October 2018 program listings at the Great Falls Discovery Center

A Museum about the Connecticut River’s Natural, Cultural, and Industrial History


All programs are free to the public unless otherwise noted, such as a suggested donation. Free admission to the museum. Facilities are accessible.

Open Hours

October 1—14: Open 7 days a week 10:00 am — 6:00 pm



October 17 –31: Open Wednesdays through Sundays, 10 am—4 pm



October 1-7 Great Hall History Exhibit: DCR

125 Years of Stewardship and 15 years of Discovery

The Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation is celebrating 125 years of Stewardship. In 1893, DCR’s foundation began with the creation of a regional system of parks to preserve our natural resources for the public as the city of Boston continued to expand. In October 2003, the Great Falls Discovery Center opened its doors for the first time in a public open house. We welcome you all to the Great Hall once again, this week to view the history of Massachusetts State Parks and to celebrate 15 years of Great Falls discoveries here at the center.



October 9 – 28

Great Hall Art Exhibit: Migrations

Art in celebration of the Third Annual Migrations Festival. Join us on October 27th 5:00-7:30 pm for the Festival.



Saturday, October 6

10:30-11:30 am

Leaf Peeping Bike Path B-I-N-G-O

Kids - grab your parents and we’ll go exploring! All ages are welcome as we practice examining the natural world with field guides, binoculars, and a fun game to see just how much you can see! For this special edition of bike path bingo, we focus on the amazing New England fall color right outside our doors. Meet at the main entrance to the Center. Please bring water and wear layers and sturdy shoes.



Three Fridays in October

10:30–11:30 am

Kidleidoscope Story Hour

10/12: Squirrels; 10/19: Bear; 10/26: Bats

Come learn about our wildlife neighbors who share our home in the Connecticut River Watershed. Program includes a story, interactive games, and a craft to introduce young children to wildlife along the river. Meet in the Great Hall. For ages 3-6, accompanied by an adult. Siblings and friends welcome.



Friday, October 12

7:00–9:00 pm

Great Falls Coffeehouse presents: The Nite Caps

Classic roots country music and Western swing. Each month the Friends of the Great Falls Discovery Center host an evening coffeehouse with local talent. Refreshments available. Suggested donations to support educational programming at the Center. Museum and museum store open during intermission.



Sunday, October 14

1 pm

Naming the Land: History of the Pioneer Valley Association

A talk with Mike Jackson

“Pioneer Valley” is a phrase invented to entice urban residents in their new motorcars to vacation in rural Western Massachusetts. A Montague Cultural Council grant program.



Saturday, October 20

2-6 pm

Great Falls Harvest Festival (aka Pumpkin Fest)

Discover us on Avenue A! We are joining the fray of harvest fun once again this fall. Kids and families— make fall seasonal animal crafts at our outdoor tables near the corner of Avenue A and 2nd Street from 2-6 pm. Enjoy our museum exhibits during our special extended open hours from 10 am to 6 pm.



Saturday, October 27

1-5 pm

Monarch Butterfly StoryWalk® — Gotta Go! Gotta Go!

As part of our Third Annual Migration Festival celebration, we are reprising our monarch butterfly StoryWalk®. Join us for a migratory journey at the Discovery Center, as we read together the story of “a teeny-tiny creepy-crawly bug” (a Monarch butterfly caterpillar) in Gotta Go! Gotta Go! The StoryWalk® Project was created by Anne Ferguson of Montpelier, VT and developed in collaboration with the Kellogg-Hubbard Library. Storywalk® is a registered service mark owned by Ms. Ferguson.



Saturday, October 27

5:00-7:30 pm

Third Annual Migrations Festival

We would be honored for you to join us at the 3rd Annual Migrations Festival, a celebration of human and natural biodiversity. Come enjoy art, music, dance and traditional food offered by the diverse local people of the upper Connecticut River Valley. Free and open to all. Sponsored by DCR, Montague Catholic Social Ministries, RiverCulture, and the people of Turners Falls.



Wednesday, October 31

Annual Rag Shag Parade, All along Avenue A

Special Halloween open hours until 6 pm because we have candy! The Turners Falls VFW invites all ghouls, goblins, and ghosts to a parade along Avenue A. Meet at Food City Parking lot at dusk for the parade.
 

June 2018 program listings at the Great Falls Discovery Center

The Great Falls Discovery Center’s current seasonal hours: Open Every Day - 7 days a week, 10am to 4pm.
Extended Summer hours begin June 23 – open 7 days a week – 10 am to 6 pm.

All programs are free to the public unless otherwise noted. Free admission to the museum. Facilities are accessible.

June 2—June 30
Great Hall Art Exhibit: Flora and Fauna Quilts
Leslie Cook and Anneke Corbett celebrate Nature’s bounty through traditional and contemporary quilts.

Saturday, June 2
10 am-2 pm
13th Annual Family Fishing Day
Join us for a day of FREE fishing fun! Adults and children of all ages are welcome. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Event is held rain or shine. Parking is free at each site. Ride the FREE Fish Bus shuttle between sites!
At Barton Cove Campground: Barton Cove Road in Gill
· Free fishing from 10:00am to 2:00pm!
· Fishing equipment provided - limited supplies available. Bring your own pole if you have it.
· No fishing license needed.
At Great Falls Discovery Center: 2 Avenue A
· Fly lure tying demonstrations.
· Fly fishing casting demonstrations.
· CATCH THE FISH BUS HERE! Free shuttle bus provided to and from Barton Cove every half hour, or as needed from 10 am to 1 pm.
At Turners Falls Fishway: 15 First Street
· Fish printing - The art of Gyotaku, from noon to 2:00pm.
Thank you to all of our partners for making this event possible: MassWildlife, Western Mass Fly Fishermen, First Light, Turners Falls Fishway, Friends of the Great Falls Discovery Center, and volunteers!

