Programs Supporting Science and Understanding of Environmental Systems
Nature Journaling
Tuesday, Jan. 13. 2026 at 2 p.m. and Tuesday, Feb. 10 at 2 p.m.
FREE, Registration required.
Location: Meet inside the Frances Plecker Education Center
General Parking: JMU R5 lot, 664 University Blvd. (5 min. walk)
Accessible Parking: Pond parking lot
January focus will be Lichen and Moss. Let's explore tiny ecosystems on rock and bits of bark. All ages are welcome. Observation skills required but art skills are not. You may wish to bring your own journal and art supplies.
February focus will be Bird body structure. We will gain bird identification skills better by getting familiar with their external anatomy. Observation skills required but art skills are not. You may wish to bring your own journal and art supplies. Basic materials are provided.
Annual Event - Fun for the Whole Family
The Backpack Program
Pre-School - Elementary
Explore the Arboretum with themed activities! This program is FREE. Backpacks are located in the lobby of the Frances Plecker Education Center, Monday - Friday (8 AM - 4 PM)
How It Works
Pick A Backpack
- Reptiles & Amphibians
- Flowers
- Exploring Trees
- Forest Mammals
- Butterflies
- Insects
- Macroinvertebrates
Checkout
Leave a driver's license or car keys with us, to be picked up after the backpack is returned.
Explore!
Enjoy the backpack's activities and adventure onward!
Return Backpack
Once you're ready to depart the Arboretum, you can return your backpack(s).
Grounds: Free to the public
Dawn to dusk | 365 days a year
Frances Plecker Education Center:
M-F | 8 AM - 4 PM
