Dahlem

Mighty Naturalist Program; Animal Feet and Tracks
2025-01-24 09:30 - 10:45 (America/Detroit)
Animal Feet and Tracks Program is for ages 1-5 years old attending with an adult caregiver.
Program Description: How animals make tracks can tell us what they are, what they’re doing and where they’re headed. We’ll start the morning reading a story, then go on a hunt to see where animal tracks take us; across a trail and up a tree, along the stream, or maybe to a protected home hidden under trees? Indoors we will use rubber tracks to create our own tracks and stories.
Fee per Program: $8 per child ($5 Dahlem member); free for an adult caregiver & infants. Additional children older than 5 years are charged the program fee.
Advanced Registration Required. Please register online (see below) or call 517-782-3453 ext. 101 to reserve your spot for you and your mighty naturalist(s). Payment due upon registration.
Cancellation Policy: Registered participants who did not attend program and/or give minimum 24 hour cancellation notice will not be refunded.
Share your love of nature with your young child(ren). We will explore and play with nature while developing critical early childhood skills and growing self-confidence. The Mighty Naturalist Programs are geared toward children 5 years and younger with an adult caregiver to learn about animals, winter survival, birds, tracks, and more. Each program offers a different theme and activities to give you and your mighty naturalist many program opportunities. Invite your friends to sign up, too.
Every program starts with story time in the exhibit room, followed by a short outdoor walk, and then hands-on activity-craft in the big Dutcher classroom. Please dress for the weather.

Register Online

Owl Prowl Program & Night Hike - January 24, 2025
2025-01-24 18:00 - 20:00 | Dahlem, Jackson’s Nature Place, 7117 S. Jackson Rd., Jackson, MI, 49201, United States
THIS EVENT IS FULL. PLEASE CALL OR EMAIL TO BE PUT ON THE WAITING LIST IN CASE OF CANCELLATIONS (517-782-3453 ext. 101 or dbigham@dahlemcenter.org)
POSTPONED to January 31st, Friday 6 pm. A notice was sent vias email regarding the change in date to everyone who preregistered. Our apologies for any inconvenience. We look forward to seeing you on the 31st January.
Owl Prowl Night Hike will start at 6:00 pm Friday, January 24th 31st with a short indoor presentation to learn about the owl species that reside in Michigan, their adaptations, and then we’ll take a night hike on Dahlem’s quiet trails listening for owls and other night creatures. We will use an artificial device to call out to owls with anticipation that they answer back. In past, the Great Horned, Barred and Screech owls have replied. This is a fun night not to be missed.
The program is for adults.
Fee: $6 per Dahlem member; $10 per non-member. Advanced registration is required as spots are limited to 24 participants. Complete the registration form below or call the office at 517-782-3453 ext. 101 to sign up and pay for your spot. Registration deadline is Thursday, January 23rd.
Cancellation Policy: we have a 24-hour cancellation policy. If you don’t call to cancel and don’t show, you will be charged the full amount.
What to Bring; a small flashlight to carry in your coat pocket. Our goal is to use our night vision just as our nocturnal creatures do to venture through the night and let our other senses direct us on the trails. Try to wear dark colored, warm clothes that don’t make noise when you move.

Mighty Naturalist Program; Bird Beaks
2025-01-31 09:30 - 10:45
Bird Beaks Program is for ages 1-5 years old attending with an adult caregiver.
SOLD OUT — please call the office at 517-782-3453 ext. 101 to be put on the Wait List. Thank you for your interest.
Program Description: What is unique about birds, and what do their characteristics (feathers, feet, beak, color, etc.) tell us about their life? Enjoy story time, explore bird feathers, take a short birding walk to observe our local birds in action, then return indoors for hands-on ‘bird beak’ activity stations, and a make ‘n take craft.
Fee per Program: $8 per child ($5 Dahlem member); free for an adult caregiver & infants. Additional children older than 5 years are charged the program fee.
Advanced Registration Required. Please register online (see below) or call 517-782-3453 ext. 101 to reserve your spot for you and your mighty naturalist(s). Payment due upon registration.
Cancellation Policy: Registered participants who did not attend program and/or give minimum 24 hour cancellation notice will not be refunded.
Share your love of nature with your young child(ren). We will explore and play with nature while developing critical early childhood skills and growing self-confidence. The Mighty Naturalist Programs are geared toward children 5 years and younger with an adult caregiver to learn about animals, winter survival, birds, tracks, and more. Each program offers a different theme and activities to give you and your mighty naturalist many program opportunities. Invite your friends to sign up, too.
Every program starts with story time in the exhibit room, followed by a short outdoor walk, and then hands-on activity-craft in the big Dutcher classroom. Please dress for the weather.

