Gardening for Birds and Insects

Regular biweekly walk to find the birds and sights of Lake Artemesia.

It is supposed to be 60 degrees Thursday. Let’s take advantage with a walk at Brookside Gardens. We will meet to the right facing the visitors center. If anyone is interested we can go to lunch afterwards.

**Wheaton Regional Park and Brookside Garden a 6.2 Moderate Hike** Enjoy a delightful hike just outside of the beltway. This 536-acre park is loaded with wooded trails that traverse modest hills. We will explore many of them. We will also dip into the 50-acre Brookside Gardens, complete with its diverse plantings and shimmering ponds. It is often described as the jewel of Montgomery County parks. The surface for this hike is mostly natural surface, although there are significant sections of paved surface. Feel free to bring along lunch to enjoy at the trailhead when the hike is over, then stroll back to Brookside Gardens if you wish, a short walk from the trailhead. Please be advised that you may not eat in the park. **Time to Meet**: Please meet at 9:45 for introductions and sign in. We will start hiking promptly at 10:00 **Directions to Trailhead**: The GPS Coordinates are 39.054546, -77.043680 The Street address is 2004 Shorefield Rd · Silver Spring, MD. When you enter the park you come to a circle. Drive around it 3/4 of the way (to make a left turn) and proceed to a large parking lot. Drive to the far end of the lot. **Contact Information**: Please use the comments feature for routine comments and questions. The hike Leader is Tim; 202-744-0289. Call or text as needed. **Details** Rating: Moderate Distance: 6.2 miles Elevation Gain: Approximately 480 ft Pace: 2.0 to 2.5 miles per hour Facilities: Toilets can be found near the trailhead and about 4.5 miles into the hike Fees: No entrance fee **Cancellation**: In the unlikely event that the hike needs to be cancelled, it may be cancelled up to the evening before the hike. Hikers will be notified through comments on this posting. **Weather**: The weather for this location can be found[ here](https://weather.com/weather/today/l/7f535f72c17e25d1f4b025015eb654fd8074dd9f47dfb438304d9fecb7b69194). **Notes**: -Please note, you must sign up at by 9:00 PM the day before the hike. -Please do not show up unregistered. -Please keep this a fragrance free event. -To find out more about PATC, [click here](https://www.patc.net/). -Consider becoming a member of PATC. To join, [click here](https://www.patc.net/membership).

For the first half hour of class, beginners will learn 5 organ & spirit enlivening qigong exercises. After a brief meditative walk, beginners will learn the first of six section of Lao (old) Yang tai chi chuan as taught by Teacher Lu Hung Bin. Remember to wear comfortable loose-fitting clothing & flat comfortable shoes. For more information, call 301-466-5894 or email: info@dancinginsilence.com

You must read the following NVHC Sign-in Sheet Statement/Liability Disclaimer, **[https://nvhc.com/signin.pdf](https://nvhc.com/signin.pdf)** and then answer the question that you will see when you RSVP with "**I Accept**" to be permitted on the hike. **9.5 mile loop hike with 223 feet elevation gain** **Description:** Starting at **[Columbia Island Marina](https://boatingindc.com/columbia-island-marina/)** (Lady Byrd Johnson Park, GW Parkway, Arlington, VA; **GPS Coordinates**: 38°52'30.7"N 77°02'56.2"W We will proceed along the **[Mount Vernon Trail](https://www.nps.gov/gwmp/planyourvisit/mtvernontrail.htm)** towards **[Theodore Roosevelt Island](https://www.nps.gov/this/index.htm)** where we will walk around the **Swamp trail**, the island's main trail. From there we will cross the **Key Bridge** and climb the **[Exorcist Steps](https://www.trolleytours.com/washington-dc/exorcist-steps)** before heading down to the river. Our next destination will be **[Georgetown Waterfront park](https://www.nps.gov/places/georgetown-waterfront-park.htm)** where we will stop for **lunch** while enjoying a scenic view of the **Potomac river.** After lunch we will walk along the river past the **Lincoln Memorial** to the **14th Street bridge** and finish back at **Columbia Island Marina**. **Pace:** 2.5 to 2.75 mph while moving ***You must be able to hike this distance at this pace to successfully complete the outing*** **What to bring:** **:** Adequate hydration, also snack/lunch, and sturdy hiking shoes. **Restrooms** are available both at the Columbia Island Marina and on Theodore Roosevelt Island. **Dogs:** are **not** welcome on this hike. **[NVHC Dog Policy](https://tinyurl.com/nvhcdogpolicy).** **Weather** : weather for this location can be found **[HERE](https://weather.com/weather/today/l/f5eb957fcc631380629a5541b21a742eb7eeb5ad5ae988d2035003fb107d301f)**. **Where to meet:** we will meet in the parking lot of the **[Columbia Island Marina](https://boatingindc.com/columbia-island-marina/),** Lady Byrd Johnson Park, GW Parkway, Arlington, VA. Upon entering the Columbia Island marina, in Lady Bird Johnson park, turn left, I have a Honda Fit that will have the UV hatchback open. Thank you for being ready to hike at 9:15 so that we can get signed in and leave on time at 9:30 am. The hike will begin from Columbia island Marina parking lot. **Rehydration**: Island Time Bar n Grill in the marina is open again! Dawn K message me here or text to 703 533 9231

