring: Bug spray, comfortable walking footwear, binoculars, water and snacks, sunscreen, camera and any field guide that may interest you.
This area has bathrooms, trash cans and a small parking lot.
Weather Dependent
Hope to see you all there!

Nature Walk
2021-07-10 10:00 - 12:00
Guided Nature Walk July 10, 2021 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.

Your Host: Shaye Hill
Location: Schroeder Site, 150 acres approximately 17 km SE of Red Deer. You must register to attend.

If you’re interested please register at https://www.naturecentral.org/nature-walks.html
This natural area has rolling hills with a large grassland with young aspen and spruce stands. There are a few wetland areas interspersed throughout the area. This area shines in plant and animal diversity. The nature walk will include bird identification, plant identification, and speaking about the beauty of the natural world.
Recommended items to bring: bug spray, comfortable walking footwear, binoculars, water and snacks, sunscreen, camera and any field guide that may interest you.
This area has no bathrooms, trash cans, or a parking lot, must park alongside the road.
Weather Dependent.
Hope to see you all there!

Wild About Bees Nature Walk
2021-07-14 10:00 - 15:00 | Kuhnen Park
Wild About Bees Nature Walk July 14, 2021 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. or 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m.

Your Host: Charity Briere, Entomologist & Alberta Native Bee Council Board Member

Location: Kuhnen Park
Learn about pollinators. Nature walk will locate signs of pollinators and learn more about our native insect species. Create Nature crafts too.

You must register to attend.

If you’re interested please register at http//www.naturecentral.org/events

Nature Walk
2021-07-17 10:00 - 12:00 | Kuhnen Park
Guided Nature Walk July 17, 2021 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.

Your Host: Shaye Hill
Location: Kuhnen Park. You must register to attend.

If you’re interested please register at https://www.naturecentral.org/nature-walks.html
This natural area has trails that lead throughout a forest and lead to the bank of the Red Deer River. The path to the river is steep and very slippery when wet, a walking stick is advised. This natural area has a thick healthy undergrowth which is perfect for Snowshoe Hare and Weasels. This nature walk will include bird identification, plant identification, history of the area, and speaking about the beauty of the natural world.
Recommended items to bring: bug spray, walking stick, comfortable walking footwear, binoculars, water and snacks, sunscreen, camera and any field guide that may interest you.
Weather dependent.
This area has bathrooms, trash cans and a parking lot.

Butterfly Nature Walk
2021-07-18 10:00 - 15:00 | J. J. Collette Natural Area, H956+42 Morningside, Alberta, Lacombe County, Alberta, T4L 2N4, Canada
Butterfly Nature Walk

July 18 or August 15, 2021 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. or 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m.

Your Host: Benny Acorn

Location: J. J. Collett Natural Area.
Learn all about butterflies with Benny Acorn. The walk will include catching and identifying butterflies and talking about their life cycle. A craft will be included with this event. This event is tailored towards kids aged 6 to 14 but all ages are welcome. Bring snacks/water, sunscreen, bug spray and dress for the weather.

You must register to attend.

If you’re interested please register at https://www.naturecentral.org/events.html

Nature Walk
2021-07-24 10:00 - 12:00
Guided Nature Walk July 24, 2021 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.

Your Host: Shaye Hill
Location: Nevis Site, 367 acres near the Hamlet of Nevis. You must register to attend.

If you’re interested please register at https://www.naturecentral.org/nature-walks.html
This natural area does not have groomed trails but does have some trails made by wildlife. This natural area has grasslands with thin undergrowth of different parkland species. There are depressional areas that pool with water allowing willows to flourish. This natural area is quite dry in some parts allowing for some cactus species to grow. The nature walk will include bird identification, plant identification, and speaking about the beauty of the natural world.
Recommended items to bring: bug spray, walking stick, comfortable walking footwear, binoculars, water and snacks, sunscreen, camera and any field guide that may interest you.
This area does not have bathrooms, trash cans or a parking lot, you must park along the road.
Weather Dependent.
Hope to see you all there!