Sunday, June 3
1-3 pm
Artist Reception Great Hall Exhibit: Flora and Fauna Quilts
Two New England quilters Leslie Cook and Anneke Corbett, practicing different forms of the art, celebrate their love and vision of Nature’s bounty. Leslie’s elaborate traditional hand appliqué complements Anneke’s more contemporary wildlife images.

Friday, June 8
7-9 pm
Great Falls Coffeehouse presents: Sue Kranz and Friends
Original songs, covers, and a sampling of songs from various traditions accompanied with flute and guitar. Each month the Friends of the Great Falls Discovery Center host an evening coffeehouse with local talent. Refreshments available. Suggested donations to support educational programming at the Center. Museum and store open during intermission.


Saturday, June 16
6-8 pm
The Ninth Annual Massachusetts Walking Tour
The annual bipedal concert tour promoting local arts and culture. Since 2010, co-founders Mark Mandeville & Raianne Richards have organized an annual non-profit bipedal concert tour of Massachusetts in support of arts and culture for towns throughout the state. Each free community concert collaborates with local artists, musicians, educational programs, trail managers and land trust groups to highlight both artistic diversity and recreational land use. With each visit, a community has pulled together and taken part in a dialogue which serves to strengthen local investment in the arts. From June 15 - 27, 2018, the Massachusetts Walking Tour visits towns along the Connecticut River Paddlers’ Trail - hiking and paddling to eleven community concerts. Free. Sponsored by the Montague Cultural Council. For more information visit www.masswalkingtour.org.

Sunday, June 24
10:30-11:30 am
Bike Path B-I-N-G-O!
Kids - grab your parents and we’ll go exploring! All ages are welcome as we
practice examining the natural world with field guides, binoculars, and a fun game to see just how much you can see! Meet at the main entrance to the
Center. Please bring water, bug spray, sunscreen and wear sturdy shoes.

Friday, June 29
10:30-11:30 am
Kidleidoscope Story Hour—Eagles
Come learn about our wildlife neighbors who share our home in the Connecticut River Watershed. Program includes a story, interactive games, and a craft to introduce young children to wildlife along the river. Meet in the Great Hall. For ages 3-6, accompanied by an adult. Siblings and friends welcome.

Saturday, June 30
1-2 pm
Friends Annual Meeting with Guest Speaker
Dale Monette on the Secret Lives of the Quabbin Reservoir
Meet the Friends of the Great Falls Discovery Center and learn how you can become a friend too! Then join us for a special presentation from Dale Monette on the Quabbin Reservoir. Free. ?

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--Janel Nockleby
Visitor Services Supervisor
Great Falls Discovery Center
Connecticut River Greenway State Park
Mass Parks, Department of Conservation & Recreation
2 Avenue A, Turners Falls, MA 01376
Current office hours Wednesday through Sunday 8 am to 4:pm
janel.nockleby@state.ma.us
(413) 863-3221
 

April 2018 program listings at the Great Falls Discovery Center

The Great Falls Discovery Center current seasonal hours are that we are open 5 days a week, Wednesdays through Sundays, 10am to 4pm. All programs are free to the public unless otherwise noted. Free admission to the museum. Facilities are accessible.



April 6—May 30 Great Hall Exhibit: Seen/Unseen, portraits by Cindi Oldham
A conceptual watercolor portrait series that explores what it means to be seen, yet unseen at the same time.

Three Fridays in April
10:30-11:30am
Kidleidoscope Story Hour
4/13: Ducks; 4/20: Bobcats; 4/27 Who Lives in a Tree?
Come learn about our wildlife neighbors who share our home in the Connecticut River Watershed. Program includes a story, interactive games, and a craft to introduce young children to wildlife along the river. Meet in the Great Hall. For ages 3-6, accompanied by an adult. Siblings and friends welcome.

Friday, April 13
7-9 pm
Great Falls Coffeehouse presents: Lenny Zarcone
Frank Sinatra tunes, the great American songbook, jazz standards, and pop music. Long time internationally acclaimed singer/songwriter folk musician. Each month the Friends of the Great Falls Discovery Center host an evening coffeehouse with local talent. Refreshments available. Suggested donations to support educational programming at the Center. Museum and store open during intermission.

Saturday, April 14—Sunday, April 22
April School Vacation Week—Open Every Day All Week!
We are expanding our spring hours this week so stop by the welcome desk for Earth Week investigation stations, habitat diorama scavenger hunts, and games to explore the grounds. Bring your bike for the Canalside Rail Trail.

Saturday, April 14
10:30-11:30am
Teaching Creatures presents: Animals of Spring
Hurray for Spring! Join Rae Griffiths of Teaching Creatures as she talks about what animals were doing all winter and what they are up to now that spring has arrived. Meet in the Great Hall, as Rae brings amphibians, reptiles, and a mammal or two to help us all celebrate the new season. This program is free and for all ages. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Sponsored by the Friends of the Great Falls Discovery Center. Come early as seating may be limited.

