March Community Events

Star Party: Early Morning Lunar Eclipse at Baltimore Woods

When: 4 a.m. to 6 a.m., Tuesday, March 3, 2026

Where: Baltimore Woods Nature Center, 4007 Bishop Hill Rd, Marcellus, NY 13108

Description: This one is for the early risers! We will have a lunar eclipse early in the morning, which sets about sunrise. It may be a bit challenging to see all of it, but we will definitely get a view of part of it, weather permitting. We might get a glimpse of Mercury and Mars as well. Check it out and then tell all your co-workers what they missed!

More Details: Dress warmly, this program will be outdoors in our main parking lot that has a gravel surface. This program is recommended for ages 10 and up. Space is limited. Online pre-registration is required by February 27th. This program is offered for free thanks to our Star Party Program Sponsor, Marcellus Smiles! 

Free but registration by 2/27/26 is required.

Register: https://secure.everyaction.com/szweWu70f0ah4NkwM536-Q2

Link: https://baltimorewoods.org/event/star-party-early-morning-lunar-eclipse/

Woodcock and Eagle Watch with Audubon at Seneca Meadows Education Center 

When: Various Times and Dates:

• 4 p.m. to 7 p.m., Thursday, March 5, 2026
• 4:15 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., Wednesday, March 11, 2026
• 5:15 p.m. to 8 p.m., Wednesday, March 18, 2026
• 5:30 p.m. to 8 p.m., Tuesday, March 24, 2026

Where: Seneca Meadows Education Center, 1977 NYS Route 414 in Waterloo, NY 13165

Description: Please join us for a late afternoon walk to see our Bald Eagles and then after sunset to hear and see American Woodcocks (and possibly Wilson’s Snipe).  We are meeting at the Seneca Meadows Education Center (1977 NYS Route 414 in Waterloo, NY 13165).  We will have some light snacks and hot chocolate, listen to 2 very brief talks, then drive to the Seneca Meadows Wetland Preserve (1712 Black Brook Road in Seneca Falls, 13148).  We will walk about a mile and a half (round trip).  We will have binoculars to loan and my spotting scope.  As weather can be quite variable, please dress appropriately. For questions or more information, please call (315) 539-5089 and leave a detailed message, or email to [email protected]   

Free! Register at:

• for 3/5/26: register by 3/2/26 at https://act.audubon.org/a/wwew3526
• for 3/11/26: register by 3/8/26 at https://act.audubon.org/a/wwew31126
• for 3/18/26: register by 3/15/26 at https://act.audubon.org/a/wwew31826
• for 3/24/26: register by 3/21/26 at https://act.audubon.org/a/wwew32426

Curious Cotyledons: Identifying Native Plant Seedlings

When: 7:30 p.m. to 9 p.m., Wednesday, March 11, 2026

Where: Zoom

Description: Here’s a challenge! Although many of us are great at identifying mature wildflowers and other native plants, seedling identification can be difficult at best, and resources for seedling ID are few and far between. During this workshop, we will look at the seedlings of many native plants, both those with and without unique characteristics. Randi will also share resources available for native plant seedling identification and provide guidelines for identification in the field.

About Randi: Dr. Randi Eckel has been working with native plants for over 40 years, and she founded the mail-order native plant nursery Toadshade Wildflower Farm in 1996 to further public awareness and availability of native plants. A life-long naturalist, lover of nature, entomologist, and confirmed plant and ecology nerd, Randi specializes in the interactions between plants and other living things. She is known for her lively and engaging lectures and workshops on growing and propagating native plants, and offers interesting, nuanced information on the complex issues facing native plants and native plant communities. She is the past president (and is currently serving as a vice president) of the Native Plant Society of New Jersey.

Register: https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_0ol4Zg3tRPigcY9JeCF5MQ#/registration

Link: https://npsnj.org/event/curious-cotyledons-identifying-native-plant-seedlings/

Turn Out The Lights & Other Solutions to Light Pollution with Steve Mariconda

When: 7 p.m. to 9:30 p.m., Wednesday, March 18, 2026

Where: Zoom

Description: ight pollution is the human-made alteration of outdoor light levels from those occurring naturally. Light pollution disrupts wildlife, impacts human well-being, wastes money and energy, contributes to climate change, and blocks our view of the universe.

