Weekend Programs

 

The education team here at the Keystone Elk Country Alliance works to educate on all levels. Whether you are a student, a teacher, or a curious visitor we have something for you! We offer educational weekend programs every Saturday and Sunday at 2pm. These programs aren’t just about elk; they cover numerous topics from beavers and black bears to maple syrup making and hiking. We also frequently host guest speakers from the PA Game Commission, PA Department of Conservation and Natural Resources, and other conservation organizations. On top of all that, we find special joy in the changing of the seasons and holidays. We often have special events during these times, like our Earth Day Celebration, Halloween Extravaganza, and Christmas Ornament Series.

 

If you are interested in being a part of all the fun that happens here at the Elk Country Visitor Center, then keep an eye on our calendar of events for everything we offer each month! You can also find event information on Facebook, Instagram, and elkcountryvisitorcenter.com.

 

Elk Country Visitor Center

 

March 2024 Weekend Programs

 

 

Saturday, March 2nd, 2pm Maple Syruping

Have you ever wondered how maple syrup was made? Or have you ever wondered where it came from? If you answered yes to either one of these questions then you should attend this program at the Elk Country Visitor Center. Mike Wittman, a local expert, with over 40 years of experience will lead us through the process. You will see how the sap is collected and learn many interesting facts.

 

Sunday, March 3rd, 12pm PA Elk History Scavenger Hunt

Ever wonder what happened to our elk here in Pennsylvania? How did they get here? When did they get here? Are elk native to Pennsylvania? If you have asked yourself these questions, come to the Elk Country Visitor Center for our elk history scavenger hunt. This scavenger hunt features 16 historical facts about the PA elk herd, a hike around the Elk Country Visitor Center grounds, a mystery fact that needs to be solved, and a prize for each participant!

 

Saturday, March 9th, 2pm Clovers and Leprechaun Gardens (make and take program)

Clovers are a unique and useful plant that is so common you probably have it growing in your backyard right now. It is also a favorite food of elk! You may even know it as its holiday name “Shamrock!” What you may not know is how it got that name in the first place or its amazing abilities to heal the environment! Stick around after the presentation and build your very own Leprechaun Garden to take home as well!

 

Sunday, March 10th, 12-2pm Elk Smart

Elk Smart is a new initiative to help remind visitors who come to visit Elk Country to preserve the wild nature of the PA elk herd. Learn the four principles of Elk Smart, how to practice them, and their importance. There will also be free Elk Smart giveaways.

 

Saturday, March 16th, 2pm All About Bears

Join PA Game Commission Educator Mercy to learn all about bears and the current research projects regarding their ecology, movements, and reproduction within our state.

 

Sunday, March 17th, 2pm Prescribed Fires

Although wildfires can be detrimental to nature, not all fires are bad. Prescribed fires are done in a very controlled manner that allows them to benefit nature and restore habitats. Join Mercy to learn how the PA Game Commission uses prescribed fires to help wildlife including the Pa Elk Herd.

 

Saturday, March 23rd, 2pm The Bald Eagle

Rick Rupprecht will be presenting this interactive, Powerpoint-based presentation with many pictures and videos that address the physical characteristics, life cycle, and habitat of the bald eagle. A significant portion of the talk is dedicated to the history and caring for liberty (female bald eagle) who lived at the Audubon Community Nature Center in Jamestown, NY from 2002 to 2022. There will be plenty of time during and after the talk for audience questions.

 

Sunday, March 24th, 2pm Elk Basics

New to learning about elk? Join us for the basic breakdown as we learn about elk history, elk ecology and elk behavior. Are you a seasoned “Elkspert?” We bet you’ll learn something new too!

Saturday, March 30th, 2pm KECA Easter Egg Hunt

Join our staff at the center for our 3rd annual Easter Egg Hunt. Eggs will be hidden on the grounds and along trails for youngsters to find. A variety of treats and prizes will be found within them! (Event made possible by the support of local businesses)

 

Sunday, March 31st, Easter

 The Elk Country Visitor Center will be closed for the holiday. Happy Easter! From all staff at the Elk Country Visitor Center.

 

If you have any questions, please call the Conservation Education Department at (814) 787-5173.

 

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