Saturday, April 14
4-5 pm
Full Disclosure Festival: RADICAL INTERCONNECTEDNESS
“from Walt, from me, to You” by Katherine Adler
Tickets are $15 for this festival happening all evening in Turners Falls. One ticket is good for the whole festival! Art includes original dance, theater, music, spoken word, and installation art in downtown Turners Falls. “from Walt, from me, to You” by Katherine Adler explores the universality and depth of one of America’s most revered poets, Walt Whitman. For a full schedule to RADICAL INTERCONNECTEDNESS visit http://www.eggtooth.org or www.turnersfallsriverculture.org.

Friday, April 20
1—2 pm
Meet Toto the Tornado Kitten
After a terrible tornado in 2011 in Brimfield, MA, the clean-up crew found an itty-bitty kitten in the wreckage. The courageous kitten was named Toto and nursed back to health by a rescue worker named Jonathan and by others. Jonathan went on to write a children’s book about Toto’s adventure. Join the author and Toto too for a read-along of Toto the Tornado Kitten and celebrate those who help others! Sponsored by Montague Public Libraries.

Sunday, April 22
10 am -2 pm
Earth Day Open House: Put Yourself in the Big Picture
All ages are welcome to join us for activities and games to help you make a difference in the Connecticut River Watershed. Our exhibits ask: how have people helped or hurt the habitats in our watershed? What will you do to help?

Saturday, April 28
10 am—12 pm
Park Serve Day: Give a Day, Make a Difference
The Department of Conservation and Recreation invites you to the Great Falls Discovery Center to lend a hand during this day of volunteer service to our state parks. To discuss any special accommodations or needs you may have for the day, please call (413) 863-3221. To register please visit www.mass.gov/dcr.

Saturday, April 28
1:30—3:30 pm
Great Hall Exhibit Artist Reception: Cindi Oldham’s Seen/Unseen
Seen/Unseen is a conceptual portrait series that explores what it means to be seen, yet unseen at the same time. The viewer can see the subject’s likeness in their portraits while learning a little bit about each one of them by reading the narratives that correspond with them. You may learn something about them that is often overlooked, something that one can only notice when they take a second look, or something that has been right there in plain sight, yet invisible. Until now. Sponsored by The Western Mass Recovery Learning Community.

Sunday, April 29
10 am—4 pm
Celebrate Massachusetts Art Week with “Your Exquisite Corpse”
Join Nina Rossi for a collaborative and interactive exhibit based on the Surrealist game of Exquisite Corpse. Figure paintings with the Head/Shoulders and Legs/Feet executed by two different artists will be exhibited. Accompanying each figure will be a short text or poem also created by multiple writers and poets. Visitors will have opportunities to interact with the event, including a chance to have the artists and writers use them as inspiration. They may have their head/Shoulders or Legs/Feet photographed by the artists for use in the Exquisite Corpse project. Visitors can watch artists create Exquisite Corpse paintings from photo sources during event. They may contribute random text for use in the stories that complete each Exquisite Corpse.
 

February 2018 program listings at the Great Falls Discovery Center

The Great Falls Discovery Center current seasonal hours are that we are open 5 days a week, Wednesdays through Sundays, 10am to 4pm. We are open all week for school vacation week, February 17 – 25. All programs are free to the public unless otherwise noted. Free admission to the museum. Facilities are accessible.

February 17—April 1
Great Hall Family Learning Exhibit
Reading the Rocky Book of the Past:
Dinosaur Footprints in the Connecticut River Valley
An exhibit about the 19th-century discovery of dinosaur footprints in the Connecticut River Valley and local people, like Dexter Marsh and Edward Hitchcock, who played starring roles in the story. Designed for fun family learning by Deerfield’s Pocumtuck Valley Memorial Association (PVMA), the space includes two simulated 19th century cabinets (precursors to today's museums), a “make your own collection” takeaway activity, dinosaur track reproductions and more! Be sure to come to the opening event Saturday, February 17, 1-4 pm. (During some of the larger events in the Great Hall in February and March, the exhibit might not be fully visible. Please check our events calendar or call 413-863-3221 to find out more.)

Wednesdays, February 7, 14, 21
1-2:30 pm Homeschool Science: Hands-on STEM
Sponsored by Montague Public Libraries
Topics this month: 2/7: River Otters; 2/14: Beavers; 2/21: Porcupines
The Turners Falls Carnegie Library offers homeschool science on Wednesdays with a focus on science, technology, engineering, and math. This month young scientists are invited to take a field trip to the Great Falls Discovery Center. Come learn about our wildlife neighbors who share our home in the Connecticut River Watershed. Registration requested to ensure that we have enough supplies for everyone. Please email Angela at the library at arovatti-leonard@cwmars.org or call 413 863-3214.

Four Fridays in February
10:30-11:30am
Kidleidoscope Story Hour
2/2: Groundhogs; 2/9: Beavers; 2/16: Owls; 2/23: Coyotes
Come learn about our wildlife neighbors who share our home in the Connecticut River Watershed. Program includes a story, interactive games, and a craft to introduce young children to wildlife along the river. Meet in the Great Hall. For ages 3-6, accompanied by an adult. Siblings and friends welcome.


Friday, February 9
7—9 pm
Great Falls Coffeehouse presents: Lisa Davol and Stephen Page
Traditional songs from the American songbook. Each month the Friends of the Great Falls Discovery Center host an evening coffeehouse with local talent. Refreshments available. Suggested donations to support educational programming at the Center. Museum and store open during intermission.