Steve Mariconda, an avid astronomer and public health care professional, had a profound experience the first time he saw the Milky Way in a pristine sky. Away from street lights, floodlights on commercial properties, car headlights and other human-made interference that combine to make the nighttime environment unnaturally bright he had a keen sense of something bigger.

Mariconda advocates that light pollution is relatively easy to fix. Using fewer and more targeted light sources and replacing white light bulbs with yellow ones are just a few of the recommendations he will make in this program.

Register: https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_omek8QJoQ4e5xQeoAFhxHw#/registration

Link: https://npsnj.org/event/turn-out-the-lights-other-solutions-to-light-pollution-with-steve-mariconda/

The Salamanders of Beaver Lake

When: 10 a.m. to 11 a.m., Thursday, March 19, 2026

Where: Beaver Lake Nature Center, 8477 East Mud Lake Road, Baldwinsville, NY 13027

Description: Spring showers may bring flowers…but they also bring salamanders! Make the best of the wet March weather and join a naturalist to learn all about the salamander species that call Beaver Lake home.

Free with park admission ($5/vehicle). No registration required.

Link: https://beaverlakenature.org/events/view/the-salamanders-of-beaver-lake/

Winter Wonders: Mindful Botany Walks at Cornell Botanical Gardens

When: 12 p.m. to 1 p.m., Friday, March 20, 2026

Where: Brian C. Nevin Welcome Center, 124 Comstock Knoll Road, Ithaca, NY 14850

Description: Join Cornell Botanic Gardens staff to observe the beauty and peacefulness of the season on these special winter versions of our popular “Mindful Botany” series. While exploring various paths and gardens near the Nevin Welcome Center, we will practice mindfulness by dedicating our attention to the present moment and fully observing and appreciating the surprising richness of nature in winter. Walks will be held rain, snow, or shine, but will be cancelled in the event of severe weather.

Fee: Free; donations welcome.

Link: https://events.cornell.edu/event/winter-wonders-mindful-botany-walks

Spring Equinox Hike at Beaver Lake

When: 2 p.m. to 3 p.m., Friday, March 20, 2026

Where: Beaver Lake Nature Center, 8477 East Mud Lake Road, Baldwinsville, NY 13027

Description: Join us to celebrate the spring equinox! Enjoy a guided hike on the Deep Woods Trail (1.4 miles), while discussing signs of spring and seasonal changes.

Free with park admission ($5/vehicle). No registration required.

Link: https://beaverlakenature.org/events/view/spring-equinox-hike35691/

All about Bluebirds at the Great Swamp Conservancy

When: 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., Saturday, March 21, 2026

Where: Great Swamp Conservancy 8375 N. Main St., Canastota, NY

Description: Presenter John Rogers maintains hundreds of bluebird nest boxes, and has fledged over 13,000 bluebirds. His PowerPoint presentation about bluebirds, their nesting cycle (building nests, egg laying, raising young, etc.) and the proper use of bluebird boxes will delight and educate. Presentation is free.

After the presentation, you may build your own bluebird nest box. Kids and adults love to make their own bluebird box. Other birds that use this box include tree swallows, chickadees , titmice, and wrens. hand-on learning experience using pre-cut lumber. All materials and tools provided for $20.

Register here if you plan on constructing a bluebird box.

Link: https://www.greatswampconservancy.org/events-1/2019/3/30/john-rogers-bluebirds-8w4z7-r6ewp-m4grf-zhsae

Welcome to Spring Hike at Green Lakes State Park

When: 3 p.m. to 4:30 p.m., Saturday, March 21, 2026

Where: Green Lakes State Park, 7900 Green Lakes Road, Fayetteville, NY 13066

Description: Celebrate the start of Spring with a hike through our Old Growth Forest. Expect to walk about 4 miles on moderate to steep terrain. Dress appropriately for the weather, wear sturdy hiking shoes, and bring water. Meet at the Environmental Education Center.

