Winter Birding Hike
2025-01-25 09:00 - 11:00 (America/New_York) | Hanging Rock State Park, 1790 Hanging Rock Park Road, Danbury, NC, 27016, United States
Join a park ranger on a hike to learn how to identify winter birds. You will learn how to identify birds visually and by their calls. We will hike 1.8 miles along the Wolf Rock Trail. Please wear proper hiking attire and bring water. There will be a limited number of binoculars to borrow so if you have your own please bring them with you. To sign up for the program please email Jonathan.buie@ncparks.gov.

Winter Bird Hike - Cypress Point
2025-01-25 10:00 - 11:00 | Merchant’s Millpond State Park, 176 Millpond Road, Gatesville, NC, 27938, United States
Join us at the boat ramp parking lot for a ranger guided bird hike down Cypress Point Trail, where we will see how many different species of birds we can observe.
This event is open to the public and will be suitable for all levels of birding knowledge. We will have some tips and tricks for beginners, but experts are certainly welcome as well. Guests are encouraged to bring their own binoculars, but we have a limited amount available to borrow upon request.
Please dress for the weather!

Weekend Woodpecker Hike
2025-01-26 14:00 - 15:00 | Weymouth Woods Sandhills Nature Preserve, 1024 Ft. Bragg Road, Southern Pines, NC, 28387, United States
Join a ranger on a 1.5 mile hike to look for the wonderful woodpeckers of Weymouth Woods!
Meet at the visitor center.

Who Will Fill My Shoes: Succession Planning for Landowners and Business Webinar
2025-01-29 14:00 - 15:00 | virtual via Zoom
5-part webinar series on succession planning. Module 1 begins on January 22nd with recurring webinars each Wednesday following until February 19th. Topics include communication and conflict in succession, key players in succession, road mapping and goals in succession, and planning and coordination in succession.
Jan 22, 2025 – 01:00 PM Central Time – Module 1
Jan 29, 2025 – 01:00 PM Central Time – Module 3*
Feb 5, 2025 – 01:00 PM Central Time – Module 2 *
Feb 12, 2025 – 01:00 PM Central Time – Module 4
Feb 19, 2025 – 01:00 PM Central Time – Module 5
*Please note modules 2 & 3 presentation dates have been interchanged and will be presented on the dates indicated above.
Hosts include Purdue University, NC State University, North Central Regional Center for Rural Development, and Southern Rural Development Center.

Incredible, Edible Pine Tree
2025-01-29 15:00 - 16:00 | Eno River State Park, 6101 Cole Mill Road, Durham, NC, 27705, United States
Have you ever looked at a pine and wondered how much of it is edible? How long you could live off just a pine tree? Whether it would be healthy? Join a Ranger to learn these answers and try some for yourself!
Meet at the Fews Ford picnic shelter. Pine nuts and pine straw tea will be offered; please be mindful of these potential allergens.
Spaces are limited, so registration is required. To sign up, please call the Eno River office at (919) 383-1686 or click the Register button to email eno.river@ncparks.gov. Please include the number of guests in your party and a phone number where you can be reached if there are changes to the event.

Woodpeckers of Eno River State Park
2025-01-31 10:00 - 11:30 | Eno River State Park, 6101 Cole Mill Road, Durham, NC, 27705, United States
Join a Park Technician to learn more about the woodpeckers of North Carolina and Eno River State Park. We will begin with a short lesson covering the unique adaptations and behaviors that make these birds a keystone species in the ecosystems they occupy and a brief overview of the different species found in the park, followed by a one mile hike along Eno Trace trail to identify some of the woodpeckers that live here.
Meet at the Fews Ford Visitor Contact Station classroom at 6131 Cole Mill Road, third parking lot on the right past the entry gate. Wear hiking shoes and bring water, binoculars, and any bird identification books or apps.
Spaces are limited, and registration is required. To sign up, call (984) 250-1370 or click the Register button to email eno.river@ncparks.gov. Please include the number of guests in your party and a phone number where you can be reached if the event is changed or canceled.

Beginning Fly-tying Workshop
2025-02-01 09:00 - 17:00 | John E. Pechmann Fishing Education Center, 7489 Raeford Road, Fayetteville, NC, 28304, United States
This Fly-tying Course is designed to provide the student with a basic knowledge of fly-tying tools, materials, patterns, and tying techniques. We teach the course in progression beginning with simple fly patterns and steadily advance toward more complex flies allowing the students to build on their skills. In this course, students will complete 6 fly patterns over the course of the program. All tools and materials are provided. In addition, participants will receive a Fly-tying Handbook that provides them with reference to the patterns tied in class.

