News

Field Note Presentations: 

Black Hills Parks and Forests Association invites you to this presentation that will ignite your curiosity and spark your sense of wonder! Through pictures, videos, and stories, you’ll have the chance to learn about naturalist skills, tracking, survival techniques, and gain a deeper insight into our local flora and fauna. Test your knowledge as we dive into questions about the natural world and uncover the hidden meanings behind animal signs and calls! Plus, we’ll share how you can support our public lands alongside the Black Hills Parks & Forests Association!

Learn more about our programs here! 

This is a paid workshop, registration required.

Nature’s Clues: A Workshop in Animal Tracking and Signs

Step into the wild world of nature and see it like never before! In this hands-on workshop, we’ll go on a journey of discovery as we unlock the stories animals tell through the signs they leave behind. Through observation, curiosity, and wonder we’ll learn how to navigate the natural world by using our senses to follow the clues around us.

Together, we’ll explore animal tracks, scat, physiology, and other mysterious signs to answer questions like:

• Who left this track behind?
• Was the animal hunting, exploring, or feeling nervous?
• What does the set of tracks tell us about its size, gender, or even if it’s pregnant?
• Does it have horns or antlers?
• Why is the animal in this location and how does it relate to the nearby ecosystem?

The natural world is filled with wonders and mysteries. Each sign has a unique story to share. Join us for a fun-filled adventure where we’ll uncover the hidden lives of animals and gain a deeper appreciation for the incredible world around us and the animals we share it with!

To celebrate the 125th anniversary of the discovery of Jewel Cave, the site has been hosting monthly Discovery Hour presentations. The Discovery Hour presentation on April 19 will be at 1:00 p.m. and feature the history of the National Park Service from lead interpretive park ranger, Kierstan Basey.

Come out to Scotts Bluff National Monument on Saturday, April 19th, anytime between 1pm and 3pm to celebrate Junior Ranger Day! This FUN and FREE event is geared towards children aged 5 to 12, but all are welcome to participate. Participants will have a chance to:

• Make a Pony Express mochila!
• Paint a watercolor masterpiece like William Henry Jackson!
• Send a telegraph using a real telegraph key!
• Toss a buffalo chip like the emigrants used to!