CLERMONT, Ky. — Bernheim’s new program series, Conservation in Action: Place-based Stewardship Hikes, will explore different ecosystems that demonstrate best practices of habitat stewardship. During these hikes, visitors will learn how healthy habitats are vital to biodiversity and clean air and water.
The first series is the Woodland Restoration Hike on Saturday, Jan. 7, from 9:00 a.m. to 10:30 a.m., focusing on the origins of invasive species and their impact on native plants and animals and their habitats. Hikers will also learn how to identify plants, both native and non-native, during winter months.
The second hike, Prairie Management and Establishment, takes place on Saturday, Jan. 21, from 9:00 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. and will explore prairie and grassland habitats. While hiking through Bernheim’s 40-acre Big Prairie, participants will learn how Bernheim stewards establish and manage high-quality, thriving prairie habitats. Home to insects, migratory songbirds, mammals, birds of prey, and hundreds of grassland plant species, the Bernheim team uses many management techniques to keep this habitat functional and beautiful.
Each of these hikes costs $10 for Bernheim members and $15 for non-members. Weather-appropriate clothing and sturdy boots are recommended.
For more information and to register, visit Bernheim.org or call (502) 955-8512.
Events and programming for all ages throughout January are listed below.
Trail Discovery Hike: Pond Ridge Trail
Explore miles of Bernheim’s hiking trails with our Volunteer Naturalists on Sunday, Jan. 8, from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Pond Ridge is a research road that is only accessible to Bernheim-sanctioned researchers, staff, and volunteers. The only way to access this area of Bernheim is through this special hike, where guides will be taking a slower pace allowing participants to discover, discuss and enjoy the unique features this trail offers. Sturdy shoes and walking sticks are recommended for this hike, along with plenty of water and snacks or a light lunch for the trail. This is a 3.5-mile, moderately difficult trail.
The cost is $10 for Bernheim members and $15 for non-members. Register by 4 p.m. the day before the program by calling (502) 955-8512 or visiting Bernheim.org.
Pollywalk: A Flurry of Fun
Pollywalks are designed for families of children aged 0-5 with stories, songs, and nature exploration. The best part is all the action happens OUTSIDE! This month’s Pollywalk meets on Saturday, Jan. 7, from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. at the Silo Stage and includes guided programming and free exploration for the youngest of nature lovers.
The cost is $10 for Bernheim member youth (age 5 and under) and $15 for non-member youth (age five and under). The registered youth fee includes one adult. Additional caregivers are $5 per person. Registration and payment are due by 4 p.m. the day prior by visiting Bernheim.org or calling (502) 955-8512.
Forest Homeschool Hike: Seasonal Nature WalkForest Homeschool Hikes provide opportunities for families and co-ops to join Bernheim educators for an afternoon of learning, exercising and adventure. Enjoy a short lesson followed by a hike or activity that brings the lesson to life. The cost is $6 per person and children under four are free. Registration is required by 4 p.m. the day before the program. Call (502) 955-8512 or visit Bernheim.org to register. In January, Forest Homeschool Hikes will take place on
- Jan. 10, from 1:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m.
- Jan. 13, from 1:00 to 2:00 p.m.
Birding Around Lake NevinOver the last 50 years, as many as 3 billion birds have been lost due to human activities and climate change. Bernheim is on the frontlines of many bird conservation efforts and provides over 16,000 acres of protected and varied habitats, including lakes, wetlands, forests, and warm-season grasslands. More than 200 species of birds have been observed at Bernheim, including golden eagles. Bernheim birding programs can provide insights to help participants recognize and champion birds.
Join Volunteer Naturalists and birding enthusiasts Jim and Karen Scout on Saturday, Jan. 21, from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. for this stroll around Lake Nevin’s wetland, grassland, and forest. This birding adventure is suitable for all birding skill levels.
The cost is $10 for Bernheim members and $15 for non-members. Registration is required by 4 p.m. the day before the program. Call (502) 955-8512 or visit Bernheim.org to register.
Golden Eagles of BernheimJoin Director of Conservation Andrew Berry, on Saturday, January 14, from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. for a discussion about why Bernheim Forest attracts a diverse array of winter raptors, perhaps none as inspiring as the golden eagles.
This indoor presentation will highlight the how and why behind our land management for apex predators such as golden eagles and other raptors that seek refuge in Bernheim during the cold months of winter.
The cost is $10 for Bernheim members and $15 for non-members. Registration is required by 4 p.m. the day before the program. Call (502) 955-8512 or visit Bernheim.org to register.
Volunteer Naturalist/Naturalist Assistant OrientationIf you love learning about the natural world and are passionate about the natural world, this training is for you.
Bernheim has an amazing core of Volunteer Naturalists and Naturalist Assistants who lead or support our public programs, discovery experiences, summer camps, adult group tours, school field trips, and so much more. The Bernheim Volunteer Naturalist training program seeks to develop ecological learners and leaders that promote stewardship and inspire a more compelling relationship with our natural and cultural landscapes.
If you are interested in learning more about these volunteer opportunities, register for the Volunteer Naturalist/Volunteer Naturalist Assistant Orientation on Saturday, Jan. 28, from 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. The program is free, but registration is required by visiting Bernheim.volunteerhub.com.
Volunteer Orientation
Perfect for anyone who loves to play in the dirt, learn about volunteer opportunities at Bernheim on Saturday, Jan. 14, from 10:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. Volunteers can give a few or several hundred hours to support Bernheim and our visitors. Have fun in the great outdoors by participating in a variety of activities. This program is free of charge, but participants must register at Bernheim.volunteerhub.com.
ECO Kids Discovery Days
The E-C-O stands for Every Child Outside, and that’s exactly where kids can be found during ECO Kids Discovery Days. Discovery Days take place the first and third Saturday of each month near Bernheim’s Visitor Center and may include:
Hands-On Discovery Stations from 1 to 4 p.m.
Hike of the Day, led by a Bernheim guide, starts at the Visitor Center at 2 p.m. and runs 45-60 minutes.
Pop-Up Story Circles because everything and everyone has a story. Watch for our storytelling and story-sharing circles.
ECO Kids Discovery Days are weather dependent. Call (502) 955-8512 on the day of the event for weather-related updates. For details on ECO Kids Discovery Days, visit Bernheim.org. No registration is necessary. January ECO Kids will take place on the following dates:
- Jan. 7
- Jan. 21
Holiday Tree RecyclingWhen your holiday has given you the best of its seasonal cheer, Bernheim invites you to extend the life of your tree by sharing it with the arboretum. Your tree can become a permanent part of Bernheim as we recycle it into mulch used throughout the landscape.
Now through Jan. 31, drop your tree at any time at the collection point at the turnaround to the left in front of Bernheim’s main gate.
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