2nd Annual Guided Bat Walk
Thursday, August 17th, 7:30PM
Come see, hear, and learn about bats in Wellesley! See a real bat detector in action. Did you know bats eat a few thousand mosquitoes every night? Meet at the Morses Pond gate at the end of Turner Road. Park on the North 40 (wooded) side of the street.
A Wellesley Conservation Land Trust sponsored summer event, led by board member Bill Giezentanner.
Come see, hear, and learn about bats in Wellesley! See a real bat detector in action. Did you know bats eat a few thousand mosquitoes every night? Meet at the Morses Pond gate at the end of Turner Road. Park on the North 40 (wooded) side of the street.
A Wellesley Conservation Land Trust sponsored summer event, led by board member Bill Giezentanner.
Hot Cider Community Event at Cronk's - Sunday, November 13th
The Wellesley Conservation Land Trust
and Pippa and Judith (Cronk's Neighborhood Stewards)
invites you to join your neighbors
for hot cider and donuts at
Cronk’s Rocky Woodland
Sunday, November 13th at 2-4PM
18 Crown Ridge Road
Come enjoy an open fire and celebrate our new fire screen,
explore the charming Hansel and Gretel cottage,
and learn how you can help “Cronk’s” continue as the
wildflower garden that Gertrude Cronk established
in the 1930s for all our neighborhoods to enjoy in perpetuity.
Cronk’s Rocky Woodland Hot Cider Event
website: http://www.wellesleyconservationcouncil.org/cronks-rocky-woodland.html
and Pippa and Judith (Cronk's Neighborhood Stewards)
invites you to join your neighbors
for hot cider and donuts at
Cronk’s Rocky Woodland
Sunday, November 13th at 2-4PM
18 Crown Ridge Road
Come enjoy an open fire and celebrate our new fire screen,
explore the charming Hansel and Gretel cottage,
and learn how you can help “Cronk’s” continue as the
wildflower garden that Gertrude Cronk established
in the 1930s for all our neighborhoods to enjoy in perpetuity.
Cronk’s Rocky Woodland Hot Cider Event
website: http://www.wellesleyconservationcouncil.org/cronks-rocky-woodland.html
Free Volunteer Training Programs
This 4-session “in the field” invasive removal training, sponsored by the Wellesley Conservation Land Trust (WCLT), will be offered to a selected group of volunteers looking to improve WCLT’s natural spaces. No prior experience or skills required – just an enthusiasm for nature and helping to improve natural habitat. Participants will be expected to volunteer to lead at least 2 future invasive plant control ½-day sessions on WCLT sites. Training will occur on Wellesley open spaces over the late fall and winter in preparation for offering sessions next spring and fall. Certificates will be awarded.
Additional training programs (“Leading Guided Native Walks” and “How to Monitor Conservation Properties”) are in development for 2023. Write a short paragraph about why you want to be a Wellesley Weed Warrior and your availability to lead sessions.
If you are interested in the Weed Warrior program, complete the online form. You can indicate your interest in the other two program using the same form, or submit the paragraph to info@WellesleyConservationLandTrust.org.
You will be notified when selections are made.
Additional training programs (“Leading Guided Native Walks” and “How to Monitor Conservation Properties”) are in development for 2023. Write a short paragraph about why you want to be a Wellesley Weed Warrior and your availability to lead sessions.
If you are interested in the Weed Warrior program, complete the online form. You can indicate your interest in the other two program using the same form, or submit the paragraph to info@WellesleyConservationLandTrust.org.
You will be notified when selections are made.
Wellesley Conservation Land Trust’s
with Co-sponsor: Wellesley Free Library
Annual Fall Lecture (IN PERSON!)
Co-sponsors: Wellesley Free Library
Owls Up Close
Co-sponsors: Wellesley Free Library
Owls Up Close
Photo (c) by evanrichman.com
Marcia and Mark Wilson, Eyes on Owls
teacher/naturalist and author/photographer/naturalist
Thursday, October 27, 2022 – 6:30pm
Wellesley Free Library
Join Marcia and Mark Wilson and SIX Live Owls for an exciting evening. Learn owl field markings and skills you can use to find owls in the wild. Participate in a hooting lesson and see owls up close and personal.
For all ages.
Halloween Costumes and Masks are optional
Come one and All – It will be a Hoooot!!!
Marcia and Mark Wilson, Eyes on Owls
teacher/naturalist and author/photographer/naturalist
Thursday, October 27, 2022 – 6:30pm
Wellesley Free Library
Join Marcia and Mark Wilson and SIX Live Owls for an exciting evening. Learn owl field markings and skills you can use to find owls in the wild. Participate in a hooting lesson and see owls up close and personal.
For all ages.
Halloween Costumes and Masks are optional
Come one and All – It will be a Hoooot!!!
Summary of Upcoming Fall Events:
Remaining planned events for Fall 2022:
- Tips for Fall Hawk Watching from our friends at Mass Audubon
- October 27, Thursday, 6:30PM Owls Up Close in person event at Wellesley Free Library, Wakelin Room.
- October 30, Sunday, 8AM join our friends at Wellesley Trails Committee for the 11-mile Wellesley Grand Tour Hike
- October 30, Sunday, 11AM join our friends at Weston Forest & Trail for a border-to-border 9 mile nature walk from Lincoln to Wellesley.
- October 31, Monday, 3PM Deadline for the Community Green Art Project to create a holiday ornament, sponsored by our friends at the NRC to benefit Elm Bank.
- November 13, Sunday, 2-4PM All are invited for the annual Cronk's Hot Cider and Donuts Community Event.
Bat Walk: Tuesday, July 26th
Tuesday, July 26th, 8:00-9:30PM
Come see, hear, and learn about bats in Wellesley! See a real bat detector in action. Did you know bats eat a few thousand mosquitoes every night? Meet at the Morses Pond gate at the end of Turner Road. Park on the North 40 (wooded) side of the street.
