Community Events
Spring Birding at North Branch Nature Center
North Branch Nature Center 713 Elm Street, Montpelier, VermontA casual morning of birding for all interests and experience levels facilitated by NBNC staff and guest leaders. These outings are about enjoying, learning about, and spending time with wild birds. No binoculars? No ID guide? No problem! The only requirement is an appreciation of birds (though we do have binoculars for those who would like them).
Spring Birding at Waterbury Reservoir
North Branch Nature Center 713 Elm Street, Montpelier, VermontA casual morning of birding for all interests and experience levels facilitated by NBNC staff and guest leaders. These outings are about enjoying, learning about, and spending time with wild birds. No binoculars? No ID guide? No problem! The only requirement is an appreciation of birds (though we do have binoculars for those who would like them).
My Grandmother’s Hands 8-Week Facilitated Study Groups
North Branch Nature Center 713 Elm Street, Montpelier, VermontThe Everything Space and The Vermont Kindness Project present 8 week study groups to address racialized trauma. Join together to engage deeply with Resmaa Menakem’s potent book My Grandmother’s Hands. Experienced facilitators will guide important conversations and somatic practices. To dismantle racism we must collectively address the racial trauma held in our individual and collective bodies. Learn how all bodies are impacted by the collective trauma of racism, though each body is impacted differently and disproportionately. My Grandmother’s Hands offers steps to embody vitally important change. This facilitated book group will offer a container to do this necessary work.
Tree Planting and Habitat Restoration Volunteer Evening
North Branch Nature Center 713 Elm Street, Montpelier, VermontGet involved with conservation stewardship at NBNC! We'll be planting shrubs and trees this afternoon in partnership with Friends of the Winooski River, and we need your help.
Please contact us ([email protected]) to sign up or to learn more about volunteer stewardship days this spring and summer.
Spring Birding at Berlin Pond (South)
North Branch Nature Center 713 Elm Street, Montpelier, VermontA casual morning of birding for all interests and experience levels facilitated by NBNC staff and guest leaders. These outings are about enjoying, learning about, and spending time with wild birds. No binoculars? No ID guide? No problem! The only requirement is an appreciation of birds (though we do have binoculars for those who would like them).
This program will explore a property that the Berlin Conservation Commission is hoping to purchase and conserve.
Spring SLOW Birding with Bridget Butler
North Branch Nature Center 713 Elm Street, Montpelier, VermontFriday May 27 | 7 - 9 AM | FREE North Branch Nature Center Sponsored by Onion River Outdoors Please bring a small camp chair or cushion to sit comfortably. A casual morning of birding for all interests and experience levels facilitated by NBNC staff and guest leaders. These outings are about enjoying, learning about,…
Spring Birding at North Branch Cascades (North)
North Branch Nature Center 713 Elm Street, Montpelier, VermontA casual morning of birding for all interests and experience levels facilitated by NBNC staff and guest leaders. These outings are about enjoying, learning about, and spending time with wild birds. No binoculars? No ID guide? No problem! The only requirement is an appreciation of birds (though we do have binoculars for those who would like them).
Book Launch Party – Our Better Nature: Hopeful Excursions in Saving Biodiversity
North Branch Nature Center 713 Elm Street, Montpelier, VermontA collaboration among Vermont conservation organizations and conservationists, this work, grounded in experience and science presents readers with stories, essays, and resources to guide and inspire action in favor of nature everywhere. Dedicated to pioneering biologist and author Edward O. Wilson (1929–2021). A lifelong observer of nature, E. O. Wilson noted what we all must: Of all the challenges facing the planet, the loss of biodiversity and the current extinction crisis are among the gravest. In the face of this, and in light of Wilson’s optimism in spite of it, Our Better Nature offers messages of hope.
Stories of creative citizens whose successes with protecting and restoring nature are examples we can apply anywhere.
Essays by regional experts who help us understand the power of resilient ecosystems, of nature education for all ages, and Vermont’s dedication to conservation science.
Resources for turning our collective desire to protect biodiversity into actions that do.
Welcome NBNC’s New Executive Director
North Branch Nature Center 713 Elm Street, Montpelier, VermontStop by NBNC anytime from 10 am - noon on Saturday, July 2, to meet our new Executive Director, Naomi Heindel! While you're here, you and your family can enjoy lemonade and ginger cookies, and you might want to take a walk, wade in the river, and play games we'll have set up on the lawn. We look forward to seeing you!
