Community programs provide a wide range of activities and learning experiences, ranging from establishing a backyard wildlife habitat and increasing home energy efficiency, to guided nature hikes and lectures on various ecological and environmental topics.

Sunday brunches, held the second Sunday of each month, with two seating options, are a wonderful way to enjoy the beauty of the Institute's natural surroundings and offer a free informative presentation between the two seating times. Family programs include the annual Bats in the Night in August and Night Flight in October. At these programs, participants meet live bats and owls up-close and learn why they are valuable members of our world. Other family programs are planned throughout the year and provide an economical and fun learning experience for all ages and all knowledge levels!

The Institute also hosts a renewable energy conference in March that brings experts together to share their knowledge and insight on wind, solar, biomass, and other renewable energy topics. With keynote speakers and breakout sessions, this conference usually sells out, and those interested in attending are always encourage to get their reservations in early. A variety of other renewable energy conferences and workshops are also planned throughout the year and are valuable opportunities for participants to learn about ways to preserve and protect our environment through wise energy use.

Of course visitors are always welcome to come to the Institute to walk the trails and enjoy the beauty of the various habitats found on the property. Trails are open daily dawn to dusk. The Visitor Center is open Monday through Friday 9 am to 5 pm and is only open on weekends when programs are scheduled.

Trail maps are available in the Visitor Center, online, and are also available for guests by the Visitor Center's front door when the building is closed. The trails are open to cross-country skiing in the winter and snow-shoes are available for rent during Visitor Center hours of operation. Dogs are welcome on the trails on leashes. A complete public use guide (120k PDF file) is also available.

To view a listing of upcoming programs and plan your next visit, see the calendar of events.