A Wellesley Conservation Land Trust sponsored summer event, led by board member Bill Giezentanner.
Come see, hear, and learn about bats in Wellesley! See a real bat detector in action. Did you know bats eat a few thousand mosquitoes every night? Meet at the Morses Pond gate at the end of Turner Road. Park on the North 40 (wooded) side of the street.
A Wellesley Conservation Land Trust sponsored summer event, led by board member Bill Giezentanner.
North 40 Nature Scavenger Hunt
Saturday, June 18th, 10am-11:30am
Explore Wellesley's North 40 as you search for real animal bones and other natural object using clues provided. A great family activity for the outdoors on the maintained trails! Meet at the entrance to the North 40 vernal pool boardwalk opposite 11 Turner Road, Wellesley. Park on the North 40 (wooded) side of the street. Rain date is Sunday, June 19th at 10am.
Explore Wellesley's North 40 as you search for real animal bones and other natural object using clues provided. A great family activity for the outdoors on the maintained trails! Meet at the entrance to the North 40 vernal pool boardwalk opposite 11 Turner Road, Wellesley. Park on the North 40 (wooded) side of the street. Rain date is Sunday, June 19th at 10am.
Wellesley Conservation Land Trust’s
Annual Spring Lecture (Zoom)
Co-sponsors: Wellesley Free Library, Sustainable Wellesley, and Wellesley’s Natural Resources Commission
Landscaping & Gardening for Wildlife
Presented by Tia Pinney, Teacher Naturalist, MassAudubon
Wednesday, May 18, 2022 @7:30pm
Co-sponsors: Wellesley Free Library, Sustainable Wellesley, and Wellesley’s Natural Resources Commission
Landscaping & Gardening for Wildlife
Presented by Tia Pinney, Teacher Naturalist, MassAudubon
Wednesday, May 18, 2022 @7:30pm
Register in advance for the Zoom talk:
https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZEldO6oqzIpGtf0ZG204lL1Bj5FX6MiIyTU
Landscaping & Gardening for Wildlife: Do you have a true green thumb? Meaning, are you taking into account the complete ecosystem around the land you care for? Learn how you can support local species by utilizing wildlife-friendly gardening practices in your home, business, and community settings. Simple, easy actions like keeping fall leaves on the ground could have huge effects, and bring in more butterflies, come spring! Learn about what to do, and not do, in your yard, garden, or even container, to support nearby birds, frogs, pollinators, and more in a sustainable fashion.
Tia Pinney has been a Teacher Naturalist with Mass Audubon for over 20 years, teaching visitors of all ages. She was the lead educator for our Field Naturalist Certificate Program for 3 seasons, and has worked on Ecological Restoration projects at Drumlin Farm. Before coming to Mass Audubon, Tia was a high school science teacher.
https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZEldO6oqzIpGtf0ZG204lL1Bj5FX6MiIyTU
Landscaping & Gardening for Wildlife: Do you have a true green thumb? Meaning, are you taking into account the complete ecosystem around the land you care for? Learn how you can support local species by utilizing wildlife-friendly gardening practices in your home, business, and community settings. Simple, easy actions like keeping fall leaves on the ground could have huge effects, and bring in more butterflies, come spring! Learn about what to do, and not do, in your yard, garden, or even container, to support nearby birds, frogs, pollinators, and more in a sustainable fashion.
Tia Pinney has been a Teacher Naturalist with Mass Audubon for over 20 years, teaching visitors of all ages. She was the lead educator for our Field Naturalist Certificate Program for 3 seasons, and has worked on Ecological Restoration projects at Drumlin Farm. Before coming to Mass Audubon, Tia was a high school science teacher.
Rock Talks and Walks: The Geologic History of Wellesley
Wellesley Conservation Land Trust Educational Series
Co-sponsored with the Natural Resources Commission and the Wellesley Free Library
The Geologic History of Wellesley
Two-Part Geology Talks followed by Four Geology Field Walks
Presented by Wellesley Amateur Geologists
Part 1: Surficial Deposits -- Thursday, April 14 at 7:00PM
Part 2: Bedrock -- Tuesday, April 26 at 7:00PM
Co-sponsored with the Natural Resources Commission and the Wellesley Free Library
The Geologic History of Wellesley
Two-Part Geology Talks followed by Four Geology Field Walks
Presented by Wellesley Amateur Geologists
Part 1: Surficial Deposits -- Thursday, April 14 at 7:00PM
Part 2: Bedrock -- Tuesday, April 26 at 7:00PM
Learn why Wellesley’s “Problem Rock” at Grove Street & Dover Road is a problem! (Photo: Chris Crowley)
Register in advance for the two-part talks:
https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZUqdu-hpz0oG9Vg2RDYKVydqo8oeXOMcoBQ
Details coming soon for the field walks!
These visually inspiring presentations will cover 800 million years of geologic history in Wellesley, from the town’s beginning on an island arc off Africa to the formation of an extensive lake that covered over half the town. Much of the history of the geologically significant Boston Basin can be found in Wellesley, owing to the town’s unique position between fault zones and (previously) under a mile-thick continental ice sheet. Presented by:
Register in advance for the two-part talks:
https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZUqdu-hpz0oG9Vg2RDYKVydqo8oeXOMcoBQ
Details coming soon for the field walks!
These visually inspiring presentations will cover 800 million years of geologic history in Wellesley, from the town’s beginning on an island arc off Africa to the formation of an extensive lake that covered over half the town. Much of the history of the geologically significant Boston Basin can be found in Wellesley, owing to the town’s unique position between fault zones and (previously) under a mile-thick continental ice sheet. Presented by:
- Chris Crowley. Chris is an amateur naturalist and 26 year resident of Wellesley, who used his Covid semi-confinement to research and photograph the 56 local geological sites identified in Fowler-Billings' “The Geological Story of Wellesley.”