Sunday, February 11
12—3pm
Who Do You Love? Valentines for Wildlife
For all ages, stop by the Great Hall to make Valentines to give to the ones you love, keep for yourself, or give to your favorite wildlife biologist— all in honor of your favorite animal. Learn about your favorite animal’s habitat and how to help protect it. Co-sponsored by CFCE Playgroup, a free, fun, safe playgroup for Gill, Montague and surrounding area, promoting early literacy and school readiness.

Saturday, February 17
1-4 pm
Opening Event: Reading the Rocky Book of the Past
Dinosaur Footprints in the Connecticut River Valley
This opening event includes a variety of learning stations for all generations to enjoy: “meet” Orra White Hitchcock and try your hand at botanical drawing and painting; make an imitation fossil out of clay; see and learn about real fossils; make your own small collection of gems and shells; or relax with dinosaur books and puzzles and enjoy dino-themed refreshments. Sponsored in part by Massachusetts Cultural Council, the National Endowment for the Humanities, the Institute of Museum and Library Services, and the members and donors of the Pocumtuck Valley Memorial Association.

February 17—25
School Vacation Week: Open Every Day All Week Long
We offer expanded winter hours this week so stop by the welcome desk for investigation stations every day 10am to 4pm. Investigation station topics may include dinosaurs, mammals, and birds. Come try a scavenger hunt or a habitat game!

Saturday, February 24
10:30-11:30am
Dinosaur Story Hour
A story hour with crafts and activities focusing on dinosaurs! For ages approximately 4 – 8, with a parent or guardian. Friends and siblings welcome.

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--Janel Nockleby
Visitor Services Supervisor
Great Falls Discovery Center
Connecticut River Greenway State Park
Mass Parks, Department of Conservation & Recreation
2 Avenue A, Turners Falls, MA 01376
Current office hours Wednesday through Sunday 8 am to 4 pm
janel.nockleby@state.ma.us
(413) 863-3221
Attachments area
Preview attachment February 2018 Events -Great Falls Discovery Center.pdf
PDF
February 2018 Events -Great Falls Discovery Center.pdf
 

February 2014

In the Great Hall

19th and 20th Century Photographs: Children of the Swift River Valley in the Great Hall


Sat., Feb. 1 (10:30 – 11:30 am) Winter and Spring Pre-school Series: Groundhog Weather School!

Will the groundhog see his shadow this year? How long until Spring? Join Janel Nockleby for stories, crafts, and activities to find out more about this hibernating mammal and its mysterious forecasts. For ages 3 – 6 with a parent or guardian. Siblings and friends welcome.


Sat., Feb. 8 (1:00 – 3:00 pm) Opening Reception for Children of the Swift River Valley Exhibit

Family-friendly exhibit of historic photos focusing on the children of the Swift River Valley before it was flooded. This exhibit is presented by the Swift River Valley Historical Society and will be open Fridays and Saturdays through the end of March. Please join us!

Fri., Feb. 14 (7:00 – 9:00 pm) Great Falls Coffeehouse Presents: Fire Pond

Eveline MacDougall and Douglas Reid present a wide variety of music: old-time fiddle tunes, swing, roots music, Celtic, Eastern European, folk, gospel, and originals. The Valentine's Evening show at the Discovery Center will feature many types of love songs (love for the earth, love for each other, good jokes, family, chocolate, & community)! The concert will be geared for people of all ages & all walks of life.



Doors open at 6:30 pm, concert begins at 7 pm. Refreshments available. Museum and museum store open at intermission. Donations ($6–$12 suggested) help the Friends support free programming at the Great Falls Discovery Center.


Sat., Feb. 15 (1:00 – 2:00 pm) Watershed Investigators: Bears!

It’s the time of year when bear cubs are being born in their dens and adult bears are thinking about coming out of hibernation. Come learn all about bears and what they have been doing all winter. “Watershed Investigators” is a kid-oriented program that focuses on hands-on discovery of local nature. Join refuge staff as we explore different ways to look at the natural world around us. Methods of discovery may include crafts, games, stories, and exploration. This program is geared towards grades 2-5, but everyone is welcome.

Thurs., Feb. 20 (7:00 – 9:00 pm) Greenfield Garden Club Presents: The Smith College Botanic Garden: Past, Present and Future.

This evening will feature two guest speakers. First, Cynthia Boettner of the Silvio O. Conte National Fish & Wildlife Refuge will present an update on new invasive species to the Franklin County area, and the things that can be done to prevent their spread. Following her, Mr. Michael Marcotrigiano, Professor of Biological Sciences and Director of the Botanic Garden at Smith College in Northampton will give a talk highlighting the past, present, and future of the Smith College Botanic Garden. Smith College contains over 8,000 taxa of plants that are housed within its outdoor gardens, glass houses, and Arboretum. Public is welcome!


Sat., Feb. 22 (10:30 – 11:30 am) Winter and Spring Pre-school Series: Where Are All the Animals Hiding?

Winter is a time for staying snug and warm for animals too! Join Janel Nockleby to investigate the secret hidden animal homes of the season through stories, crafts, and activities. For ages

3 – 6 with a parent or guardian. Siblings and friends welcome

The Great Falls Discovery Center is open om Friday and Saturday from 10 am to 4 pm.

