Summer Songs: An Outdoor Concert - August 21
2024-08-21 19:00 - 20:00 (America/Detroit) | MI
FREE Concert – No RSVP or tickets needed! – Bring your own chair or blanket!
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 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.

Aug. 12 - Harmony Gardeners; a free concert for all ages.
2024-08-12 18:00 - 19:00 | Dahlem, Jackson’s Nature Place, 7117 S. Jackson Rd., Jackson, MI, 49201, United States
Join us for a fun-filled evening of music at the Dahlem Center’s pavilion! Intended for all ages – Family Friendly!
Please bring your own lawn chairs or picnic blanket to enjoy an outdoor concert featuring The Harmony Gardeners.
This is a wonderful free concert for the entire family!
Come early to take a trail walk, let the kids explore the playscape, and/or visit the gift shop!

Birds, Blooms & Butterflies Festival
2024-08-10 09:00 - 15:00 | MI
Birds, Blooms & Butterflies Festival is Saturday, August 10, 2024, 9:00 am-3:00 pm

Presented by Michigan Automotive Compressor Inc. and Dawn Foods

This is a FREE community event thanks to the generous support of our sponsors!
The Dahlem Conservancy is excited to announce the 16th Annual Birds, Blooms, and Butterflies Festival this summer 2024. 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. Programs will be held in the large Dutcher Classroom

10:00-10:45 — Birds Blooms Butterflies: Invasive Species That Impact Them presentation by
Shikha Signh, JLW CISMA. Come learn about what pollinator species are and why they are important to the
ecosystem. We will also discuss some of the invasive species found in the area, and how they might negatively
impact our pollinator species.

11:00-12:00 — Live Birds of Prey presented by Michigan Avian Experience
Come see the American Bald Eagle!!

12:30-1:15 — Why We Need Pollinators and They Need Us presentation by Becky Green, Becky’s Birds
and Bees. Learn how pollinators help feed us all, and what we can do to protect them.

1:30-2:30 — Solar Energy presented by Ken Zebarah, Harvest Solar

Food Trucks — FFF Food Truck, Mexibillies, and Kona Ice
K105.3 Radio Station will be onsite during the morning hours
Welcome Tent – pick up a schedule and map
Visit the following booths and vendors;
Bee Quiet Honey – selling honey products and maple syrup
Dahlem’s Kids Activity Station
Golden Wings Photography – selling products
Jackson Audubon Society – caterpillars and butterflies exhibit
Jackson County Conservation District
Jackson County Master Gardeners – kids craft, Q/A
Jackson County Health Department
Jackson District Library
JLW CISMA – booth and presentation on invasive plant species
Kids ‘N’ Stuff – learn about mushrooms and kids craft
Lions Club Jackson Eyeopeners
MSUFCU – sponsor booth
Michigan Bluebird Society – education, selling items
Michigan DNR
Nature Discovery – LIVE ANIMALS booth
Sponsor Table – pick up information from our sponsors
The Perennial Connection LLC – plant sales
Upper Grand River Watershed Alliance
Williamson’s Water and Woods
Windy Rock Farm & Nursery – plant sales

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, parking lot attendants, take down at the end of the day, and etc.

THANK YOU to Our Event Sponsors for Your Support!

Sponsorship levels are available! Please contact Kelly Lagow, Development Specialist for details.

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Is your business or organization interested in joining the festivities? Registration for a booth space is CLOSED. Thank you

Harmony Gardeners; a free concert for all ages.
2024-07-22 18:00 - 19:00 | Dahlem, Jackson’s Nature Place, 7117 S. Jackson Rd., Jackson, MI, 49201, United States
Cancelled due to the rain.
Join us for a fun-filled evening of music at the Dahlem Center’s pavilion! Intended for all ages – Family Friendly! Please bring your own lawn chairs or picnic blanket to enjoy an outdoor concert featuring The Harmony Gardeners. The event is completely free and open to the public, so be sure to invite your friends and neighbors. This is a wonderful concert for the entire family!
Come early to take a trail walk, let the kids explore the playscape, and/or visit the gift shop!