- Alisa Fine. Alisa has an MA in geography from the University of Colorado-Boulder and 2 young boys whom she hopes will grow up to love rocks and the outdoors as much as she does.
- Mike Thonis. Mike has a graduate degree in earth science from MIT, and is a trustee of the Boston Museum of Science, having previously been a trustee of the Geological Society of America Foundation.
Patch of Woods Sanctuary Cleanup - Saturday, December 4th. 9:00-11:30AM
The Wellesley Conservation Land Trust invites you to help us clean up Patch of Woods sanctuary, located at 138 Glen Road, on Saturday, December 4th from 9:00 to 11:30AM.
(Severe weather/rain date Sunday, December 5th.)
We will pickup litter, outline an old trail with logs, and remove invasive plants including Norway maple saplings. Wild turkeys and deer can often be seen near Cold Spring Brook which runs behind the property. You can find more information about Patch of Woods here.
Park across the street on Dean Road. Please sign up here.
"Creatures of the Night" A Zoom Double-Feature Event, Thursday October 28th
Wellesley Conservation Land Trust Educational Series
Co-sponsored with the Wellesley Free Library, Natural Resources Commission, and Sustainable Wellesley
Get Ready for Halloween: A Double Bill
“Creepy Crawlies” and “Creatures of the Night”
Presented by Joy Marzolf
Co-sponsored with the Wellesley Free Library, Natural Resources Commission, and Sustainable Wellesley
Get Ready for Halloween: A Double Bill
“Creepy Crawlies” and “Creatures of the Night”
Presented by Joy Marzolf
Thursday, October 28 at 7:00PM via Zoom
Register in advance for this one hour virtual educational event:
https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZYldumsqDIsGdVFaqFVXmtkR5ol8Kn5O2OI
From bats to fireflies, frogs and more, learn about the animals that come out in our neighborhoods at night. Many of these animals include important predators, such as bats, frogs and owls, and help us unseen under the cover of darkness. And does “Creepy Crawlies” need further explanation?!
Joy Marzolf, former naturalist and educator for over 13 years at Mass Audubon's Broadmoor Wildlife Sanctuary and now with her own company The Joys of Nature, will provide you with amazing photos, videos, and stories of our spooky Wellesley wildlife.
Designed for families of all ages. Pre-registration is required here.
Register in advance for this one hour virtual educational event:
https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZYldumsqDIsGdVFaqFVXmtkR5ol8Kn5O2OI
From bats to fireflies, frogs and more, learn about the animals that come out in our neighborhoods at night. Many of these animals include important predators, such as bats, frogs and owls, and help us unseen under the cover of darkness. And does “Creepy Crawlies” need further explanation?!
Joy Marzolf, former naturalist and educator for over 13 years at Mass Audubon's Broadmoor Wildlife Sanctuary and now with her own company The Joys of Nature, will provide you with amazing photos, videos, and stories of our spooky Wellesley wildlife.
Designed for families of all ages. Pre-registration is required here.
Hot Cider Community Event at Cronk's - Sunday, October 24th
The Wellesley Conservation Land Trust
invites you to join your neighbors
for hot cider at
Cronk’s Rocky Woodland
Sunday, October 24th at 4-5:30PM
18 Crown Ridge Road
Come enjoy an open fire and celebrate our new fire screen,
explore the charming Hansel and Gretel cottage,
and learn how you can help “Cronk’s” continue as the
wildflower garden that Gertrude Cronk established
in the 1930s for all our neighborhoods to enjoy in perpetuity.
Cronk’s Rocky Woodland Hot Cider Event
website: http://www.wellesleyconservationcouncil.org/cronks-rocky-woodland.html
invites you to join your neighbors
for hot cider at
Cronk’s Rocky Woodland
Sunday, October 24th at 4-5:30PM
18 Crown Ridge Road
Come enjoy an open fire and celebrate our new fire screen,
explore the charming Hansel and Gretel cottage,
and learn how you can help “Cronk’s” continue as the
wildflower garden that Gertrude Cronk established
in the 1930s for all our neighborhoods to enjoy in perpetuity.
Cronk’s Rocky Woodland Hot Cider Event
website: http://www.wellesleyconservationcouncil.org/cronks-rocky-woodland.html
Wellesley Conservation Land Trust Virtual Education Series
Co-sponsored with the Natural Resources Commission, Sustainable Wellesley, and Wellesley Free Library
Flower Power:
How Native Plants can Save our Bugs and Birds
A 3-Part "How-To" Educational Seminar
Thursdays, April 29th, May 6th, May 13th – 7PM
Co-sponsored with the Natural Resources Commission, Sustainable Wellesley, and Wellesley Free Library
Flower Power:
How Native Plants can Save our Bugs and Birds
A 3-Part "How-To" Educational Seminar
Thursdays, April 29th, May 6th, May 13th – 7PM
Register in advance for these educational events:
https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZ0lc-yvrD8vH9fUXQjQhh95VXQwA5eenpQ9
7:00 PM on the following Thursdays:
April 29
Creating Living Landscapes to Restore Nature’s Relationships
Doug Tallamy, PhD (Encore presentation of 2017 Wellesley Natural Resources Commission Seminar) Followed by Question and Answer Session with Heather Rose Mattila, PhD, Associate Professor of Biological Sciences, Wellesley College
May 6
Designing a Native Plant Garden:
Bringing Native Plants Beautifully into Your Yard
Amanda Sloan, RLA, ASLA, Principal Landscape Architect at Rain Garden Design Studio
May 13
Rethinking Yard Care: Do Less and Save More
Anna Fialkoff, MS, Program Manager at Wild Seed Project and
George Carrette, Owner and Operator, EcoQuiet Lawn Care
Pre-registration is required. One registration will provide access to all three events. Attend one or all!
