Free Concert with The Harmony Gardeners!
2023-07-10 18:00 - 19:00 (America/Detroit) | 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! Bring the entire family and your 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. There will even be free giveaways! This is a wonderful concert for the family!

Jackson Back To School Blast - Community Resource Fair
2023-07-27 15:00 - 19:00 | Horace Blackman Park, Jackson MI, W Michigan Ave & S Jackson St, Jackson, MI 49201, Jackson, MI, 49201, United States
Thursday, July 27th – Back to School Blast (downtown Jackson)
Stop by the Dahlem booth from 3 – 7 p.m. and say hi while you check out the Jackson Back to School Blast Community Resource Fair in downtown Jackson at Horace Blackman Park and First United Methodist Church. This community event is free! Students in attendance will receive a backpack filled with school supplies and there will be games and activities for all ages.

Birds, Blooms, & Butterflies Festival
2023-08-12 09:00 - 15:00 | Dahlem, Jackson’s Nature Place, 7117 S. Jackson Rd., Jackson, MI, 49201, United States
Birds, Blooms & Butterflies Festival is Saturday, August 12, 2023, 9:00 am-3:00 pm
The Dahlem Conservancy is excited to announce the return of BBB Festival! We are hosting the 15th Annual Birds, Blooms, and Butterflies Festival this summer 2023. This wonderful environmental educational community event in past years has served over 700 guests in one day! 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 exciting 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 of prey program, Monarch & Zebra Swallowtail butterflies and caterpillars exhibit, environmental education programs (birds, blooms, butterflies, mushrooms, honeybees and pollinators, etc.), nature walks, native plants and bird seed sales, children’s crafts, live music, food vendors, and more. We’re excited for the return of the BBB Festival!!
Admission Fee
Member… $5 Individual and $15 Family
Non-Member… $7 Individual and $20 Family
Scroll down to purchase ‘tickets’ online or pay at the gate on the day of the event. Thank you

>> Program Presenters and Vendors, please contact us to discuss opportunities and availability. Space and time slots are limited and scheduled by the BBB Festival Committee. Online Registration Forms; Program Presenters and Vendors.
>> Event Sponsor Opportunities are available. Review the list of Sponsorship Levels, or please contact Dahlem at 517-782-3453. Thank you for your consideration to support Dahlem and this wonderful community event.
>> We Need Volunteers to help set up, assist throughout the event and cleanup. Please consider signing up for a shift and complete the online Volunteer Form; Volunteer Sign-up Thank You!
>> Advance Registration for festival attendees is below!
Please contact us if you are interested to participate, have questions, or suggestions. We appreciate your interest and assistance.
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Thank You Event Sponsor! We greatly appreciate your generosity and continued support!

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List of participating registered Program Presenters, Vendors, and Booths. MORE WILL BE ADDED!! Thank you all!
Presentations Schedule (Dutcher Room)

9:00-9:50 am … J&K Farms (advanced beekeepers) – What’s The Buzz With Our Pollinators
10:00-10:50 am … JLW CISMA – presentation about invasive species; swallow-wort
11:00-12:00 pm … Michigan Avian Experience – live birds of prey; Bald Eagle, hawk and owl
12:15-12:50 pm … Don Henise; Dragons and Damselflies basics and natural history, followed by an optional walk on Dahlem trails to look for dragonflies
1:00-1:30 pm … Legacy Land Conservancy – trends on farmland loss, how farmers can protect their farmlands
1:45-3:00 pm … Windy Rock Farm & Nursery – ‘A Year in Blooms – a Pollinator’s Perspective”’ visually rich and information packed presentation providing native plant selection advice for pollinator gardens/landscapes.

Vendors – Booths (outdoors)

Consumers Energy/Home Energy Efficiency Programs
Earth Cures, LLC – herbalist and create/sell herbal remedies
Experience Jackson – event sponsor…. THANK YOU!
The Harmony Gardeners; live music 10:30am-2:00pm under the pavilion
J&K Farms – advanced beekeepers
Jackson Audubon Society – caterpillars, butterflies and moths exhibit
Jackson County Conservation District
Jackson County Master Gardeners
Jackson Pottery and Clay Guild
Jackson School of the Arts
JLW CISMA
Kids ‘N’ Stuff Children’s Museum
Kona Ice 11am-2pm
Legacy Land Conservancy
Mack Island Art
Michigan Bee Mom – honey products for sale
Michigan Bluebird Society
Perennial Connections, LLC – native and non-native perennial plants for sale
Stoyanna’s Catering – lunch menu
The Five Forks – tasty treats
Tie Dyes By Jen
Windy Rock Farm & Nursery – native plants for sale
Lisa Brown/Carol Kent/Julie Smith – demonstration and sale; wood/soapstone carving, water color note cards, plein air painting

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Registration for the BBB Festival Attendees

The Magic of Monarchs Program
2023-08-31 18:00 - 19:30 | Dahlem, Jackson’s Nature Place, 7117 S. Jackson Rd., Jackson, MI, 49201, United States
Join Dahlem Naturalist Educator, Carrie Benham, to explore how amazing one of our most beloved insects truly is; the beautiful Monarch Butterfly. Learn all about this tiny creatures’ life cycle and one of the most treacherous migrations known to man. Live caterpillars and chrysalis will be available to observe up close.

