UPCOMING PROGRAMS
Butterfly House Volunteer Orientation
Join us for a training day for anyone who would like to help Sarett in the Butterfly House with school groups or during the summer. We’ll learn about the butterflies, the butterfly house and gardens and how you can help with this exciting exhibit for school groups or weekly visitation. Please call 269-927-4832 to register.
Birdathon
Gather a group of 3 or more to enjoy a day of bird watching throughout Berrien County. This friendly fundraising competition can start as early as 12:00 AM and ends promptly at 7:00 PM at Sarett Nature Center with dinner and awards to follow. Your goal is to find as many different species of birds as possible! For more information or to make a donation to one of Sarett’s teams please contact us at 269-927-4832.
Sarett's Birding Bunch
Welcome back the spring migrants with Sarett’s annual Birding Bunch. These gatherings are designed for birders of all levels. Bring your binoculars! Other meeting dates include May 30. Please call 269-927-4832 to register. Member/ $7, Non-Member/ $10.
Butterfly House Opens for the Season
Bring friends and family out this Summer to enjoy the butterflies. The Butterfly House will be open Tuesday-Sunday through Labor Day weekend, or as butterflies persist. No appointments necessary. Members: Adults/$5, Children/ $3. Non-Members: Adults/$8, Children/$4. To learn more visit our Butterfly House webpage.
Silver Foxes: Wild Water's Journey
Everyone knows that water is essential to life, but have you thought about where our water comes from and how it gets into our rivers, lakes, and even your well? It is not just the presence of water that determines what grows and lives in a natural area, but the journey the water takes is equally important. Learn about how rain turns into bogs, fens, creeks, well water, and more while getting to know the plants and animals that specialize in different wetlands. Silver Fox programs are designed for people 55 & older who like to be active and learn something new. This group meets once a month. Please call (269) 927-4832 x 101 to register. Member/FREE, Non-member/ $5.
Sarett's Birding Bunch
Welcome back the spring migrants with Sarett’s annual Birding Bunch. These gatherings are designed for birders of all levels. Bring your binoculars! Please call 269-927-4832 to register. Member/ $7, Non-Member/ $10.
Garlic Mustard Pull & Ice Cream Social
No garlicky treats here but “planty” of garlic mustard to pick and ice cream to enjoy. And it can’t be a social event without you! We need your help removing as much of this invasive plant as humanly possible from our old growth forest preserve, Black’s Woods. Join us for under the shade of tall white pines, oaks and sugar maples as we take back the forest floor for the spring beauties. This is an easy activity for young and old alike! Please RSVP to volunteer@sarett.org or by calling 269-927-4832. Ice cream social follows immediately after the pull.
Bob Ross & Rosé
Enjoy an evening of art and libations as we follow along with a seasonal Bob Ross tutorial. Space is limited so please call (269) 927-4832 to register. Payment is expected at the time of sign up. Members/$38, Non-members/$45. You may also signup through our online store. Link will be provided when available. (Price includes one glass of wine and take-home canvas. Additional glasses may be purchased at time of program.) Ages 21 and up.
Lavender Adventurers Social Hike
Meet a Sarett naturalist at Ross Coastal Plain Marsh Preserve for a morning of easy-paced, moderate hiking. The property is located on Co Rd 376, Covert, MI 49043 (Often accessed via 44th Ave/County Road 376). This outdoors group is partnered with Outcenter Southwest Michigan for the LGBTQ+ community and their allies. No registration necessary. Members/ FREE, Non-Members/ $5.
Beginning Kayak Lessons
Join a Sarett naturalist at North Lake Park to learn the basics of kayaking. Members/ $20, Non-members/ $25. Please call (269) 927-4832 to register. Kayaks, paddles, and PFDs are included. You may bring your own equipment if you prefer.