Register Online

Mighty Naturalist Program; Tree-ific Seasons
2025-02-07 09:30 - 10:45
Tree-ific Seasons Program is for ages 1-5 years old attending with an adult caregiver.
SOLD OUT. Please call the office at 517-782-3453 ext. 101 to be added to the Wait List.
Program Description: Story time using our Tree-ific seasons wheel, a short walk to look for signs of winter. What are the trees doing, and what else is different this season? Where are the insects and flowers? Then, we’ll head indoors to craft seasonal tree art.
Fee per Program: $8 per child ($5 Dahlem member); free for an adult caregiver & infants. Additional children older than 5 years are charged the program fee.
Advanced Registration Required. Please register online (see below) or call 517-782-3453 ext. 101 to reserve your spot for you and your mighty naturalist(s). Payment due upon registration.
Cancellation Policy: Registered participants who did not attend program and/or give minimum 24 hour cancellation notice will not be refunded.
Share your love of nature with your young child(ren). We will explore and play with nature while developing critical early childhood skills and growing self-confidence. The Mighty Naturalist Programs are geared toward children 5 years and younger with an adult caregiver to learn about animals, winter survival, birds, tracks, and more. Each program offers a different theme and activities to give you and your mighty naturalist many program opportunities. Invite your friends to sign up, too.
Every program starts with story time in the exhibit room, followed by a short outdoor walk, and then hands-on activity-craft in the big Dutcher classroom. Please dress for the weather.

Register Online

Volunteer Training for Maple Sugaring School Programs
2025-02-12 13:00 - 16:00 | Dahlem, Jackson’s Nature Place, 7117 S. Jackson Rd., Jackson, MI, 49201, United States
Volunteer Training
for Maple Sugaring School Programs

Volunteer Trail Leaders (new & returning) interested to teach and lead Maple Sugaring school field trips are invited to attend this informative half day training session. A review of the lesson plan, a walk into the sugar bush to tap maple trees and setting up equipment will get us ready for students (PS-5th grade) to learn the art and science of making maple syrup!
Our Maple Sugaring school program is offered to the Greater Jackson County area schools February 18 through March 20, 2025. Volunteers are also requested to help with Maple Madness weekend public program on March 15th. Maple Sugaring is one of Dahlem’s most popular programs for all ages.
If you’re interested, please RSVP to Naturalist Educator Carrie to reserve your seat by Feb. 10th (4:00 pm). Please call 517-782-3453 ext. 106 or email cbenham@dahlemcenter.org. New volunteers to Dahlem, please complete the easy online Volunteer Opportunities Form.
This is a great opportunity for retirees, and any adults and college students interested to work with children and have a love for nature are welcome to become volunteer trail leaders. Training will take place both in/outdoors. Please dress for the weather.

Mighty Naturalist Program; Where are the Night Animals
2025-02-14 09:30 - 10:45
Where are the Night Animals Program is for ages 1-5 years old attending with an adult caregiver.
SOLD OUT. Please call the office at 517-782-3453 ext. 101 to be added to the Wait List.
Program Description: While people dream of daytime things, the nighttime world awakens. Who are these nocturnal animals and what are they doing? Interactive story time, short outdoor trail walk seeking clues before we head into the classroom for crafts.
Fee per Program: $8 per child ($5 Dahlem member); free for an adult caregiver & infants. Additional children older than 5 years are charged the program fee.
Advanced Registration Required. Please register online (see below) or call 517-782-3453 ext. 101 to reserve your spot for you and your mighty naturalist(s). Payment due upon registration.
Cancellation Policy: Registered participants who did not attend program and/or give minimum 24 hour cancellation notice will not be refunded.
Share your love of nature with your young child(ren). We will explore and play with nature while developing critical early childhood skills and growing self-confidence. The Mighty Naturalist Programs are geared toward children 5 years and younger with an adult caregiver to learn about animals, winter survival, birds, tracks, and more. Each program offers a different theme and activities to give you and your mighty naturalist many program opportunities. Invite your friends to sign up, too.
Every program starts with story time in the exhibit room, followed by a short outdoor walk, and then hands-on activity-craft in the big Dutcher classroom. Please dress for the weather.

Register Online

Chocolate Sensations 2025
2025-02-21 18:00 - 20:00
Step through the doors of the Cascades Manor and enter Dahlem’s Chocolate Sensations!
You’re invited to a whimsical night of magic and wonder. Join us for our Wonka-themed evening of fun – all for a good cause!

Featuring the dazzling musical talents of Jackson’s own Marcus & Tiffany Shelton Music, along with local chocolate delicacies from: ABC Bakery, Five Forks Bakery, For Goodness Cakes, Hinkley Bakery, Jackson Candy and Fudge Factory, The Parlour of Jackson, and Vito’s Espresso.
Wander through our silent auction, where local artists’ masterpieces are open for bids. You will also find golden-ticket-worthy gift cards to local eateries and experiences, and sweet treats from Gilberts Chocolate and Jackson Candy and Fudge Factory.
Make your reservation today so you don’t miss out on all the fun!

Live music
Signature cocktails
Hors d’oeuvres
Cash bar
Local chocolates
Silent auction
Raffles
Photo booth
Games
and more!

Friday, February 21, 2025
6 – 8 p.m.
Cascades Manor

Thank you to our event sponsors!