Paddling at the Narrows
2021-07-28 17:00 - 21:00
An Evening of Kayaking

July 28, 2021 starting at 5:00 p.m.
Your Host: Shaye Hill
Come enjoy a relaxing paddle at the Narrows Provincial Recreation Area. Map: https://birdingtrailsalberta.com/central-alberta-east/the-narrows/
This area offers a large diversity of waterfowl and forest birds over the summer months. This event is tailored towards all ages. Bring your kayak or canoe and come enjoy the beauty of your own backyard. Items to bring: kayak or canoe, life jacket, snacks, water, binoculars, sunscreen and bug spray.
You must register to attend.

If you’re interested please register at https://www.naturecentral.org/events.html

Nature Walk
2021-07-31 10:00 - 12:00
Guided Nature Walk July 31, 2021 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.

Your Host: Shaye Hill
Location: Porter Conservation Site, 155 acres approximately 13 km E of Caroline. You must register to attend.

If you’re interested please register at https://www.naturecentral.org/nature-walks.html
This natural area does not have groomed trails but does have some trails made by wildlife or other people visiting the area. This natural area has the Raven River flowing through the property. The few pathways that are in this area travel through a mixed-wood forest leading into a grassland area. The nature walk will include bird identification, plant identification, and speaking about the beauty of the natural world.
Recommended items to bring: bug spray, walking stick, comfortable walking footwear, binoculars, water and snacks, sunscreen, camera and any field guide that may interest you.
This area does not have bathrooms, trash cans but does have a parking lot.
Weather Dependent.
Hope to see you all there!

Pond Dipping
2021-08-04 10:00 - 15:00
Pond Dipping August 4, 2021 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. or 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. For kids ages 6 to 14

Your Host: Shaye Hill
Location: Tees Trout Pond
Learn about amphibians and invertebrates. We will be exploring open water, so wear rubber boots and bring an extra pair of clothes just in case.
You must register to attend.

If you’re interested please register at http//www.naturecentral.org/events

Nature Walk
2021-08-07 10:00 - 12:00 | Nova Chemicals Community Nature Trail, Nova Chemicals Community Nature Trail, County of Lacombe, Alberta, T0C 0Y0, Canada
Guided Nature Walk August 7, 2021 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.

Your Host: Shaye Hill
Location: Nova Chemicals Community Nature Trail. You must register to attend.

If you’re interested please register at https://www.naturecentral.org/nature-walks.html
This natural area has well groomed trails with boardwalks over top of some of the wetter areas. This natural area is mostly made up of large wetlands with patches of aspen forests and grasslands. This natural area offers habitat for many different duck species, as well as a variety of grassland and forest birds. The nature walk will include bird identification, plant identification, and speaking about the beauty of the natural world.
Recommended items to bring: bug spray, comfortable walking footwear, binoculars, water and snacks, sunscreen, camera and any field guide that may interest you.
This area has a bathroom, and a parking lot.
Weather Dependent.
Hope to see you all there!

Tweets in the Trees - Family Nature Night
2021-08-10 18:30 - 20:30 | Gaetz Lakes Migratory Bird Sanctuary, gaetz lake mirgratory bird sanctuary, red deer, alberta, Canada
TWEETS IN THE TREES – FAMILY NATURE NIGHT
TUESDAY, AUGUST 10, 2021 6:30 – 8:30 pm – ​No registration needed
Red Deer River Naturalists – Nature Central is teaming up with Nature Alberta and the Kerry Wood Nature Center for a Family Nature Night! This event will be tailored toward kids from the ages of 5-12 but all ages are welcome to participate.
Come and enjoy the outdoors while learning about local birds in the Gaetz Lake Migratory Bird Sanctuary. This event will be capped at 150 people so please come early (6PM) to register if you want to secure your spot.
What to expect: We will break into groups to complete the different activities. There will be a 40 minute nature walk around the sanctuary to explore the different habitat types and learn what kind of birds are found in each area. A 20 minute take-home craft and a 20 minute talk about the wonders of birds. A Whistle will blow after each time limit to allow for the different groups to switch stations after their allotted time.

Nature Walk
2021-08-14 10:00 - 12:00
Guided Nature Walk August 14, 2021 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.

Your Host: Shaye Hill
Location: Dickson Dam Site 7. You must register to attend.