Summer Songs: An Outdoor Concert - July 10
2024-07-10 19:00 - 20:30 | MI
Due to weather conditions, tonight’s concert has been postponed. A new date will be announced soon.
Stay safe and stay tuned!

FREE Concert – No RSVP or tickets needed! – Bring your own chair or blanket!
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 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.

*Note: Due to the concert being outdoors, if there is inclement weather the performance will be postponed. Please follow JSO and Dahlem on social media for performance updates.

Summer Songs: An Outdoor Concert
2024-06-12 19:00 - 20:00 | MI
FREE Concert – No RSVP or tickets needed! – Bring your own chair or blanket!
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 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.

*Note: Due to the concert being outdoors, if there is inclement weather the performance will be postponed to June 26. Please follow JSO and Dahlem on social media for performance updates.

Dust to Dust: A Presentation and Conversation on Natural Burial
2024-05-15 18:00 - 19:00 | Dahlem, Jackson’s Nature Place, 7117 S. Jackson Rd., Jackson, MI, 49201, United States
Dust to Dust: A Presentation and Conversation on Natural Burial
A community education event hosted by Tony Mayotte and Jeremiah Commons
When: Wednesday May 15, 6-7PM
Where: The Dahlem Conservancy (7117 S. Jackson Rd. Jackson, MI 49201)
What: Tony Mayotte will give a presentation on natural burial with Q&A and conversation to follow. Snacks and light refreshments provided.
Signing up is not necessary (feel free to just show up!) but taking 10 seconds to put your name and email in this registration form helps us plan for space and food!
Dahlem Talk Poster
Questions: info@jeremiahcommons.com

Betty's Spring Workbee 2024
2024-05-04 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 4th, 2024 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. 0 should you have questions or concerns. Thank you kindly!

Night of the Amphibians (family-friendly) - April 26
2024-04-26 18:30 - 20:30 | Dahlem, Jackson’s Nature Place, 7117 S. Jackson Rd., Jackson, MI, 49201, United States
April 26, 2024 Friday at 6:30 pm…. SOLD OUT
Please give us a call at 517-782-3453 if you would like to be added to the Wait List.
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. 0 to sign up and pay for your spot. Registration deadline is April 11th at 3:00 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 12th, the postpone date is Friday, April 26th 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.

Earth Day Celebration 2024
2024-04-20 13:00 - 16:00 | MI
Earth Day Celebration is Saturday, April 20th 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 2024.
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.

Woodcock Program & Night Walk (adult program) - April 4
2024-04-04 19:00 - 21:00 | Dahlem, Jackson’s Nature Place, 7117 S. Jackson Rd., Jackson, MI, 49201, United States
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: $8/per Dahlem member; $10/per non-member. Advanced registration is required. Limited to 18 adult participants. Complete the registration form below or call the office at 517-782-3453 ext. 0 to sign up and pay for your spot. Registration deadline is April 3rd at 4:00 pm. SOLD OUT
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 is Friday, April 5th at 7:00 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.

REGISTRATION IS CLOSED —- SOLD OUT

Volunteer Spring Training for school programs
2024-03-28 09:00 - 12:00 | 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 Thursday, March 28, 9:00 am to 12 noon 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).
If you’re interested, please RSVP to naturalist educator Carrie Benham to reserve your seat by March 27, 2024 (3:00 pm). 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.

Mighty Naturalist Program; The Reason for a Flower
2024-03-22 09:30 - 10:45 | MI
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 at www.dahlemcenter.org/events or call 517-782-3453 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.

