Cheese Making PLUS
This hands-on program walks you through the steps of making mozzarella cheese, cottage cheese, yogurt, and butter! Participants will also learn how to make easy, fresh sausage, a simple bread, and more! Bring a 1-qt. container with lid, two 1-pint containers with lids, and a small cooler with ice pack to take your handmade products home. Bring an apron if you have one! Program includes lunch. Led by mother-daughter duo, Cindy & Molly Check. Preregistration required. Register early; space is limited!

WV Master Naturalist: Nature Interpretation & Teaching (Core)
The mission of the WV Master Naturalist Program is to train interested people in the fundamentals of natural history, nature interpretation and teaching, and to instill in them an appreciation of the importance of responsible environmental stewardship. Everyone is welcome to attend individual Master Naturalist classes, or you can attend them all to earn your Master Naturalist certification (contact the Schrader Center for more details on certification). Participants of the Nature Interpretation & Teaching class will learn what it means to be a nature interpreter and acquire a broad understanding of the goals, techniques, and attributes required to provide an effective interpretive program.

Public Garden Lecture Series: Your Best Vegetable Garden
Learn something new about vegetable gardening from Kasey Gantzer, Planning Coordinator for the WV Department of Agriculture. This lecture will explore a myriad of ways to create your best vegetable garden, ever! This program is presented in partnership with the Ohio County Master Gardeners.

Public Garden Lecture Series: Your Best Spring Flowers
Fred Holub began his career at Holub’s Greenhouse in 1963 at the age of five! He is now the owner and operator of this greenhouse that specializes in spring plants. Learn tips and techniques to grow a wide variety of spring flowers. This program is presented in partnership with the Ohio County Master Gardeners.

Public Garden Lecture Series: Your Best Tomatoes
Betsy Robison owns and operates a nursery and greenhouse, Robison Acres. Betsy will discuss how to grow the vegetable garden’s star plant – the tomato – whether in a garden bed or in small containers on a porch or deck. This program is presented in partnership with the Ohio County Master Gardeners.

WV Master Naturalist: Birds (core)
Become familiar with strategies and techniques of field identification of WV birds. Be introduced to some aspects of bird behavior and adaptations, and to methods of bird study.

The mission of the WV Master Naturalist Program is to train interested people in the fundamentals of natural history, nature interpretation and teaching, and to instill in them an appreciation of the importance of responsible environmental stewardship.  Everyone is welcome to attend individual Master Naturalist classes, or you can attend them all to earn your Master Naturalist certification. Contact the Schrader Center for more details on certification.

WV Master Naturalist: Wildflowers & Weeds (core)
Explore the classification, diversity, and ecology of the wildflowers. Learn techniques for collection and study.  Class meets at the Schrader Center, but then travels to West Liberty University.

The mission of the WV Master Naturalist Program is to train interested people in the fundamentals of natural history, nature interpretation and teaching, and to instill in them an appreciation of the importance of responsible environmental stewardship.  Everyone is welcome to attend individual Master Naturalist classes, or you can attend them all to earn your Master Naturalist certification. Contact the Schrader Center for more details on certification.

WV Master Naturalist: Terrestrial Habitats (core)
Survey the range of terrestrial habitats in West Virginia, with emphasis on forests.

The mission of the WV Master Naturalist Program is to train interested people in the fundamentals of natural history, nature interpretation and teaching, and to instill in them an appreciation of the importance of responsible environmental stewardship.  Everyone is welcome to attend individual Master Naturalist classes, or you can attend them all to earn your Master Naturalist certification. Contact the Schrader Center for more details on certification.

WV Master Naturalist: Edible Wild Plants (elective)
All grocery store plants were at one time wild. There are still wild plants that aren’t available in stores that are edible and more nutritious than their supermarket counterparts. We will begin with an indoor program about Edible Wild Plants, followed by a walk outside to see and taste some of these plants first-hand. Best of all, these wild nutritional treasures are common and free to harvest.

The mission of the WV Master Naturalist Program is to train interested people in the fundamentals of natural history, nature interpretation and teaching, and to instill in them an appreciation of the importance of responsible environmental stewardship.  Everyone is welcome to attend individual Master Naturalist classes, or you can attend them all to earn your Master Naturalist certification. Contact the Schrader Center for more details on certification.

WV Master Naturalist: Recording, Sharing and Preserving What You Learn (core)
Learn how to collect data in the form of notes, photos, and specimens, and ensure that this information is permanently preserved and made available for use by others.

The mission of the WV Master Naturalist Program is to train interested people in the fundamentals of natural history, nature interpretation and teaching, and to instill in them an appreciation of the importance of responsible environmental stewardship.  Everyone is welcome to attend individual Master Naturalist classes, or you can attend them all to earn your Master Naturalist certification. Contact the Schrader Center for more details on certification.

WV Master Naturalist: General Ecology (core)
Describe the principles of ecology, the branch of biological science that deals with the interrelationships between organisms and their environment. The environment will be considered to include all factors external to an organism that affect that organism in some fashion, either physical or chemical (abiotic), or biological (biotic).