This course is suitable for ages 14 years old and older. However, participants 14 -15 years old must be accompanied by a participating adult.

Fly-fishing Basics: Understanding and Selecting Fly-fishing Equipment - Virtual
2025-02-04 18:00 - 20:00 | virtual via Teams
We get it, getting started fly-fishing can be daunting! There’s the lingo, flies, equipment…we’ll help you make sense of it all – and maybe even save you a few (or a lot of) dollars along the way.

Topics to be covered include:

Selecting a fly rod/reel;
Decoding fly line acronyms/line types;
Understanding the balanced system;
Maintaining your equipment;
How to select a fly and “match the hatch”; and,
Equipment must-haves for the water.

What you need to know:

This program will take place virtually over Microsoft Teams.
The meeting link will be sent via e-mail the day of the event.

Who Will Fill My Shoes: Succession Planning for Landowners and Business Webinar - Module 2
2025-02-05 14:00 - 15:00 | virtual via Zoom

Animal Tracks
2025-02-07 10:00 - 11:00 | Pilot Mountain State Park, 1792 Pilot Knob Park Road, Pinnacle, NC, 27043, United States
Animal Tracks is an engaging program that introduces participants to wildlife through the study of animal footprints. Suitable for all ages, it includes a guided nature walk to observe and identify tracks, along with a workshop on differentiating species by their footprints. This program fosters a connection with nature, promoting environmental awareness and appreciation, and it is ideal for families and nature enthusiasts. Whether you are experienced or a beginner, it offers an adventure of discovery and learning.

Basic Fly-fishing Workshop
2025-02-08 09:00 - 15:00 | John E. Pechmann Fishing Education Center, 7489 Raeford Road, Fayetteville, NC, 28304, United States
Ready to try your hand (literally) at fly-fishing? Or perhaps need a refresher at fly-casting? This course is perfect for those with zero experience, those looking to refine their skills and everyone in between by teaching tactile and visual cues that are easy to understand.

Our intensely trained and passionate volunteer instructors -they’re awesome- will guide you through the roll cast and basic cast using Joan Wulff’s method of fly-casting instruction that provides the beginning fly-angler with the foundations for more advanced casting.

What you need to know:

Participants must be at least 13 years of age to register, and participants 15 years and younger will need an on-site parent or guardian.
Don’t worry! All fly-rods and necessary equipment will be provided.
Wear: close-toed shoes, a hat with a visor and some sort of eye wear (glasses or polarized sunglasses are acceptable).

Supporting Birds Through the Seasons Using Native Plants
2025-02-09 13:00 - 15:00 | Dismal Swamp State Park
You are invited to join NCWF Wildlife Habitat Stewards of Northeastern NC Chapter and NCWRC Wildlife Biologist, Falyn Owens, for a presentation discussing the importance of incorporating native plants into your landscape to provide essential food sources for birds and offer much-needed shelter for nesting sites.
Native plants are the ideal bird feeders, providing seeds and berries, as well as supporting healthy insect populations. Baby birds require a consistent supply of insects to grow and thrive. By incorporating native plants into your yard, you offer the food sources needed to support birds of all ages throughout the year.
Following the presentation, enjoy a guided walk along the boardwalk trail at Dismal Swamp State Park to identify native plants and understand their role in supporting birds.
REGISTER HERE

Prescribed Fire Effects on Southern Pine Tree Growth and Forest Structure Webinar
2025-02-12 13:00 - 14:00 | virtual via Zoom
ire is an integral component of southern forests. Especially in some pine systems that have developed adaptations to frequent fires and even depend on it to thrive. Fires can naturally occur but can also be intentionally set as a forest management tool. Prescribed fire is a planned and controlled application of fire to achieve specific goals. But what can prescribed fire be used for and how does it help southern pine systems? In this webinar, Dr. Doug Aubrey will discuss prescribed fire in southern pine forests including its benefits, impacts on forest health, and the effects of excluding fire from an ecosystem.

