www.wellsreserve.org/news/2005-02-09_feb.htm

ACTIVITIES AT THE WELLS RESERVE DURING FEBRUARY VACATION

WELLS, MAINE - Many snowshoers and cross-country skiers know that the Wells Reserve at Laudholm Farm is an outstanding spot to enjoy these winter sports. Good snow cover, gentle slopes, and spectacular scenery draw dozens of people to the site, but seven miles of trails promise solitude even on the busy days. Trails are open every day from 7 am to dusk.

The Wells Reserve education department has also prepared four programs for school vacation week, two for kids and two for a broader audience.

On Monday, February 21 from 10 am to 2 pm, "Wildlife in Winter" will reveal how animals in Maine survive our cold winters. Kids will examine bird feathers under microscopes, feel how blubber keeps marine mammals warm, learn about hibernation, and take an animal tracking walk.

On Tuesday, February 22 from 10 am to 2 pm, kids can come get snowed in for a day. For "Let It Snow!" we will play a life-size board game, do snow and ice experiments, make our own snowflakes, and learn all about the wonders of snow. If there's snow outside we'll play in it and if there's not, we'll create our own!

Just for Kids programs, for children ages 6 to 9, feature indoor and outdoor activities and games as well as a take home booklet. Each program costs $10 for members of Laudholm Trust and $15 for nonmembers. These programs are limited to 12 children and reservations and prepayment are required. Call (207) 646-1555 x110 to sign up.

Two more upcoming Wells Reserve programs are designed for a broader audience.

On Wednesday, February 23 from 2 to 4 pm, take a "Winter Nature Walk" on the trails of the Wells Reserve with a seasoned naturalist. You will learn how plants and animals of Maine adapt to our harsh winters. This walk costs $2 for members of Laudholm Trust and $4 for nonmembers and is limited to 20 participants. Reservations are required at 646-1555.

On Thursday, February 24 from 1 to 4 pm, learn about "Winter Wildlife Signs." We will start with an indoor session to acquaint you with some winter wildlife tracks, scat, and other signs. Then we will don our gloves, hats, and coats and head to the trails to test your newfound skills. This walk costs $3 for members of Laudholm Trust and $5 for nonmembers and is limited to 20 participants. Reservations are required at 646-1555.

The complete Wells Reserve winter calendar, which is filled with activities through April, is now available at Laudholm Farm and can be requested by calling 646-1555. The calendar is also online at www.wellsreserve.org.

The Wells National Estuarine Research Reserve, with facilities at historic Laudholm Farm, is committed to investigating coastal environments and increasing understanding of their ecology. The Wells Reserve is located at 342 Laudholm Farm Road in Wells, just off Routes 1 and 9 near the Kennebunk line.

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