Link: https://parks.ny.gov/visit/events/welcome-spring-hike

Native Plant Gardening 101 at Beaver Lake

When: 10 a.m. to 11 a.m., Monday, March 23, 2026

Where: Beaver Lake Nature Center, 8477 East Mud Lake Road, Baldwinsville, NY 13027

Description: New to gardening or gardening with native plants? No problem! Join us for a crash course in gardening with native plants. We’ll take you step-by-step in the gardening process, from planning to planting, and of course- to enjoying! Topics in this program include: evaluating your site, picking the right plants, prepping your garden, planting, and maintaining throughout the seasons. This program also focuses on using ecologically friendly gardening methods and native plant materials for a healthier and more diverse garden ecosystem.

Fee: $2 (members), $3 (non-members)

Registration fee does not include park admission fee ($5/vehicle)

REGISTRATION OPENS ON THURSDAY, FEBUARY 26

Link: https://beaverlakenature.org/events/view/native-plant-gardening-101/

Become a Community Scientist at Baltimore Woods

When: 10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m., Friday, March 27, 2026

Where: Baltimore Woods Nature Center, 4007 Bishop Hill Rd, Marcellus, NY 13108

Description: Help support important research efforts and strengthen your connection to nature through Citizen Science! Finding the right project for your interests and skills can be challenging – we’ll help you get started. Join us to discover several interesting community science projects in the area, and learn how to easily utilize technology to participate in the project that is right for you. Then, we’ll head to the trails to put our new skills into action.

More Details: This program will include a short, moderate hike. The surfaces may be muddy or icy this time of year. This program is designed for adults. Space is limited. Online pre-registration is required.

Fee: $6 (members), $9 (non-members)

Register: https://secure.everyaction.com/PLCSlB0G30K85R40Dq-vLA2

Link: https://baltimorewoods.org/event/become-a-community-scientist/

Identification of Plants in Winter

When: 10 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., Saturday, March 287, 2026

Where: NYSDEC’s Onondaga Lake Vistors Center, 270 Restoration Way, Syracuse, NY 13209

Description: Dive into winter botany magic! Learn to ID trees, shrubs, ferns, clubmosses & herbaceous plants using buds, scars, pith, persistent fruits, spore stalks, and more – no leaves required! Perfect for beginners to experts.

Registration and Inquiries: Participation is limited – please sign up early,  For questions please contact [email protected]

Fee: $70 (NYFA members), $100 (non-members)

Register: https://nyflora.org/events-directory/

Tracks ‘n Traces at Green Lakes State Park

When: 2 p.m. to 3 p.m., Saturday, March 28, 2026

Where: Green Lakes State Park, 7900 Green Lakes Road, Fayetteville, NY 13066

Description: Interested to see which types of animals are wandering through our woods? Join us in learning to identify animal tracks and see what’s out there. Most of this program will be outside, dress appropriately for the weather. Meet at the Environmental Education Center.

Link: https://parks.ny.gov/visit/events/tracks-n-traces

Sunset Stroll: Animals at Night at Baltimore Woods

When: 6 p.m. to 7 p.m., Saturday, March 28, 2026

Where: Baltimore Woods Nature Center, 4007 Bishop Hill Rd, Marcellus, NY 13108

Description: How do nocturnal animals experience the night? At sunset, we’ll traverse a meadow and forest ecosystem looking for signs of nocturnal animals and talk about their adventures under a starry sky. Join us for a sunset stroll through the preserve and learn more about nocturnal animals!

More Details: Trails are mostly flat with natural surfaces, mud, and gravel. Space is limited. Online pre-registration is required. This program is designed for adults. 

Fee: $6 (members), $9 (non-members)

Register: https://secure.everyaction.com/FfcqRIDFjEeooyiloDzTvw2

Link: https://baltimorewoods.org/event/sunset-stroll-animals-at-night/

Wood Duck Wander at Beaver Lake

When: 8 a.m. to 10 a.m., Sunday, March 29, 2026

Where: Beaver Lake Nature Center, 8477 East Mud Lake Road, Baldwinsville, NY 13027

Description: No duck is more striking than the Wood Duck! Early spring is when Wood Duck pairs seek a suitable nesting site in a hollow tree. We’ll enjoy a quiet guided walk in the early morning in search of one of nature’s finest offerings.