This Saturday I've invited Sandy F. to help co-host this event. She is an experienced birder with years of experience in finding and identifying birds in our area. The Group gathers in the parking lot between 6:00 AM and 6:30 AM to catch the sunrise over the Potomac River. Google Maps: [https://maps.app.goo.gl/hCUuoxUPKhRbLLZn9](https://maps.app.goo.gl/hCUuoxUPKhRbLLZn9) Dyke Marsh Wildlife Preserve is known as a top regional birding spot, over **300 species** have been recorded here, including nesting bald eagles and ospreys. Bring your longest telephoto lens and binoculars. I can help you with camera settings so you can capture sharper images of both perched birds and birds in flight. I randomly drop by this afternoon before the snow and saw many amazing birds. I posted a few already. Note: I set the meetup for 6:30am to capture the sunrise. It's supposed to be partly cloudy which should make for amazing skies. I suggest you arrive at 6:00 AM to capture the glow of twilight hour. It is thrilling to capture the amazing orange and red colors that are only available at that time in the morning. Share only your very best, most interesting shots after the field trip, and keep it down to between 5 and 10 photos. Bring water, comfortable shoes, a tripod, fully charged batteries, and empty memory cards... Park Facts: Entrance Fee: Free Allow Dogs on a leash: Yes Bathroom: On the north side of the Marina is a building for restrooms National Park Service Dyke Marsh Wildlife Preserve: www.nps.gov/gwmp Friends of Dyke Marsh (www.fodm.org) By sending in an RSVP and joining this meetup event hosted by the Virginia Beltway Photography Meetup, I agree to abide by the rules and regulations (where applicable) of the event location, and I am also agreeing to the terms of the following release and waiver of liability, which shall be binding on my heirs, executors, administrators, successors, and assigns. In consideration of my (and my child’s) participation in the Virginia Beltway Photography Meetup, I do hereby release, discharge, and hold harmless the Organizer, its members, officers, directors, employees, and the leader(s) of this event from any and all liability by reason of any damage, loss, expenses, or injury arising from my (and my child’s) participation in this event, including that caused solely or in part by the fault of any and all of the above-named parties.

Meet at the National Wildlife Visitor Center, at the far left end of the parking lot.