Call 1-413-863-3221 for info and/or field trip options for schools, senior centers or other area organizations
 

June 2013

In the Great Hall:
Paintings and Photography by Nicole Werth

June 2, 2013 - June 30, 2013


Sat., June 1, 2013 (10:00 am - 2:00 pm) 8th Annual Family Fishing Day
Adults and children of all ages can join refuge staff, staff from the state of MA, educators from Northfield Mountain, and volunteers in a day of fishing fun! Activities include: a live sturgeon exhibit, hands-on fly fishing demonstrations, fly-tying lessons, fishing at Unity Park, fish printing, aquatic insect investigations, raffles, and more! All equipment is provided and no fishing licenses are required to participate.
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Sun., June 2, 16, 30, 2013 (8:30 am - 9:30 am) Canal-side Nature Walk
Meet outside the main entrance to the Discovery Center at 8:30 am. We will leisurely explore level, paved bike trails and village sidewalks to learn about plants, animals, and mill town history. Topics may include birds, fish, invasive species, wildflowers, and cultural or industrial history. Please wear appropriate footwear, bring water, bug repellant, and sunscreen.
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Tues., June 4, 11, 18, 25, 2013 (10:30 am - 11:30 am) Kidleidoscope
Kidleidoscope is a kid-friendly, environmental experience for very young children. Each topic is based on the theme “we share our home” and includes a story, interactive game, and craft
activity to help you and your child understand the natural world around us. Recommended for ages from 3-6 years who must be accompanied by an adult.
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Sat., June 8, 2013 (1:00 pm - 3:00 pm) Artist Reception
Join us in the Great Hall to welcome painter and photographer Nicole Werth, and to view her exhibit, “Plants and Animals of the Connecticut River Valley: An Exploration of Native and Non-native Species from Canada to Connecticut.” Refreshments will be served.
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Sun., June 9 & 23, 2013 (2:00 pm - 3:00 pm) Habitat Highlights Museum Tour
Explore the center’s Connecticut River watershed dioramas in a guided tour of the special habitats along the river. Each habitat plays a vital role in creating a home or rest stop for the thousands of animals and plants that depend on the watershed. From bogs to estuaries to floodplains and more, we will explore the different types of homes that rivers create.
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Fri., June 14, 2013 (7:00 pm - 9:00 pm) The Great Falls Coffeehouse Presents: Mandeville & Richards
Lovers of Americana and old country music will enjoy Mark Mandeville & Raianne Richards, a folk duo from Massachusetts, whose combinations of familiar melodies and poignant lyrics are backed with delicate arrangements on ukulele, clarinet, guitar, and banjo.
Doors open at 6:30 pm, concert begins at 7 pm. Refreshments available. Museum and museum store open at intermission. Donations ($6–$12 suggested) help the Friends support free programming at the Great Falls Discovery Center.
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Sat., June 15, 2013 (10:30 am - 11:30 am) Bike Path Bingo! Canal-side Nature Walk for Kids
Kids, grab your parents, bug spray, and sunscreen, and then we’ll go exploring! All ages are welcome as we practice examining the natural world with field guides, binoculars, and a fun game to see just how much you can see!
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Thurs., June 20, 2013 (6:45 pm) Museum Tour with Mural Painter Frank Gregory & Friends of the Great Falls Discovery Center Annual Meeting
Meet the Friends of the Great Falls Discovery Center and learn how you can become a friend too! Then join us for a special museum tour with Frank Gregory at 7 pm, the artist who painted all of the amazing murals in the Great Falls Discovery Center exhibits. Get the behind the scenes scoop on how the museum was born! Light refreshments provided.
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Fri., June 21, 2013 Summer Evening Hours Start Today on the Solstice!
The center will be open every Friday and Saturday until 8:00 pm until September.
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Fri., June 21, 2013 (6:00 pm – 7:00 pm) Watershed History: The Grand Trunk Hotel
What was so grand about the Grand Trunk Hotel in Turners Falls? Right next to where the center is today, the hotel was built in 1872 and taken down in 1968. We’ll use our imaginations, old photographs, and testimonials to piece together the story of grand old days in Turners Falls.
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Sat., June 22, 2013 (10:30 am - 12:00 pm) Watershed Investigators: Creepy, Crawly, Insect Investigation
“Watershed Investigators” is a monthly kid-oriented program that focuses on hands-on discovery of local nature. Join refuge staff as we explore different ways to look at the natural world around us. Methods of discovery may include crafts, games, stories, and exploration. This program is geared towards grades 2-5, but everyone is welcome.
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Fri., June 28, 2013 (6:00 pm - 7:00 pm) Watershed Poets
Join us to take a new look at the natural world around you. Watershed Poets explores the plants and animals of the Connecticut River watershed as seen through the eyes of local poets. We will investigate birds, wildflowers, trees, the poetry of field guides, and the wonders of the watershed. Enjoy a lively discussion of works by poets such as Emily Dickinson, Frederick Goddard Tuckerman, Wallace Stevens, and more!
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Sat., June 29, 2013 (12:30 pm - 2:30 pm) Water Under the Bridge Bike Tour
Join us for a leisurely two-hour bike tour along the Turners Falls Bike Path that highlights the history of the bridges in Turners Falls and Montague City. Come learn about the many challenges associated with getting over the Connecticut River historically in our villages. Bring your bike, water, bug spray, helmet, and sun block.


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In the Great Hall

October 1-31, 2011 Northeast Fall Photography by Eric Valentine

Interested in what draws people to New England in the fall? Come check out Eric Valentine's photography exhibit as he brings an Oregonian’s eye to the Northeast.

Oct. 1, 2011 (1:00 - 3:00 pm) Artist Reception

Come meet Oregon photographer, Eric Valentine, our featured artist, in the Great Hall of the Discovery Center. Light refreshments will be served.

Oct. 8, 2011 (10:30 am - 2:00 pm) Catch a Falling Star: Family-science fun…hunting for micrometeorites!