For more information, see https://wellesleyma.gov/1629/Pollinate-Wellesley
https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZ0lc-yvrD8vH9fUXQjQhh95VXQwA5eenpQ9
7:00 PM on the following Thursdays:
April 29
Creating Living Landscapes to Restore Nature’s Relationships
Doug Tallamy, PhD (Encore presentation of 2017 Wellesley Natural Resources Commission Seminar) Followed by Question and Answer Session with Heather Rose Mattila, PhD, Associate Professor of Biological Sciences, Wellesley College
May 6
Designing a Native Plant Garden:
Bringing Native Plants Beautifully into Your Yard
Amanda Sloan, RLA, ASLA, Principal Landscape Architect at Rain Garden Design Studio
May 13
Rethinking Yard Care: Do Less and Save More
Anna Fialkoff, MS, Program Manager at Wild Seed Project and
George Carrette, Owner and Operator, EcoQuiet Lawn Care
Pre-registration is required. One registration will provide access to all three events. Attend one or all!
For more information, see https://wellesleyma.gov/1629/Pollinate-Wellesley
Wellesley Conservation Land Trust Virtual Education Series
Co-sponsored with the Wellesley Free Library, Natural Resources Commission, and Sustainable Wellesley
"Fairies, Frogs, and Damsels!"
Spring & Summer Wildlife of Vernal Pools: Part 2
With Joy Marzolf
Wednesday, April 14, 2021 – 4pm
Co-sponsored with the Wellesley Free Library, Natural Resources Commission, and Sustainable Wellesley
"Fairies, Frogs, and Damsels!"
Spring & Summer Wildlife of Vernal Pools: Part 2
With Joy Marzolf
Wednesday, April 14, 2021 – 4pm
Register in advance for this half-hour virtual educational event:
https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZAvdemhpj0iHNFm3-qxv70k4cfNvPPZfn11
Tune in and learn about the spring and summer wildlife that exist in vernal pools. In the spring, vernal pool animals are often in a race against time for survival before the pool dries up during the summer. From fairy shrimp to damselflies, green frogs and painted turtles, learn about these seasonal pools and the many creatures that might inhabit them. A Question and Answer session follows.
Joy Marzolf, former naturalist and educator for over 13 years at Mass Audubon's Broadmoor Wildlife Sanctuary and now with her own company, The Joys of Nature, will provide the answers to your questions and provide tips for exploring Wellesley’s vernal pools.
Designed for children of all ages. Pre-registration is required.
For more information, see https://www.facebook.com/events/3548063445308312
https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZAvdemhpj0iHNFm3-qxv70k4cfNvPPZfn11
Tune in and learn about the spring and summer wildlife that exist in vernal pools. In the spring, vernal pool animals are often in a race against time for survival before the pool dries up during the summer. From fairy shrimp to damselflies, green frogs and painted turtles, learn about these seasonal pools and the many creatures that might inhabit them. A Question and Answer session follows.
Joy Marzolf, former naturalist and educator for over 13 years at Mass Audubon's Broadmoor Wildlife Sanctuary and now with her own company, The Joys of Nature, will provide the answers to your questions and provide tips for exploring Wellesley’s vernal pools.
Designed for children of all ages. Pre-registration is required.
For more information, see https://www.facebook.com/events/3548063445308312
Wellesley Conservation Land Trust Virtual Education Series
Co-sponsored with the Wellesley Free Library, Natural Resources Commission, and Sustainable Wellesley
"Weird and Wonderful Skunk Cabbage"
Spring's First Wildflower: The Engine that Can
With Judy Barr
Wednesday, March 24, 2021 – 4pm
Co-sponsored with the Wellesley Free Library, Natural Resources Commission, and Sustainable Wellesley
"Weird and Wonderful Skunk Cabbage"
Spring's First Wildflower: The Engine that Can
With Judy Barr
Wednesday, March 24, 2021 – 4pm
Register in advance for this half-hour virtual educational event:
https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZEkfumrrjspHdViHn5Wx5n00yTISrPKffMb
Skunk cabbages are the earliest wildflowers in the spring. But the flowers don’t look like flowers, and the leaves don’t look like leaves…
What do their flowers and leaves look like?
How does this weird plant burrow thru snow?
What is the rest of the life cycle of this amazing plant?
Where can you find them in Wellesley?
Note: If you love purple and green, you will love this plant!!!!
Designed for families and children of all ages. Pre-registration is required.
For more information, see https://www.facebook.com/events/3548063445308312
https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZEkfumrrjspHdViHn5Wx5n00yTISrPKffMb
Skunk cabbages are the earliest wildflowers in the spring. But the flowers don’t look like flowers, and the leaves don’t look like leaves…
What do their flowers and leaves look like?
How does this weird plant burrow thru snow?
What is the rest of the life cycle of this amazing plant?
Where can you find them in Wellesley?
Note: If you love purple and green, you will love this plant!!!!
Designed for families and children of all ages. Pre-registration is required.
For more information, see https://www.facebook.com/events/3548063445308312
Wellesley Conservation Land Trust Virtual Education Series
Co-sponsored with the Wellesley Free Library, Natural Resources Commission, and Sustainable Wellesley
"Super Frogs!"
Early Spring Wildlife of Vernal Pools: Part 1
With Joy Marzolf
Wednesday, March 10, 2021 – 4pm
Co-sponsored with the Wellesley Free Library, Natural Resources Commission, and Sustainable Wellesley
"Super Frogs!"