Date/Time: August 31, 2023 at 6:00 pm
Admission: Free for Dahlem Members, $5 per Non-Member and $12 Non-member Family (same household). Program recommended for Adults and youth ages 12 and up.

Volunteer Training for school programs
2023-09-06 09:00 - 12:00
Volunteer Trail Leaders (new & returning) interested to lead Fall school field trips are invited to attend this informative three-hour training session on Wednesday, September 6, 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!
If you’re interested, please RSVP to naturalist educator Carrie Benham to reserve your seat by September 1, 2023 (4:00 pm). Please call 517-782-3453 ext. 106 or email cbenham@dahlemcenter.org. Thank you!
New volunteers or if you have updated contact info, please complete the online Volunteer Form
The school programs we will review include: Signs of Fall (preschool & kindergarten), Nature Prepares for Winter (grades 1 and 2), The Interesting World of Insects (grades 1 and 2), Animal Homes and Habitats (grades 1, 2 & 3), and Aquatic Studies (grades 3-8).
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.

Meet Michigan’s reptiles and amphibians LIVE at Dahlem!
2023-09-16 10:00 - 11:30
SOLD OUT – REGISTRATION IS CLOSED.
Did you know Michigan is home to over 50 combined species of reptiles and amphibians, including snakes, turtles, frogs, toads, salamanders and lizards! Join us to learn about these fascinating members of our ecosystems and have the chance to meet them up close in a safe, controlled setting.
This family friendly presentation features a mix of common to rare frogs, salamanders, turtles and snakes from Nature Discovery’s extensive zoo of Michigan-native “herps.” Discussion includes identification, interesting behaviors, habitat associations and conservation issues while giving you up-close encounters with each specimen. At the presentation’s conclusion you are invited to watch some being fed and even have the opportunity to handle a few snakes!
Presentation by Jim and Carol McGrath of Nature Discovery.

Fee: $5/Dahlem member; $10/non-member
Family discounts: $15 Member Family (same household) and $25 Non-member Family (same household).

Advanced registration required. Reserve your spot today, space is limited!
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 Friday, Sept. 15 at 12:00 pm.
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.
The Dahlem Conservancy, 7117 S. Jackson Rd., Jackson 49201 just 15 minutes from downtown Jackson.

Seeds of Music
2023-10-06 15:00 - 16:00
Join violinist William Hagen for an event focused around music and nature, two universal languages that stir our emotions and benefit us all. William will explore the close connection between nature and the great music it has helped inspire, and will discuss his own efforts to spread the joy of music and nature, both at home and on the road. Learn more about Seeds of Music.
William will be joined by Ellyn Meyers to explore ideas on how we individually can make positive impacts on the natural world around us, and bring the music of nature humming into our own backyards.
Ellyn brings her wealth of knowledge and background in horticulture and botanical garden management to Dahlem. She was the Education Director at the New England Wild Flower Society, Director of campus Grounds and Gardens at the University of Nebraska and Director of Hidden Lake Gardens. She was also an instructor of Horticulture at Lansing Community College. Ellyn has been a volunteer at Dahlem for several years, helping with school programs, summer camp, and events as well as maintaining the pollinator garden plot at the Community Gardens. Growing native plants to encourage pollinators is a current passion of Ellyn’s.
The Seeds of Music program will take place outdoors in the children’s garden at Dahlem Environmental Education Center, 7117 South Jackson Rd., Jackson, MI 49201. Please dress for the weather.
This is a free event.

Betty's Fall Workbee for Dahlem - Oct. 7, 2023
2023-10-07 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 Fall Workbee for Dahlem will be held Saturday, October 7th, 2023 from 9 a.m. – 1 p.m.
Volunteers please arrive at 8:45 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!
Snacks and refreshments will be provided for all volunteers by our partner American 1 Credit Union!

