January Owl Prowl Hikes | Two Options!
We have two opportunities to go on an owl prowl this January!
Each winter you can explore the trails by cross country skiing or snowshoeing. Our educators and dedicated volunteers have taught many people how to navigate the snow using skis. If you ever attended one of our cross country ski clinics, you likely met Doug Pollock, a long-time volunteer and skiing enthusiast.
Embrace Winter with a Bucket List
Winter is here! While it is easy to stay inside and wait for better weather, why not get out and embrace today's weather.
Asbury Woods Outdoor Recreation and Event Announcement
In response to Governor Wolf’s recent mitigation efforts that restrict gatherings indoors and outside, Asbury Woods has made modifications to community programs and events that are scheduled for December 12, 2020 through January 4, 2021.
Need something for your student to do over the holiday break?
The Tradition of Winter Wonderland Continues
In light of the pandemic, the annual Winter Wonderland event will look differently this year.
Local Family Gets Outdoors Together
Now more than ever people are getting outside as other recreation options have disappeared or become less safe. For some families, they are creating new memories and outdoor traditions. For others, nature is embedded in long-standing family values.
Mineo Family Leaves Legacy for Next Generation
Joe and Joyce Mineo have been making a difference at Asbury Woods for over 40 years.
At Asbury Woods, volunteers like the self-named Buckthorn Bandits help us manage 205 acres of woods, wetlands, and meadows. One aspect of land management is monitoring for and removing invasive species, such as Buckthorn.
Volunteer Highlight: Meet Elias Herrera-Hernandez
Volunteers like Elias Herrera-Hernandez are so important to Asbury Woods.
Partnerships Introduce More Children to the Wonders of Nature
Gael, Deiseinia, Leonel, and Natalia were among the kids who enjoyed the ultimate childhood experience of attending summer camp at Asbury Woods thanks to scholarships funded through the William and Ethel Hovis Fund of the Erie Community Foundation.
Asbury Woods to Host Modified Winter Wonderland in December
Asbury Woods presents a modified Winter Wonderland starting December 4 through December 31 from 5:00 – 8:00 p.m. at the Andrew J. Conner Nature Center at Asbury Woods.
Lucy Mendoza joined Asbury Woods as the Visitor Services Associate in February. She'll be directing guests and answering questions at the Nature Center each weekend in October. Get to know more about Lucy!
What's the Buzz About Honey Bees?
On September 19 and 20 we welcomed guests and their families to learn more about the amazing life of the honey bee. Over 200 attendees stopped at five different educational stations...
Asbury Woods Presents 26th Annual Scary Creature Feature Event
Asbury Woods presents the 26thannual Scary Creature Feature, scheduled for Thursday, October 8; Friday, October 9 and Saturday, October 10 from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at the Nature Center at Asbury Woods.
Asbury Woods Hosts Virtual Compost Workshop With Millcreek
Asbury Woods and Millcreek Township are partnering to virtually host the Compost “Black Gold” Workshop on October 3.
Asbury Woods Welcomes Two New Board Members
Asbury Woods welcomes Jane Thornton and Tom Erdman to the Board of Directors.
Asbury Woods Re-Opens Andrew J. Conner Nature Center
Asbury Woods is excited to welcome visitors to the Andrew J. Conner Nature Center on the weekends in September and October.
Five Ways to Support Asbury Woods
Many have asked how they can help Asbury Woods during this time so here's just a few ways to show support.
Thank you so much for supporting Asbury Woods. Erie Gives Day was a record-breaking year.
Moe's Fundraiser a Win-Win for the Woods and Supporters
We teamed up with Moe's Southwest Grill for a ready-to-go taco kit fundraiser. It was so popular, we expanded it from one pick-up day to two.
Outdoor Explorer Club-An afterschool group!
Are your kids missing extracurricular activities? Do they miss hanging out with their peers? Then send them to Outdoor Explorer Club!
Asbury Woods Announces Updates to Meadow Section of Property
Asbury Woods has begun phase one of a three phase improvement project to a parcel of property located just south of the entrance to the Nature Center. This unique meadow setting is a small, yet interesting and peaceful portion of the property and trail network.
Asbury Woods Celebrates the Honey Bee
A family-friendly event celebrating the honey bee!
New! School Day Drop-in Progam
Asbury Woods creates new program designed to support students on days when they are not attending in-person classes at their school.
School Teacher Spends Summer at Camp
As an educator, there’s nothing like watching a child try something new. Observing first-time experiences is what attracted Millcreek teacher, Anna Yashinki, to Asbury Woods for the summer.
