Programs Supporting Science and Understanding of Environmental Systems
Nature Journaling
Select Tuesdays at 2pm
- Jan. 27, 2026 Register here
- Feb. 10, 2026 FULL
- Feb 24, 2026 Register here
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 10 & 27 focus will be Lichen and Moss. Let's explore tiny ecosystems on rock and bits of bark. Same class given two times in January - please do not register for both!
February 10 & 24 focus will be Bird body structure. We will gain bird identification skills by getting familiar with their external anatomy. Same class given two times in February - please do not register for both!
Observation skills required but art skills are not. You may wish to bring your own journal and art supplies.
Minors must have an adult stay with them. Our Tuesday afternoon classes are very popular with homeschool families but everyone is welcome. Instruction level is best suited for 8 years through adult.
Due to limited space, please register at the links above so that we can have enough space and materials for all.
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