Early Spring Wildlife of Vernal Pools: Part 1
With Joy Marzolf
Wednesday, March 10, 2021 – 4pm
Register in advance for this half-hour virtual educational event:
https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZIlceiqpjsqE9PuHklxlyXPC4vXy4KQPHZZ
• WHAT is a vernal pool?
• WHO are the “super frogs” that live in the vernal pool early in the spring?
• HOW do these special frogs survive and thrive in these conditions?
• WHERE are some vernal pools in Wellesley?
• WHY are vernal pools important?
Joy Marzolf, former naturalist and educator for over 13 years at Mass Audubon's Broadmoor Wildlife Sanctuary and now with her own company, The Joys of Nature, will provide the answers to your questions and provide tips for exploring Wellesley’s vernal pools.
Designed for children of all ages. Pre-registration is required.
For more information, see https://www.facebook.com/events/3548063445308312
https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZIlceiqpjsqE9PuHklxlyXPC4vXy4KQPHZZ
• WHAT is a vernal pool?
• WHO are the “super frogs” that live in the vernal pool early in the spring?
• HOW do these special frogs survive and thrive in these conditions?
• WHERE are some vernal pools in Wellesley?
• WHY are vernal pools important?
Joy Marzolf, former naturalist and educator for over 13 years at Mass Audubon's Broadmoor Wildlife Sanctuary and now with her own company, The Joys of Nature, will provide the answers to your questions and provide tips for exploring Wellesley’s vernal pools.
Designed for children of all ages. Pre-registration is required.
For more information, see https://www.facebook.com/events/3548063445308312
Wellesley Conservation Land Trust Virtual Education Series
Co-sponsored with the Wellesley Free Library, Natural Resources Commission, and Sustainable Wellesley
"Problems with Invasive Shrubs: Identify, Remove, Replace"
Tuesday, February 23, 2021 – 7pm
Co-sponsored with the Wellesley Free Library, Natural Resources Commission, and Sustainable Wellesley
"Problems with Invasive Shrubs: Identify, Remove, Replace"
Tuesday, February 23, 2021 – 7pm
With Cricket Vlass
Town of Wellesley's Horticulturist and Landscape Planner
View recording on Youtube above (1hr 15min)
Downloadable reference handout of native alternatives here.
Downloadable handout of the slides here.
Invasive plants are not only a threat to conservation lands, they also pose a threat in your yard.
In this 1-hr WCLT webinar, learn from Cricket Vlass, Town of Wellesley’s Horticulturist and Landscape Planner:
WHY invasive shrubs are a threat not only to native plants but also to wildlife such as birds and butterflies
WHAT are six types of local invasive shrubs: burning bush, oriental bittersweet, bush honeysuckle, Japanese barberry, glossy buckthorn, and multiflora rose
HOW to identify and remove these invasive shrubs
WHAT are native plants that can be used to replace these invasives
For more information, see https://www.facebook.com/events/759676844651729/
Town of Wellesley's Horticulturist and Landscape Planner
View recording on Youtube above (1hr 15min)
Downloadable reference handout of native alternatives here.
Downloadable handout of the slides here.
Invasive plants are not only a threat to conservation lands, they also pose a threat in your yard.
In this 1-hr WCLT webinar, learn from Cricket Vlass, Town of Wellesley’s Horticulturist and Landscape Planner:
WHY invasive shrubs are a threat not only to native plants but also to wildlife such as birds and butterflies
WHAT are six types of local invasive shrubs: burning bush, oriental bittersweet, bush honeysuckle, Japanese barberry, glossy buckthorn, and multiflora rose
HOW to identify and remove these invasive shrubs
WHAT are native plants that can be used to replace these invasives
For more information, see https://www.facebook.com/events/759676844651729/
Wellesley Conservation Land Trust Virtual Education Series
Co-sponsored with the Wellesley Free Library
"Winter Furry and Fuzzy Critters in Wellesley Backyards"
With Joy Marzolf
Co-sponsored with the Wellesley Free Library
"Winter Furry and Fuzzy Critters in Wellesley Backyards"
With Joy Marzolf
Joy Marzolf on an Excursion
Wednesday, January 13th, 2021 – 4pm
Register in advance for this educational event:
https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZEqc-GrrDMrGN2Vh2u5HAkDHoDso6FAL6NT
After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the meeting.
Do you wonder what animals may be living in or visiting your backyard this winter?
Or how you can identify mammals by the tracks they leave in the snow or mud?
For answers to these and more questions, tune in for this post-holiday 30-minute Zoom webinar brought to you by the Wellesley Conservation Land Trust, co-sponsored by the Wellesley Free Library.
Joy Marzolf, former naturalist and educator for over 13 years at Mass Audubon's Broadmoor Wildlife Sanctuary and now with her own company, The Joys of Nature, will provide the answers to your questions and provide tips you can use to identify animals in your backyard by their tracks.
Designed for children of all ages, registration is required.
For more information, see https://www.facebook.com/events/3548063445308312
Wednesday, January 13th, 2021 – 4pm
Register in advance for this educational event:
https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZEqc-GrrDMrGN2Vh2u5HAkDHoDso6FAL6NT
After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the meeting.
Do you wonder what animals may be living in or visiting your backyard this winter?
Or how you can identify mammals by the tracks they leave in the snow or mud?
For answers to these and more questions, tune in for this post-holiday 30-minute Zoom webinar brought to you by the Wellesley Conservation Land Trust, co-sponsored by the Wellesley Free Library.
Joy Marzolf, former naturalist and educator for over 13 years at Mass Audubon's Broadmoor Wildlife Sanctuary and now with her own company, The Joys of Nature, will provide the answers to your questions and provide tips you can use to identify animals in your backyard by their tracks.
Designed for children of all ages, registration is required.