For sponsorship opportunities please contact Kelly at 517-782-3453, ext. 104

Reservations:
$60 – Individual
$110 – Two
$440 – Table of Eight

Owl Prowl Program & Night Hike - February 27, 2025
2025-02-27 18:00 - 20:00 | Dahlem, Jackson’s Nature Place, 7117 S. Jackson Rd., Jackson, MI, 49201, United States
SOLD OUT. Please call the office at 517-782-3453 ext. 101 to be put on the wait list
Owl Prowl Night Hike will start at 6:00 pm Thursday, February 27th with a short indoor presentation to learn about the owl species that reside in Michigan, their adaptations, and then we’ll take a night hike on Dahlem’s quiet trails listening for owls and other night creatures. We will use an artificial device to call out to owls with anticipation that they answer back. In past, the Great Horned, Barred and Screech owls have replied. This is a fun night not to be missed.
The program is for adults.
Fee: $6 per Dahlem member; $10 per non-member. Advanced registration is required as spots are limited to 24 participants. Complete the registration form below or call the office at 517-782-3453 ext. 101 to sign up and pay for your spot. Registration deadline is Wednesday, February 26th.
Cancellation Policy: we have a 24-hour cancellation policy. If you don’t call to cancel and don’t show, you will be charged the full amount.
What to Bring; a small flashlight to carry in your coat pocket. Our goal is to use our night vision just as our nocturnal creatures do to venture through the night and let our other senses direct us on the trails. Try to wear dark colored, warm clothes that don’t make noise when you move.

My Prairie Restoration Journey presentation
2025-03-13 18:30 - 19:45
In this presentation, John Blair will bring you along on his journey to restore his land to original native prairie on his rural property in Brooklyn. He will also cover the restoration of his wooded savanna and how he is bringing three natural ponds back to life after being buried by farmers decades ago. Through John’s beautiful photos, you will get to see this wonderful transformation taking place, from hay fields back to lush native prairie habitat, much like what was originally there two hundred years ago!
Biography for John Blair
When John Blair retired from his automotive engineering job, he knew he would need something interesting to do with his time. He found it when he attended a presentation in the winter of 2012 by butterfly expert Brenda Dziedzic on making a butterfly garden with native plants as the focal point. John got busy that spring creating his own butterfly garden at his Westland home that over the next seven summers grew to over 5000 square feet in size with 130 species of native plants and 38 different species of butterfly visitors. In 2019, having filled all his available gardening space, John and his wife Sheri moved to a new home in rural Brooklyn, Michigan with about 9 acres of land that he is using to make even more butterfly and pollinator habitat through restoring large tracts of land to original prairie with native plants, creating a gigantic butterfly and pollinator habitat! John enjoys giving his inspirational talks and educational tours of his restoration to help others get started with their own pollinator habitats using native plants, which is something that means very much to him!
John’s garden has appeared in Fine Gardening magazine, Michigan Gardener, the Detroit Free Press and the Garden Answer YouTube channel. He has also authored articles for Michigan Gardener magazine on creating pollinator gardens. Over the last twelve years, John has given his “How to Make a Butterfly Garden” and “Prairie Restoration Journey” talks to county Master Gardener organizations, Michigan State University, Greenfield Village, numerous Michigan garden clubs, Church groups and Nature clubs throughout southeast and mid Michigan.

Please register to save your seat. This is a free program intended for adults.

Maple Madness Interpretive Tours - March 15, 2025
2025-03-15 10:00 - 14:00 | Dahlem, Jackson’s Nature Place, 7117 S. Jackson Rd., Jackson, MI, 49201, United States
Maple Madness Interpretive Tours — Dahlem’s maple sugaring operation is small but an ideal site to demonstrate the science of collecting maple tree sap and making our favorite tasty maple syrup topping.
Sign up for an interpretive guided 1 1/4 hour tour at 10:00 am (sold out) or 12:30 pm (has 38 open spots) to learn about the history of sugaring, and learn through hands-on STEM activities; how to identify maple trees, drilling & tapping, the tree’s many jobs, and finally, see the sap being boiled down on the wood stove at our historic sugar shack, and where everyone gets to taste the sweet golden nectar of the sugar maple.
Fee: $6/Dahlem member; $8/non-member; $20 Member Family (same household) and $25 Non-member Family (same household). Advanced registration required. Complete the registration form below or call the office at 517-782-3453 ext. 101 to sign up and pay for your spot.
Cancellation Policy: minimum 24 hour notice via phone call or email . If you don’t call to cancel and don’t show, you will be charged the full amount.
The Dahlem Conservancy, 7117 S. Jackson Rd., Jackson 49201 just 15 minutes from downtown Jackson.

Mighty Naturalist Program; Maple Sugaring in the Forest - SOLD OUT!
2025-03-21 09:30 - 10:45
Maple Sugaring in the Forest Program is for ages 1-5 years old attending with an adult caregiver.
Program Description: The maple sugaring season is a sign winter is ending and Spring is near. Hooray! After story time, we will take a walk through the sugar bush to see different methods to collect maple tree sap, look closely at baby leaves (buds), measure trees, try on a yoke, and deliver sap to our historic sugar shack. We’ll taste test maple sap and real maple syrup, too. Then, we’ll head indoors for a quick craft. This is the only time of year maple sugaring occurs. Don’t miss out!
Fee per Program: $8 per child ($5 Dahlem member); free for an adult caregiver & infants. Additional children older than 5 years are charged the program fee.
Advanced Registration Required. Please register online (see below) or call 517-782-3453 ext. 101 to reserve your spot for you and your mighty naturalist(s). Payment due upon registration.
Cancellation Policy: Registered participants who did not attend program and/or give minimum 24 hour cancellation notice will not be refunded.
Share your love of nature with your young child(ren). We will explore and play with nature while developing critical early childhood skills and growing self-confidence. The Mighty Naturalist Programs are geared toward children 5 years and younger with an adult caregiver to learn about animals, winter survival, birds, tracks, and more. Each program offers a different theme and activities to give you and your mighty naturalist many program opportunities. Invite your friends to sign up, too.
Every program starts with story time in the exhibit room, followed by a short outdoor walk, and then hands-on activity-craft in the big Dutcher classroom. Please dress for the weather.

