Monthly Nature Walks & Talks
The High Peaks Naturalist Series will meet on the second Wednesday of each month beginning in January 2026. Hour-long sessions will cover topics ranging from animal tracking and birding to wildflowers, fungi, and the region’s geology, on conserved lands across the High Peaks Region. Participants are welcome to attend one, several, or all sessions according to their interest and availability.
2026 Program Schedule
- 1/14 – “Ecological Principles” at Phillips Public Library, Phillips
- 2/11 – “Mammals of Maine – Tracking” at Bigelow Preserve, Stratton (School St)
- 3/11 – “Phenology” (the study of the natural seasonal cycles of Maine’s plants and animals) at Phillips Public Library, Phillips
- 4/8 – “Mammals of Maine – Beavers” at Perham Stream Birding Trail, Madrid
- 5/13 – “Vernal Pools – Reptiles & Amphibians” at Center Hill Nature Walk in Mt Blue State Park, Weld
- 6/10 – “Birding, eBird, Merlin” at Prescott Field Accessible Trail, Farmington
- 7/8 – “Wildflowers & Nature Journaling” at Perham Stream Birding Trail, Madrid
- 8/12 – “Insects” at Shiloh Pond Community Forest, Kingfield
- 9/9 – “Ferns” at Mosher Hill Falls, Farmington
- 10/14 – “Fungi & BioBlitz” at Fly Rod Crosby Trail, Amble Street, Phillips
- 11/11 – “Geology” at Daggett Rock, Phillips
- 12/9 – “Mammals – Skulls & Furs” at Phillips Public Library, Phillips
Igniting Passion for Nature
“The Maine Master Naturalist Program’s mission is for us to learn as much as we can, so we can inspire others to discover the natural world,” said Vicky Charbonneau of Eustis, Maine Master Naturalist and co-leader of the High Peaks Naturalist Series. “In turn, they gain a deeper understanding and greater willingness to protect it.”
“It’s deeply rewarding to help people connect directly with the natural world,” said Darin Schwartz, of Avon, Maine Master Naturalist and co-leader of the series. “Every session offers fresh discoveries and a chance to see the outdoors through new eyes. We’re looking forward to meeting new members of the community and introducing them to new ideas and places.”
The series is part of the Alliance’s mission to connect people with the lands they protect. “The locations vary, spanning the High Peaks Region on lands mostly stewarded by the Alliance, places we know will be there for people to enjoy time and time again,” said Amanda Laliberte of the Alliance. By introducing people to these protected places, the Alliance hopes to build a community invested in their future.
Programs are designed for adults and older teens of all experience levels. Participants should dress for outdoor terrain and Maine weather. Space is limited, and preregistration is required.
