Children's nature walk on Wolfeboro rail trail set for July

Children look closely as Kari Lygren of MMRG opens a Jack-in-the-Pulpit blossom to show the 'Jack' inside. (Emily Lord photo)

Moose Mountains Regional Greenways will offer a Family Scavenger/Discovery Walk as part of MMRG's program of nature-oriented activities to engage kids, called "MOOSE-ies for Families"

The July 19 exploration activity is meant to encourage children's sense of wonder and curiosity about the natural world. The walk will be followed by a picnic supper and sharing time, facilitated by MMRG staff and volunteers. The event will take place from 5:30-7 p.m. on a short section of the Cotton Valley Rail Trail in Wolfeboro.

Anticipating the upcoming event, MMRG Education Coordinator Kari Lygren was enthusiastic.

"We have had so much fun at all our events so far, we're really looking forward to this Scavenger/Discovery Walk," she said. "As part of the activity, we'll suggest that families pause and listen carefully to the sounds of nature at different spots along the Rail Trail. What do you hear? Any bird or insect sounds? We'll also make a few suggestions of things to look for. Do you see something purple? Can you find something that looks like the letter 'Z'? I bet the kids will amaze us with all that they discover."

Lygren elaborated on the Cotton Valley Rail Trail location. "MMRG supported the construction of the Rail Trail early on so when we were looking for a place to do a 'MOOSE-ies for Families' activity in Wolfeboro, it was natural for us to choose it. The Rail Trail provides wonderful recreational opportunities; we are lucky to have it in our region." For more information on the Cotton Valley Rail Trail, visit cottonvalleyrailtrail.org.

Children of all ages are welcome with their families. Families are asked to bring their own picnic suppers. The outing is free for MMRG member households (see below) but preregistration is required. For more information, directions, and to pre-register, call Kari Lygren at (603) 978-7125 or email info@mmrg.info.

'MOOSE-ies for Families' stands for Members Only Outdoor and Social Events for Families and the program of six 'MOOSE-ies for Families' activities per year is a benefit for MMRG members. Its purpose is to create opportunities for families to have fun together outdoors while learning about nature, in order to foster future generations of conservationists. Other 2018 upcoming events are: the 16^th annual Woods, Water & Wildlife Festival on August 11, a 'Family Moonlight Walk' on Sept. 22 in Farmington and a Family Bonfire Storytime at McKenzie's Farm in Milton in October. If MMRG's $25 per household per year membership fee is a financial burden, families may inquire of Executive Director Patti Connaughton-Burns about available scholarships by calling (603) 473-2020.