Would you like to catch a falling star (a micrometeorite, that is!) and put it in your pocket? Come to the Great Hall of the Great Falls Discovery Center in Turners Falls on Saturday, October 8, 2011 at 10:30 am and Holyoke Community College geology instructor Steve Winters will show you how!

Scientists estimate that about 22,000 tons of micrometeorite materials fall to the Earth every year. Most falls in the ocean, but some falls on land, and much of it ends up in our rivers. Our New England rivers (especially the Connecticut, New England’s longest) have collected, funneled, and preserved tons of micrometeorites over the years, and they’re just waiting for you to come find them and take them home!

Steve will guide you through family-science fun sifting through river sand with a magnet looking for tiny metallic beads—the most common form in which we find this special kind of cosmic dust. Sand, magnets, and microscopes will be provided.

“Catch a Falling Star!” is sponsored by the Friends of Great Falls Discovery Center.

Oct. 14, 2011 (7:00 - 9:00 pm) GFDC Friends present Coffeehouse Series featuring Zydeco Connection

The Friends of the Great Falls Discovery Center host local bands, singers, and musicians in the Great Hall on the second Friday of each month. Doors open at 6:30 pm, concert begins at 7 pm. Refreshments available. Museum and museum store open at intermission. Donations ($6–$12 suggested) help the Friends support free programming at the Great Falls Discovery Center. Come catch the Louisiana blues beat with Zydeco Connection--dancing encouraged!

Oct. 15, 2011 (10:00 am-2:00 pm) WoW Express at the Great Falls Discovery Center

Come celebrate National Wildlife Refuge Week with the Silvio O. Conte’s new Watershed on Wheels! Walk through an immersion trailer; try your hand at identifying 40 different critters to identify; test your grip compared to an eagle’s talon; play a web of life Jenga type game, and learn about your watershed! Cake offered to celebrate the Refuge System!

Oct. 20, 2011 (7:00 - 8:30 pm) Where do the birds around Turners Falls spend their winters?

Come join Scott Surner from the Hampshire Bird Club help kick off our fledgling group of birders! Scott will share some remarkable information about bird migration and highlight what we can look forward to when spring comes our way. And where do the birds that we see here in the Turners Falls area go in the winter anyway? And, how about the birds that stay local? Why is that? Are you interested in birding? Would you like to learn the answers to these questions and more? Come to this program and let's learn together and get this group flying.

Oct. 22, 2011 (10:00 am - 4:00 pm) Visit the Investigation Station at the Front Desk-

All about pumpkins!

This months’ investigation station be set up at the front desk will cover all aspects of pumpkins. A craft activity will also be available for younger visitors.

Oct. 28, 2011 (10:30 - 11:30 am) Fourth Friday Young Children's Story Hour

Join us the fourth Friday story hour featuring animals of the night in honor of Halloween. Have your little one wear a costume if they would like. There will be a craft activity and prizes! This hour is especially for children ages 3-6.


Sarah A. Bevilacqua
Silvio O. Conte National Fish and Wildlife Refuge
Great Falls Discovery Center
2 Avenue A
Turners Falls, MA 01376
413.863.3676
 

In the Great Hall
Photography by Rollin Atkinson

August 1 – 31, 2011


Tuesday, August 2, 9, 16, 23, 30 (10:30 am – 11:30 am) Kidleidoscope

Kidleidoscope is a kid-friendly, hands-on environmental experience for very young children presented in a fun, age-appropriate manner. Each topic includes a story, interactive games and activities, and a craft to help you and your child understand the world around us. Programming recommended for ages 3-6 with a parent or guardian. Each session will have a theme: squirrels (8/2), bees (8/9), bats (8/16), moose (8/23), and butterflies (8/30). Call 413.863.3221 or visit: www.greatfallsma.org for more details.

Saturday, August 6 (8:00 am – 9:30 am) “Know Where You Live” Nature Walk

“That’s In My Backyard?” Come explore plants and history with us on the bike path. Meet at the Discovery Center. All ages and interests welcome. Flat terrain along the canal-side bike path.

Saturday, August 6 (1:00 pm – 3:00 pm) Artist Reception

Join us for a reception recognizing Rollin Atkinson, whose work is featured in the Great Hall for the month of August. Light refreshments available.

Sunday, August 7 (2:00 pm – 3:30 pm) Watershed Poets and Watershed Wildflowers

Join us at the Great Falls Discovery Center for a FREE program. Obsessing about wildflowers is quite natural for poets. Come learn about the wildflowers of the Connecticut River Watershed and the poets here who have loved them. Hear from poets Emily Dickinson, Frederick Goddard Tuckerman, and more! Weather permitting we may stroll along the Canal-side Bike Path to view wildflowers and write about them ourselves. We will consider ways to honor our own favorite wildflowers through words and through conservation. For more information call (413) 863-3221

Friday, August 12 (7:00 pm – 9:00 pm) GFDC Friends presents Coffeehouse Series

The Friends of the Great Falls Discovery Center host local bands, singers, and musicians in the Great Hall on the second Friday of each month. Doors open at 6:30 pm, concert begins at 7 pm. Refreshments available. Museum and museum store open at intermission. Donations ($6–$12 suggested) help the Friends support free programming at the Great Falls Discovery Center.

Tonight, Al Canali & Small Change will help us beat the heat with cool swing, jazz, country, folk, a capella, and a few other genres that defy categorization.

