Schedule
I am available to lead natural history walks, with a specific focus like wildflower identification or birdwatching, or with a wandering approach where we explore and discuss what we find. I also offer webinars and virtual presentations ranging from topics like "Gardening for Wildlife," "Beginner Birding," and more. See below for my upcoming schedule and past presentation topics.
2024 Schedule
Past Offerings
Interested in hosting a talk on one of these topics or something similar? Get in touch!
Naturalist Skills and Ecology Basics Workshop
Saturday, November 18th from 9 am - 2 pm
Location: Chapman Mountain Nature Preserve – 506 Cleermont Dr SE, Huntsville, AL 35801
In this workshop, we will distill complex ecological concepts through a regional lens to break down the skills needed to observe and learn about your local environment. We will start by identifying wildlife and their signs, discerning plant families and their features as well as how they comprise distinct habitats, observe insects and their adaptations, and study the soil, geology, and geography to understand how they define our local environment. We will also discuss the tools, devices, and techniques that can assist with identification and observation of nature. It will be a day of thoughtful observation and attunement to nature, and there may be periods of wandering and wondering without an agenda in addition to structured training through exercises.
Members-Only Full Moon Hike at Blevins Gap
Saturday, October 28th from 4:30 pm to 7:00 pm
Location: Blevins Gap Nature Preserve – 3470 Cecil Ashburn Dr SE, Huntsville, AL 35802
Join us for an evening of stargazing as we hike Blevins Gap during a full moon! We will begin on the Bill & Marion Certain Trail at 4:30PM and circle back to the overlook. As we stop to enjoy the moonrise, please note the final descent (last 1/2 mile) will be via moonlight and headlamps. After the hike, we will meet at the Pollinator Garden for stargazing and telescope viewing towards Saturn in the southern sky, all while participants enjoy the view of Huntsville below in the west.
Participants are encouraged to wear closed-toe shoes and bring plenty of water, headlamps or flashlights.
Twilight Hike with the Land Trust of North Alabama
Location: Bethel Spring Nature Preserve – 2641 Cherry Tree Road, Gurley, AL 35748
Saturday, April 22nd from 7:30 - 9 pm
Take a Twilight Hike on Earth Day (Easy / 0.33 miles / 30 minutes) along Bethel Creek Loop, a gravel pathway that circles from the trailhead and back again between the creek and farm fields. After the sun sets, we'll gather for stargazing to observe the night sky with a 10” telescope. Plus what outdoor evening under the stars is complete without “smores”?! Participants should bring a small flashlight or headlamp. Must be a current Land Trust member to register for this event. Hike Leaders: Sara Johnson & Bob Carroll, Land Trust Education Committee Members. Click here to register: MEMBERS ONLY Twilight Hike & Stargazing — Signup Sheet | SignUp.com
A Year in North Alabama's Natural Areas
November 9th from 5:30 - 7:30 pm
Join us for a photographic journey through a year in North Alabama’s natural areas from the eyes of a newcomer. Botanist Sara Johnson will share the places and plants that make Alabama unique, including many Land Trust of North Alabama preserves she has explored in her first year in the South. From bat caves to limestone glades, experience Alabama through fresh eyes and be inspired to go out and explore the native wildlife around you.
Gardening for Wildlife
August 25 from 6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.
Gardening for wildlife means providing resources to all levels of the food chain, not just the birds and insects! Learn how to integrate small changes and create a whole ecosystem of diverse insects, birds, and other fauna in your own backyard. We will focus on native plants and their dependent insect species, the food source that these plants and insects bring to other wildlife, and the unique interactions within our urban or suburban ecosystems. (Virtual) Learn more and register here
Natural Dyes Workshop
July 16th from 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
Many of the common colors and dyes used for our clothing are derived from plants. If you have ever wondered about this process, we will learn more about some of the plants that are used for natural dyes and discuss how to grow, harvest, process, and utilize them in your own textiles. This will be a workshop-style class, so be prepared to get your hands dirty! (In-Person at HSVBG) Learn more and register here
Edible Perennials
July 7th from 6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.
Edible perennials are the plants that keep on giving! Our gardens are typically filled with ornamental perennials and annual vegetables. Get the best of both worlds with edible perennials! Not only do you pay one cost upfront, but these plants often require less watering and maintenance as they adjust to your local conditions. We will discuss more common perennials such as asparagus, kale, and fruit trees, and we will also look beyond the ordinary to some more unique perennials, including native food plants that you can add to your garden! (Virtual!)
Learn more and register here