Dahlem

Summer Songs: An Outdoor Concert - August 28, 2025
2025-08-28 19:00 - 20:00 (America/Detroit) | MI
🚨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 | MI
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 | MI
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 | MI
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 | MI
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 | MI
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)

Increasing habitat for rare butterflies in MI - Nov. 5, 2025
2025-11-05 18:00 - 19:00 | MI
Increasing habitat for rare butterflies in Michigan
Many people are planting for pollinators in Michigan, which is wonderful for all of our bees and butterflies. However, there are some plants (and the butterflies that depend on them) that often get overlooked. In this talk we will cover a project at MSU that is looking to expand availability of local Michigan seed sources, as well as increasing the diversity in our plantings, so not all sites are using the same mixes. Come hear about how we are working with farmers to increase MI native seed production, as well as what plants to consider to support some of Michigan’s more rare pollinators.
Meghan Milbrath is an assistant professor in the Department of Entomology at Michigan State University, where she is the coordinator of the Michigan Pollinator Initiative. Her appointment is split between research and extension, and she works with beekeepers, land managers, and pesticide applicators to support pollinator health in the state. She also is a beekeeper and runs The Sand Hill Bee Farm in Jackson County.

Date: Wednesday, Nov. 5, 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.

Explore the Night - Nov. 13, 2025
2025-11-13 18:00 - 20:00 | Dahlem, Jackson’s Nature Place, 7117 S. Jackson Rd., Jackson, MI, 49201, United States
Let’s explore the night life as we quietly venture down the moonlit trails using our nocturnal senses. Remember, night is when many animals are most active. Who might we hear rustling nearby and calling out in the eerie silent night off in the distance? Do you have night vision, what color do you see, and what is that unique odor we smell? The cool fresh air feels energizing.
All participants are required to register in advance, and space is limited to 24 participants. Please dress for the weather, bring a small flashlight (red lens preferred) to carry in your pocket, and be ready to walk a one to two miles. Recommended for ages 12 and up. In the event of a rainy evening, tickets will be applied to a rescheduled date.

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Date: November 13, 2025 Thursday

Time: 6:00 pm
Price: Free for Members, $5 for Non-member, and $12 Non-Member Family
Maximum 24 people
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.

Volunteer Celebration - Nov. 14, 2025
2025-11-14 15:00 - 17:00 | MI
We are excited to invite you to Dahlem’s Volunteer Celebration on November 14th from 3:00-5:00 PM. We would like to thank you for your incredible efforts and dedication throughout the year. Please drop in for an afternoon of great company and a sweet treat as we celebrate everything you’ve helped us achieve!

Open House - Exhibit Room, Gift Shop, Trails
2025-11-23 10:00 - 14:00 | MI
Join us in celebrating our newly-improved exhibit room! Thanks to the Speckhard-Knight Charitable Foundation, we were able to give the room quite the update. Meet a naturalist and participate in some giveaways and raffles. Bring the whole family to check out this month’s exhibit and do some hands-on activities.

Date: Sunday, November 23rd, 2025
Time: visit between 10:00 am – 2:00 pm
Free to attend and participate

Explore the newly-improved exhibit room, find unique items in the Nutshell Giftshop, go on a fall trail walk, and check out the natural playscape. Friendly reminder to dress for the weather!

The walking trails and playscape are open daily from dawn to dusk.

Mighty Naturalist Program; Secrets of Winter
2025-12-05 09:30 - 10:45 | MI
Secrets of Winter Program is for ages 1-5 years old attending with an adult caregiver.
Program Description: What happens outside in winter? Explore the cold and frosty forest, and search for clues on how critters survive winter. After story time, we’ll adventure outdoors to search for critter clues. How do they cope with winter’s worst weather? After a short visit outdoors we’ll head into the classroom for hands-on activities and craft time.
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 16, 2026 THIS EVENT IS SOLD OUT!
2026-01-16 18:00 - 20:30 | Dahlem, Jackson’s Nature Place, 7117 S. Jackson Rd., Jackson, MI, 49201, United States
THIS EVENT IS SOLD OUT!
Owl Prowl Night Hike will start at 6:00 pm Friday, January 16th 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 15th.
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.