If you’re interested please register at https://www.naturecentral.org/nature-walks.html
​This natural area, located 23 kms west of Innisfail along TWP RD 352 on the south shore of Gleniffer Lake, does not have groomed trails but does have some game trails and an oil lease road. The area consists of a mixed-wood forest with a few grassland patches. A wide variety of wildlife species call this place home, including white-tailed deer, red squirrels, coyotes, moose and forest birds.
On this nature walk, we will offer bird and plant identification tips, discuss highlights about the history of the area, and share other interesting natural history information.
Recommended items to bring: Bug spray, comfortable walking footwear, binoculars, water and snacks, sunscreen, camera and any field guide that may interest you.
This area does not have a parking lot or toilet facilities.

Butterfly Nature Walk
2021-08-15 10:00 - 15:00 | J. J. Collette Natural Area, H956+42 Morningside, Alberta, Lacombe County, Alberta, T4L 2N4, Canada
Butterfly Nature Walk

August 15, 2021 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. or 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m.

Your Host: Benny Acorn

Location: J. J. Collett Natural Area.
Learn all about butterflies with Benny Acorn. The walk will include catching and identifying butterflies and talking about their life cycle. A craft will be included with this event. This event is tailored towards kids aged 6 to 14 but all ages are welcome. Bring snacks/water, sunscreen, bug spray and dress for the weather.

You must register to attend.

If you’re interested please register at https://www.naturecentral.org/events.html

Wild About Bees Nature Walk
2021-08-18 10:00 - 15:00 | Kuhnen Park
Wild About Bees Nature Walk July 18, 2021 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. or 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m.

Your Host: Charity Briere, Entomologist & Alberta Native Bee Council Board Member

Location: Kuhnen Park
Learn about pollinators. Nature walk will locate signs of pollinators and learn more about our native insect species. Create Nature crafts too.

You must register to attend.

If you’re interested please register at http//www.naturecentral.org/events

Nature Walk
2021-08-21 10:00 - 12:00
Guided Nature Walk August 21, 2021 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.

Your Host: Shaye Hill
Location: Magee Lake Natural Area. You must register to attend.

If you’re interested please register at https://www.naturecentral.org/nature-walks.html
This natural area, located east of Morningside, does not have groomed trails so we will be following an informal path. The area consists of a mature forest with some sparse grassland areas. The area is perfect habitat for moose, deer, coyotes and a variety of forest birds.
On this nature walk, we will offer bird and plant identification tips, discuss highlights about the history of the area, and share other interesting natural history information.
Recommended items to bring: Bug spray, comfortable walking footwear, binoculars, water and snacks, sunscreen, camera and any field guide that may interest you.
This area does not have a parking lot or toilet facilities.

RDRN Virtual Speaker Night by Zoom
2021-09-23 19:30 - 21:00 | Zoom Meeting
Speaker: Dr. Heather Addy

September 23, 2021 – 7:30 p.m. held by a Zoom meeting

Topic: Fungi in the Environment: from decomposition to the “wood-wide web”

Dr. Addy is a Teaching Professor in the Biological Sciences Department at the University of Calgary

First create your Zoom account ahead of time.
Click join a meeting
Meeting ID number: 833 3196 7126

Meeting Passcode: [REDACTED]
Have your microphone on mute during the meeting

RDRN Virtual Speaker Night by Zoom
2021-10-28 19:30 - 21:00 | Zoom Meeting
Speaker: Dr. Dale Leckie

October 28, 2021 – 7:30 p.m. held by a Zoom meeting

Topic: The Scenic Geology of Alberta

Dr. Leckie is a Geologist and adjunct Professor in the Geo-Science Department at the University of Calgary.

First create your Zoom account ahead of time.
Click join a meeting.
Meeting ID number: 859 0557 4016

Meeting Passcode: [REDACTED]
Have your microphone on mute during the meeting.

RDRN Virtual Speaker Night by Zoom
2021-11-25 19:30 - 21:00 | Zoom Meeting
Speaker: Myrna Pearman

November 25, 2021 – 7:30 p.m. held by a Zoom meeting

Topic: Beauty Everywhere: Celebrating Nature in our Own Backyards

Myrna Pearman is an enthusiastic Nature Photographer, Writer and Back-roads Rambler. She is recently retired after 33 years as the Biologist at Ellis Bird Farm.

Go to www.zoom.us website

Click join a meeting at the top

Meeting ID number: 840 0885 1070

Meeting Passcode: [REDACTED]

Have your microphone on mute during the meeting.

