Overview
The Fountain Rock Park and Nature Center offers a variety of programs for adults. The programs are approximately 1 1/2 hours in length and can be adapted / modified to suit individual interests. The Center is air conditioned and handicap accessible with restrooms.
Contact
Please call (301) 600-1460 for further information about any of the programs listed below.
Program Descriptions
Reminiscing
Reminiscing photo Are you a lifetime Frederick County resident? Come and share your experiences with others. Natural and historical articles will be incorporated into the program. You will be encouraged to ask questions and share not only your life events, but also some of your personal possessions. If you have historical items that you would feel comfortable bringing, feel free to do so.
Awesome Animals
Photo of deer Participants discover through first-hand observations the similarities of animals. Animals presented may include mammals, birds, amphibians, insects, arachnids, and reptiles. Lively discussions will show how man can help, but sometimes hurt, the environment. Questions and personal stories are encouraged.
Going Buggy
Butterfly Participants discover life cycles in this intriguing program. The primary focus of the program will be on the insect world. Specific habits and interactions will be presented. Identifiable stages will be enhanced by the use of live animals from the Nature Center. During the warm months of the year (June - September), the participants may be able to go to the fields with butterfly nets if desired!
Beautiful Birds
Cardinal Observe the birds that visit the feeding station at the Nature Center and discuss the characteristics of local birds. Enjoy a brief slide show of the common birds found in Maryland gardens. The Nature Center reference library is available for casual reading. Weather permitting, a short walk will be included in the program.
Wetlands
Wetlands Participants get a chance to discover the wetlands at Fountain Rock Park in an interactive environment. This program includes an introduction in the Nature Center and a short walk to Glade Creek. Once there, participants may wear hip boots and use nets to catch crayfish, minnows, and other critters that make up the food web of the creek. The best time for this program is May - October and is geared to active adults.
The Mighty Amazon River
Photo of young girl from the Amazon This program includes a short video, a slide show of an adventurous trip to the Amazon river, and a display of unique items from this region of South America. Participants get a clear understanding of the scientific importance of tropical rain forests. The world is a closed system and ecosystems far away from our own have a profound impact on our local environment. Come and enjoy this fascinating program.
Beautiful Butterflies
Butterfly This program includes a short lecture and video on butterflies and their relationships. Enjoy the fascinating life cycles of several different species.
Gardening at Fountain Rock Park
Flowers Enjoy an outing to the park and admire the plants that are in bloom during the summer season. Small plants and pots will be provided so that each person can start their own indoor garden. Weather permitting, we will take a short walk to the deck surrounding the Quarry Pond and enjoy the native shrubs.