** 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 ext. 0 should you have questions or concerns. Thank you!

Night Hike
2023-10-12 18:30 - 20:00 | Dahlem, Jackson’s Nature Place, 7117 S. Jackson Rd., Jackson, MI, 49201, United States
Night Hike — SOLD OUT

Night hikes are pretty common for stargazing, but what if it’s a cloudy night? Don’t worry — there’s plenty to do in any kind of weather — as long as it’s dark! Let’s explore and use our night senses as the world around us awakens for night life. Who might we hear rustling nearby and calling out in the eerie silent night in the distance? Do you have night vision, what color is that, and why do pirates wear eye patches?
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Registration is required, and is limited to 25 participants. Please dress for the weather, bring a small flashlight to carry in your pocket, and be ready to walk a couple miles. Recommended for ages 12 and up. In the event of a rainy day, tickets will be applied to a rescheduled date.
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Date: October 12, 2023
Time: 6:30 pm
Price: Free for Members, $5 for Non-member, and $12 Non-Member Family
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.
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EVENT IS SOLD OUT

Volunteers are Needed to Carve Pumpkins
2023-10-26 10:00 - 2023-10-27 15:00
Volunteers are needed to help carve about 200-250 beautiful pumpkins to line the Goblin Walks event trail route. Pumpkins are generously donated by Gee Farms Nursery and Greenhouse. 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.
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 let us know to save a seat for you on Oct 26 and/or Oct 27 and approx. time you plan to be at Dahlem. The sessions are open to come and go to fit your schedule. This helps us set up and be prepared.
Thank you, Gee Farms!! Thank you, Volunteers!!
We greatly appreciate your generous community support!!

Goblin Walks 2023
2023-10-27 18:30 - 2023-10-28 19:30 | Dahlem, Jackson’s Nature Place, 7117 S. Jackson Rd., Jackson, MI, 49201, United States
Dates and Times:
October 27 Friday 6:30 pm – 8:30 pm SOLD OUT
October 28 Saturday 5:00 pm – 7:30 pm SOLD OUT
BOTH NIGHTS ARE SOLD OUT FOR THIS EVENT. PLEASE CALL TO BE PUT ON THE WAITING LIST (517)782-3453 EXT. 0
Fee per person: $9/member, $12/non-member (free for infants)
Special Offer: sign up online for a new Family Membership and save 10% off the membership fee. Valid for first time members only.
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!!
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 Event Sponsors

Come Join our Boo Crew – Volunteers Make it Happen
Volunteer opportunities for this great event are available. To volunteer, contact Carrie at 517-782-3453 ext. 106 or email cbenham@dahlemcenter.org.

Cast members needed for the fun skits on Oct 27 and 28. We have the skits and costumes. Give it a try! It’s so much fun, you’ll be glad you joined the cast.
Oct 26 Thursday 9:00am-3:00pm — set up the pavilion and other areas, and decorate trails
Oct 26 Thursday 10:00am-3:00pm — pumpkin carving. We supply the pumpkins, you provide the creativity. Please register online for event Volunteers Needed to Carve Pumpkins
Oct 27 Friday 10:00am-3:00pm — pumpkin carving, place carved pumpkins on the trail route. Please register online for event Volunteers Needed to Carve Pumpkins
Oct 27 and/or Oct 28 (pick a day for a 3-hour commitment) — parking lot attendant, registration table, greeter, bonfire, floater
Oct 27 and/or Oct 28 (pick a day for a 2-hour commitment) — Costumed Trail Guide

Night Hike Exploration
2023-11-16 18:00 - 20:00 | Dahlem, Jackson’s Nature Place, 7117 S. Jackson Rd., Jackson, MI, 49201, United States
Night hikes are pretty common for stargazing, but what if it’s a cloudy night? Don’t worry — there’s plenty to do in any kind of weather — as long as it’s dark! Let’s explore and use our night senses as the world around us awakens for night life. Who might we hear rustling nearby and calling out in the eerie silent night in the distance? Do you have night vision, what color is that, did you smell something, and the cool air refreshes our cheeks.
All participants are required to register in advance, and space is limited to 25 participants. Please dress for the weather, bring a small flashlight to carry in your pocket, and be ready to walk a couple 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 16, 2023 Thursday

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

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REGISTRATION IS CLOSED

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

Mighty Naturalist Program; All About Turtles (Meet Live Turtles!)
2023-12-08 09:30 - 10:45
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

Mighty Naturalist Program; Tree-ific Seasons
2023-12-15 09:30 - 10:45
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

2023 Volunteer Appreciation Open House
2023-12-15 13:00 - 16:00
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; Nature's Textures Art Class
2024-01-05 09:30 - 10:45
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

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; When Winter Comes
2024-01-12 09:30 - 10:45
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

Mighty Naturalist Program; In a Nutshell
2024-01-19 09:30 - 10:45
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; The Living Tree House
2024-01-26 09:30 - 10:45
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

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; Super Squirrely and Cousin Groundhog
2024-02-02 09:30 - 10:45
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

Mighty Naturalist Program; Feathered Friends with Beaks
2024-02-09 09:30 - 10:45
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

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; Winter Survival
2024-02-16 09:30 - 10:45
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

Mighty Naturalist Program; Maple Sugaring in the Forest
2024-03-01 09:30
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

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!

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.

Mighty Naturalist Program; The Reason for a Flower
2024-03-22 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 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