Winter’s on the wane and signs of spring are popping up, making now a perfect time to appreciate the intermingling of the best of both seasons. Experience the beauty of bare tree architecture and the welcome sight of early bloomers on a stroll abounding with sensory delight at Green Spring Gardens, a local treasure. Tuning in with our senses, we’ll combine slow strolling with attentive pauses to deepen our connection with nature. Green Spring offers space for quiet enjoyment throughout the seasons, and is particularly noted for its collection of dozens of cultivated varieties of witch hazels of many colors. Their unusual flowers are among the earliest to open, often blooming amidst snow and ice, and they are in bloom now. There’s pussy willow (pictured) too. The health benefits of slowing down in quiet company among trees and plants with senses alert and aware are scientifically documented, but the best way to understand these benefits is to experience them yourself, preferably on a regular basis. IMPORTANT! The size of the group is limited! Please be sure to update your status asap on either the “going” or “wait list” if you sign up and find you can’t make it! Walking under 2 miles is mostly on natural, somewhat uneven surfaces, with a few short hills. Wear good walking shoes, a hat and sunscreen, and bring water (or tea) to drink. Park and meet near the open gate on Witch Hazel Rd at Green Spring Gardens 38.82428° N, 77.15808° W 4500-4504 Witch Hazel Rd, Alexandria, VA Please arrive by 8:45 to sign the required SCPRO waiver. SCPRO welcomes a $2. Donation. Add questions to comments, or contact the leader 7037725401

Put a spring in your step and march into spring with your fellow autistics at Cleveland Park Library! Conveniently located at 3310 Connecticut Ave. NW just blocks from Cleveland Park Metro on the Red Line in Washington, DC, the library is in the safe and walkable Cleveland Park neighborhood. We will meet in Meeting Room 1, which is located on the first floor of the library. Food is prohibited, but covered drinks are permitted. I will be bringing my UNO card game and PowerPuff Girls board game. Feel free to bring games if you like, but it's not required. We typically go out to lunch afterwards at Fat Pete's, a BBQ place which also has salads, pizza, and other non-BBQ options. PJ, the owner, has personally told me to call him and let him know when we're coming so he can sit us in a sensory-friendly space. If PJ says the place is too noisy, there are many other restaurants in Cleveland Park. Fat Pete's is located at 3407 Connecticut Ave. NW in Washington, DC, just across the street and a block away from the library. If you're running late or get lost, please call or text me at 202-802-3238.

Please join us for our fun and friendly monthly VSDC Vegan Potluck in NW DC, near (but not at) Hip City Veg on 7th St, on Sunday, March 8th. It will start at 12 pm and go until 3 pm. There is no charge to attend the event but you will be expected to bring vegan food or drink to share. ***\*\*Note: you must provide your 1st and last name plus your contact email to receive the specific location. If you do not, then you will not be provided the location and allowed to this event - NO EXCEPTIONS.\*\**** **Items to bring to the potluck:** \- Vegan potluck dish \(no animal products of any kind\) to share\. For food quantity\, please bring 4 to 6 times the number of servings times the number in your party\. \- A serving utensil for your dish \- Ingredients list or recipe for your dish \- ***Please print or write it out in advance*** \- Beverage for yourself or one to share \- To help reduce waste\, bring your reusable plate\, cup\, and utensils [VSDC will provide drinking water.] Please Note: \- Be sure to help leave the space clean before leaving the potluck and take the containers and utensils you brought with you\. *\- Vegans do not consume any animal products or byproducts \(no meat\, chicken/poultry\, fish/sea animals\, eggs\, milk or dairy products\, honey\, etc\)\.* **LOCATION** Near the Capital One Arena in NW DC. The exact location will be provided to Attendees who follow the directions above about 2 days before the event. The host prefers not to make the location public - only for registered attendees. **PARKING** Yes, there should be free street parking on Sundays in this area. *Please read and follow all parking signs.* **METRO** This location is accessible by public transport. It is within 1 block of the Gallery Place - Chinatown metro station on the Red, Green, and Yellow lines. ***Please plan your trip in advance and ask any questions the day prior. The organizers will do their best to answer questions but ones on the day of the event will be difficult for responses.*** Email potluck@vsdc.org for questions or to help plan future potluck events. VSDC Thanks our host for arranging this wonderful space! ***Don't be a no show! If your plans change, update your RSVP.*** **VSDC: More Than A Meetup** We are delighted to have you as part of The Veg Society of DC Vegan Meetup group, and we look forward to seeing you at our events. Did you know that [VSDC](https://vsdc.org/%20) is a nonprofit organization with membership benefits? With VSDC membership, you will save money at area restaurants and businesses, attend VSDC member-only events, and, most importantly, support us as a clear and consistent voice for improving the lives of all beings through community building and education centered on the benefits of a vegan diet and lifestyle. The membership fee is minimal, but the impact is significant! [Join today](https://vsdc.org/membership/)! **Ways to Stay In Touch with Us** Thank you for being part of our Meetup presence and bringing like-minded people together. We invite you to: * Become a [VSDC member](https://vsdc.org/membership/) to save money at area restaurants and support us in being a clear and consistent voice for improving the lives of all beings through community building and education centered on the benefits of a vegan diet and lifestyle. * Sign up for our[ monthly e-newsletter](https://vsdc.org/about/newsletter/) to hear more about our activities. * Follow us on [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/vegsocietydc/) or [Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/vegsocietydc/) to engage with us. **Interested in Volunteering with VSDC?** VSDC offers many events each month, thanks to the dedication of our event planning team. Would you consider volunteering? To learn more and get started, [please visit our website](https://vsdc.org/volunteer/). **Only Vegan Food, Please** While VSDC welcomes people wherever they are on the path to an all-plant, vegan diet and lifestyle, it is our policy that only vegan food be served and consumed at our events. If you would like to [explore a vegan diet or get support in making lifestyle changes, consider these resources](https://vsdc.org/exploringvegan/). **Liability Waiver and Code of Conduct** When you sign up to attend, you automatically acknowledge [VSDC's Liability Waiver](https://vsdc.org/activity-waiver/) and commit to follow the code of conduct found at [Policies - VSDC - Veg Society of DC](https://vsdc.org/policies/). **VSDC. Creating communities. For your health, the animals, and the planet.**