(Cancelled) The Overstory: A Book Discussion Group with Kellogg-Hubbard Library
North Branch Nature Center 713 Elm Street, Montpelier, VermontJoin us for this special book discussion group for The Overstory by Richard Powers. Discussion will be co-facilitated by the Kellogg-Hubbard Library and North Branch Nature Center. All are welcome and this event is free of charge. Please come dressed for comfort as we gather in the outdoor tent space at NBNC rain or shine. Multiple copies of The Overstory are available for patrons at the Kellogg-Hubbard Library at the main circulation desk. Ask for the KHL Book Group. For more information, contact: Michelle Singer at [email protected].
Art Gallery Reception: Amy Hook-Therrien
North Branch Nature Center 713 Elm Street, Montpelier, VermontPlease join us at North Branch Nature Center for an evening celebrating Amy Hook-Therrien’s watercolor paintings. Tour the gallery, meet the artist, and enjoy some refreshments on the porch. A portion of artwork sales will support NBNC in our mission of Connecting People with the Natural World.
Summer Saturday River Walks (Family Friendly!)
North Branch Nature Center 713 Elm Street, Montpelier, VermontCool off this summer by exploring the water with NBNC naturalist educators on Saturday mornings in July. We’ll travel up and down the shallow reaches of the North Branch River in search of aquatic critters like fish, mussels, insects, beavers, and maybe even otters and mink. We’ll use nets, jars, traps, and even snorkels to learn why the North Branch supports so much life, and what we can do to better care for our waterways and watersheds. A casual nature walk at the river! (Led by Ken Benton, NBNC Director of Education)
Book Signing: My Big Year: A Search for Birds and Peace of Mind by Fred Pratt
North Branch Nature Center 713 Elm Street, Montpelier, VermontA book signing of Fred Pratt's book: My Big Year: A Search for Birds and Peace of Mind to follow the Friday AM Birding program
Fall Birding with Bridget Butler at North Branch Nature Center
North Branch Nature Center 713 Elm Street, Montpelier, VermontA casual morning of birding for all interests and experience levels facilitated by NBNC staff and guest leaders. These outings are about enjoying, learning about, and spending time with wild birds. No binoculars? No ID guide? No problem! The only requirement is an appreciation of birds (though we do have binoculars for those who would like them). All fall outings take place at NBNC.
Family Discovery Night Hike
North Branch Nature Center 713 Elm Street, Montpelier, VermontExplore nature after dark! Learn about how our eyes work in the darkness and what happens to color once the sun goes down. Enhance your hearing with 'deer ears,' use your skills to play night-time games, and get to know your nocturnal neighbors in the natural world. This is a casual family outing covering up to 0.6 miles along the flat, grassy paths at the Nature Center. Flashlights recommended. Facilitated by NBNC Teacher-Naturalist Fiona Modrak.
Montpelier PLACE – Ecology of North Branch River Park
North Branch River Park Poolside Drive, Montpelier, VT, United StatesJoin field naturalist Erica Hample to learn about the ecology that makes our local park special. Erica has been engaged in a new ecological assessment of the park, uncovering a fascinating story of seeps, trees, and insects. This event is part of the Montpelier PLACE program, a series of community events celebrating the sites and stories in Montpelier’s unique heritage and ecology.
Montpelier PLACE – Queen Bee Day Brunch at Barr Hill
Barr Hill 116 Gin Lane, Montpelier, VT, United StatesIn collaboration with Caledonia Spirits’ Bee's Knees Week, come sip on some cocktails and enjoy local honey-infused donuts with pollinator ecologist Jason Mazurowski who will share his expertise on the nearly 400 native bees species found in Vermont. This event is part of the Montpelier PLACE program, a series of community events celebrating the sites and stories in Montpelier’s unique heritage and ecology.
Fall Birding at North Branch Nature Center
North Branch Nature Center 713 Elm Street, Montpelier, VermontA casual morning of birding for all interests and experience levels facilitated by NBNC staff and guest leaders. These outings are about enjoying, learning about, and spending time with wild birds. No binoculars? No ID guide? No problem! The only requirement is an appreciation of birds (though we do have binoculars for those who would like them). All fall outings take place at NBNC.
Fall Birding at North Branch Nature Center
North Branch Nature Center 713 Elm Street, Montpelier, VermontA casual morning of birding for all interests and experience levels facilitated by NBNC staff and guest leaders. These outings are about enjoying, learning about, and spending time with wild birds. No binoculars? No ID guide? No problem! The only requirement is an appreciation of birds (though we do have binoculars for those who would like them). All fall outings take place at NBNC.
Montpelier PLACE – Harvest Meal at the FEAST Farm
FEAST Farm 1 Home Farm Way, Montpelier, VermontThis celebratory meal will include a tour of the city’s FEAST Farm, a farm-to-table meal from the grill, a thank you to the FEAST Farm volunteers, and a forward looking planning discussion aimed at increasing local food access and sourcing for our community. All are welcome! This event is part of the Montpelier PLACE program, a series of community events celebrating the sites and stories in Montpelier’s unique heritage and ecology.
