Curious about beekeeping? This introductory class, taught by Bruce Benskin, a beekeeper with decades of experience, is for beginners who want to learn the basics of honeybees, hive management, equipment, and seasonal care. Whether you're considering starting your own hive or simply want to better understand these remarkable pollinators, this class provides a practical and engaging introduction to the world of beekeeping.

Registration required.

Why do leaves change color and what determines the predominant colors we see in them? Join us to enjoy nature's last bold display before the winter quiet.

Take your beekeeping knowledge to the next level in this more advanced class. Explore more complex topics such as colony health management, queen rearing, swarm prevention, honey production, seasonal decision-making, and strategies for maintaining strong, productive hives. This course provides practical techniques to help you confidently manage thriving colonies.

Registration required.

Experience Nature in a Blink, a year-long series where you become eyewitness to the elusive wonders of nature at your favorite MetroParks.

Why do leaves change color? What determines the colors we see? Walk through your MetroParks to explore these answers and more. Closed-toed shoes are recommended.

Bark your calendars for the Howl, a costumed-canine celebration! Explore Wiggly Field with your dog, visit treat stations sponsored by friends from the local pet community, and compete in the cutest costume contest Butler County has ever seen. Create canine cuisine, test out enriching toys, and spark your dog’s creativity to become the next Pup-casso.

The costume contest will start at 6:15. Please be lined up with your dog in the contest area with your name tag clearly visible while our community guest walks around to judge. All winners will be announced by 6:30.

Enjoy a peaceful hike while connecting with others and exploring the prairie at Salamander Run MetroPark. The majority of this trail is flat, but may be muddy after rain.

This experience, in partnership with MHARS and Butler County Veterans Services Commission, is an opportunity to unwind, recharge, and find peace in nature.

Join us each month for a casual one-hour walk for women to find community. This event is open to women ages 18 and up. Be sure to dress comfortably for the weather and varied terrain. We look forward to making new connections!

Meet live animals as we talk about how nature prepares for and survives winter. Who sleeps, who leaves town, and who adapts to the conditions?

Want to compost your pumpkins instead of tossing them in the trash? Watch them sail through the sky from a catapult! Bring your carved jack-o'-lantern or pumpkin to dispose of it in a fun way as you learn about engineering and composting through pumpkin-slinging machines. This year's machines will be constructed and operated by local students from both the Lakota and Talawanda Robotics Clubs. Don't have your own pumpkin? You can still come to cheer them on!

For safety, the machine builders will do the launching, and safe viewing areas will be roped off. Pumpkins can be either carved or intact, but must be free of paint, embellishments, or other potentially toxic decorations. We can accommodate a maximum of 30 pounds.

Immerse yourself as a traveler to a mid-1800s village to experience the dark realities of pioneer hardships not mentioned in your typical history books. Historical research and consulting support provided by the Butler County Historical Society to help bring our past to life. This interactive program is rain or shine. Dress for the weather and walking on uneven terrain.