Snow Tracks Guided Hike
2026-01-31 10:00 - 12:00 | Dahlem, Jackson’s Nature Place, 7117 S. Jackson Rd., Jackson, MI, 49201, United States
Snow Tracks Guided Hike / Exhibit Room and Gift Shop Opening
Put your tracking skills to the test as we wander the snowy trails in search of fauna. Learn about the different tracks you may see here at the Dahlem Center, and how different animals survive the winter. We’ll start with a quick introduction in the Dutcher Room to discuss signs of animals we may see in the forest. The current backup date for this event is February 7th. I will update this posting leading up to the intended date, and if the weather seems like it will be more suitable on the 7th, I may change it. If neither day is very snowy, we may be searching for tracks in the mud! We’ll have fun no matter what. After the guided hike, the exhibit room and gift shop will be open until 4pm.
Date: January 31st, 2026
Time: 10am to 12pm
Where: The Dutcher Room to the trails
Cost: $5 for non-members / free for Dahlem members
Cancellations: We have a 24-hour cancellation policy. No-shows will be charged the full amount.
What to Bring: Make sure to dress in layers. January in Michigan can be very fickle, and you never know what the weather will be like. Wear shoes fit for walking. The hike may be anywhere from 1/2 mile to 1 1/2 miles depending on what we see and how often we stop.

Volunteer Training for Maple Sugaring School Programs
2026-02-18 12:30 - 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 17 through March 26, 2026. Volunteers are also requested to help with Maple’s Sweet Story weekend public program on March 14th. Maple Sugaring is one of Dahlem’s unique programs for all ages.
If you’re interested, please RSVP to Naturalist Educator Carrie to reserve your seat by Feb. 17th (3:00 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 be volunteer trail leaders. Training will take place both in/outdoors. Please dress for the weather. Refreshments, hot cocoa and coffee will be provided.

Chocolate Sensations 2026
2026-02-20 18:00 - 20:00 | Gene Davis & Sons, 3575 Francis St., Jackson, MI, 49203, United States
Travel back to a 1950s soda shop for an evening brimming with sweetness and fundraising! Sample decadent treats from Jackson’s finest local chocolate vendors, sip on signature drinks, enjoy delicious small bites, and listen to lively tunes.
Featuring the dazzling music talents of Jackson’s own Marcus & Tiffany Shelton Music.
Enjoy local chocolate delicacies from ABC Bakery, Five Forks Bakery, For Goodness Cakes, Gilbert Chocolates and Vito’s Espresso.
Take part in exciting games and a silent auction, all while supporting Dahlem!
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
Game

Friday, February 20, 2026
6 – 8 p.m.
Gene Davis & Sons
Thank you event sponsors!

Jackson Glassworks
Reservations are required.
Registration is now closed. Please call the office at 517-782-3453.

Maple's Sweet Story - March 14, 2026
2026-03-14 10:00 - 13:30 | Dahlem, Jackson’s Nature Place, 7117 S. Jackson Rd., Jackson, MI, 49201, United States
Maple’s Sweet Story — 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 (spots available, walk-ins welcome) or 12:30 pm (sold out) 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.

Milky Way Madness - POSTPONED
2026-03-14 19:45 - 21:45 | Dahlem, Jackson’s Nature Place, 7117 S. Jackson Rd., Jackson, MI, 49201, United States
Milky Way Madness, an Astrophotography and Telescopic Night Hike
POSTPONED UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE (you may call the office and cancel or you can hold onto your registration). Calling all astronomy lovers! Bring your cameras and your coats to explore the night sky from our wide-open prairie. Learn some basic astronomy and try to capture the Milky Way on camera! Don’t worry about bringing a telescope unless you want to. Ours will be set up and ready for you to explore the beautiful sky. Don’t worry if you’re not a photographer. You don’t have to be! Everything we’re doing is super basic and does not require special equipment. Many smartphones these days have an astrophotography setting, so you don’t even have to have a fancy camera. Because this hike is centered on being able to see the night sky in all its glory, this event is weather-dependent. As the date approaches, I will keep this page updated with any cancellations or date changes. If the sky is expected to be very cloudy the night of the program, expect the date to change.
This program is for anyone 16 years or older.
Date: POSTPONED UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE
Time: 7:45pm to 9:45pm
Where: The Dutcher Room to the trails
Cost: $8 for non-members / $5 for Dahlem Center members
Cancellations: We have a 24-hour cancellation policy. No-shows will be charged the full amount.
What to Bring: Dress in layers. You never know what Michigan weather is going to do, so be prepared to be bundled up in a coat and gloves, or dressed down in a t-shirt. Bring good walking shoes because this hike is about a 2 to 2 1/2 mile round-trip. If you have a tripod for either your phone or your camera, I highly suggest bringing it along. If you don’t have a tripod, be prepared to set your phone or camera up against something still, like a rock. Having a remote shutter definitely helps, but is not a requirement for the astrophotography portion.