Mighty Naturalist Schedule December 2023-March 2024
1) December 8 — All About Turtles (live turtles!)
2) December 15 — Tree-ific Seasons
3) January 5 (Winter Break) — Nature’s Textures Art Class
4) January 12 — When Winter Comes
5) January 19 — In a Nutshell
6) January 26 — The Living Tree House
7) February 2 – Super Squirrely and cousin Groundhog
8) February 9 — Feathered Friends with Beaks (SOLD OUT)
9) February 16 — Winter Survival
10) March 1 — Maple Sugaring in the Forest
11) March 22 (Spring Break) — The Reason for a Flower (SOLD OUT)

Register Online — Closed. Please call to be put on the wait list. Thank you. Office 517-782-3453 ext. 0

Maple Madness Interpretive Tours - March 16
2024-03-16 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 or 12:00 pm 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. 0 to sign up and pay for your spot. NOTE: Walk-ins are welcome to join us as we have open spots for both tours. Please arrive 5 to 10 minutes early to sign in and pay. See you soon!!
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.

Chocolate Sensation 2024
2024-03-08 17:00 - 19:00 | Jackson Symphony Orchestra, 215 W Michigan Ave, Jackson, MI, 49201
Join us for Chocolate Sensation 2024!
Our premier Chocolate Sensation event will be held at Weatherwax Hall at Jackson Symphony Orchestra on Friday, March 8th, 2024. Reservations are required.
Enjoy outstanding hors d’oeuvres by The Catering Company, delicious delicacies provided by popular local vendors, listen to live music by Brandon Marceal, participate in a silent auction and raffles, cash bar, and socialize with fellow friends of Dahlem.
We look forward to seeing you at Chocolate Sensation!

Thank you event sponsors!

Mighty Naturalist Program; Maple Sugaring in the Forest
2024-03-01 09:30 | MI
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 a story about maple sugaring, we will take a short 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 at www.dahlemcenter.org/events or call 517-782-3453 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.

Mighty Naturalist Schedule December 2023-March 2024
1) December 8 — All About Turtles (live turtles!)
2) December 15 — Tree-ific Seasons
3) January 5 (Winter Break) — Nature’s Textures Art Class
4) January 12 — When Winter Comes
5) January 19 — In a Nutshell
6) January 26 — The Living Tree House
7) February 2 – Super Squirrely and cousin Groundhog
8) February 9 — Feathered Friends with Beaks
9) February 16 — Winter Survival
10) March 1 — Maple Sugaring in the Forest
11) March 22 (Spring Break) — The Reason for a Flower

Register Online

Mighty Naturalist Program; Winter Survival
2024-02-16 09:30 - 10:45 | MI
SOLD OUT
Winter Survival Program is for ages 1-5 years old attending with an adult caregiver.
Program Description: What are some actions nature takes and why to survive winter? After story time, we’ll explore and learn about hibernation, migration and adaptation. Monarchs fly to Mexico, Groundhog goes to bed, and Weasel changes his wardrobe! Find out how other animals cope with winter’s worst weather. We will spend a short time outdoors seeking clues before heading 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 at www.dahlemcenter.org/events or call 517-782-3453 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.

Mighty Naturalist Schedule December 2023-March 2024
1) December 8 — All About Turtles (live turtles!)
2) December 15 — Tree-ific Seasons
3) January 5 (Winter Break) — Nature’s Textures Art Class
4) January 12 — When Winter Comes
5) January 19 — In a Nutshell
6) January 26 — The Living Tree House
7) February 2 – Super Squirrely and cousin Groundhog
8) February 9 — Feathered Friends with Beaks
9) February 16 — Winter Survival
10) March 22 (Spring Break) — The Reason for a Flower

Register Online

Volunteer Training - Maple Sugaring
2024-02-14 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 area schools February 19 through March 21, 2024. Volunteers are also requested to help with Maple Madness weekend public program on March 16th. 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. 13 (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; Feathered Friends with Beaks
2024-02-09 09:30 - 10:45 | MI
SOLD OUT
Feathered Friends with Beaks Program is for ages 1-5 years old attending with an adult caregiver.
Program Description: What is unique about birds, and what do their characteristics (feathers, feet, beak, color, etc.) tell us about their life? We will read a bird-themed story, look at bird feathers, take a short birding walk to observe our local birds in action, then return indoors for hands-on ‘bird beak’ activities, 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 at www.dahlemcenter.org/events or call 517-782-3453 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.

