About us
Are you a nature lover? Interested in learning more about your natural surroundings? Looking to meet others that have a curiosity and interest in connecting with nature and one another?
Join if you want to meetup with others with shared interests. The adult public programs at Irvine include birding, foraging, gardening, hiking, herbalism, nature exploration and health and wellness based classes. There are free and paid classes. All skill levels welcome.
"We all thrive outdoors. We encourage lifelong engagement with the natural world through environmental learning and green living. At Irvine, we inspire people to explore, respect and protect nature."
Upcoming events
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Nature by the Fire- Nocturnal Neighbors at Irvine Nature Center
Irvine nature center, 11201 Garrison Forest Rd, Owings mills, MD, USWarm up by the campfire and join Naturalist, Ash for a new monthly tradition at Irvine! Each month features a different seasonal nature theme but every session promises the same cozy fun: roasting marshmallows, meeting one of Irvine’s animal ambassadors and diving into hands on nature themed fun. Fireside chats are a relaxed, family friendly way to enjoy the outdoors, one campfire at a time! Ideal for all ages.
Instructor: Ash Miller, Environmental Educator and Animal Care Coordinator
Saturday, March 7th
5:30 – 6:30PM
Cost: $5/participant and FREE for members
Advance registration encouraged – event will be cancelled if minimum not met.- REGISTER HERE.
Future dates include: April 3rd, May 2nd1 attendee
LUNCH & LEARN: Trouble on the Half Shell at Irvine Nature Center
Irvine nature center, 11201 Garrison Forest Rd, Owings mills, MD, USTurtles play remarkable roles in our ecosystems and cultures— yet many species are in decline. Join naturalist Kerry Wixted for an engaging and eye-opening journey into the world of turtles!
Learn the basics of turtle biology, discover several of the unique species found in Maryland, and explore the key reasons their populations are struggling. You’ll also walk away with practical ways you can help turtles thrive in the wild.
PLUS: You’ll get to meet some of Irvine’s resident turtles up close!Tickets include a catered lunch and animal encounter.
Kerry Wixted
Kerry Wixted is a Maryland naturalist with over 15 years experience studying flora and fauna of Maryland. She has previously worked for the Maryland Department of Natural Resources and has taught classes for Natural Forward’s Natural History Field Studies Program.Presenter: Kerry Wixted, Naturalist
Tuesday, March 10th
12:00 – 2:00PM
Cost*: $30/members; $40/non-membersTickets required- REGISTER TODAY!
To reserve a table for 8, please contact Laura at 443-738-9215.
*Discount for Pacesetter members and above.1 attendee
Make & Take: Pine Needle Basketry Workshop at Irvine Nature Center
Irvine nature center, 11201 Garrison Forest Rd, Owings mills, MD, USIn this two-class evening workshop (Wednesday, March 11 & Wednesday, March 18), Dr. Clare Walker will lead you as you discover the process of creating a traditional and beautiful pine needle basket. In the first class you will learn how to start your basket using a hand-made wood base and then coil long-leaf pine needles using waxed linen thread. Splitting the class over two evenings allows you to work on the project at home if you wish to create a larger basket. In the second session we will learn finishing techniques and different stitches so you can take home a completed pine needle basket. Although suitable for beginners, this class will be most enjoyable for those who enjoy working with crafts or have some basketry/sewing experience. Those with experience can try new stitch techniques, shapes or a coiled start. Waxed threads will be provided but you can bring your own colors to create a unique basket. This class is ideal for adults & teens ages 16+.
Dr. Clare Walker
Clare teaches plant identification and their uses from medicinal to culinary.
Instructor: Clare Walker, Master Naturalist
Wednesday, March 11th
6:00 – 8:00PM
Cost: $45/participant
Advance registration encouraged – event will be cancelled if minimum not met. REGISTER HERE.2 attendees
Amphibians After- Hours Night Hike at Irvine Nature Center
Irvine nature center, 11201 Garrison Forest Rd, Owings mills, MD, USJoin Irvine Animal Programs Manager Mallory Mlynarek for a fascinating glimpse into the lives of Irvine’s amphibians after dark! We will search for Spring Peepers, Wood Frogs, Salamanders, and many more. If you have never heard the chorus of frogs in the springtime, this event is one you won’t want to miss! Ideal for ages 8+.
*Please wear sturdy, waterproof footwear with a good tread.Instructor: Mallory Mlynarek, Manager of Animal Care
Saturday, March 14th
7:00 – 8:30PM
Cost: $10/participant
Advance registration encouraged – event will be cancelled if minimum not met.- REGISTER HERE.1 attendee
Past events
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