Who Will Fill My Shoes: Succession Planning for Landowners and Business Webinar - Module 4
2025-02-12 14:00 - 15:00 | virtual via Zoom

Invasive Wild Pigs and Their Behavior
2025-02-13 18:30 - 20:00 | online
Wildlife Biologist and Regenerative Farmer Lindsay Dyal joins NCWF Union County Wildlife Chapter to discuss behavioral state resource selection of wild pigs in the US Southeast. Linsday will discuss the home ranges and interactions between wild pigs and their environment including foraging, resting, and traveling.
Invasive wild pigs are generalists and have the potential to alter ecosystems across broad spatial scales. Lindsay will share the results of research that tracked 49 collared wild pigs in the Southeast United States and interpret how this information can aid in the advancement of management strategies for controlling populations of this important invasive species.
The event is free and open to the public. You may attend online or in-person in MONROE.
You will receive the meeting link and full event details upon successfully submitting this registration form.
REGISTER HERE

Bird Hike
2025-02-15 10:00 - 11:00 | Cliffs of the Neuse State Park, 240 Park Entrance Road, Seven Springs, NC, 28578, United States
Join us at Cliffs of the Neuse State Park for a beginner bird hike! During this hike we will discuss common birds in the area and beginner birding tips as we look for birds along the trail. Binoculars will NOT be provided on this hike, so please bring your own.
This program will include a half mile hike on the Bird Trail.
Meet at the cliff overlook at 10am.
Please email rebecca.browder@ncparks.gov to register.

North Carolina Bird Count
2025-02-16 13:00 - 15:00 | Lake Norman State Park, at 759 State Park Road, Troutman, NC, 28166, United States
Fly on over to the park Visitor Center to take part in the 2025 NC Bird Count! This community citizen science opportunity is open to all ages and birding skill levels. We will collect park bird data for the Great Backyard Bird Count. Bring your binoculars and dress for the weather!

Winter Tree ID
2025-02-16 13:00 - 15:00 | NC
You are invited to join NCWF Concord Wildlife Alliance Chapter and Central Carolinas Master Naturalist Tori Strunk for a crash course in native winter tree identification. Tree enthusiasts of all ability levels are welcome to attend this slow-paced winter tree walk.
Trees and other native plants are the foundation of the terrestrial food web. Trees like oak, maple, and birch host hundreds, if not thousands, of different insect species. They also provide critical food, shelter, and places for wildlife to raise young.
Practice identifying trees using features like bud and leaf arrangement, leaf scars, twig size, bark, and more. Magnifiers and tree guides will be provided.
REGISTER HERE

Great Backyard Bird Count
2025-02-17 09:00 - 11:00 | Hanging Rock State Park, 1790 Hanging Rock Park Road, Danbury, NC, 27016, United States
Join a Park Ranger on a hike along the Riverbluff’s Trail to identify and count birds. All bird sightings will become part of a national database used by scientists to track changes in bird populations over time. The hike is 1.2 miles in length and will take around 2 hours to complete. To sign up for the program please email Jonathan.buie@ncparks.gov.

Eagle Nest Hike
2025-02-17 10:00 - 11:00 | Pilot Mountain State Park, 1792 Pilot Knob Park Road, Pinnacle, NC, 27043, United States
Weather permitting, we will be meeting at the end of the road at Bean Shoals at the picnic shelter. Learn about our nation’s national bird, the Bald Eagle, their home in the park, and what makes them so special!
Please sign up by emailing pilot.mountain@ncparks.gov

Owl Prowl
2025-02-18 17:30 - 18:30 | Hammocks Beach State Park, 1572 Hammocks Beach Road, Swansboro, NC, 28584, United States
Who gives a hoot? You will learn about some of our owl species, their habitats, and tips of what you can do to help these night watchers.
Optional: Bring your own flashlights to use on the trail. Trail: < 1/2-mile, easy Meet on the back deck at the Visitor Center.
PROGRAM IS WEATHER DEPENDENT. Contact Park office for program update: 910-326-4881.