Mighty Naturalist Schedule December 2023-March 2024
1) December 8 — All About Turtles (live turtles!)
2) December 15 — Tree-ific Seasons
3) January 5 (Winter Break) — Nature’s Textures Art Class
4) January 12 — When Winter Comes
5) January 19 — In a Nutshell
6) January 26 — The Living Tree House
7) February 2 – Super Squirrely and cousin Groundhog
8) February 9 — Feathered Friends with Beaks
9) February 16 — Winter Survival
10) March 22 (Spring Break) — The Reason for a Flower

Register Online

Mighty Naturalist Program; Super Squirrely and Cousin Groundhog
2024-02-02 09:30 - 10:45 | MI
Super Squirrely and Cousin Groundhog Program is for ages 1-5 years old attending with an adult caregiver.
Program Description: If you followed a squirrel for a day, what would you see? Discover different kinds of squirrels as they scamper, eat, and―finally―sleep. We will see an assortment of squirrel ‘family’ furs, go on a squirrely outing to look for clues squirrels are actively busy in winter, head indoors to make ‘n take groundhog and squirrel 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 at www.dahlemcenter.org/events or call 517-782-3453 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.

Mighty Naturalist Schedule December 2023-March 2024
1) December 8 — All About Turtles (live turtles!)
2) December 15 — Tree-ific Seasons
3) January 5 (Winter Break) — Nature’s Textures Art Class
4) January 12 — When Winter Comes
5) January 19 — In a Nutshell
6) January 26 — The Living Tree House
7) February 2 – Super Squirrely and cousin Groundhog
8) February 9 — Feathered Friends with Beaks
9) February 16 — Winter Survival
10) March 22 (Spring Break) — The Reason for a Flower

Register Online

Owl Prowl Program & Night Hike
2024-01-26 18:00 - 19:30 | Dahlem, Jackson’s Nature Place, 7117 S. Jackson Rd., Jackson, MI, 49201, United States
SOLD OUT — Owl Prowl Night Hike will start at 6:00 pm Friday, January 26th 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 appropriate for ages 12 years and older. Minor children under 16 years of age must be accompanied by an adult.
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. 0 to sign up and pay for your spot. Registration deadline is Thursday, January 25th.
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, and leave the kids light-up shoes at home.
The Dahlem Conservancy, 7117 S. Jackson Rd., Jackson 49201 is just 15 minutes from downtown Jackson.

Mighty Naturalist Program; The Living Tree House
2024-01-26 09:30 - 10:45 | MI
The Living Tree House Program is for ages 1-5 years old attending with an adult caregiver.
Program Description: Nature is full of hidden clues about the animals that live there. You may not know where to look or what to look for but animal clues are everywhere. You’ll learn how to spot and identify common clues that animals live in or near forest trees. We’ll read a story, go on a short outdoor adventure, then head into the classroom to see an assortment of animal furs and homes, and make a 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 at www.dahlemcenter.org/events or call 517-782-3453 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.

Mighty Naturalist Schedule December 2023-March 2024
1) December 8 — All About Turtles (live turtles!)
2) December 15 — Tree-ific Seasons
3) January 5 (Winter Break) — Nature’s Textures Art Class
4) January 12 — When Winter Comes
5) January 19 — In a Nutshell
6) January 26 — The Living Tree House
7) February 2 – Super Squirrely and cousin Groundhog
8) February 9 — Feathered Friends with Beaks
9) February 16 — Winter Survival
10) March 22 (Spring Break) — The Reason for a Flower

Register Online

Mighty Naturalist Program; In a Nutshell
2024-01-19 09:30 - 10:45 | MI
In a Nutshell Program is for ages 1-5 years old attending with an adult caregiver.
Program Description: Together we’ll have story time and a walk about the grounds to look for assorted nuts. Tree Nuts; where do they come from? What kind of nuts grow on trees? Is a nut a seed or fruit? Do they look, smell, feel different? Animals, birds, insects and people eat nuts! After story time and short outdoor walk we’ll get crafty.
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 at www.dahlemcenter.org/events or call 517-782-3453 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.