Ice in the Universe with Dr. Rebecca Robinson - March 16
2026-03-16 19:00 - 20:00 | Dahlem, Jackson’s Nature Place, 7117 S. Jackson Rd., Jackson, MI, 49201, United States
Dahlem is excited to be hosting Dr. Rebecca Robinson on Monday, March 16 at 7 p.m. to share her work and experience with Ice in the Universe in partnership with Jackson College.
Did you know that water ice exists far beyond Earth? Come learn about how scientists research Earth’s grand ice systems in Greenland and Iceland, then explore extra-terrestrial icy environments on other planets like Mars!
Ice in the Universe
Dahlem Center, 7117 South Jackson Rd, Jackson MI
March 16, 2026
7 pm
Free for all to attend

Dr. Rebecca Robinson — Michigan-born, Norwegian transplant, and heliophysicist — studies the Sun’s atmosphere and serves as Outreach Lead for NASA’s Multi-slit Solar Explorer (MUSE) team. From serving as the resident astrophysicist at Badlands National Park, to drilling ice cores on glaciers in Iceland, to sailing the coast of Norway studying the Sun and aurora activity — Dr. Robinson brings extraordinary real-world experience. She has also worked with the SETI Institute in California and analyzes advanced computer simulations of the Sun’s magnetic field.

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Dr. Robinson is also presenting at Jackson College on Wednesday, March 18, about NASA’s upcoming MUSE mission.

Solar Physics, Space Weather, & NASA’s MUSE Mission – Join us for an exciting evening exploring the science of the Sun and the future of space discovery! Discover how solar physics shapes our understanding of space weather, learn about NASA’s upcoming MUSE mission, and explore how the Sun impacts Earth and beyond.

Date: Wednesday, March 18, 2026
Time: 6pm-8pm
Where: Jackson College Central Campus
Bert Walker Hall, Room 144 – 145
2111 Emmons Road, Jackson, MI 49201

Light refreshments | Q & A following presentation. Stick around after for a tour and night-sky observing at the Astronomical Observatory (weather permitting). Free and open to students, employees and the community.
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Getting Started in Beekeeping
2026-03-21 13:00 - 16:00 | Dahlem, Jackson’s Nature Place, 7117 S. Jackson Rd., Jackson, MI, 49201, United States
Getting Started in Beekeeping

Discover the secret of successful beekeepers by spending a year in the life of a bee (and beekeeper). Learn what you’ll need to get started, how to establish a colony and what will make you a sustainable beekeeper. Understand bee behavior and how modern beekeeping techniques are evolving so that you can help your bees thrive and be productive year after year.

Getting Started in Beekeeping is taught by advanced beekeepers John & Kim Haynes.

Date: March 21, 2026
Time: 1 p.m. – 4 p.m.
Location: Dahlem Center, Dutcher Classroom
Who: Beginner level course; open to ages 12+

Course fee: $25/member; $30/non-member

Advanced registration is required. Register to save your seat below!

Please note: We have a 24-hour cancellation policy. If you do not call to cancel and don’t show, you will be charged the full amount.

Registration is now closed.