Christmas Bird Count
2021-12-19 09:00 - 17:00
Christmas Bird Count
Sunday December 19, 2021
9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Print a copy of the Christmas Bird Count Tally Sheet, click here, choose a place to count the birds (map and instructions in the December 2021 newsletter and also under Programs).
Please register where you will be counting with Judy Boyd (403-358-1098) so there will be no duplication of counts.
Tally sheets must be received by December 29th. You may drop sheets off (Attn: Judy Boyd) at Kerry Wood Nature Centre 6300 – 45 Avenue Red Deer, AB T4N 3M4 or mail to RDRN Box 785 Red Deer, AB T4N 5H2, or email to rdrn.nature@gmail.com, put “CBC” in the subject line.

Annual General Meeting
2022-01-27 19:00 - 21:00 | Zoom Meeting
You are all invited to our RDRN Virtual Annual General Meeting by Zoom

Moderator: Interim President Rick Tallas

January 27, 2022 – 7:00 p.m. held by a Zoom meeting
Come join us and hear our Reports, Achievements, up-coming Virtual Speakers and also our Election of Directors for the Board. Please consider becoming a Board Member. Get Involved! Any questions contact us at rdrn.nature@gmail.com or 347-8200. We are actively recruiting for the position of President.

How to join the meeting:
First create your Zoom account ahead of time.
Click join a meeting.
Enter Meeting Id number: 977 2870 6378
Enter Meeting passcode: [REDACTED]
or use this link without an account: https://zoom.us/j/97728706378?pwd=[REDACTED]

RDRN Virtual Speaker Night by Zoom
2022-02-24 19:30 - 21:00 | Zoom Meeting
Speaker: Dr. Emily Studd

February 24, 2022 – 7:30 p.m. held by a Zoom meeting

Topic: Is Something Screaming? Uncovering the secret lives of boreal mammals with technology

Dr. Emily Studd is currently a NSERC post-doctoral research fellow at the University of Toronto Mississauga.

Go to www.zoom.us website

Click join a meeting at the top

Meeting ID number: 833 4356 2232

Meeting Passcode: [REDACTED]

Have your microphone on mute during the meeting.

FLOWER FOCUS GROUP MEETING
2022-03-16 10:00 - 12:00 | Kerry Wood Nature Centre, 6300 45 Avenue, Red Deer, AB, T4N 3M4, Canada
Flower Focus Group Meeting
Please join us for the resumption of RDRN Flower Focus Group Meeting
Your Host: Don Wales
Topic: The Flowers of Glacier National Park
Meet at the Kerry Wood Nature Centre Red Deer, Alberta in the Theatre room.

RDRN Virtual Speaker Night by Zoom
2022-03-24 19:30 - 21:00 | Zoom Meeting
Speaker: Dr. Erin Bayne

March 24, 2022 – 7:30 p.m. held by a Zoom meeting

Topic: The Beauty of Bird Song: How and why birds sing and how sound is being used to make better conservation decisions.

Dr. Bayne is a Professor at the University of Alberta where he runs the Bioacoustic Unit.
Join Zoom Meeting here: https://zoom.us/j/92097043905?pwd=[REDACTED]
Or follow these directions:

Go to www.zoom.us website

Click join a meeting at the top

Meeting ID number: 920 9704 3905

Meeting Passcode: [REDACTED]

Have your microphone on mute during the meeting.

Bird Focus Group Walk
2022-04-02 10:00 - 12:00 | McKenzie Trails, McKenzie Trails Red Deer, Red Deer, Alberta, Canada
Red Deer River Naturalists Bird Focus Group Walk
Location: McKenzie Trails Recreation Area
Meet: In the main parking lot near the shelter

When: April 2, 2022 from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.
Host: Chris Olsen
All are welcome, you do not have to be a member to attend.
Bring your binoculars, camera/phone. Wear sturdy hiking footwear, water resistant and with ice cleats as required by the season. Some trails are on rough terrain. Carry water and an energy snack. Wear layers and carry rain gear and a hat as required by conditions. Let Chris know if you have any potential medical issues. Please come fully vaccinated and stay home if you have cold, flu or other Covid-like symptoms.