Saturday, August 13 (10:30 am – 2:00 pm) Second Saturday Children’s Series: Dinosaur Footprints

If you were around millions of years ago, you'd have to watch out for towering dinosaurs as they walked this earth. Stop by the Great Hall today between 10:30 and 2:00 to check out some dinosaur footprints and explore a creature from a distant past!

Saturday, August 13 (2:00 pm – 6:00 pm) Turners Falls Block Party!

Join us on the grounds of the Great Falls Discovery Center for activities, displays, and crafts about the natural world during this town-wide celebration of Turners Falls.

Sunday, August 14 (2:00 pm – 3:30 pm) Watershed Poets and Watershed Birds

Join us at the Great Falls Discovery Center for a FREE program. How many ways can you look at a blackbird? Wallace Stevens found thirteen. Emily Dickinson knew that the oriole was “a Pleader – a Dissembler – an Epicure – a Thief.” Obsessing about birds is quite natural for poets. Come learn about the birds of the Connecticut River Watershed and the poets here who have loved them. Consider ways to honor your own favorite avian friends through words and through conservation. For more information call (413) 863-3221.

Thursday, August 18 (7:00 pm – 8:30 pm) Turners Falls: A Planned Industrial Community- History of its Early Development (1866-1914)

Join Refuge staff as we take a virtual walk through Historic Downtown Turners Falls with Frank Abbondanzio of the Town of Montague. Learn about the power of the Connecticut River on the location and formation of manufacturing and milling within the community. This program is free and is adult-oriented, but families are welcome to attend.

Saturday, August 20 (8:00 am – 9:30 am) “Know Where You Live” Nature Walk

“They Live Here Too” Come explore animals and insects with us on the bike path. Meet at the Discovery Center. All ages and interests welcome. Flat terrain along the canal-side bike path.

Saturday, August 20 (11:00 am – 2:00 pm) Canoe Trip on the Connecticut River Water Trail

Join us for a FREE canoe trip, sponsored by the Department of Conservation and Recreation, starting in Montague City and following the Connecticut River Water Trail, a protected section of the river.

For ages 10 and up, more details to follow. Please call (413) 863-3221 for more details and to reserve your spot! It will be a leisurely paddle downstream viewing our unique natural history.

Friday, August 26 (10:30 am – 11:30 am) Fourth Friday Young Children’s Story Hour

Trees are amazing plants! Come check out some creative ways to study them!

Story hour is especially for children ages 3-6. After the story, you can join us for an activity or craft.

Saturday, August 27 (10:00 am – 4:00 pm) Investigation Station

Why are Monarch butterflies orange? Why do stink bugs stink? Investigate these questions and more in the Beetles and Butterflies station.

Visit the Investigation Station on the 4th Friday of each month (located at the front desk). A variety of topics are covered throughout the year.

Sunday, August 28 (8:00 am – 9:30 am) Canal-side Bike Path Nature Walk

Start the day off right with an early morning nature walk! We will leisurely explore level paved bike trails and village sidewalks. Meet outside the main entrance to the Discovery Center at 8 am. Learn about plants, animals, and mill town history along the Canal-side Bike Path of Turners Falls. Topics may include birds, fish, invasive species, wildflowers, cultural or industrial history, and more! Please wear appropriate footwear, bring water, bug repellent, and sun screen. For more information, call (413) 863-3221.
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In the Great Hall

"Underwater Life" a Photographic Exhibition by Norm Vexler

July 1- July 31, 2011

Saturday, July 2, 2011 (1:00 - 3:00 pm): Artist Reception

Join us for a reception recognizing the current month's featured artist, Norm Vexler, in the Great Hall of the Discovery Center.

Norm Vexler, a resident of Amherst, Massachusetts has been involved with underwater photography for the past 20 years. His extensive travels around the world have taken him to some of the most remote and beautiful locations on the planet including Micronesia, Australia, Papua New Guinea, The Solomon Islands, Fiji, Indonesia and Thailand. His love for the ocean is reflected in his art as a photographer and his images capture the essence of the incredible natural beauty found in the underwater environment. Light refreshments will be served.


Friday, July 8, 2011 (7:00 - 9:00 pm): GFDC Friends present Coffeehouse Series

Doors open at 6:30 pm, concert begins at 7 pm. Refreshments available. Museum and museum store open at intermission. Donations ($6–$12 suggested) help the Friends support free programming at the Great Falls Discovery Center.

Join the Friends of the Great Falls Discovery Center to enjoy the 20’s and 30’s acoustic blues sound of “Same Old Blues.”


Saturday, July 9, 2011 (10:30 am - 2:00 pm): Second Saturday Children's Series

The second Saturday Children’s Series is a great way to explore pieces of nature. This time, we’ll look at petals and thistles. Test your matching skills and learn something new about the wild plants we live with.



Sunday, July 10, 2011 (2:00 - 3:30 pm): Watershed Poets and Their Rivers

Join us at the Great Falls Discovery Center for a FREE program. Obsessing about rivers and water is elemental for many poets. Come learn about the Connecticut River Watershed, including its tributaries, from the perspective of the poets. Hear from poets Emily Dickinson, Wallace Stevens, Frederick Goddard Tuckerman, and more! Weather permitting we may stroll along the Canalside Bike Path to view the Connecticut River and write our own interpretations of water. We will consider ways to honor the largest river in New England through words and through conservation. For more information call (413) 863-3221.