Who Will Fill My Shoes: Succession Planning for Landowners and Business Webinar - Module 5
2025-02-19 14:00 - 15:00 | virtual via Zoom
5-part webinar series on succession planning. Module 1 begins on January 22nd with recurring webinars each Wednesday following until February 19th. Topics include communication and conflict in succession, key players in succession, road mapping and goals in succession, and planning and coordination in succession.
Jan 22, 2025 – 01:00 PM Central Time – Module 1
Jan 29, 2025 – 01:00 PM Central Time – Module 3*
Feb 5, 2025 – 01:00 PM Central Time – Module 2 *
Feb 12, 2025 – 01:00 PM Central Time – Module 4
Feb 19, 2025 – 01:00 PM Central Time – Module 5
*Please note modules 2 & 3 presentation dates have been interchanged and will be presented on the dates indicated above.
Hosts include Purdue University, NC State University, North Central Regional Center for Rural Development, and Southern Rural Development Center

Discovering Nature with Technology
2025-02-20 10:00 - 11:00 | Hammocks Beach State Park, 1572 Hammocks Beach Road, Swansboro, NC, 28584, United States
Discover how to explore nature with amazing apps on your phone! 10am. No limit on participants.

Learn to Fish NC - Introductory Fishing Workshop
2025-02-22 09:00 - 14:00 | NC
Join our comprehensive Introductory Fishing Workshop designed to equip you with the essential skills and knowledge for a successful start in fishing. NCWRC instructors will guide you through a variety of topics, ensuring you feel confident and prepared for your fishing adventures.

Topics Covered Include:

Licensing & Regulations
Equipment & Tackle
Fishing Knots
Rigging and Bait Selection
Finding Fish

This workshop includes both hands on classroom instruction and on-the-water fishing, providing a well-rounded learning experience.

Join us and embark on your fishing journey with confidence!

This workshop is open to those 12 years and older. All minors must be accompanied by an adult.

Prescribed Fires in State Parks
2025-02-22 11:00 - 13:00 | Hanging Rock State Park, 1790 Hanging Rock Park Road, Danbury, NC, 27016, United States
Join a park ranger to learn about prescribed fires and the equipment wildland firefighters use. Appropriate for all ages and registration is not required. For further information or questions please email mitchell.mckenney@ncparks.gov.

Bears
2025-02-22 14:00 - 15:00 | Jones Lake State Park, 4117 N Carolina 242, Elizabethtown, NC, 28337, United States
Join a park ranger for a discussion on Jones Lake State Park’s largest mammal: the black bear. Learn about the biology and habits of the king of the forest.
Participants should meet at the visitor center at 2 p.m.

Orienteering
2025-02-24 14:00 - 15:00 | Cliffs of the Neuse State Park, 240 Park Entrance Road, Seven Springs, NC, 28578, United States
Join us at Cliffs of the Neuse State Park for a beginner orienteering program! During this program we will discuss how to use a compass and how to navigate with the compass over terrain. We will complete a short navigation course at the end to tie our skills together!
A limited number of compasses will be provided, but feel free to bring your own!
Meet at the cliff overlook at 2pm.
Please email rebecca.browder@ncparks.gov to register.

Learn To Hunt (LTH) Turkey Hunting 101 Webinar #1
2025-02-25 19:00 - 20:30 | virtual via Zoom
Webinar #1 Biology for Hunters, Regulations, Where to Hunt and Scouting
WEBINAR MUST READ!
1. Webinar login link will be emailed to all registrants following the close of registration.
2. Do not share your webinar link with anyone as capacity is limited.
3. Post-webinar Q&A sessions will be limited to topic only.
4. Webinar recordings will be distributed to all registrants following processing; please be patient.

NOTE: For webinar related questions only, email lth@ncwildlife.org

Learn To Hunt (LTH) Turkey Hunting 101 Webinar #2
2025-02-26 19:00 - 20:30 | virtual via Zoom
Webinar #2 Firearms, Ammo, Clothing, Footwear and Misc. Equipment

WEBINAR MUST READ!
1. Webinar login link will be emailed to all registrants following the close of registration.
2. Do not share your webinar link with anyone as capacity is limited.
3. Post-webinar Q&A sessions will be limited to topic only.
4. Webinar recordings will be distributed to all registrants following processing; please be patient.
NOTE: For webinar related questions only, email lth@ncwildlife.org

Black Bears: Looking for the Signs
2025-02-27 15:00 - 16:00 | Hammocks Beach State Park, 1572 Hammocks Beach Road, Swansboro, NC, 28584, United States
This program will go over everything Black Bears discussing the type native to North Carolina, habitat, and most importantly the signs of black bears. Meet in the auditorium for a 30-minute indoor session followed by a 45-minute outdoor potion where guests look for the different signs.
Target audience – adults and children 8 yrs & up. There is no signup.