Mighty Naturalist Schedule December 2023-March 2024
1) December 8 — All About Turtles (live turtles!)
2) December 15 — Tree-ific Seasons
3) January 5 (Winter Break) — Nature’s Textures Art Class
4) January 12 — When Winter Comes
5) January 19 — In a Nutshell
6) January 26 — The Living Tree House
7) February 2 – Super Squirrely and cousin Groundhog
8) February 9 — Feathered Friends with Beaks
9) February 16 — Winter Survival
10) March 22 (Spring Break) — The Reason for a Flower

Register Online

Mighty Naturalist Program; When Winter Comes
2024-01-12 09:30 - 10:45 | MI
When Winter Comes Program is for ages 1-5 years old attending with an adult caregiver.
Program Description: Huddle close for a fun winter-themed story, take a short outdoor walk on the snow covered trail to look for animal tracks and their winter homes, and make little snow sculptures. Then we’ll head indoors to craft our own winter art projects.
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 at www.dahlemcenter.org/events or call 517-782-3453 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.

Mighty Naturalist Schedule December 2023-March 2024
1) December 8 — All About Turtles (live turtles!)
2) December 15 — Tree-ific Seasons
3) January 5 (Winter Break) — Nature’s Textures Art Class
4) January 12 — When Winter Comes
5) January 19 — In a Nutshell
6) January 26 — The Living Tree House
7) February 2 – Super Squirrely and cousin Groundhog
8) February 9 — Feathered Friends with Beaks
9) February 16 — Winter Survival
10) March 22 (Spring Break) — The Reason for a Flower

Register Online

Owl Prowl Night Hike - Dec. 28 postponed
2024-01-05 18:30 - 20:30 | Dahlem, Jackson’s Nature Place, 7117 S. Jackson Rd., Jackson, MI, 49201, United States
SOLD OUT. Please call to be put on the wait list. Or sign up for our 2nd Owl Prowl Night Hike on January 26, 2024.
NOTE; Unfortunately, due to wet weather the program has been postponed to Friday, January 5, 2024. Ticket holders have been notified.
Owl Prowl Night Hike will start at 6:30 pm Thursday, December 28th 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 appropriate for ages 12 years and older. Children must be accompanied by an adult that is registered for this program.
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. 0 to sign up and pay for your spot. Registration deadline is Wednesday, December 27th.
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. Wear warm, dark colored clothing, and leave the kids light-up shoes at home.
The Dahlem Conservancy, 7117 S. Jackson Rd., Jackson 49201 is just 15 minutes from downtown Jackson.

Mighty Naturalist Program; Nature's Textures Art Class
2024-01-05 09:30 - 10:45 | MI
Nature’s Textures Art Class Program is for ages 1-5 years old attending with an adult caregiver.
Program Description: The morning starts with a story about textures and seeing-feeling different items followed by a short hike to collect natural items to use back in the classroom for experimenting with paints and crayons to discover the simple and fascinating designs. This class offers time for creativity and exploration.
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 at www.dahlemcenter.org/events or call 517-782-3453 to reserve your spot for you and your mighty naturalist(s). Payment due upon registration.
Class limit: maximum 20 children
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.