Register Online

Mighty Naturalist Program; The Reason for a Flower
2025-03-28 09:30 - 10:45
SOLD OUT
The Reason for a Flower Program is for ages 1-5 years old attending with an adult caregiver.
Program Description: After story time, we’ll take a short walk to find an assortment of seeds. Where do they come from and how do they get dispersed? Seeds and plants are food, and seeds are also next year’s plants. Today you will plant some seeds in a small pot and grow them at home.
Fee per Program: $8 per child ($5 Dahlem member); free for an adult caregiver & infants. Additional children older than 5 years are charged the program fee.
Advanced Registration Required. Please register online (see below) or call 517-782-3453 ext. 101 to reserve your spot for you and your mighty naturalist(s). Payment due upon registration.
Cancellation Policy: Registered participants who did not attend program and/or give minimum 24 hour cancellation notice will not be refunded.
Share your love of nature with your young child(ren). We will explore and play with nature while developing critical early childhood skills and growing self-confidence. The Mighty Naturalist Programs are geared toward children 5 years and younger with an adult caregiver to learn about animals, winter survival, birds, tracks, and more. Each program offers a different theme and activities to give you and your mighty naturalist many program opportunities. Invite your friends to sign up, too.
Every program starts with story time in the exhibit room, followed by a short outdoor walk, and then hands-on activity-craft in the big Dutcher classroom. Please dress for the weather.

Register Online

Night of the Amphibians (family-friendly) - April 4 SOLD OUT!
2025-04-04 18:30 - 20:30 | Dahlem, Jackson’s Nature Place, 7117 S. Jackson Rd., Jackson, MI, 49201, United States
April 4, 2025 Friday at 6:30 pm
THIS EVENT IS SOLD OUT
Please call the office to be added to the Wait List. Office 517-782-3453 ext. 101
What better way to welcome spring than to wade in the waters of our glacial pond in search of the season’s first choristers: Spring Peepers, Chorus frogs and Wood frogs. Maybe we’ll find a Leopard frog or American toad! This is a great evening event for families to learn about, catch and release frogs! Bring your wading boots and dress for the weather. The trail walk to the Glacial Pond is approximately one mile round trip.
Fee: $6/per Dahlem member; $8/per non-member …. Member Family $20, and Non-member Family $25 (Family resides in the same household)
Advanced registration is required. Complete the registration form below or call the office at 517-782-3453 ext. 101 to sign up and pay for your spot. Registration deadline is April 3rd at 4:00 pm.
What to Bring: a flashlight to carry in your coat pocket. Our goal is to use our night vision just as our nocturnal creatures do to venture through the night and let our other senses direct us on the trails.
Rain Date: if we have inclement weather or the temperature is too cold on April 4th, the postpone date is Thursday, April 24th at 6:30 pm.
Cancellation Policy: we have a 24 hour cancellation policy. If you don’t call to cancel and don’t show, you will be charged the full amount.

Woodcock Program & Night Walk (adult program) - April 11
2025-04-11 19:00 - 21:00 | Dahlem, Jackson’s Nature Place, 7117 S. Jackson Rd., Jackson, MI, 49201, United States
SOLD OUT. Please contact the office at 517-782-3453 ext. 101 to be added to the Wait List. Thank you for your interest.
The Woodcock Program and Night Walk (adult program) will start at 7:00 pm with a short indoor presentation to learn about the woodcock that reside in Michigan, their adaptations, and then we’ll take a night walk to Dahlem’s quiet grasslands to watch and listen for woodcocks performing their seasonal mating ritual. This is a fun night not to be missed. Make it a ‘date night’ without kids.
Fee: $6/per Dahlem member; $8/per non-member. Advanced registration is required. Limited to 24 adult participants. Complete the registration form below or call the office at 517-782-3453 ext. 101 to sign up and pay for your spot. Registration deadline is April 10th at 4:00 pm.
What to Bring: a small flashlight to carry in your coat pocket. Our goal is to use our night vision just as our nocturnal creatures do to venture through the night and let our other senses direct us on the trails.
Rain Date: if we have inclement weather, the postpone date TBD.
Cancellation Policy: we have a 24 hour cancellation policy. If you don’t call to cancel and don’t show, you will be charged the full amount.

Earth Day Celebration 2025
2025-04-27 13:00 - 16:00
Earth Day Celebration is Sunday, April 27th from 1-4 pm, to promote environmental protection, encouraging people to keep a clean, healthy planet. Once again, Jackson County Conservation District (JCCD) is organizing a fun and educational afternoon to celebrate Earth Day 2025.
Come join us for JCCD’s Earth Day Celebration in the Park from 1-4 pm at Sparks Foundation County Park, by the urban fishing pond.
Local vendors will be on hand with kid-friendly activities to teach about the importance of Earth Day and conservation of our natural resources.
There will be free tree seedlings and plants, live animals, live music, face painting, kayaking (weather pending), and activities for all. A great day for family-fun!
Free event, open to the public. Additional Earth Day details available here.