Free with park admission ($5/vehicle). No registration required.

Link: https://beaverlakenature.org/events/view/wood-duck-wander35692/

Nature Stroll at Amboy 4-H Environmental Education Cente

When: 1:30 p.m. to 3 p.m., Monday, March 30, 2026

Where: Amboy 4-H Environmental Education Center, 748 State Route 183, Williamstown, New York 13493

Description: As the daylight hours grow longer, changes start to occur in the woods and wetlands. The plants are getting ready to begin their growing season, migratory birds are returning, and some animals are ending their hibernation.

We’ll begin indoors learning about some different signs of spring to be on the watch for out on the trail. Once outside, we’ll set out on a guided exploration of the woods, pausing along the way to discuss some of the many clues that spring is here and culminating at the pond overlook. 

This program offers a unique opportunity to discover some of what’s going on in the world outside our door as we transition from winter to spring. 

Designed for individuals or families, not organized groups. To arrange a group program, call the Oswego County 4-H Program at 315-963-7286.

Fee: $4 per person and up to $12 per family. Advanced registration is encouraged, as space is limited.

Register: https://reg.cce.cornell.edu/NatureStroll_235

Link: https://thatscooperativeextension.org/events/2026/03/30/nature-stroll

Bald Eagle Watch and Woodcock Walk at Seneca Meadows Education Center 

When: 6 p.m. to 8:30 p.m., Tuesday, March 31, 2026

Where: Seneca Meadows Education Center, 1977 NYS Route 414 in Waterloo, NY 13165

Description: Please join us for a combination talk and walk.  We will meet at the Seneca Meadows Education Center (1977 NYS Route 414 in Waterloo, NY 13165) for 2 very brief talks about the American Woodcock and Bald Eagles.  Then we will have hot chocolate and some snacks before heading out to the Seneca Meadows Wetland Preserve (1712 Black Brook Road in Seneca Falls, NY 13148).  There we will walk about a mile (round trip) to first see Bald Eagles, which have nested here for the past two years and fledged two young eagles each year.  The adults have been here recently.  Then we will walk the main loop trail and about sunset, we will listen for American Woodcock and watch there breeding behaviors which includes display flights.  We may see and/or hear other nocturnal birds, such as Wilson’s Snipe and possibly an owl.  I will have my spotting scope and binoculars to loan out for the walk.  Please pay attention to the weather forecast as early in March we had to postpone the same trip.  If it rained recently, waterproof boots are highly recommended.  This is a free event, and all individuals, groups, families (with or without children), and those from underserved communities are welcome to attend.  Registration is required by clicking on the right-hand side of this message and filling out the form.  For any questions and/or more information, please email to [email protected] and/or call (315) 539-5089 and leave a detailed message.

Free! Register at: https://act.audubon.org/a/bewww33126

Family Bird Walk at Green Lakes State Park

When: 10 a.m. to 11 a.m., Tuesday, March 31, 2026

Where: Green Lakes State Park, 7900 Green Lakes Road, Fayetteville, NY 13066

Description: Join an educator for a family friendly bird walk. We will start inside the Environmental Education Center and see who is at our feeders and learn the basics to birding. We will then head out on a bird walk. Dress appropriately for the weather.

Link: https://parks.ny.gov/visit/events/family-bird-walk

Project Feederwatch Social Hour at Baltimore Woods

When: 2 p.m. to 3 p.m., Wednesdays, March 4, 11, 18, & 25, 2026

Where: Baltimore Woods Nature Center, 4007 Bishop Hill Rd, Marcellus, NY 13108

Description: Watching the birds is a relaxing way to stay connected to nature in the winter. We will be looking for, identifying, and counting the birds that visit our feeders from the warmth of our indoor program room as part of the Lab of Ornithology’s Project: Feederwatch citizen science initiative. Join a naturalist and other bird-lovers for a casual afternoon of learning and connecting! Binoculars and field guides will be provided.