Mighty Naturalist Program Series
2026-03-27 09:30 - 10:45 | MI
Programs are for ages 1-5 years old attending with an adult caregiver.
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.
Here’s the Mighty Naturalist Program schedule;
1) December 5 — Secrets of Winter
2) December 19 — Super Squirrelly
3) January 9 — Nature’s Textures Art Class
4) January 16 — The Sleepy Owl (THIS SESSION IS FULL)
5) January 23 — Turtle, Turtle, Turtle
6) January 30 — Beaks! (THIS SESSION IS FULL)
7) February 6 – Where are the Night Animals? (THIS SESSION IS FULL)
8) February 13 — From Seed to Plant (THIS SESSION IS FULL)
9) March 6 — Maple-licious (THIS SESSION IS FULL)
10) March 27 (Spring Break) — Life Under a Log (5 SPOTS AVAIL)
Program descriptions are listed on the Mighty Naturalist Program Series page (listed under the Education Programs tab)

Register Online

CANCELLED - The Nature Notes - Signs of Spring
2026-03-28 09:00 - 11:00 | MI
CANCELLED – The Nature Notes – Signs of Spring
Come meet other nature lovers at the Dahlem Center and use the wilderness around you to inspire your pens. First, take a guided hike, then transfer nature to notebooks, focusing on spring’s signs. You can bring your own nature journals or utensils, journaling however you’d like, or you can use the utensils and packet provided by us! After the program, the exhibit room and gift shop will be open until 2pm.
This program is for anyone 7 years or older. Children must be accompanied by an adult.
Date: March 28th, 2026
Time: 9am to 11am
Where: The trails and pavilion (Dutcher Room if it’s too cold to sit outside)
Cost: $8 for non-members / $5 for Dahlem Center members
Cancellations: We have a 24-hour cancellation policy. No-shows will be charged the full amount.
What to Bring: Bring good walking shoes. The hike will be between 1/2 and 1 1/2 miles, depending on how far the group would like to go to search for inspiration. You can bring your own nature journal or use the packet we provide. We will have utensils to use, but I’m sure yours are better! Bring a jacket, just in case. The hike will obviously be out in the elements, but the nature journaling will take place under our pavilion.

Volunteer Training for spring school programs
2026-04-01 08:30 | Dahlem, Jackson’s Nature Place, 7117 S. Jackson Rd., Jackson, MI, 49201, United States
Volunteers needed for Spring School Programs

Volunteer Trail Leaders (new & returning) interested to lead Spring school field trips are invited to attend this informative half day training session on Wednesday, April 1, 2026 at 8:30 am to 11:45 am at The Dahlem Center, 7117 S. Jackson Rd., Jackson MI. Volunteering for school programs is a highly rewarding experience not to be missed. Come join the fun!
The five programs we will review include: Signs of Spring (preschool & kindergarten), Who Lives There? (kindergarten), Spring Birds (grades 1-3), Frogs & Toads (grades 1-4) and Aquatic Studies (grades 3-8). We will review lesson plans and teaching station equipment.
If you’re interested, please RSVP to naturalist educator Carrie Benham to reserve your seat by March 30, 2026. Please call 517-782-3453 ext. 106 or email cbenham@dahlemcenter.org. Please also complete the online Volunteer Form before attending the training session. Thank you!
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.

American Woodcock Program & Night Walk (adult program) - April 9 SOLD OUT!
2026-04-09 19:00 - 21:00 | Dahlem, Jackson’s Nature Place, 7117 S. Jackson Rd., Jackson, MI, 49201, United States
THIS PROGRAM IS SOLD OUT!
The American 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 American 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; $10/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 8th 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 nocturnal wildlife 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.

Night of the Amphibians (family-friendly) - April 17 SOLD OUT!
2026-04-17 18:30 - 20:30 | Dahlem, Jackson’s Nature Place, 7117 S. Jackson Rd., Jackson, MI, 49201, United States
SOLD OUT — Registration is closed.
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 16th 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 17th, the postpone date is 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 - April 26, 2026
2026-04-26 13:00 - 16:00 | MI
Earth Day Celebration is Sunday, April 26th 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 2026.
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 - May 2, 2026
2026-05-02 09:00 - 13:00 | MI
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 2nd, 2026 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 **

Betty's Spring Workbee 2026

"*" indicates required fields

Name*

First

Last

Phone*Email*

Number of Volunteers including yourself*What types of tasks are you interested in doing at the Workbee?*

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!