Betty's Spring Workbee 2025
2025-05-03 09:00 - 13:00 | Dahlem, Jackson’s Nature Place, 7117 S. Jackson Rd., Jackson, MI, 49201, United States
It is the perfect time of the year to address any maintenance that is necessary for spring and summer. This year’s Betty’s Spring Work Bee is on Saturday May 3rd, 2025 from 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM.
Volunteers, please join us for a short meet and greet, then assignments are given out at the start of the day at 9:00 AM. After the work is done we will have a complimentary Thank You picnic lunch! The staff will provide a lite-lunch and refreshments for all volunteers participating this day!
** Please complete the form below so we know how many volunteers to anticipate and provide lunch for **

What will I be doing at the Workbee?
Assignments are given out at the start of the day at 9:00 AM. If you have an interest in something particular, let us know! Our goal is to utilize a volunteer’s individual strengths as much as possible. Here are some areas we plan to tackle:

Clear out invasive plants along the trails
Pulling invasive garlic mustard plants (easy to pull by hand)
Place wood chips on the Natural Playscape and other areas of need
Weeding around the buildings and flower gardens
Wash windows, bird feeders, and outdoor signage
Wash Maple Sugaring equipment

We welcome you to bring your own personal equipment such as rakes, shovels, garden shears, loppers, and other tools that would help assist the process.
Remember to; dress for the weather, bring your work gloves and a bottle of water!

Feel free to contact the office at 517-782-3453 ext. 101 should you have questions or concerns. Thank you kindly!

Survival Myths: adult outdoor skills workshop
2025-05-17 10:00 - 12:00
Survival Myths and How to Not Die
Join wilderness survival skills instructor Rodney Cole at Dahlem on May 17, 2025 to learn techniques so you can be better prepared for a survival situation.
Having the knowledge and knowing the priorities can be lifesaving during an emergency. In this class you will learn skills and techniques to be better prepared for whatever Mother Nature, power outages, unrest, or other emergencies may throw at you. The knowledge you will learn will help you prioritize what to do if you are stranded in a snowstorm, lost on a hike, locked in at work, or facing multiple days without power.
Rodney Cole is an instructor of Wilderness Survival Skills and Bushcraft. As an Army Major and graduate of both Army Ranger School and Special Forces School, he has been placed into survival scenarios many times. Rodney will prepare you for what otherwise could be your most challenging days.
Come prepared to learn, take notes, ask questions, and participate in hands-on activities that will help make you a survivor of your next emergency.
Date: Saturday, May 17, 2025
Time: 10 a.m. – 12 p.m.
The Survival Myths and How to Not Die workshop is for adults. This is an outdoor skills workshop and will be held outside and at the Dahlem pavilion. Please dress for the weather. The Dahlem Conservancy, 7117 S. Jackson Rd., Jackson 49201, just 15 minutes from downtown Jackson.
Advanced registration required. Complete the registration form below or call the office at 517-782-3453 ext. 101 to sign up and pay for your spot.
Registration Fee: $8 per adult member, $10 per adult non-member.
Registration Deadline: May 15, 2025
Cancellation Policy: minimum 24 hour notice via phone call or email . If you don’t call to cancel and don’t show, you will be charged the full amount.

Summer Songs: An Outdoor Concert - June 18, 2025
2025-06-18 19:00 - 20:00
SUMMER SONGS: AN OUTDOOR CONCERT

Due to the stormy weather forecasted for Wednesday evening, June 18th, we will be postponing the outdoor concert with JSO. We will share a rescheduled date as soon as it is confirmed.

June 18, 2025 at 7:00 p.m.
FREE ADMISSION
Join the Jackson Symphony Orchestra and Dahlem for a FREE outdoor concert performance! Bring your own lawn chair or blanket and sit under the trees or out in the grass and listen to a selection of summer songs performed by the Jackson Symphony Orchestra woodwinds quintet. Visit the JSO website to learn about the musicians!
The performance will be held outdoors at the Dahlem Environmental Education Center pavilion, 7117 South Jackson Road, at 7 p.m.
Please feel free to arrive early and enjoy a walk on the trails, play at the nature playscape, or stop by the exhibit room and gift shop.
*Due to the concert being outdoors, please follow JSO and Dahlem on social media for performance updates if there is inclement weather.

Summer Songs: An Outdoor Concert - June 25, 2025
2025-06-25 19:00 - 20:00
Summer Songs: An Outdoor Concert
June 25, 2025
7:00 p.m.
FREE ADMISSION
Join the Jackson Symphony Orchestra and Dahlem for a FREE outdoor concert performance sponsored by Meridian Wealth Management!
Bring your own lawn chair or blanket and sit under the trees or out in the grass and listen to a selection of summer songs performed by the Jackson Symphony Orchestra brass quintet.
The performance will be held outdoors at the Dahlem Environmental Education Center pavilion, 7117 South Jackson Road, at 7 p.m.
Please feel free to arrive early and enjoy a walk on the trails, play at the nature playscape, or stop by the exhibit room and gift shop.
*Due to the concert being outdoors, please follow JSO and Dahlem on social media for performance updates if there is inclement weather.