For more information, see https://www.facebook.com/events/3548063445308312
Wellesley Conservation Land Trust Spring Lecture
Co-sponsored with the Wellesley Free Library
Wellesley's Wonderful Wildlife:
Live Animal Program featuring Creature Teachers!
Co-sponsored with the Wellesley Free Library
Wellesley's Wonderful Wildlife:
Live Animal Program featuring Creature Teachers!
Richard Roth with some of his friends
Cancelled due to COVID
Wakelin Room, Wellesley Free Library
Richard Roth, owner of Creature Teachers, will fascinate the audience with the wonders and diversity of wild animals--both regional and exotic. Rick will show off captive-bred animals that can be found in Wellesley backyards and explain how the protection of open spaces are so important to the diversity of wildlife in Wellesley.
Rick has lived his whole life with animals. His father, Charles Roth, was Director of Education and Chief Naturalist for the Massachusetts Audubon Society for many years. Educated as an Aquaculturist, Rick has had a diverse career with one common denominator...Animals. He has been the director for several small zoos and has a great reputation as a wildlife artist.
Kid friendly, free, and animals to view will be on hand! For more information, see https://www.facebook.com/events/3005725939471481/
Cancelled due to COVID
Wakelin Room, Wellesley Free Library
Richard Roth, owner of Creature Teachers, will fascinate the audience with the wonders and diversity of wild animals--both regional and exotic. Rick will show off captive-bred animals that can be found in Wellesley backyards and explain how the protection of open spaces are so important to the diversity of wildlife in Wellesley.
Rick has lived his whole life with animals. His father, Charles Roth, was Director of Education and Chief Naturalist for the Massachusetts Audubon Society for many years. Educated as an Aquaculturist, Rick has had a diverse career with one common denominator...Animals. He has been the director for several small zoos and has a great reputation as a wildlife artist.
Kid friendly, free, and animals to view will be on hand! For more information, see https://www.facebook.com/events/3005725939471481/
Wellesley Conservation Council Fall Lecture
Co-sponsored with the Wellesley Free Library
Dinosaurs, Dunes, and Drifting Continents:
The Amazing Geologic History of Massachusetts
Co-sponsored with the Wellesley Free Library
Dinosaurs, Dunes, and Drifting Continents:
The Amazing Geologic History of Massachusetts
Tuesday, October 22nd, 2019 – 7:00pm
Wakelin Room, Wellesley Free Library
Professor Richard Little, recognized authority on the geologic history of the Connecticut River Valley, will provide a fast-paced and illustrated program on the geologic processes that built our region. Specific topics will touch on Wellesley's notable pudding stones (like "Problem Rock") and focus primarily on the amazing geologic history that has resulted in a landscape unlike the rest of New England. Wellesley's geologic journey from a tropical location on a super-continent to our current mid-latitude location through tectonic plate collisions and continental drifting that continue to this day will be examined.
Professor Little will also examine the Jurassic Period environment of the Connecticut River Valley, including the formation of the rare "Armoured Mud Balls" found in its Jurassic sandstone formations. There will also be a discussion of the last glacial era in our area that resulted in the formation of New England's Lake Hitchcock that drained 14,000 years ago leaving behind the Connecticut River Valley that we see today.
There are many dramatic and important stories hidden in plain sight in rocks and landscapes. This program will help the audience interpret these amazing Earth stories.
Richard D. Little, Prof. Emeritus, Greenfield Community College, leads small group tours to outstanding geological sites in the Connecticut Valley, North America’s National Parks, and Iceland. Richard D. Little has a BA from Clark University and an MA from the University of Southern California. He has taught at Greenfield Community College, Antioch New England, and Deerfield Academy and has published 2 books and produced 2 videos about the geology of the Connecticut River Valley.
Kid friendly and fossils to touch will be on hand. More info@wellesleyconservationcouncil.org.
Wakelin Room, Wellesley Free Library
Professor Richard Little, recognized authority on the geologic history of the Connecticut River Valley, will provide a fast-paced and illustrated program on the geologic processes that built our region. Specific topics will touch on Wellesley's notable pudding stones (like "Problem Rock") and focus primarily on the amazing geologic history that has resulted in a landscape unlike the rest of New England. Wellesley's geologic journey from a tropical location on a super-continent to our current mid-latitude location through tectonic plate collisions and continental drifting that continue to this day will be examined.
Professor Little will also examine the Jurassic Period environment of the Connecticut River Valley, including the formation of the rare "Armoured Mud Balls" found in its Jurassic sandstone formations. There will also be a discussion of the last glacial era in our area that resulted in the formation of New England's Lake Hitchcock that drained 14,000 years ago leaving behind the Connecticut River Valley that we see today.
There are many dramatic and important stories hidden in plain sight in rocks and landscapes. This program will help the audience interpret these amazing Earth stories.
Richard D. Little, Prof. Emeritus, Greenfield Community College, leads small group tours to outstanding geological sites in the Connecticut Valley, North America’s National Parks, and Iceland. Richard D. Little has a BA from Clark University and an MA from the University of Southern California. He has taught at Greenfield Community College, Antioch New England, and Deerfield Academy and has published 2 books and produced 2 videos about the geology of the Connecticut River Valley.
Kid friendly and fossils to touch will be on hand. More info@wellesleyconservationcouncil.org.
Cronk's Rocky Woodland Open Gardens, Sunday June 9th, 2019 at 3PM
The Wellesley Conservation Council
invites you to join your neighbors
for Spring Open Open Gardens at
Cronk’s Rocky Woodland
Sunday, June 9th at 3-4:30PM
20 Crown Ridge Road
Come enjoy the spring flowers among music,
explore the charming moss-covered Hansel and Gretel cottage,
and learn how you can help “Cronk’s” continue as the
wildflower garden that Gertrude Cronk established
in the 1930s for all our neighborhoods to enjoy in perpetuity.
invites you to join your neighbors
for Spring Open Open Gardens at
Cronk’s Rocky Woodland
Sunday, June 9th at 3-4:30PM
20 Crown Ridge Road
Come enjoy the spring flowers among music,
explore the charming moss-covered Hansel and Gretel cottage,
and learn how you can help “Cronk’s” continue as the
wildflower garden that Gertrude Cronk established
in the 1930s for all our neighborhoods to enjoy in perpetuity.
