Natural Science Programs
Inspired by Wilhelm Reich's interest in the natural environment, the Wilhelm Reich Museum began its Natural Science Program in 1989. Today this program provides year-round environmental educational and recreational activities for all ages, available free of charge to the general public.
Throughout the summer, naturalists and environmental educators utilize Orgonon's 175 acre property of fields, forests, trails, wetlands and shore frontage on Dodge Pond--plus our sheltered Outdoor Classroom and Conference Building--to share their knowledge of the Rangeley Lakes habitat. During the other seasons, the museum sponsors family-oriented workshops, community events, and outreach programs to local schools.
Please join us on Sunday afternoons to gain a greater awareness of Maine’s natural surroundings. Whether you’re a long-time resident, a new member of our community, or visiting for the day or week, you are welcome to attend. Come meet new friends, connect with the natural world around us, and enjoy gaining wisdom from some of our region’s brightest experts.
Here are the programs for the Summer of 2019:
July 7 - Using and Benefitting from Essential Oils and Herbs
Learn about common essential oils and herbs that you can use in your daily life for consumption, aromatherapy, cleaning, and basic first aid. We will make some tea and/or sachet blends, as well as some take-away projects using essential oils. Erin DeCoste, a Special Education Director and 4H Leader, and her daughter, Ayla will share their knowledge.
July 14 - Frogs and Amphibians
Maine amphibians disappear in winter and again in the hottest days of summer. Where do they go and how does a cold blooded animal survive those -20 degree winter days? Which salamanders are the best parents and can tadpoles recognize their siblings?We will discover the secrets of Maine's amazing amphibians. with Jan Collins
July 21 - Foraging for Edible Plants in Rangeley
Join Tina Falasco on a gastronomical walk through some of the beautiful trails at the museum. Take this first step to becoming a knowledgeable, respectful forager, and enjoy some of the most common, overlooked, renewable wild edibles that grow abundantly in the Rangeley area as well as your own backyard!
July 28 - Clues to Identifying Ferns
The presentation will cover basic fern morphology and the clues to identifying them. We will look at preserved specimens and then search for ferns in their natural habitat and practice the clues to identifying them. We will also use a dichotomous key to identify them, with Lynda Fournier, Maine Master Naturalist
August 4 - to be determined
August 11 - Maine Mushrooms: A Mushroom Primer
Returning once again to wow us all with mushroom facts, edible vs. toxic, and how to identify surrounding Maine mushrooms. Bring a magnifying glass, field guides and come listen to and discuss with Michaelene Mulvey all aspects of mushrooms. Michaelene is the Director/President of the Maine Mycological Society.
August 18 - Surviving in the woods of Maine
Start off with how not to get lost. Move on to what to do if you do get lost. Finding/Building shelter. Things to do so you can be found. Stay calm, don't panic. with Ken Rand
August 25 - Signs and Stuctures of Local Insects
Did you ever wonder where all of the bugs go during winter? Have you ever seen an oak or goldenrod gall and wondered what's happening there? Join us to see examples of cocoons, pupae, egg cases and nests made by insects common to Maine. with Anthony Underwood, Maine Master Naturalist
Program Time: 2:00 – 4:00 p.m., Sundays in July and August, rain or shine. Free of charge. For more information, call 207-864-3443.
Meeting Place: Meet at the Outdoor Classroom of the Wilhelm Reich Museum. Drive past the white Office & Conference Building, take the right fork up the hill to the museum parking lot.
Dress Appropriately: These nature programs will include some hiking on the museum's trails. Participants should wear sturdy shoes and clothes appropriate for the weather and bug conditions.
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