AUSTIN — Free programs are being held in February at the Sinnemahoning State Park.
From noon to 2 p.m. Feb. 8 will be snowshoeing for beginners. Snowshoeing is a great way to explore your favorite trails in winter. Snowshoes and trekking poles will be provided. The program will begin indoors with an introduction to snowshoeing equipment and styles, followed by a guided practice instruction on level ground, then a short excursion on the trail. If snow depth is insufficient for snowshoeing, the indoor portion of the program will still be held, followed by a roughly 2-mile nature hike.
Registration is required. Register at: http://eventsreg.dcnr.pa.gov/register/create/48674667236145
Join the Great Backyard Bird Count Feb. 14 to 17.
From 9 to 10:30 a.m. Feb. 15 will be coffee with the birds at the park. Enjoy a cup of coffee, tea, or cocoa, indoors, as we participate in Great Backyard Bird Count and learn to identify the birds visiting the feeders just outside the window. Stop by anytime during the program hours. Meet at the Wildlife Center fireplace.
On Feb. 16, from 9 to 10:30 a.m. will be a winter bird count. Step outside and join a park naturalist in gathering bird count data for the Great Backyard Bird Count. We will explore 40 Maples Day Use Area and find out what birds are using the newly cleared areas during winter. Meet at the 40 Maples Day-Use Area.
On Feb. 17, from 1 to 3 p.m. will be an eagle watch at the Lake Use-Day Area. Stop by the George B. Stevenson Reservoir and scan the Lake in search of overwintering Bald & Golden Eagles for the Great Backyard Bird Count. A park naturalist will be on hand to answer all your eagle conservation & identification questions. Binoculars & spotting scopes provided. Stop by anytime during the program hours.