Encore – Fall Birding at North Branch Nature Center
North Branch Nature Center 713 Elm Street, Montpelier, VermontCasual morning of birding for all interests and experience levels facilitated by NBNC staff and guest leaders. These outings are about enjoying, learning about, and spending time with wild birds. No binoculars? No ID guide? No problem! The only requirement is an appreciation of birds (though we do have binoculars for those who would like them).
Public Owl Banding Demonstration
North Branch Nature Center 713 Elm Street, Montpelier, VermontNBNC is part of a national network of scientists working to better understand the migration of the Northern Saw-whet Owl, a common yet elusive member of our Vermont forests. Join NBNC biologists as they capture, tag, and release these pint-sized owls. NBNC naturalists and educators will also discuss the highlights of recent research here and across the country, then share what’s been discovered about this mysterious little predator. Open to all ages.
Public Owl Banding Demonstration
North Branch Nature Center 713 Elm Street, Montpelier, VermontNBNC is part of a national network of scientists working to better understand the migration of the Northern Saw-whet Owl, a common yet elusive member of our Vermont forests. Join NBNC biologists as they capture, tag, and release these pint-sized owls. NBNC naturalists and educators will also discuss the highlights of recent research here and across the country, then share what’s been discovered about this mysterious little predator. Open to all ages.
Public Owl Banding Demonstration
North Branch Nature Center 713 Elm Street, Montpelier, VermontNBNC is part of a national network of scientists working to better understand the migration of the Northern Saw-whet Owl, a common yet elusive member of our Vermont forests. Join NBNC biologists as they capture, tag, and release these pint-sized owls. NBNC naturalists and educators will also discuss the highlights of recent research here and across the country, then share what’s been discovered about this mysterious little predator. Open to all ages.
LGBTQ+ Owl Banding Night
North Branch Nature Center 713 Elm Street, Montpelier, VermontLGBTQ+ Owl Banding Night October 21 | 8 – 9:30 pm Registration required | Free SIGN UP HERE September is Pride Month in Vermont, but nobody told the owls! Every…
Montpelier PLACE – History on the Land: Hubbard Park
Hubbard Park Parkway Street, Montpelier, VT, United StatesPeel back the layers of Hubbard Park with landscape historian Samantha Ford. Discover Montpelier's history and the origin of the conservation movement using hidden clues in the form of stone walls, witness trees, barbed wire, and more. This event is part of the Montpelier PLACE program, a series of community events celebrating the sites and stories in Montpelier’s unique heritage and ecology.
“This Land Was Saved for You and Me” with Author Jeffrey Ryan (Vermont)
North Branch Nature Center 713 Elm Street, Montpelier, VermontNortheast Wilderness Trust, in partnership with North Branch Nature Center and Bear Pond Books, welcomes author Jeffrey Ryan to share his new book about the creation of public lands in America: This Land Was Saved for You and Me. Jeffrey will read highlights from “This Land,” which traces the protection of America’s public lands by identifying a series of critical generational handoffs — from Frederick Law Olmsted to Gifford Pinchot to the generation of foresters that would lead the movement to preserve some lands as forever wild. Ryan’s book features many notable names, but importantly many lesser-known people whose efforts broke new ground by recognizing that America’s resources were not inexhaustible, calling for a means of protecting and managing them before it became too late.
(Cancelled) Travelers Circle Storytelling Night & Potluck
North Branch Nature Center 713 Elm Street, Montpelier, VermontJoin us for a casual evening of stories and a shared community meal. We encourage everyone to contribute a short story of their travels (though there is no pressure to speak), and "travel" may entail a trip to the store or a trip across the world! The experience is a bit like jamming on musical instruments: what you hear inspires what you share.
Montpelier PLACE – Ecology of Hubbard Park
Hubbard Park Parkway Street, Montpelier, VT, United StatesJoin field naturalist Erica Hample for a guided group exploration of the most special places in Hubbard Park. Erica’s work creating a new ecological assessment of the park has uncovered a complicated land use history, a strong conservation ethic, and exciting geological formations. Come learn about ecological resilience and the future of this forest! This event is part of the Montpelier PLACE program, a series of community events celebrating the sites and stories in Montpelier’s unique heritage and ecology.
Art Gallery Reception – Robin Crofut-Brittingham
North Branch Nature Center 713 Elm Street, Montpelier, VermontPlease join us at North Branch Nature Center to celebrate Robin Crofut-Brittingham’s watercolor paintings. Tour the gallery, meet the artist, and enjoy some refreshments on the porch. A portion of artwork sales will support NBNC in our mission of Connecting People with the Natural World.