Birds, Blooms & Butterflies Festival 2026
2026-08-08 09:00 - 15:00 | MI
Birds, Blooms & Butterflies Festival
Saturday, August 8, 2026
Save the date for Dahlem’s annual Birds, Blooms, and Butterflies Festival on Saturday, August 8, 2026.
This annual outdoor festival will include a wide variety of outdoor learning opportunities and activities for all ages including live animal exhibits, environmental education programs (birds, blooms, butterflies, honeybees and pollinators, etc.), nature walks, native plants, children’s crafts, live music, food vendors, and more.
Watch for more event details to be posted as summer approaches!
Vendors and presenters
If you are interested in being a vendor, hosting an activity, or presenting on an environmental topic at this year’s festival please contact Marissa at mpierce@dahlemcenter.org. See below for the vendor and booth registration form.
Please join us for this fantastic family-friendly event!
Sponsors
Festival sponsorship opportunities are available! Contact Hannah at hschauer@dahlemcenter.org or 517-782-3453 ext. 103 for sponsorship information.

Vendor Registration

2026 Birds Blooms and Butterflies Booth Registration
Complete this form to register and pay for your booth space at Dahlem's Birds, Blooms and Butterflies Festival, August 8, 2026!

This family-friendly festival provides an opportunity to connect with our community and strengthen appreciation for the natural world. There will be educational programs, presentations, activities, crafts, food, music, and much more!

We are glad you will be joining the fun!

Booth registration fee is $40 (Non-profit fee is $20); tables and chairs are provided. Limited tents are available.

Name(Required)

First

Last

Organization/Buisness(Required)Address(Required)

Street Address

Address Line 2

City

State / Province / Region

ZIP / Postal Code

Phone(Required)Email(Required)

My organization/business is (select the most applicable):(Required)a for-profit business, promoting/selling products or servicesa community resource or government agencya non-profit organizationBooth categories (check all that apply):(Required)

Selling product(s) and/or giving away product samples

Providing information/education or an activity

Other: please describe in the next section
Please describe your booth, product(s) you will be selling, and/or the display/activity you will have.(Required)Will you need table(s)?(Required)

1 table

2 tables

I would like to request additional tables

No tables
Will you need chair(s)?(Required)

1 Chair

2 Chairs

I would like to request additional chairs

No chairs
Will you need a tent?(Required)

I will bring my own tent

I do not need a tent

I would like to reserve a tent from Dahlem*
*NOTE: We have a limited supply of tents available for use. Tents are reserved on a first-come, first-served basis. Total

Payment Method(Required)PayPal CheckoutCredit Card
American ExpressDiscoverMasterCardVisaSupported Credit Cards: American Express, Discover, MasterCard, Visa

Card Number

Expiration Date

Security Code

Cardholder Name

Goblin Walks 2026
2026-10-23 17:00 - 2026-10-24 21:00 | MI
Registration opens in early September 2026
Two Magical Nights!
> October 23, Friday 6:30 pm – 8:30 pm
> October 24, Saturday 5:00 pm – 7:30 pm
Fee per person:
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

Jackson Glass Works Inc

Registration opens in early September 2026
[registration form]

Join our Boo Crew – Volunteers Make it Happen and We Need Your Assistance!
Registration opens in early September 2026
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. 23 evening and Oct. 24 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 23 and/or October 24 (pick a task of your choice on the volunteer application form)
October 22 Thursday 9:00am-3:00pm — set up the pavilion and other areas, and decorate trails. Contact Carrie cbenham@dahlemcenter.org

Pumpkin Carving —
Registration opens in early September 2026
Please register online for event Volunteer to Carve Pumpkins. We supply the pumpkins, you provide the creativity and bring your carving tools.

Oct 22 Thursday 10:00am-3:00pm — pumpkin carving
Oct 23 Friday 10:00am-3:00pm — pumpkin carving and place carved pumpkins on the trail route