Wellesley Nature Challenge Walks: Friday-Monday April 26-29
Each time slot offers multiple walks, Starting locations below.
We need you to be a Citizen Scientist and capture the bio-diversity in Wellesley's wild spaces!
Friday, April 26
10a-noon: Longfellow Pond and Town Forest; Guernsey Sanctuary, Morses Pond; North 40 Vernal Pool
3-5:00p: Centennial Reservation; Morses Pond
Saturday, April 27
9a-noon: Charles River
10a-noon: Guernsey Sanctuary; Morses Pond
3-5:00p: Boulder Brook Reservation; Centennial Reservation; Guernsey Sanctuary; North 40 Vernal Pool
Sunday, April 28
10a-noon: Boulder Brook Reservation; Guernsey Sanctuary; Morses Pond; North 40 Vernal Pool
3-5:00p: Boulder Brook Reservation; Guernsey Sanctuary
Monday, April 29
10a-noon: Morses Pond; North 40 Vernal Pool
3-5:00p: North 40 Vernal Pool, Boulder Brook Reservation
STARTING LOCATIONS
Boulder Brook Reservation -- 68 Elmwood Road
Charles River – Behind office building at 1 Washington St
Centennial – 135 Oakland Street
Guernsey Sanctuary – 163 Winding River Rd
Longfellow Pond - Parking lot at 224 Oakland Street
Morses Pond – End of Turner Rd
North 40 Vernal Pool – Beginning of Turner Rd on left of of Weston Road
We need you to be a Citizen Scientist and capture the bio-diversity in Wellesley's wild spaces!
Friday, April 26
10a-noon: Longfellow Pond and Town Forest; Guernsey Sanctuary, Morses Pond; North 40 Vernal Pool
3-5:00p: Centennial Reservation; Morses Pond
Saturday, April 27
9a-noon: Charles River
10a-noon: Guernsey Sanctuary; Morses Pond
3-5:00p: Boulder Brook Reservation; Centennial Reservation; Guernsey Sanctuary; North 40 Vernal Pool
Sunday, April 28
10a-noon: Boulder Brook Reservation; Guernsey Sanctuary; Morses Pond; North 40 Vernal Pool
3-5:00p: Boulder Brook Reservation; Guernsey Sanctuary
Monday, April 29
10a-noon: Morses Pond; North 40 Vernal Pool
3-5:00p: North 40 Vernal Pool, Boulder Brook Reservation
STARTING LOCATIONS
Boulder Brook Reservation -- 68 Elmwood Road
Charles River – Behind office building at 1 Washington St
Centennial – 135 Oakland Street
Guernsey Sanctuary – 163 Winding River Rd
Longfellow Pond - Parking lot at 224 Oakland Street
Morses Pond – End of Turner Rd
North 40 Vernal Pool – Beginning of Turner Rd on left of of Weston Road
Wellesley Conservation Council Spring Lecture
Co-sponsored with the Natural Resources Commission and the Wellesley Free Library
"Community Conservation: Health, Climate, and Economic Benefits"
Co-sponsored with the Natural Resources Commission and the Wellesley Free Library
"Community Conservation: Health, Climate, and Economic Benefits"
Monday, April 22nd, 2019 – 7:00pm
Wakelin Room, Wellesley Free Library
Dr. Spencer Meyer, Sr. Conservationist from Highstead Foundation and the Harvard Forest will discuss how local conservation is a key component of the Wildlands and Woodlands vision for the future of New England. He will share lessons from successful conservation collaboratives around New England and talk about new research showing that protected open space is not only critical to preserving critical ecosystems, but also provides health, climate, and economic benefits to our communities. There will be ample time to discuss current conservation efforts in Wellesley, how our community can expand our initiatives, and how our work fits into a larger connected landscape.
This event kicks off a series of local conservation activities this spring including Wellesley's own City Nature Challenge inventory bio-blitz April 26-29th. More details here. For the latest information: wellesleyconservationcouncil.org/upcoming-events
The Wellesley Conservation Council Annual Meeting for the election of officers and board members will precede the program at 6:30pm.
Wakelin Room, Wellesley Free Library
Dr. Spencer Meyer, Sr. Conservationist from Highstead Foundation and the Harvard Forest will discuss how local conservation is a key component of the Wildlands and Woodlands vision for the future of New England. He will share lessons from successful conservation collaboratives around New England and talk about new research showing that protected open space is not only critical to preserving critical ecosystems, but also provides health, climate, and economic benefits to our communities. There will be ample time to discuss current conservation efforts in Wellesley, how our community can expand our initiatives, and how our work fits into a larger connected landscape.
This event kicks off a series of local conservation activities this spring including Wellesley's own City Nature Challenge inventory bio-blitz April 26-29th. More details here. For the latest information: wellesleyconservationcouncil.org/upcoming-events
The Wellesley Conservation Council Annual Meeting for the election of officers and board members will precede the program at 6:30pm.