The[ Simplicity Living Study Circle of Northern VA](https://www.coachingwithdanijk.com/blog/important-community-update-join-our-new-meetup-group-simplicity-living-circle-of-northern-va) meets on the first Saturday of each month from 4:00 to 5:30 PM at Lacey Woods Park in Arlington, Virginia. **\*This is a rain or shine outdoor event.** This free community group offers a unique and empowering space for individuals seeking to live a simpler, more intentional life. Through participant-driven discussions and facilitated activities, our circle fosters connection, reflection, and mutual support. Hosted by members of the Simplicity Living Circle of Northern VA, we welcome those who are curious about simplicity, mindful living, and environmental care. Whether you are just beginning or deepening your journey, you are warmly invited into this inclusive and supportive space. *Note: Our official Meetup group changed due to administrative complications. This new group is now our verified and active community hub, which you can confirm at our in-person events.*

You must read the following NVHC Sign-in Sheet Statement/Liability Disclaimer, **[https://nvhc.com/signin.pdf](https://nvhc.com/signin.pdf)** and then answer the question that you will see when you RSVP with **"I Accept"** to be permitted on the hike. **About a 7 mile Loop** with **minimal elevation gain**. Most of the hike will be on **pavement.** **Treat** yourself to a lovely visit to the **[United States Botanic Garden](https://www.usbg.gov/)**. It is the oldest continuously operating public garden in the United States. During the late 18th century, George Washington had a dream of a national botanic garden and was instrumental in establishing one on the National Mall in 1820. To **Prepare our Visit** to this '**secret garden',** you might want to first take a **[Virtual Tour](https://www.usbg.gov/visit/tours/take-virtual-tour) ;** an **[Audio Tour](https://www.usbg.gov/audio-tours);** or a **[Video Tour](https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLGr704ibVLOZ7rPU5NyL7_eYKxL197x88)** of the **[gardens.](https://www.usbg.gov/)** From there we will head over to the **[Sculpture Garden Pavilion Cafe](https://sculpturegardenpavilioncafe.smartonlineorder.com/)**[ ](https://sculpturegardenpavilioncafe.smartonlineorder.com/) for **[lunch](https://sculpturegardenpavilioncafe.smartonlineorder.com/).** You can eat at the cafe or bring your own lunch. **Description:** We will leave from from **[Columbia Island Marina](https://boatingindc.com/columbia-island-marina/)**, head along the **Potomac River** on the **Mount Vernon Trail,** cross **Memorial Bridge** to the **Mall.** We will admire the view of **Mall** from the **Monument**. From there we continue along the Mall to the **[U.S. Botanic Garden](https://www.usbg.gov/). After Lunch** at the **[Sculpture Garden Pavilion Cafe](https://sculpturegardenpavilioncafe.smartonlineorder.com/)** we will return to the Marina over the **14th street bridge**. **Pace**: Pace is about **2.5 mph** while moving. **Bring:** \- Hydration and snacks as you desire or purchase lunch at the Sculpture Garden Pavilion Cafe\. -The route is basically level. Most of the hike will be on paved surfaces so wear comfortable walking shoes. \- Dress in layers for the weather paying special attention to your head/hands\. **Dogs:** Dogs are NOT welcome on this hike in accordance with the **[NVHC Dog Policy](https://tinyurl.com/nvhcdogpolicy).** **Weather:** weather in this location is **[HERE](https://weather.com/weather/today/l/c4025fdf0177c872b7fc2e0d09e7c523995ef49e21145e2d2438fe08649ca9e8)**. **Meetup Location:** We will meet up at Columbia Island Marina at 9:15 am to get checked in and ready to leave by 9:30 am. GPS Coordinates: **38.87651,-77.04947** **Maps** **[Map National Mall](https://npplan.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/Mall-Map.pdf)**