Summer Songs: An Outdoor Concert - July 8, 2025
2025-07-08 19:00 - 20:00
Summer Songs: An Outdoor Concert
July 8, 2025
7:00 p.m.
FREE ADMISSION
Join the Jackson Symphony Orchestra and Dahlem for a FREE outdoor concert performance sponsored by Jann and Gary Krupa!
Bring your own lawn chair or blanket and sit under the trees or out in the grass and listen to a selection of summer songs performed by the Jackson Symphony Orchestra string quartet.
The performance will be held outdoors at the Dahlem Environmental Education Center pavilion, 7117 South Jackson Road, at 7 p.m.
Please feel free to arrive early and enjoy a walk on the trails, play at the nature playscape, or stop by the exhibit room and gift shop.
*Due to the concert being outdoors, please follow JSO and Dahlem on social media for performance updates if there is inclement weather.

Harmony Gardeners Outdoor Concert - July 21, 2025
2025-07-21 18:00 - 19:00
An outdoor concert with Harmony Gardeners!
July 21, 2025
6 – 7 p.m.
Free for all to attend – Family Friendly!
Join us for a fun-filled evening of music at the Dahlem Center’s pavilion! Please bring your own lawn chairs or picnic blanket to enjoy an outdoor concert featuring The Harmony Gardeners. This is a wonderful concert for the entire family!
Come early to take a trail walk and let the kids explore the playscape!

Birds, Blooms & Butterflies Festival 2025
2025-08-09 09:00 - 15:00
Birds, Blooms & Butterflies Festival
Saturday, August 9, 2025 9:00 am – 3:00 pm
This is a FREE community event thanks to the generous support of our sponsors!
The Dahlem Conservancy is excited to announce the 17th Annual Birds, Blooms, and Butterflies Festival on Saturday, August 9, 2025. Environmental education organizations, presenters, and volunteers involvement will help strengthen our community’s appreciation for the natural world. Please join us, and many other organizations, for this fantastic family-friendly event!
The BBB Festival will include a wide variety of outdoor learning opportunities and activities for all ages. We are planning to offer a live birds program, Monarch & Zebra Swallowtail butterflies and caterpillars exhibit, environmental education programs (birds, blooms, butterflies, honeybees and pollinators, etc.), nature walks, native plants and bird seed sales, children’s crafts, live music, food vendors, and more. We’re looking forward to seeing you at this summer’s BBB Festival!

Presentations Schedule

10:00-10:45 — Benefits of protecting bird and pollinator habitats presented by Legacy Land Conservancy
Dutcher Classroom

11:00-12:00 — Live Birds of Prey presented by Michigan Avian Experience
Come see the American Bald Eagle, owl, and hawk!!
Dutcher Classroom

12:30-1:30 — musical performance by the Jacktown Ukes
Gathering Patio

1:45-2:30 —

Food Trucks — FFF Food Truck and On The Roll
Welcome Tent – pick up a schedule and map
Visit the following booths and vendors;
Bee Quiet Honey – selling products and/or giving away product samples
Dahlem’s Kids Activity Station
Girl Scouts Heart of Michigan – Girl Scout cookies and more
Jackson Audubon Society – live caterpillars and butterflies exhibit
Jackson County Conservation District
Jackson County Master Gardeners – kids craft, Q/A
Jackson School of the Arts
Kids N Stuff Children’s Museum – “A-MAZE-D” exhibit and activities
Kiwanis Club of Jackson
Legacy Land Conservancy
MDHHS-Environmental Health Bureau
Michigan Bluebird Society
Michigan DNR Wildlife Division
Nature Discovery – LIVE ANIMALS booth
The Perennial Connection LLC – plants for sale
Tie Dyes by Jen – tie dyed clothing, housewares, and jewelry
Upper Grand River Watershed Alliance
Sponsor Table – pick up information from our sponsors

>> VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES << – We need your help! Please complete the Volunteer Sign Up Form and we will contact you soon to discuss and confirm your interest and availability. Thank you so much for your support and talents. We look forward to having you join us for the festival. Volunteers are needed to set up tents, tables/chairs, welcome tent, help where needed, exhibit room host, parking lot attendants, take down at the end of the day, and etc.

Thank you for your generosity! This event is proudly presented by

Thank you for your generosity Event Sponsors

Billy White Roofing LLC, Community Choice Credit Union, Emmons Service Inc., Jackson College, Jackson Glass Works Inc., Michigan DNR Wildlife Division
Sponsorship levels are available! Please contact Kelly Lagow, Development Specialist for details.

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Booth space
Is your business or organization interested in joining the festivities? Registration closes August 5th.
Thank you for your interest to participate!

Summer Songs: An Outdoor Concert - August 28, 2025
2025-08-28 19:00 - 20:00
🚨Due to the forecasted rain and thunderstorms, our outdoor Summer Songs Concerts with Dahlem will return again in 2026!
To see our JSO Woodwind Quintet perform, please join us inside at the Luna Lux Lounge (128 W Michigan Ave) Thursday, August 28th at 7:00 pm
Summer Songs will return next summer at Dahlem!
August 28, 2025 at 7:00 p.m.
FREE ADMISSION
Join the Jackson Symphony Orchestra and Dahlem for a FREE outdoor concert performance! Bring your own lawn chair or blanket and sit under the trees or out in the grass and listen to a selection of summer songs performed by the Jackson Symphony Orchestra woodwinds quintet. Visit the JSO website to learn about the musicians!
The performance will be held outdoors at the Dahlem Environmental Education Center pavilion, 7117 South Jackson Road, at 7 p.m.
Please feel free to arrive early and enjoy a walk on the trails, play at the nature playscape, or stop by the exhibit room and gift shop.
*Due to the concert being outdoors, please follow JSO and Dahlem on social media for performance updates if there is inclement weather.