Sarett Legacies Event: Summer Solstice
A special event for those who have named Sarett Nature Center as a beneficiary in their estate plans. Join Director Nate Fuller for light refreshments, a brief presentation on the latest nature discoveries at the nature center including otters and box turtles, and then an easy walk through the woods and meadows to celebrate the longest day of the year!
Monarch Larva Monitoring Project
Join us to learn how to help protect monarch butterflies through the Monarch Larva Monitoring Project. (To learn more about the project this event is supporting check out mlmp.org) This event is for all ages. Please call (269) 927-4832 to register. Free for both members and non-members.
Silver Foxes: Breeding Bird Survey
Join us to learn about the surveys we will conduct this summer to monitor breeding bird activity. We will discuss the methodology of the study, its importance to our understanding of native bird populations, and what species we expect to find in different habitats on Sarett's property. We will have plenty of photos and maybe even some preliminary results to share. Silver Fox programs are designed for people 55 & older who like to be active and learn something new. This group meets once a month. Please call (269) 927-4832 x 101 to register. Member/FREE, Non-member/$5.
Native Landscaping 101
Interested in native ecologybut not quite sure how to put that interest into action? Join Sarett naturalists at this “how to” for getting started with your very own native landscape. This program will include a short presentation on native gardening, Q&A session, and a native plant walk. A take-home quick guide will also be provided for participants. Members & Non-Members/ FREE. No registration necessary.
Summer Camp Volunteer Training
Do you enjoy working with kids and teaching about science and nature? Join us this weekend to learn about volunteering during our summer camps for our Buds and Sprouts programs (ages 4-8)!
Interested but can’t attend? Email Kevin at volunteer@sarett.org or call (269) 927-4832 ext. 103.
Lavender Adventurers Social Hike
Join us at Sarett for a morning of easy-paced, hiking to spend time with your friends and make some new ones out on the trails! This outdoors group is partnered with Outcenter Southwest Michigan for the LGBTQ+ community and their allies. No registration is necessary. Members/FREE, Non-Members/$5.
Sarett's Birding Bunch
Welcome back the spring migrants with Sarett’s annual Birding Bunch. These gatherings are designed for birders of all levels. Bring your binoculars! Other meeting dates include May 23 & May 30. Please call 269-927-4832 to register. Member/ $7, Non-Member/ $10.
Annual Meeting of the Membership
Calling all Sarett Members! Come get an update on your favorite nature center and cast your vote for Sarett leadership. Director Nate Fuller will be providing a presentation on the wildlife of Sarett: how beavers are reshaping our wetlands, where otters are showing up along our trails, how Sarett box turtles are becoming national celebrities, and more!
Birding for Beginners
Are you interested in learning more about birds? Maybe you want to start a new and exciting hobby? Look no further! Sarett’s Birding for Beginners class is for you! This introduction will cover everything you need to know whether you are wondering which birds are visiting your feeders or if you want to go far afield. We will even provide binoculars for you to use during class time.
Member/ $5, Non-Member/ $7 per class.
Please call 269-927-4832 to register.
Sarett's Birding Bunch
Welcome back the spring migrants with Sarett’s annual Birding Bunch. These gatherings are designed for birders of all levels. Bring your binoculars! Other meeting dates include May 9, May 23 & May 30. Please call 269-927-4832 to register. Member/ $7, Non-Member/ $10.
Spring Blooms at Fred Russ Forest
Join a Sarett naturalist for a stroll through the beautiful Fred Russ Forest near Decatur, MI. We’ll explore the trails in search of trillium, trout lily, jack-in-the-pulpit, and other spring ephemerals. Meet at Sarett. Please call 269-927-4832 to register. Members/ $5, Non-Members/ $8, Children/ $3.
Would you prefer to meet us there? Just let us know when you call to register. Members & Children/ FREE, Non-Members/ $5.
Earth Day - Trail Day!
Come out to Sarett for a morning of caring for and maintaining the trails. We will clean up paths, add wood chips, and fix boardwalks so we are ready for a busy spring of nature-lovers on the trails. There will be tasks for all ages. After a morning of trail work, join us for soups and a hot dog roast as an appreciation for all of your hard work.