Mighty Naturalist Schedule December 2023-March 2024
1) December 8 — All About Turtles (live turtles!)
2) December 15 — Tree-ific Seasons
3) January 5 (Winter Break) — Nature’s Textures Art Class
4) January 12 — When Winter Comes
5) January 19 — In a Nutshell
6) January 26 — The Living Tree House
7) February 2 – Super Squirrely and cousin Groundhog
8) February 9 — Feathered Friends with Beaks
9) February 16 — Winter Survival
10) March 22 (Spring Break) — The Reason for a Flower

Register Online

2023 Volunteer Appreciation Open House
2023-12-15 13:00 - 16:00 | MI
It’s that sparkly time of year again, a time when we all have the hustle and bustle of the season to contend with. Yet, in this busy time, it’s important for all of us to reflect and to recognize the efforts of our dedicated Dahlem Conservancy volunteers and the work that they’re doing here at Dahlem.
Please join us for a casual gathering by dropping by to delight in an enjoyable moment of reflection along with cookies and refreshments. We’re really excited to meet-and-greet with everyone who attends on Friday, December 15th — drop by between 1:00 pm-4:00 PM with other volunteers, hear their tales and be appreciated by all for everything you do for Dahlem.
Please complete the registration form below (not required but it helps us know how many to plan for).

Mighty Naturalist Program; Tree-ific Seasons
2023-12-15 09:30 - 10:45 | MI
Tree-ific Seasons Program is for ages 1-5 years old attending with an adult caregiver.
Program Description: Tree-ific seasons wheel, a short walk to look for signs of winter. What are the trees doing? 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 at www.dahlemcenter.org/events or call 517-782-3453 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.

Mighty Naturalist Schedule December 2023-March 2024
1) December 8 — All About Turtles (live turtles!)
2) December 15 — Tree-ific Seasons
3) January 5 (Winter Break) — Nature’s Textures Art Class
4) January 12 — When Winter Comes
5) January 19 — In a Nutshell
6) January 26 — The Living Tree House
7) February 2 – Super Squirrely and cousin Groundhog
8) February 9 — Feathered Friends with Beaks
9) February 16 — Winter Survival
10) March 22 (Spring Break) — The Reason for a Flower

Register Online

Mighty Naturalist Program; All About Turtles (Meet Live Turtles!)
2023-12-08 09:30 - 10:45 | MI
All About Turtles; meet live Turtles! Program is for ages 1-5 years old attending with an adult caregiver.
Program Description: Have you ever wondered about turtles? How many kinds there are, why they have shells, where they live and what they eat? Let’s find out together as we meet our live turtles! Afterwards, make ‘n take a turtle 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 at www.dahlemcenter.org/events or call 517-782-3453 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.

Mighty Naturalist Schedule December 2023-March 2024
1) December 8 — All About Turtles (live turtles!)
2) December 15 — Tree-ific Seasons
3) January 5 (Winter Break) — Nature’s Textures Art Class
4) January 12 — When Winter Comes
5) January 19 — In a Nutshell
6) January 26 — The Living Tree House
7) February 2 – Super Squirrely and cousin Groundhog
8) February 9 — Feathered Friends with Beaks
9) February 16 — Winter Survival
10) March 22 (Spring Break) — The Reason for a Flower

Register Online

Poinsettia Pre-Order 2023
2023-12-05 09:00 - 2023-12-06 16:00 | Dahlem, Jackson’s Nature Place, 7117 S. Jackson Rd., Jackson, MI, 49201, United States
Pre-Order Your Holiday Poinsettia Plants Today!
Pre-order your beautiful poinsettia plants by November 1, 2023. Classic Poinsettias are $14.50 each with color choices of Red, Pink, and Cream. Painted Poinsettias are $16 each with color choices of Purple, Chameleon, and Blue. And new this year is Succulent Combo 6-pack assortment houseplants. Poinsettias and Succulent houseplants are coming from Raker Roberta’s Young Plants in Litchfield.
Pick up is December 5 and 6, 2023 between 9:00 am to 4:00 pm.
We ordered several extra poinsettias for walk-in customer sales.
Feel free to contact the office if you have any questions. Office phone 517-782-3453 ext. 0 Tuesday through Friday 9:00 am to 4:00 pm

New This Year
Succulent Combo 6-pack assortment
houseplant for $16

Orders due by November 1st, 2023