Montpelier PLACE – Montpelier’s Built Environment
North Branch Nature Center 713 Elm Street, Montpelier, VermontDiscover the history of downtown Montpelier with Paul Carnahan, author of Montpelier: Images of Vermont’s Capital City. We will examine how the city’s buildings and bridges have responded to the natural environment and defined our community.
Montpelier PLACE – Montpelier Underfoot (Presentation)
North Branch Nature Center 713 Elm Street, Montpelier, VermontDiscover how Montpelier’s local geologic and geographic setting has shaped the city’s modern infrastructure, architecture and personality. Led by Sean Beckett of North Branch Nature Center. This two part event includes a Friday evening presentation followed by a field outing on Saturday morning. Attendance at one day of the event is not mandatory for participation in the other. The field outing will include less than ½ mile of walking on mostly flat, wide trails.
This event is part of the Montpelier PLACE program, a series of community events celebrating the sites and stories in Montpelier’s unique heritage and ecology. Join us this fall on a citywide exploration to discover what makes our Capital City so special! All events are free with no registration required.
Montpelier PLACE – Montpelier Underfoot (Field Walk)
Discover how Montpelier’s local geologic and geographic setting has shaped the city’s modern infrastructure, architecture and personality. Led by Sean Beckett of North Branch Nature Center. This two part event includes a Friday evening presentation followed by a field outing on Saturday morning. Attendance at one day of the event is not mandatory for participation in the other. The field outing will include less than ½ mile of walking on mostly flat, wide trails.
Travelers Circle Storytelling & Potluck
North Branch Nature Center 713 Elm Street, Montpelier, VermontJoin us for a casual evening of stories and a shared community meal. We encourage everyone to contribute a short story of their travels (though there is no pressure to speak), and "travel" may entail a trip to the store or a trip across the world! The experience is a bit like jamming on musical instruments: what you hear inspires what you share. The evening will start with a potluck at 5:30, and storytelling will begin around 6. Please bring your own dishes and silverware.
Robin’s Nest Nature Playgroup
North Branch Nature Center 713 Elm Street, Montpelier, VermontRobin’s Nest Nature Playgroup is a free activity for families to gather, learn, and play in nature. Guided by the idea that children need to spend ample time outdoors, we offer a community experience in the world of nature and will model ways the natural environment can be used as a tool for learning and play.
Art Gallery Reception – Phillip Robertson & Ed Epstein
North Branch Nature Center 713 Elm Street, Montpelier, VermontPlease join us at North Branch Nature Center for an afternoon celebrating Phillip Robertson’s relief prints and Ed Epstein’s charcoal drawings. Tour the gallery, meet the artists, and enjoy some refreshments. A portion of artwork sales will support NBNC in our mission of Connecting People with the Natural World.
Upstream–Downstream: A River Resilience Film Festival & Panel Discussion (Montpelier PLACE)
Pavilion Building Auditorium 109 State Street, Montpelier, Vermont, United StatesA community celebration of Montpelier’s watershed and our place within it. From the Winooski headwaters to Lake Champlain, we’ll travel upstream and downstream showcasing endeavors in conservation, education, and recreation along our local waterways. We’ll begin the evening with a series of 5- to 40-minute films, then transition into a discussion about the health of our local rivers with panelists who bring different perspectives about our waterways.
Winter Discovery Hike for Families
North Branch Nature Center 713 Elm Street, Montpelier, VermontCome explore nature in a new way! Imagine yourself as an ant and take a "microscopic" hike into the leaf litter. Explore your sense of touch by "meeting a tree." Expand your sense of hearing by adopting "deer ears" in the forest. Test your hiding skills with the game of camouflage. Families will connect with one another and with the natural world in these fun and engaging programs led by NBNC Teacher-Naturalist Fiona Modrak.
Winter Discovery Hike for Families
North Branch Nature Center 713 Elm Street, Montpelier, VermontCome explore nature in a new way! Imagine yourself as an ant and take a "microscopic" hike into the leaf litter. Explore your sense of touch by "meeting a tree." Expand your sense of hearing by adopting "deer ears" in the forest. Test your hiding skills with the game of camouflage. Families will connect with one another and with the natural world in these fun and engaging programs led by NBNC Teacher-Naturalist Fiona Modrak.
Upstream–Downstream: A River Resilience Panel Discussion (Online)
Online(Note: This panel discussion, originally scheduled to follow January 19th's film festival, was postponed due to severe weather). A community celebration of the Winooski watershed and our place within it. This discussion about the health of our local rivers features panelists who bring different perspectives about our waterways. The panelists will be addressing river-related questions and concerns submitted by over 100 community members during our January film festival.