Asbury Woods Launches Low Ropes Course
Asbury Woods is excited to announce the launch a brand new recreational offering thanks to generous donors and a grant from the Erie Community Foundation. Six low ropes course elements have been installed and are ready for groups to schedule programs. These elements are designed to challenge participants through cooperation, communication, and team-driven problem solving.
Ecosystem Restoration in Progress Around Boardwalk
Luke, one of the summer interns, has been working on restoring habitat along the boardwalk. Read his update on the work that's been completed and what visitors need to know when they visit Asbury Woods.
Asbury Woods is a Treat for All Generations
Asbury Woods is a place where many have made special memories. Walt and Sandy Bartlett are long time supporters of Asbury Woods and shared their fondest family memories of time spent in the Woods.
Thank You to Board Member Dedication
As our new fiscal year began on July 1, several board members had their terms of service expire per organizational by-laws. We’d like to thank and recognize them for their years of leadership and service to Asbury Woods. While their board service has come to a close, they continue to be engaged supporters and advocates for Asbury Woods.
Lowe's Continues to Support the Woods
Lowe's of Asbury Road continues to support Asbury Woods
Personal Love of the Woods Spurs Donation
In early June, Jeremy Greenberg, longtime Asbury Woods supporter and coach of the McDowell Cross Country team, undertook a personal fundraising project to help rebuild one of his favorite spots at Asbury Woods.
Due to the impact on the land from building the boardwalk, Asbury Woods is in the process of restoring the affected landscape with native species to establish a healthy plant community
Share Your Love for Asbury Woods
Our wonderful friends at the Nonprofit Partnership are celebrating the work of Asbury Woods and other nonprofits in our area during Celebrate Nonprofits Week June 22-26.
Each summer, we welcome college students to intern with us for a hands-on learning experience. This summer, three brilliant students are working on independent research projects to improve our visitor experience.
Volunteer Highlight | Cindy Gathers
At Asbury Woods, volunteers like Cindy help us fulfill our mission by assisting with property maintenance, staffing events, and greeting people in the Nature Center.
Asbury Woods Announces Summer Camp Scholarships
Asbury Woods is pleased to announce the creation of summer camp scholarships thanks to support from the William & Ethel Hovis Fund of the Erie Community Foundation.
Asbury Woods Announces Free Summer Programming
Asbury Woods is excited to offer two free summer programs: Drop-in and Discover at 11:00 a.m. each Saturday starting June 6 and Insect Safari at 10:30 a.m. each Tuesday starting June 9, 2020.
A naturalist will lead explorers through a unique habitat and help children discover which bugs call that place home.
Asbury Woods Reopens Summer Camp Registrations
Asbury Woods is pleased to offer nature-based summer camp for elementary-age and middle school youth this summer. The Asbury Woods summer camp season will run June 22 through August 14, 2020.
What To Do If You See a Bee Swarm
Here are tips if you see a bee swarm in Erie County, PA
Many have asked how they can help during this challenging time.
Blog by Jennifer Farrar, Executive Director
We Need Nature Now More Than Ever
Blog by Dan Franks, Asbury Woods Chair-Elect
The Facilities and Grounds team has been working diligently to replace the seating in the amphitheater since it was demolished from heavy tree damage during a storm on October 28, 2019.
While there are countless ways you can participate in Earth Day, we have gathered a collection of some on-line resources to learn, participate and take action.
Blog by Melissa Goodwill, Education and Community Programs Coordinator
Spring is a great time of year to plan and begin backyard composting. While a backyard compost system does require some set up, it is easier than you may think and the benefits of composting are well worth the time.
Asbury Woods is here for you during this global pandemic.
A Letter from Jennifer Farrar, Executive Director
A letter from Jennifer Farrar, Executive Director, in response to the COVID-19 outbreak in Pennsylvania.
Our observational bee hive helps us see what bees are doing each season. Learn more about what's been going on with the hive over the winter months.
Join us for a special Drop-in and Discover on Saturday, March 14.
Please join us in welcoming Leann and Lucy to the Asbury Woods Team!
We're hiring for multiple positions, including: Facilities and Grounds Manager, Communications Coordinator, Summer Camp Counselors, and a Weekend Visitor Services Coordinator. Click for more details!
This annual national program is a great way to get into birding and to help scientists to protect native birds.
Blog post by Michael A. Elnitsky, Ph.D., Associate Professor of Biology, Mercyhurst University
These classes are designed to give the beginner beekeeper background information on honey bees, equipment needed, proper maintenance, and honey harvesting.