Hosted by Wild Ones Columbus How to Install a Bog Garden, with David Marsolo Saturday, March 14th, 2026 10:00 am to 12:00 pm (Eastern Time) Innis House (Inniswoods Metro Park) , 940 S. Hempstead Road, Westerville, OH Public Welcome Free Event Program/Speaker Presentation Wheelchair Accessible Public Restroom Free Public Parking A bog can serve the same functions as a traditional rain garden but has the advantages of being low maintenance, climate resilient and attractive for a much longer part of the year. David Marsolo is a long time Wild Ones member. He has been maintaining artificial bogs at his suburban Westerville home for about 20 years. He will describe how to install a bog and fill it with many interesting native plants including pollinator and host plants https://columbus.wildones.org/calendar-of-events-and-programs/?wo_event_id=11160

Hosted by Licking Parks District Planning and Growing a Cut Flower Garden Thursday, March 12, 2026 Are you a plant lover or garden enthusiast who would like to add growing cut flowers to your garden repertoire but don’t know where to start? Or maybe you’d like to grow flowers instead of grass to attract pollinators? Whatever your flower dream is, let’s dig in and start here! Join Tracey Barnes of Moon Maiden Flower Farm to learn the basic foundations of growing a cut flower garden, which includes planning, choosing the right varieties, succession planting for continuous blooms, maintenance, harvesting and post harvest care for making bouquets. Whatever your horticulture experience level is, you’ll gain confidence in your decision making, and before you know it, you’ll be slinging flowers and sharing their beauty with others. Register by Mar 11. [Register here for free https://www.lickingparkdistrict.com/267/March-2026](https://www.lickingparkdistrict.com/267/March-2026) 6PM - 7:30PM Location: James Bradley Center, Infirmary Mound Park

Hosted by Licking Parks District Backyard Conservation: Composting 101 Thursday, March 5, 2026 Join us to learn how to create nutrient-rich compost right at home! Whether you have a small garden, a backyard, or just a few potted plants, this program is perfect for anyone interested in reducing waste and boosting soil health. We will go over what compost is and how to use it, what can and cannot be composted, when to turn and water your compost, and troubleshooting! Free. [Register by March 1. Click here ](https://www.lickingparkdistrict.com/267/March-2026) 6PM - 7PM Location: James Bradley Center, Infirmary Mound Park

