Join us for a family literacy snowshoe adventure!

Wander through serene, snow-covered trails with ease using snowshoes and enjoy a story along the way! 

Perfect for the whole family! 

Sleds and snowshoes are available for use on a first come, first served basis. 

About the Instructor

Collaborative Outdoor Education is led by Kelli M Gilzow Stowell, Outdoor Educator from Augusta Adult & Community Education. Family Literacy is appropriate for all ages, abilities, and can usually be modified for inclusivity!

Experience the thrill of fishing at a frozen lake! Learn to use an auger, bait and set your trap! 

Ice fishing equipment is available for use. Stay for a short while, set your own trap, and enjoy some time on the pond! 

About the Instructor

Collaborative Outdoor Education is led by Kelli M Gilzow Stowell, Outdoor Educator from Augusta Adult & Community Education. Family Literacy is appropriate for all ages, abilities, and can usually be modified for inclusivity!

Have you admired the enchanting willow tunnel at Viles Arboretum and thought, I’d love to create something like that? Now’s your chance! Join us for one—or both—of our willow weaving sessions, where you’ll help weave last year’s growth back into the tunnel. It’s a hands-on way to learn the art of creating and maintaining a willow tunnel while supporting the Arboretum in preserving this unique feature.

What to Expect

This activity involves a variety of physical tasks, including:

• Being outside, in the cold, for extended periods
• Standing for extended periods
• Climbing on a ladder to reach higher sections of the tunnel
• Using pruners to cut branches, on a ladder and at ground level
• Weaving long branches into the structure, holding them, and tying them with rubber ties
• Reaching above the head

If you have any questions about accessibility, feel free to reach out! We're happy to provide more details and work with you to make this event as accessible as possible.

How to be prepared:

• Experience: No prior experience with willow weaving is required - all skill levels are welcome! This project is suitable for ages 12 and up, when accompanied by an adult.
• Tools: Bring pruners and stepladders if you have them (a limited number will be available to borrow).
• Clothing: Dress for outdoor work, wear sturdy footwear, and gloves.
• Location: We'll meet at the Willow Tunnel, located just behind the barn.
• Weather: This project takes place outdoors, so dress accordingly. In the event of rain or snow, we will reschedule to the next day.

Let's Dig In!

Soil is most important when introducing gardening - this workshop will introduce soil concepts for gardeners of any age!

About the Instructor

Collaborative Outdoor Education is led by Kelli M Gilzow Stowell, Outdoor Educator from Augusta Adult & Community Education. Family Literacy is appropriate for all ages, abilities, and can usually be modified for inclusivity!

Experience spring through nature journaling!

Using a combination of approaches to reflect what we've seen; we will draw, use prompts to evoke and scavenge for delight! Journal will be provided! 

About the Instructor

Collaborative Outdoor Education is led by Kelli M Gilzow Stowell, Outdoor Educator from Augusta Adult & Community Education. Family Literacy is appropriate for all ages, abilities, and can usually be modified for inclusivity!