This program will occur every Wednesday from January 14 – April 8.

Pre-registration is not required. 

More Details: This program will be held inside the program room in the Interpretive Center. The path from the parking lot to the building is paved. There are no stairs. Seating will be provided. This program is designed for adults.

Links: https://baltimorewoods.org/events/category/publicprograms/

Bird Walks at Green Lakes State Park

When: 9 a.m. to 10:30 a.m., Thursday, March 5, 12, & 19, 2026

Where: Green Lakes State Park, 7900 Green Lakes Road, Fayetteville, NY 13066

Description: Want to learn more about birds? Join us Thursdays for some beginner birding. We will start in the Environmental Education Center and check out our feeders. We will then head out on a bird walk. Be sure to dress appropriately for the weather. All ages are welcome for this program.

Link: https://parks.ny.gov/visit/events/bird-walks-0

Birdwatching for Science at Rice Creek Field Station

When: 9:30 a.m. to 10:45 a.m., Saturday, March 14, 21, & 28, 2026

Where: Rice Creek Field Station, 193 Thompson Road, Oswego, NY 13126

Description: Have you always been interested in birdwatching, but don’t know where to begin? Or perhaps you are already familiar with local birds, and wish to channel your passion into science?

Whether you are just getting started, or are already experienced with birding, this program is a welcoming space to learn, enjoy, and contribute to science. Those unfamiliar with birds will learn tips on identifying common backyard birds. Those already experienced can count the birds they see for the Cornell Lab of Ornithology’s “Project Feederwatch” community science program — a bird monitoring program that has been operating throughout North America for almost 40 years. Data submitted to the program are used to study bird behavior and long-term trends in bird populations to inform conservation.

Visitors can expect to see 5 to 14 species of birds during their visit, depending on the weather and the length of time they watch. All birdwatching takes place from the comfort of the indoors. Photography is welcome.

This weekly program takes place on Saturdays (except the first of the month) from 9:30 to 10:45 am. Visitors are encouraged to stay for the Guided Nature Walk taking place these same Saturdays at 11 am.

Link: for 3/14/26 & 3/21/26, https://calendar.oswego.edu/event/birdwatching or for 3/21/26, https://calendar.oswego.edu/event/birdwatching-for-science-exploreoswego

Guided Nature Walk at Rice Creek Field Station

When: 11 a.m. to 12 p.m., Saturday, January 10, 17, 24, & 31, 2026

Where: Rice Creek Field Station, 193 Thompson Road, Oswego, NY 13126

Description: Rice Creek’s naturalists will be your guides as you explore the forests, fields, wetlands, and waterways of Rice Creek Field Station, a 350-acre wildlife preserve dedicated to supporting research and education.

These free walks are open to the general public and suitable for all ages. Walks are 1 mile or less over gentle to moderate terrain on one of Rice Creek’s four trails, and approximately 1 hour in length. Adult- and youth-sized snowshoes (for ages 3+) are available in winter, trail conditions permitting. If snow is insufficient, we will go on a boot walk. Sturdy snow- or hiking boots should be worn in winter regardless.

During the walk, a naturalist will discuss the cultural and ecological history of Rice Creek from its early days as working farmland to today. Additionally, the naturalist will identify and interpret discoveries such as animal sightings, plant blooms, seasonal changes, and more. Participants are encouraged to keep their eyes open for discoveries and ask questions along the way. Photography, journaling, and sketching are all welcome activities during the walk.

Participants should come dressed for the weather and tick prevention. Boots are advisable as trails may be muddy, especially during late fall, winter, and spring. An adult must accompany children under 17 years of age. For questions, please reach out to the Rice Creek staff at [email protected] or 315.312.6677.

Links: for 3/14/26 & 3/21/26, https://calendar.oswego.edu/event/naturewalk or for 3/21/26, https://calendar.oswego.edu/event/guided-nature-walk-exploreoswego