Volunteer Fall Training
2025-09-10 08:30 - 12:00
Volunteer Trail Leaders (new & returning) interested to lead Fall school field trips are invited to attend this informative morning training session on Wednesday, September 10th, 8:30 am to 12 noon at Dahlem, Jackson’s Nature Place. Training will take place both in/outdoors. To reserve your seat, please RSVP to Naturalist Educator Carrie Benham at email cbenham@dahlemcenter.org or call 517-782-3453 ext. 106.
New to volunteering at Dahlem or if you have updated contact information, please complete the online Volunteer Form
School programs are offered to preschool through elementary school classes. The fall programs for review include: Signs of Fall, Nature Prepares for Winter, Bird Beaks, Mini-beasts & Insects, Animal Homes and Habitats, and Aquatic Pond Studies.
This is a great opportunity for retirees, and any adults and college students interested to work with children and have a love for nature. Volunteering is a highly rewarding experience not to be missed!

Sign up here Volunteer Form

More than Morels - Sept. 24, 2025
2025-09-24 18:00 - 19:00
More than Morels with Chris Zurn

Join the Jackson Conservation District and Dahlem to learn all about Michigan mushrooms!

Chris Zurn, member of the Michigan Mushroom Hunters Club and MDARD certified expert mushroom identifier, will share mushroom identification tips and more about the fantastic fungi that are all around us. You’ll learn about mushroom safety and which harmful mushrooms you should be aware of. Chris will share his favorite mushrooms to harvest, what they can be used for, and will also talk about the ecological roles fungi play.

Date: Wednesday, Sept. 24, 2025
Time: 6:00 p.m.
Location: Dahlem Center, 7117 South Jackson Rd., Jackson, MI
Reserve your seat – Registration fee: $5 per adult. Registration form below.
This adult program is part of the Conservation Series presented by Jackson Conservation District and Dahlem Conservancy.

Forest Bathing Experience - Sept. 28
2025-09-28 14:30 - 16:30
Forest Bathing Experience with Dr. Lori Tate
Awaken your senses and join Dr. Lori Tate for a forest bathing experience at Dahlem!
The practice of forest bathing encourages you to connect with nature by taking in your surroundings through all of your senses. Fall is the perfect time to explore the forest and witness the seasonal changes through the splashes of color, smell of the leaves, and sounds of the birds.
Through this guided experience you will learn more about the practice of forest bathing, making observations with all of your senses, and the benefits of spending time in nature. You will also have the opportunity to head out on the trails to experience the benefits firsthand.
This is a family friendly experience; all ages and experience levels are welcome to participate.
Our forest bathing companion and guide, Dr. Lori Tate, is a spiritual director and teacher. Learn more about her work at SoulDig.org.
For additional information on the practice of forest bathing check out this article by Henry Ford Health: https://www.henryford.com/blog/2018/06/5-ways-forest-bathing-can-improve-your-health.

Date: Sunday, September 28
Time: 2:30 – 4:30 p.m.
Location: Dahlem Center, 7117 South Jackson Rd., Jackson, MI 49203

Space is limited. Pre-registration is required.
Members: $4 / Non-members: $6 (free for infants)
Please complete the registration below or call the office at 517-782-3453 ext. 0 to reserve your spot.
Cancellation Policy: we have a 24 hour cancellation policy. If you don’t call to cancel and don’t show, you will be charged the full amount.

Betty's Fall Workbee for Dahlem - Oct. 4, 2025
2025-10-04 09:00 - 13:00 | Dahlem, Jackson’s Nature Place, 7117 S. Jackson Rd., Jackson, MI, 49201, United States
Betty Dahlem Desbiens is an ever faithful supporter of the John and Mary Dahlem Environmental Education Center, named for her parents. In honor of Betty’s dedication to Dahlem please join us at our fall workbee! It is the perfect time of the year to address any maintenance that is necessary after a busy summer.
Betty’s Annual Fall Workbee for Dahlem will be held Saturday, October 4th, 2025 from 9 AM – 1 PM
Volunteers please arrive at 8:50 AM to sign in. Assignments are given out at the start of the day at 9:00 AM. After the work is done we will provide a lite lunch for all volunteers participating on this day. Thank you for lending a helping hand!
** Please complete the form below so we know how many volunteers to anticipate and provide lunch for **

What will I be doing at Betty’s Workbee?
Assignments are given out at the start of the day at 9:00 AM. If you have an interest in something particular, let us know! Our goal is to utilize a volunteer’s individual strengths as much as possible. Here are some areas we plan to tackle:

Clear out invasive plants in designated light-workout stations along the Nature For All Trail
Remove invasive plants… many areas throughout the arboretum
Place woodchips on the Natural Playscape
Weeding around the buildings
Put the gardens to bed for the winter
Wash windows and indoor walls (hallway and restrooms)
Wash bird feeders

We welcome you to bring your own personal equipment such as rakes, garden shears, shovels, and other tools that would help assist the process. Friendly reminder; to dress for the weather, bring your work gloves and a full bottle of water! Most participants will be working outdoors. THANK YOU for your consideration and support for Jackson’s Nature Place.
Feel free to contact the office at 517-782-3453 should you have questions, concerns, or suggestions. Thank you!