Nature Tots & Preschool Nature Discovery
The littlest explorers will have big adventures at Asbury Woods.
Asbury Woods is excited to once again offer the community a chance to rent and take charge of sap collection from specific sugar maple trees on their property. Individuals and families who participate in the program will be assigned a group of four trees tapped for sap collection. Trees will be tapped, buckets hung and labeled by Asbury Woods staff, then the renters take charge of collecting sap from their trees and have the opportunity to take the sap home to boil it down into maple syrup.
For nearly 50 years a favorite part of the Asbury Woods experience has been the boardwalk adjacent to the Nature Center, allowing visitors of all ages access to field, forest, and wetland habitats to observe a variety of plant and wildlife species.
Grandfather Tree Society Donor Event
Asbury Woods Board of Directors and Jennifer Farrar, Executive Director, hosted the Grandfather Tree Society donor recognition reception on October 3, 2019.
Connecting the Next Generation of Students to Nature
Asbury Woods Expands Curriculum, Adds Technology.
Inspired by Nature will carry on the tradition of using art to help people understand, appreciate, protect and enjoy the natural environment.
Join a naturalist for a guided nature walk to explore the trail networks and learn more about the plans and animals of Asbury Woods and the natural history that makes Asbury Woods unique.
By Mark Spitulski, ISA Certified Arborist and Asbury Woods Director of Facilities and Grounds
The Earth's Future is in Their Hands
As our region, nation and world confront difficult decisions that
will shape the future of life on Earth, environmental education and
awareness along with an appreciation and understanding of the
natural world are more important than ever.
Grant Funding Drives Updates to Exhibit Hall
By Sarah Lewis, Education and Program Coordinator
From the Executive Director, Jennifer Farrar, CFRE
Nature comes alive on Saturdays at Asbury Woods.
Celebrate Earth Day All Month Long
Asbury Woods dedicates the month of April to celebrate Earth Day. Public programs include lectures, family-friendly activities and volunteer opportunities scheduled throughout the month of April.
For students who are pursuing degrees in the fields of environmental science, natural sciences, parks and recreation, botany, biology or other related programs, this internship is an opportunity to gain experience working at non-profit, connecting people to nature.
Environmental Educator Summer Intern
For students who are pursuing the degrees in the fields or environmental science, art, education, early childhood education, or natural sciences, this internship is an opportunity to gain experience work with children and connecting them to nature.
Asbury Woods Partnership, Inc., is seeking individuals interested in full-time/seasonal positions as Nature Camp Counselors. Individuals must be engaging and creative and enjoy working with children in an outdoor setting.
Asbury Woods is seeking enthusiastic, optimistic, customer service-oriented individuals to assist the Marketing and Communications team. The successful candidate will be enrolled full-time in a major university or college and studying fields related to education, marketing, communications, public relations, or hospitality. This internship is an excellent opportunity to experience various aspects of customer service while working for a well-known community-based nonprofit organization. This is an unpaid internship.
Knowledgeable boaters are safer boaters! The PA Fish & Boat Commission’s PA Basic Boating Course supplies boaters with practical information so they can make better informed decisions on the water.
Interested in starting your own backyard hive? Join us to learn all the aspects necessary to be a successful backyard beekeeper.
Communicating With and Understanding Your Dog
You don’t have to know the scientific names to know that dogs and humans are two different species. While humanizing dogs may be the current trend in dog training, this program presents more effective alternatives.
Blog by Bob Howden, Asbury Woods Volunteer and Board Member
Green Hygiene: 5 ways to make your daily hygiene routine more sustainable
Blog by Alyssa Zimmer, Environmental Educator
Asbury Woods Recognizes Volunteers of the Year During Annual Award Ceremony
Asbury Woods is proud to announce the distinguished recipients of its annual volunteer of the year awards at the annual volunteer luncheon on Sunday, February 10 at 12:30 p.m. at the Andrew J. Conner Nature Center at Asbury Woods.
Super Blood Wolf Moon Total Eclipse
by Melissa Martin, Education and Program Coordinator
Let Them Grow - Nature Play and Reasonable Risk
By Kelley Lang, Director of Education and Community Programs
Our Annual Report highlights the impact we had during the 2017-2018 fiscal year. Thanks to community support, we were able to positively impact more than 71,000 people of all ages.
Finnegan's First Birthday Party
Asbury Woods is excited to celebrate Finnegan’s first birthday at the Andrew J. Conner Nature Center on January 5, 2019 at 11:00 a.m. during the free Drop-In and Discover program.