Sarett's Birding Bunch
Welcome back the spring migrants with Sarett’s annual Birding Bunch. These gatherings are designed for birders of all levels. Bring your binoculars! Other meeting dates include May 2, May 9, May 23 & May 30. Please call 269-927-4832 to register. Member/ $7, Non-Member/ $10.
Silver Foxes: Crayfish - Native vs. Invasive
Crayfish may be small, but they play a big role in Michigan’s aquatic ecosystems — for better or worse. In this eye-opening program, we’ll explore the fascinating world of Michigan’s native crayfish species and the growing impact of invasive varieties such as the rusty crayfish and red swamp crayfish. Afterwards we will take an optional walk to see signs of crayfish activity.
Silver Fox programs are designed for people 55 & older who like to be active and learn something new. This group meets once a month.
Please call 269-927-4832 to register. Members/ FREE, Non-members/ $5.
Nature Awakes! Guided Hike
As winter loosens its grip, Sarett’s forests and wetlands burst back to life! Join a naturalist for a guided hike to discover the sights and sounds of spring waking up around us. We’ll search for the first wildflowers, listen for returning migratory birds, and look for frogs and other wildlife emerging after the cold months. This easy-paced walk is perfect for families and nature lovers eager to welcome the new season. Please call 269-927-4832 to register. Members/ FREE, Non-Members/ $5, Children/ FREE.
Birding for Beginners
Are you interested in learning more about birds? Maybe you want to start a new and exciting hobby? Look no further! Sarett’s Birding for Beginners class is for you! This introduction will cover everything you need to know whether you are wondering which birds are visiting your feeders or if you want to go far afield. We will even provide binoculars for you to use during class time. Other class meeting day is May 2.
Member/ $5, Non-Member/ $7 per class.
Please call 269-927-4832 to register.
Lavender Adventurers Social Hike
Meet a Sarett naturalist at our other property, the Brown Sanctuary (1891 Wood St, Benton Harbor, MI 49022), for a morning of easy-paced, moderate hiking. This outdoors group is partnered with Outcenter Southwest Michigan for the LGBTQ+ community and their allies. No registration necessary. Members/ FREE, Non-Members/ $5.
Birding for Beginners
Are you interested in learning more about birds? Maybe you want to start a new and exciting hobby? Look no further! Sarett’s Birding for Beginners class is for you! This introduction will cover everything you need to know whether you are wondering which birds are visiting your feeders or if you want to go far afield. We will even provide binoculars for you to use during class time. Other class meeting days are April 18 and May 2.
Member/ $5, Non-Member/ $7 per class.
Please call 269-927-4832 to register.
Sarett's Birding Bunch
Welcome back the spring migrants with Sarett’s annual Birding Bunch. These gatherings are designed for birders of all levels. Bring your binoculars! Other meeting dates include April 25, May 2, May 9, May 23 & May 30. Please call 269-927-4832 to register. Member/ $7, Non-Member/ $10.
Nature Center Closed
Please enjoy the trails from 9:00 AM to dusk. The building will be closed.
Woodcock Walk
Join a Sarett naturalist for an evening walk looking and listening for the song, dance and aerial display of the American Woodcock. Please call 269-927-4832 to register. Members/ $5, Non-Members/ $8, Children/ $3. Please dress for the weather!
Birding for Beginners
Are you interested in learning more about birds? Maybe you want to start a new and exciting hobby? Look no further! Sarett’s Birding for Beginners class is for you! This introduction will cover everything you need to know whether you are wondering which birds are visiting your feeders or if you want to go far afield. We will even provide binoculars for you to use during class time. Other class meeting days are April 11, April 18, and May 2.
Member/ $5, Non-Member/ $7 per class.
Please call 269-927-4832 to register.