USDA Conservation Practices and Programs for Landowners - Oct. 8, 2025
2025-10-08 18:00 - 19:00
USDA Conservation Practices and Programs for Landowners
For almost 100 years, the USDA’s Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) has been working with private landowners to help promote healthy soil and water. With the motto of “helping people help the land,” they provide both technical and financial assistance to support voluntary conservation efforts across the county. Recently, Dahlem and NRCS have partnered to improve and restore local habitat. In this session, Jeff Lolkus will share the process and projects that are currently underway and resources available to landowners for conservation projects.
Jeff Lolkus has worked for the NRCS for 16 years, 9 of which have been in Jackson. He lives in southern Jackson County with his wife, daughter, dog, 2 cows, 2 goats, and 9 chickens.
Date: Wednesday, Oct. 8, 2025
Time: 6:00 p.m.
Location: Dahlem Center, 7117 South Jackson Rd., Jackson, MI
Reserve your seat – Registration fee: $5 per adult. Registration form below.
This adult program is part of the Conservation Series presented by Jackson Conservation District and Dahlem Conservancy.

Volunteer to Carve Pumpkins 2025
2025-10-23 10:00 - 2025-10-24 15:00
REGISTRATION SIGN UP IS CLOSED
Volunteers are needed to help carve about 200 beautiful pumpkins to line the Goblin Walks event trail route. Pumpkins are generously donated and some purchased at a discounted price. Please bring your carving tools and creativity.
Your Choice is to; 1) gut pumpkins, 2) carve pre-gutted pumpkins, or 3) do the whole job from start to finish. 4) We are also requesting help placing carved pumpkins along the Goblin Walks trail route. Every volunteer is valuable and every job is important to complete!
Pumpkin seeds are available to take home. Bring your own zip-loc bag or container.
Depending on the weather, carving pumpkins will be in the Dutcher classroom or outside. Most likely, we will be indoors.
Please register to let us know to save a seat for you on Oct 23 (booked/closed) and/or Oct 24 (openings available) and approx. time you plan to be at Dahlem. This helps us with preparations to best accommodate everyone attending. The sessions are open to come and go to fit your schedule.
Thank you, Volunteers!!
We greatly appreciate your generous community support!!

REGISTRATION SIGN UP IS CLOSED

Goblin Walks 2025
2025-10-24 17:00 - 2025-10-25 21:30 | Dahlem, Jackson’s Nature Place, 7117 S. Jackson Rd., Jackson, MI, 49201, United States
Two Magical Nights!
October 24, Friday 6:30 pm – 8:30 pm
October 25, Saturday 5:00 pm – 7:30 pm
Fee per person: $9/member, $12/non-member (free for infants)
Pre-Registration required to attend our annual Goblin Walks event. Every 15 minutes a group of twenty five people head down the trail to enjoy an evening autumn color tour, a 1/2 mile trail walk meeting larger than life critters performing entertaining educational skits. The program is about one hour in length. Photo opportunities, refreshments (cider & donuts!), and visit the gift shop. Feel free to dress in costume and be ready for the weather! The event operates rain or shine. It’s great fun for the whole family!! This event does not handout candy.
REGISTRATION REQUIRED for Dahlem members and non-members, so don’t wait – choice slots fill fast. Please arrive 10 minutes before your tour walk to allow time to sign in.
Cancellation Policy: We have a 24 hour cancellation policy. If you don’t call to cancel and don’t show, you will be charged the full amount.
Thank You to our generous event sponsors

Community Choice Credit Union, Emmons Service Inc, Jackson Glass Works Inc, Lomar Machine & Tool

Registration begins September 2nd!

Join our Boo Crew – Volunteers Make it Happen and We Need Your Assistance!
Volunteer opportunities for this great event are available. To volunteer, please complete the Goblin Walks Volunteer Application Form. If you have questions, please contact Carrie at 517-782-3453 ext. 106 or email cbenham@dahlemcenter.org.

Cast members are needed for the fun skits on Oct. 24 evening and Oct. 25 evening. We have the skits and costumes. Give it a try! It’s so much fun, you’ll be glad you joined the cast. Open to adults, teens (14-17 years), and children (10-13 years). Children must be supervised.
October 24 and/or October 25 (pick a task of your choice on the volunteer application form)
October 23 Thursday 9:00am-3:00pm — set up the pavilion and other areas, and decorate trails. Contact Carrie cbenham@dahlemcenter.org

Pumpkin Carving —
Please register online for event Volunteer to Carve Pumpkins. We supply the pumpkins, you provide the creativity and bring your carving tools.

Oct 23 Thursday 10:00am-3:00pm — pumpkin carving. (closed)
Oct 24 Friday 10:00am-3:00pm — pumpkin carving and place carved pumpkins on the trail route. (seats available)