Tuesday, July 5th, 12th, 26th, 2011 (10:30 - 11:30 am): Kidleidoscope

Kidleidoscope is a kid-friendly, hands-on environmental experience for very young children presented in a fun, age-appropriate manner. Each topic includes a story, interactive games and activities, and a craft to help you and your child understand the world around us. Programming recommended for ages 3-6 with a parent or guardian. Each session will have a theme. Call 413.863.3221 or visit: www.greatfallsma.org for more details.


Saturday, July 16, 2011 (10:00 am - 12:00 pm): Montague Sandplain Hike

Come learn about the story of fire on the Montague sand plain! Why is the landscape like Cape Cod, but the ocean miles away? Now’s your chance to explore a unique habitat designed by fire, ice, and sand. Find: Sand dunes! Scrub oak! Pitch pine! Blueberries! Join an interpreter for an introduction to the fauna, flora, and geology of this amazing and threatened habitat. Easy-to-intermediate difficulty hike. Bring water, bug repellant, and sun screen. Free. Registration required- call 413-863-3221 or visit www.greatfallsma.org. Meet at the Great Falls Discovery Center to carpool to the site.


Sunday, July 17, 2011 (8:00 - 9:30 am): Canalside Nature Walk

Start the day off right with an early morning nature walk! We will leisurely explore level paved bike trails and village sidewalks. Meet outside the main entrance to the Discovery Center at 8 a.m. Learn about plants, animals, and mill town history along the Canalside Bike Path of Turners Falls. Topics may include birds, fish, invasive species, wildflowers, cultural or industrial history, and more! Please wear appropriate footwear, bring water, bug repellant, and sun screen. For more information, call 413.863.3221 or visit: www.greatfallsma.org.


Monday-Thursday, July 18th-21st, 2011 (10:30 am - 12:00 pm): Junior Rangers

Starting July 18th and ending July 21st, the Great Falls Discovery Center in Turners Falls is offering a four-part science and nature education workshop for children as part of their 2011 Junior Ranger “Nature Kids” program. “Nature Kids,” for young naturalists ages 8-11, will meet July 18, 19, 20, and 21. Children and parents should meet at the Discovery Center lobby at 2 Avenue A, Turners Falls. All programs will start at 10:30 a.m. and will last about 90 minutes. Each day will have a theme. Junior Ranger “Nature Kids” programs are free and open to all. Space is limited- to register call (413) 863-3221 or visit www.greatfallsma.org.


Thursday, July 21, 2011 (7:00 - 8:30 pm): Third Thursday Evening Program

Join Refuge staff as we present a different program on the third Thursday of each month. Thursday night programs are free, unless otherwise noted, and are adult-oriented, but families are welcome to attend.

This week, let’s learn about those mysterious mushrooms that inhabit the oddest places! Roger Monthey, from U.S. Forest Service in New Hampshire will help to enlighten us about these fascinating fungi.


Friday, July 22, 2011 (10:30 - 11:30 am): Fourth Friday Young Children's Story Hour

Join us the fourth Friday of every month from 10:30 am to 11:30 am for a story hour especially for children ages 3-6. After the story, you can join us for an age appropriate activity.

This week, it’s Anasazi the Spider. Let’s kindle an interest in our eight-legged friends!


Friday, July 22, 2011 (1:00 - 2:00 pm): The Boston Science Museum Presents: Reptiles!

Are snakes actually slimy? Why do snapping turtles snap? And most importantly, what makes a reptile a reptile? The best way to become acquainted with reptiles is to meet animals from the Museum’s Live Animal Center. Together we will answer these questions and many more while we learn about these incredible animals.


Saturday, July 23, 2011 (10:00 am - 4:00 pm): Visit the Investigation Station at the Front Desk!

Every fourth Saturday, visit the investigation station set up at the front desk. Investigation stations will cover a variety of topics throughout the year, and will have something to offer for all ages.

This week, let’s examine the differences between reptiles, fish, and amphibians. Some have slimy skin, others have scales. Come teach our naturalist all you know about these creatures!


Sunday, July 24, 2011 (2:00 - 3:30 pm): Watershed History: The Patch

A small patch of land sits in the middle of the Connecticut River at Turners Falls – sandwiched between the power canal on one side and the largest river in New England on the other. The history of “The Patch” is the story of industrialization, immigration, fish, birds, rocks, resilience, and more. We’ll explore some of these stories during a leisurely stroll through the little neighborhood with eight streets and paths through the woods and amazing views. We will meet at the corner of Avenue A and Eleventh Street in Turners Falls, near the canal side bike path to start our journey. For more information call (413) 863-3221 or visit www.greatfallsma.org.

Saturday, July 30, 2011 (9:30 am – 12:30 pm): Pesty-Plant-Pulling Day

Help save the Connecticut River from a plant invader. Water chestnut is a pretty, but serious plant pest that can take over shallow waterways, obstructing boating and other recreational activities and crowding out native plants and the wildlife that depend on them. Staff from the Silvio O. Conte National Fish and Wildlife Refuge, the Connecticut River Watershed Council and Northfield Mountain are organizing a "plant-pulling day" in and around Barton Cove in Gill, MA. Participants will canoe to a couple of locations where plants have been found in previous seasons and look for new infestation locations. The plants, which are easily recognizable from their floating leaves, will be carefully pulled and put in trash bags for removal by truck to a place where they cannot do any more damage. After pulling, there will be a gathering in the Great Hall of the Great Falls Discovery Center from 12:00 p.m. to 12:30 p.m. where participants can enjoy air conditioning, relaxing, and desserts! A confirmation email with what to wear and bring will be shared with registered participants. Pre-register by calling 413-548-8002 ext. 115. For ages 12 and older.