A Day in the Woods at Gaskins Forest Education Center scheduled April 20
Apr. 15—ALAPAHA — The eighth annual Day in the Woods event will be held at Gaskins Forest Education Center in Alapaha on Saturday, April 20, from 1-5 pm. This is a non-commercial community event with many interactive demonstrations and hands-on activities for people of all ages related to forestry, wildlife and traditional crafts. The event is free and there are no food vendors so bring your own snacks.
Wildlife activities include frog calls, insects, birds, beekeeping, native plants, aquatic invertebrates, and nature walks. Attendees can see live animals as well as skins and skulls of a variety of animals. Hunting related activities include a BB range, an archery range, turkey calls, and trapping. We will provide samples of venison.
Forestry activities include tree identification, tree measurement, making paper, twig pencils, soils, riverkeeping, and turpentine display. Several activities relate to using prescribed burning to improve forest health and wildlife habitat, and also how to prevent wildfires and control them. If the weather cooperates, we will have demonstrations of prescribed burning starting throughout the afternoon.
Traditional crafts include preserving, rug weaving, pine needle baskets, blacksmithing, and outdoor paining. Pioneer lifestyle will be demonstrated at the log cabin and video of local history will be shown in the main Ed Center.
The event is co-sponsored by the Coastal Plain Chapter of Georgia Native Plant Society and National Wild Turkey Federation. Presenters include local community members, hobbyists, hunters, as well as faculty and students from Berrien Middle School, Abraham Baldwin College, Valdosta State University, and the University of Georgia. In addition, the event relies on professional collaborators from the Georgia Department of Natural Resources, Georgia Forestry Commission, Longleaf Alliance, Golden Triangle, American Tree Farm System, Georgia Department of Education, Birds Georgia, Tifton Arts Council, Berrien Historical Society, and WWALS Watershed Coalition.
New presenters and volunteers are always welcome. If you would like to help with the event or have questions, contact Heather Brasell at 229-339-3966. The location is 3359 Moore Sawmill Road, Alapaha GA 31622.