Silver Foxes: The Cottontail Files - Backyard Bunnies Uncovered
Often seen but rarely understood, the Eastern Cottontail rabbit is one of Michigan’s most familiar wild neighbors. This program takes a closer look at the life and habits of these adaptable mammals, from their breeding cycles and feeding habits to how they avoid predators in both urban and rural environments.
Silver Fox programs are designed for people 55 & older who like to be active and learn something new. This group meets once a month.
Please call (269) 927-4832 to register. Member/ FREE, Non-member/ $5.
Ukrainian Eggs for Beginners
10:00 AM-12:30 PM OR 1:30 PM-4:00 PM
Learn the art of egg dyeing known as pysanky, or Ukrainian Eggs. This delicate process uses special tools to draw on eggs with beeswax between rounds of dyeing the eggs in vibrant colors. Participants will complete one egg with a planned floral design, eggs will by available the weekend after the program, after the eggs have been sealed. This program is for adults only. Space is limited. Registration is required. Please register online or call 269-927-4832 with payment. Member/ $20, Non-member/ $25.
Ukrainian Eggs for Beginners
10:00 AM-12:30 PM OR 1:30 PM-4:00 PM
Learn the art of egg dyeing known as pysanky, or Ukrainian Eggs. This delicate process uses special tools to draw on eggs with beeswax between rounds of dyeing the eggs in vibrant colors. Participants will complete one egg with a planned floral design, eggs will by available the weekend after the program, after the eggs have been sealed. This program is for adults only. Space is limited. Registration is required. Please register online or call 269-927-4832 with payment. Member/ $20, Non-member/ $25.
Sarett's Birding Bunch
Welcome back the spring migrants with Sarett’s annual Birding Bunch. These gatherings are designed for birders of all levels. Bring your binoculars! Other meeting dates include April 11, April 25, May 2, May 9, May 23 & May 30. Please call 269-927-4832 to register. Member/ $7, Non-Member/ $10.
Monthly Stewardship Day
This program is a way to experience Sarett in a whole different way. By being a nature steward you are helping Sarett but you also gain a sense of well-being. Sarett’s crew will teach you many different skills such as collecting viable seeds for future planting, how to identify invasive species from native ones, removing invasive plants, how to survey different types of animals, and much more. If you love being out in nature you will love this program! For ages 10 and older.
Legend of the Guardians: The Owls of Ga'Hoole Screening & Owl Prowl
The Coastline Children's Film Festival will be back again this year to show the movie Legend of the Guardians: The Owls of Ga’Hoole in the great room at 7:00 PM followed by an owl prowl about 8:45 PM. No registration necessary.
Saps Rising! Exploring Maple Sugaring
Welcome early spring with a demonstration on maple sugaring. Enjoy a talk and a stroll through the woods to learn how maple syrup is made. Learn to identify maple trees, how to tap, collect the sap and how to turn that sap into the amber syrup we love. Please call to register 269-927-4832. Space is limited! Member/ $5, Non-Member/ $8, Children/ $3. Maple treats will be available for sale.
Saps Rising! Exploring Maple Sugaring
Welcome early spring with a demonstration on maple sugaring. Enjoy a talk and a stroll through the woods to learn how maple syrup is made. Learn to identify maple trees, how to tap, collect the sap and how to turn that sap into the amber syrup we love. Please call to register 269-927-4832. Space is limited! Member/ $5, Non-Member/ $8, Children/ $3. Maple treats will be available for sale.
Lavender Adventurers: Social Hike
THIS HIKE HAS BEEN CANCELED DUE TO WEATHER CONDITIONS. Look for our next hike on April 11!
Meet a Sarett naturalist at Fernwood Botanical Gardenin Buchanan, MI for a morning of easy-paced, moderate hiking. This outdoors group is partnered with Outcenter Southwest Michigan for the LGBTQ+ community and their allies. No registration necessary. Members/ FREE with membership card, Non-Members/ $12 for entrance to Fernwood.