Asbury Woods Presents 22nd Annual Winter Wonderland
Asbury Woods presents the 22nd annual Winter Wonderland event, scheduled for December 14 through 16 and December 27 through 30 at the Andrew J. Conner Nature Center.
Asbury Woods' Longtime Volunteer Fundraiser Recognized at National Philanthropy Day
Congratulations to Attorney Mark Shaw for his award at the Association of Fundraising Professional's National Philanthropy Day!
#GivingTuesday is a global day of giving fueled by the power of social media and collaboration.
Celebrated on the Tuesday following Thanksgiving (in the U.S.) and the widely recognized shopping events Black Friday and Cyber Monday, #GivingTuesday kicks off the charitable season, when many focus on their holiday and end-of-year giving.
We're Batty for Bats this Halloween!
BatWeek is an annual celebration of bats that takes place October 24 – 31. No matter where you live, chances are high that you have bats as neighbors. These unique mammals are eat insects, pollinate plants, and spread seeds. Thanks, bats!
Why Are The Leaves Late To Change Color?
By: Mark Spitulski, Asbury Woods Certified Arborist and Director of Facilities and Grounds
Mystery Science at Asbury Woods | A Program for Tweens
Do you know a kid who loves science, experiments, and mystery? During this program kids get to be the ones to do the detective work to collect the data, run the experiments and solve the mystery. Each Saturday will have a new mystery to solve. Kids 8 and up are welcome to attend independently. Adults are always welcome and are free at this program.
Asbury Woods Announces Completion of Capital Campaign and Nature Center Rededication
Asbury Woods is pleased to announce the successful completion of the Preserving a Legacy Capital Campaign. The campaign was launched in 2015 and raised $5.2 million, surpassing the goal of raising $4.5 million to protect Asbury Woods now and into the future.
Nature Tots & Preschool Nature Discovery
Children are never too young to start exploring and learning from nature, especially with the support of a caring adult to guide them. At Asbury Woods, parents, grandparents, or other care providers attend classes with their child. Asbury Woods offers exciting and fun preschool classes throughout the year.
Campfire Hikes - A Members Appreciation Event
Member Appreciation Event! We love and appreciate our members and donors who support Asbury Woods every year. Our campfire nights are a small way to say thank you! Cozy up by the fire in our pavilion to make s’mores and sing along to favorite campfire songs. Weather permitting, each campfire night will also include a short walk in the woods to sing a song to the Grandfather Tree.
Nordic Walking at Brown's Farm Barn
Nordic walking is a fun aerobic workout that burns more calories than walking or hiking alone. Our instructor will teach participants the proper techniques of Nordic walking and lead the group on walks.
Experience the trails of Asbury Woods at night during a guided night hike.
Welcome to Autumn in the Woods
As the leaves change and the weather cools down, thoughts turn to the holidays and the many traditions with family and friends that this time of year brings. We know that Asbury Woods and its seasonal festivals are part of many families’ traditions and we welcome you back each year.
Asbury Woods Certified Arborist Mark Spitulski shows a Mercyhurst College Forest Ecology lab led by Professor Chris Dolanc how to inject a Pumpkin Ash tree.
Donations Drive Asbury Woods Mission
Each year approximately 51% of Asbury Woods annual budget is supported by charitable gifts. Charitable gifts come in many forms: contributions from individuals, grants, corporate sponsorships, special events, memorial gifts and bequests. Gifts of all amounts combine to help us accomplish our mission to provide all members of the community with meaningful environmental, educational and recreational experiences.
By: Mark Spitulski, International Society of Arborculture Certified Arborist and Director of Facilities and Grounds at Asbury Woods.
There are many reasons why pruning your trees is important, but pruning should only occur with a purpose in mind. Most common reasons to prune would be aesthetics, structure and reducing risk.
Weaving Traditions and Philanthropy Into The Fabric of Family
Brent and Janet Sesler, along with their two sons; Morgan and Ryan, have been volunteering at Asbury Woods as a family since 2004. A lifelong tradition of giving back was introduced to Brent by his father at a young age, stemming from his father’s involvement in the Sertoma Club. Brent followed suit, starting to volunteer at Asbury Woods when he was a boyscout. He worked on several Eagle Scout projects with his troop doing trail maintenance and improvements, including the creation of the Eagle Trail, which is heavily used to this day.
Did You Know | Discovery Classroom
Did you know that when the Discovery Classroom is filled with bins full of educational experiments, observations, touch-and-feel items and more? It's a place where families can explore and learn about science and nature together.