BIRD FOCUS GROUP WALK
2022-04-09 10:00 - 12:00 | Maskepetoon Park, Maskepetoon Park, Red Deer, Alberta, Canada
Red Deer River Naturalists Bird Focus Group Walk
Location: Maskepetoon Park – located in the subdivision of Oriole Park West.

Meet: Follow Kerry Wood Drive, meet in the parking lot south of Overand Place. Parking lot is on the west side of Kerry Wood Drive.
When: April 9, 2022 from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.
Host: Chris Olsen
All are welcome, you do not have to be a member to attend.
Bring your binoculars, camera/phone. Wear sturdy hiking footwear, water resistant and with ice cleats as required by the season. Some trails are on rough terrain. Carry water and an energy snack. Wear layers and carry rain gear and a hat as required by conditions. Let Chris know if you have any potential medical issues. Please come fully vaccinated and stay home if you have cold, flu or other Covid-like symptoms.

BIRD FOCUS GROUP WALK
2022-04-16 10:00 - 12:00 | Gaetz Lakes Migratory Bird Sanctuary, gaetz lake mirgratory bird sanctuary, red deer, alberta, Canada
Red Deer River Naturalists Bird Focus Group Walk

Location: Gaetz Lakes Migratory Bird Sanctuary
Meet: In front of Kerry Wood Nature Centre
When: April 16, 2022 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 noon.
Host: Chris Olsen
All are welcome, you do not have to be a member to attend.
Bring your binoculars, camera/phone. Wear sturdy hiking footwear. Some trails are on rough terrain. Carry water and an energy snack. Wear layers and carry rain gear and a hat as required by conditions. Let Chris know if you have any potential medical issues. Please come fully vaccinated and stay home if you have cold, flu or other Covid-like symptoms.

FLOWER FOCUS GROUP LECTURE
2022-04-20 10:00 - 12:00 | Kerry Wood Nature Centre, 6300 45 Avenue, Red Deer, AB, T4N 3M4, Canada
Red Deer River Naturalists Flower Focus Group Lecture

Location: Kerry Wood Nature Centre in the Theatre room

Topic: Wildflowers of Central Alberta with Caroline Harris

When: April 20, 2022 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 noon.
Host: Don Wales

All are welcome, you do not have to be a RDRN member to attend.

BIRD FOCUS GROUP WALK
2022-04-23 10:00 - 12:00 | Nova Chemicals Community Nature Trail, Nova Chemicals Community Nature Trail, County of Lacombe, Alberta, T0C 0Y0, Canada
Red Deer River Naturalists Bird Focus Group Walk
Location: Nova Chemicals Community Nature Trail
Meet: Before you visit you can get a detailed map showing how to get there, and learn more about the area and visitor guidelines: https://www.novachem.com/wp-content/uploads/Legacy-fact-sheet-1.pdf
The Community Nature Trail is located within easy driving distance of many Central Alberta communities: just southwest of the Hamlet of Joffre on Township Rd 390. Directions from Red Deer, travel east on Highway 11 and turn left onto highway 815. Proceed to Range Road 390 and turn left. It’s a short distance and you will see a sign.
When: April 23, 2022 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 noon

Host: Chris Olsen
All are welcome, you do not have to be a RDRN member to attend.
Bring your binoculars, camera/phone. Wear sturdy hiking footwear. Some trails are on rough terrain. Carry water and an energy snack. Remember your bug spray and sunscreen. Wear layers and carry rain gear and a hat as required by conditions. Let Chris know if you have any potential medical issues. Please come fully vaccinated and stay home if you have cold, flu or other Covid-like symptoms.

RDRN VIRTUAL SPEAKER NIGHT BY ZOOM
2022-04-28 19:30 - 21:00 | Zoom Meeting
RDRN Zoom Virtual Series
Speaker: Dr. Gabriela Ibarguchi

April 28, 2022 – 7:30 p.m. held by a Zoom meeting

Topic: Arctic Seabirds as Sentinels of Change

Dr. Ibarguchi is an Instructor at Red Deer Polytechnic

Join Zoom Meeting here: https://zoom.us/j/96777607119?pwd=[REDACTED]
Or follow these directions:

Go to www.zoom.us website

Click join a meeting at the top

Meeting ID number: 967 7760 7119

Meeting Passcode: [REDACTED]

Have your microphone on mute during the meeting.
