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Registration to Open Tuesday, September 6th for Popular Fall Naturalist Programming

Published: 8/24/2022

Poughkeepsie… County Executive Marc Molinaro announced registration will open Tuesday, September 6th for Dutchess County Parks’ popular fall naturalist classes. Programming for youth and adults will be held at Bowdoin Park, located at 85 Sheafe Road in the Town of Poughkeepsie, and will explore topics such as an introduction to nature-inspired art, archery, or exploring the natural habitats of the park.

Dutchess County Executive Marc Molinaro said, “As the season begins to change, we kick off our naturalist programming fall sessions. We encourage everyone to take advantage of the fun educational opportunities offered and explore what our beautiful Bowdoin Park has to offer. Register quickly though, as these programs are notoriously popular!”

The Fall Naturalist Program schedule is as follows and registration will be available at dutchessny.gov/parks.

The Park Palette Art Series, for ages 10-18, will take students through a step-by-step process to create nature themed paintings. Students can choose one workshop or take all three. Cost is $12, and includes all supplies. Classes are 3:30-5 p.m. at Pavilion 5 and are limited to 10 participants.

  • Tuesday, September 27 – Hudson River Sunset
  • Tuesday, October 11 – Grandmother Sycamore Tree
  • Tuesday, October 25 – Butterfly

The Eaglet Nature Program for youth ages 5-7, along with their parents or caregivers, will give children a closer look at the unique habitats throughout the park through interactive exploration and play. Each week’s session will focus on a different topic, and will include a related craft activity. Classes will be 4-4:45 p.m. and will begin at the Nature Education Center near Pavilion 5. Registration is $5 per child and sessions are limited to 12 participants.

  • Thursday, October 13 – Down by the River
  • Thursday, October 27 – Bald Eagles
  • Thursday, November 10 – Prehistoric Rock Shelter

Weekend Public Archery consists of five classes, held on Saturdays, with various time slots offered. The sessions, each an hour long, are designed for children ages 8 and up, and adults with any level of archery experience. Basic hands-on archery skills, as well as bow and arrow safety, will be covered. Registration costs $60 per person and includes all five classes and equipment. Each time slot is limited to 10 participants.

  • Saturday, September 17
  • Saturday, October 1
  • Saturday, October 8
  • Saturday, October 15
  • Saturday, October 29
     

Time Slots:

  • 8:30-9:30 a.m.
  • 10-11 a.m.
  • 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
  • 2-3 p.m.
  • 3:30-4:30 p.m.

Group weekday Archery and School and Scout Programs are also available by appointment. Reservations can be made by calling 845-298-4602. Visit DutchessNY.Gov/ParksEducation for more information.