Save the Date 🌱 The Licking County Master Gardener Volunteers invite you to the annual gardening conference, open to everyone who enjoys growing plants. 📅 Saturday, March 14, 2026 📍 OSU Newark Campus - Reese center 🎟️ Tickets go on sale in January and this event fills fast, sells out every year 🌿 2026 Theme: Unusual Gardens in Your Backyard You will hear practical ideas that help you rethink small spaces and try new approaches at home. This conference also arrives at the perfect time of year. It helps soothe the urge to get outside while winter is still around. Central Ohio gardeners wait until late May to plant outdoors, so this day helps you plan and daydream about spring projects. Speakers • Joseph Tychonievich, author of Rock Gardening: Reimagining a Classic Style • Debra Knapke, The Garden Sage • Denise Schreiber, author of Eat Your Roses You will find vendors, a silent raffle, and friendly conversations with other gardeners. Registration • Register by January 31 to pay 50 dollars • Starting February 1, the fee is 60 dollars • Tickets at the door are 75 dollars • Boxed lunch, coffee and pastries are included MGV website: [https://fourseasonsofgardening.org/2026-spring-conference](https://fourseasonsofgardening.org/2026-spring-conference) 9:00-9:20 Registration & Complimentary Muffins & Vendor Visits (Auditorium) 9:20-9:30 Welcome & Opening Remarks (Auditorium) 9:30-10:20 Denise Schreiber, “Mrs Know It All” Pittsburg, PA Beyond the Garden Gate, Peeking at the Neighbor’s (Ballroom/Hallway). 10:20–10:40 Break-Visit Vendors & Raffle Tables (Auditorium) 10:40–11:30 Debra Knapke, “The Garden Sage” Columbus Ohio Wanting it All—Evolving as a Gardener (Ballroom) 11:30-12:15 Lunch (Catered/Visit Vendors & Raffle Tables 12:30–1:00 Break Out—Session 1 (Ballroom) Dawn Seymour Hungry for Change: Avoiding “the Jones’” with Intentional Design (Auditorium) Ryan Slaughter, Ross County Ag. & Natural Resources Extension Educator Growing Berries in Home Gardens (Ballroom) 1:10–1:40 Break Out Session 2 Dawn Seymour Hungry for Change: Avoiding “the Jones’” with Intentional Design (Auditorium) Ryan Slaughter Growing Berries in the Home Garden (Ballroom/Hallway) 1:40-2:10 Break: Final Visit to Vendors & Raffle Tables 2:10–3:00 Joseph Tychonievich, South Bend, IN, Writer, Plant Breeder, Gardener Big Ideas, Small Spaces: Making Creative Gardens on Small Properties

Come join us for coffee at Matari Coffee to discuss our March book, "The Enchanted Greenhouse"! Book description: Terlu Perna broke the law because she was lonely. She cast a spell and created a magically sentient spider plant. As punishment, she was turned into a wooden statue and tucked away into an alcove in the North Reading Room of the Great Library of Alyssium. This should have been the end of her story . . . Yet one day, Terlu wakes in the cold of winter on a nearly-deserted island full of hundreds of magical greenhouses. She’s starving and freezing, and the only other human on the island is a grumpy gardener. To her surprise, he offers Terlu a place to sleep, clean clothes, and freshly baked honey cakes—at least until she’s ready to sail home. But Terlu can’t return home and doesn’t want to—the greenhouses are a dream come true, each more wondrous than the next. When she learns that the magic that sustains them is failing—causing the death of everything within them—Terlu knows she must help. Even if that means breaking the law again. This time, though, she isn’t alone. Assisted by the gardener and a sentient rose, Terlu must unravel the secrets of a long-dead sorcerer if she wants to save the island—and have a fresh chance at happiness and love.

Join us for a fun Saturday evening starting with dinner at Ranchero Kitchen at 6:30 PM, where we’ll be supporting an immigrant-owned local business. Pupusas: Beans, Potatoes, Veggie Homemade juices: Passionfruit, Tamarind, Horchata, Pineapple-cashew After dinner, we’ll head to Skate Zone 71 from 8:00–10:30 PM for skating, music, and good vibes. Come hungry and ready to roll! 😋🛼 Locations: Ranchero Kitchen 984 Morse Rd Columbus, OH 43229 (Same plaza as Ohio BMV license bureau) Skate Zone 71 4900 Evanswood Dr Columbus, OH 43229