Eco Youth Summer Program
Eco Summer Program is a week-long exploration for 12 youth with the Wellesley Youth Commission the week July 15-19, 2019, from 9:30 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. Highlights for this program include:
- Hands-on fishing demonstrations by Massachusetts Department of Fish & Game
- Wilderness survival and fire-building
- Experimentation with drones
- Kayaking, swimming and shoreline restoration
- Learn about how to protect and preserve the natural environment in Wellesley
Open Gardens at Cronk's Rocky Woodland, Sunday June 9th, 2-4PM
The Wellesley Conservation Council
invites you to join your neighbors
to enjoy Open Gardens at
Cronk’s Rocky Woodland
Sunday, June 9th at 2-4PM
18 Crown Ridge Road
See marked native plants and flowers and explore the moss covered "Hansel and Gretel" garden house
built by the Cronk family out of recycled materials over 50 years ago. Come learn how you can
help “Cronk’s” continue as the wildflower garden that Gertrude Cronk established
in the 1930s for all our neighborhoods to enjoy in perpetuity.
invites you to join your neighbors
to enjoy Open Gardens at
Cronk’s Rocky Woodland
Sunday, June 9th at 2-4PM
18 Crown Ridge Road
See marked native plants and flowers and explore the moss covered "Hansel and Gretel" garden house
built by the Cronk family out of recycled materials over 50 years ago. Come learn how you can
help “Cronk’s” continue as the wildflower garden that Gertrude Cronk established
in the 1930s for all our neighborhoods to enjoy in perpetuity.
"Monarch Butterflies – Beauty on the Wing" Spring Lecture April 24th
Wellesley Conservation Council and Wellesley Free Library present:
Monarch Butterflies - Beauty on the Wing
Kim Smith, Naturalist and Award-winning Photographer
Wellesley Conservation Council and Wellesley Free Library present:
Monarch Butterflies - Beauty on the Wing
Kim Smith, Naturalist and Award-winning Photographer
How can Wellesley help Monarchs throughout Their Life Cycle?
Tuesday, April 24, 2018 – 7:00pm
Wakelin Room, Wellesley Free Library
The Monarch’s life story is one of nature’s most incredible examples of adaptation and survival. But the Monarch migration is in great peril. Learn how you can help. Through photographs and discussion, Beauty on the Wing tells the life story of the Monarch Butterfly, the state of the butterflies’ migration and why they are in sharp decline, and the positive steps we can take as individuals and collectively to help the Monarchs recover from devastating effects of habitat loss, climate change, and pesticides.
Kim Smith is an award winning nature author, documentary filmmaker, native plant landscape designer, and naturalist. She specializes in creating pollinator habitat gardens utilizing primarily North American native wildflowers, trees, shrubs, and vines.
The Wellesley Conservation Council Annual Meeting for the election of officers and board members
will precede the program at 6:30pm.
Tuesday, April 24, 2018 – 7:00pm
Wakelin Room, Wellesley Free Library
The Monarch’s life story is one of nature’s most incredible examples of adaptation and survival. But the Monarch migration is in great peril. Learn how you can help. Through photographs and discussion, Beauty on the Wing tells the life story of the Monarch Butterfly, the state of the butterflies’ migration and why they are in sharp decline, and the positive steps we can take as individuals and collectively to help the Monarchs recover from devastating effects of habitat loss, climate change, and pesticides.
Kim Smith is an award winning nature author, documentary filmmaker, native plant landscape designer, and naturalist. She specializes in creating pollinator habitat gardens utilizing primarily North American native wildflowers, trees, shrubs, and vines.
The Wellesley Conservation Council Annual Meeting for the election of officers and board members
will precede the program at 6:30pm.
Hot Cider and Donuts at Cronk's, Sunday November 5th
The Wellesley Conservation Council
invites you to join your neighbors
for hot cider and donuts at
Cronk’s Rocky Woodland
Sunday, November 5th at 3 PM
18 Crown Ridge Road
Come enjoy an open fire, explore the charming Hansel and Gretel cottage,
and learn how you can help “Cronk’s” continue as the
wildflower garden that Gertrude Cronk established
in the 1930s for all our neighborhoods to enjoy in perpetuity.
Cronk’s Rocky Woodland
http://tiny.cc/cronks
invites you to join your neighbors
for hot cider and donuts at
Cronk’s Rocky Woodland
Sunday, November 5th at 3 PM
18 Crown Ridge Road
Come enjoy an open fire, explore the charming Hansel and Gretel cottage,
and learn how you can help “Cronk’s” continue as the
wildflower garden that Gertrude Cronk established
in the 1930s for all our neighborhoods to enjoy in perpetuity.
Cronk’s Rocky Woodland
http://tiny.cc/cronks
Open Gardens at Cronk's Rocky Woodland, June 11th, 2-4PM
The Wellesley Conservation Council announces an Open Garden at Cronk's Rocky Woodland on Sunday, June 11th from 2-4PM, across from 21 Crown Ridge Road. See marked native plants and flowers and explore the moss covered "Hansel and Gretel" garden house built by the Cronk family out of recycled materials over 50 years ago.
Come visit this sanctuary garden and learn more about the family who donated it to the Council in 1977 for the enjoyment of all the residents of Wellesley to be maintained as a native wooded garden.
We also thank Tony Czubarow who organized volunteers for his Eagle Scout project from Wellesley Boy Scout Troop 185 for a sanctuary clean up in preparation for the event. On June 4th, a dozen young men picked up scores of bags of loose leaves to help the native plants and flowers flourish.
More information can be found at http://www.wellesleyconservationcouncil.org/cronks-rocky-woodland.html
Come visit this sanctuary garden and learn more about the family who donated it to the Council in 1977 for the enjoyment of all the residents of Wellesley to be maintained as a native wooded garden.
We also thank Tony Czubarow who organized volunteers for his Eagle Scout project from Wellesley Boy Scout Troop 185 for a sanctuary clean up in preparation for the event. On June 4th, a dozen young men picked up scores of bags of loose leaves to help the native plants and flowers flourish.
More information can be found at http://www.wellesleyconservationcouncil.org/cronks-rocky-woodland.html
Join us October 14th, 2015 for our Annual Fall Presentation!