The mission of the WV Master Naturalist Program is to train interested people in the fundamentals of natural history, nature interpretation and teaching, and to instill in them an appreciation of the importance of responsible environmental stewardship.  Everyone is welcome to attend individual Master Naturalist classes, or you can attend them all to earn your Master Naturalist certification. Contact the Schrader Center for more details on certification.

WV Master Naturalist: Mushrooms (elective)
“There are bold mushroom hunters, there are old mushroom hunters, but there are no old, bold mushroom hunters.”  Most people who are interested in wild mushrooms are interested in eating them. Unfortunately, some mushrooms are poisonous and a few of those are deadly. This indoor, then outdoor program explores the edibility and poisonous qualities in local wild mushrooms. We will also discuss new research about how mushrooms are essential and necessary to the health and well-being of the earth.

The mission of the WV Master Naturalist Program is to train interested people in the fundamentals of natural history, nature interpretation and teaching, and to instill in them an appreciation of the importance of responsible environmental stewardship.  Everyone is welcome to attend individual Master Naturalist classes, or you can attend them all to earn your Master Naturalist certification. Contact the Schrader Center for more details on certification.

WV Master Naturalist: Insects, Spiders & Such (core)
Survey the diversity of West Virginia’s macroscopic terrestrial invertebrates, with emphasis on insects. Explore their roles in the ecosystem, some of their adaptations and behaviors. Learn methods of collection and study.

The mission of the WV Master Naturalist Program is to train interested people in the fundamentals of natural history, nature interpretation and teaching, and to instill in them an appreciation of the importance of responsible environmental stewardship.  Everyone is welcome to attend individual Master Naturalist classes, or you can attend them all to earn your Master Naturalist certification. Contact the Schrader Center for more details on certification.

WV Master Naturalist: Astronomy (elective)
Part I – Night sky
The astronomy classes are designed to be taken as a series. Although you may register for them individually, the content areas are not set in stone, and will be based on the weather; the first evening with clear skies will become the “Telescopes” class. The “Night Sky” class discusses constellations, star patterns, distances, time and light. The “Telescopes” class will compare refractor and reflector telescopes – their components and how they work – as well as phone apps that can be used to explore the night sky. The “Meteorites” class will explore the solar system, planets and moons, as well as the smaller objects in space – asteroids, comets, and meteorites. (Limit 20 people per session).

The mission of the WV Master Naturalist Program is to train interested people in the fundamentals of natural history, nature interpretation and teaching, and to instill in them an appreciation of the importance of responsible environmental stewardship.  Everyone is welcome to attend individual Master Naturalist classes, or you can attend them all to earn your Master Naturalist certification. Contact the Schrader Center for more details on certification.

WV Master Naturalist: Astronomy (elective)
Part II – Telescopes
The astronomy classes are designed to be taken as a series. Although you may register for them individually, the content areas are not set in stone, and will be based on the weather; the first evening with clear skies will become the “Telescopes” class. The “Night Sky” class discusses constellations, star patterns, distances, time and light. The “Telescopes” class will compare refractor and reflector telescopes – their components and how they work – as well as phone apps that can be used to explore the night sky. The “Meteorites” class will explore the solar system, planets and moons, as well as the smaller objects in space – asteroids, comets, and meteorites. (Limit 20 people per session).

The mission of the WV Master Naturalist Program is to train interested people in the fundamentals of natural history, nature interpretation and teaching, and to instill in them an appreciation of the importance of responsible environmental stewardship.  Everyone is welcome to attend individual Master Naturalist classes, or you can attend them all to earn your Master Naturalist certification. Contact the Schrader Center for more details on certification.

WV Master Naturalist: Geology (core)
Students will be introduced to rocks, minerals, and fossils, especially those most likely to be encountered in West Virginia.  Wear sturdy footwear and dress in warm layers – includes a hike through the valley on Driehorst trail while learning about the geological history of the area.

The mission of the WV Master Naturalist Program is to train interested people in the fundamentals of natural history, nature interpretation and teaching, and to instill in them an appreciation of the importance of responsible environmental stewardship.  Everyone is welcome to attend individual Master Naturalist classes, or you can attend them all to earn your Master Naturalist certification. Contact the Schrader Center for more details on certification.

WV Master Naturalist: Astronomy (elective)
Part III – Meteorites
The astronomy classes are designed to be taken as a series. Although you may register for them individually, the content areas are not set in stone, and will be based on the weather; the first evening with clear skies will become the “Telescopes” class. The “Night Sky” class discusses constellations, star patterns, distances, time and light. The “Telescopes” class will compare refractor and reflector telescopes – their components and how they work – as well as phone apps that can be used to explore the night sky. The “Meteorites” class will explore the solar system, planets and moons, as well as the smaller objects in space – asteroids, comets, and meteorites. (Limit 20 people per session).

The mission of the WV Master Naturalist Program is to train interested people in the fundamentals of natural history, nature interpretation and teaching, and to instill in them an appreciation of the importance of responsible environmental stewardship.  Everyone is welcome to attend individual Master Naturalist classes, or you can attend them all to earn your Master Naturalist certification. Contact the Schrader Center for more details on certification.

WV Master Naturalist: Trees, Shrubs & Woody Vines (core)
Survey the diversity of West Virginia’s macroscopic terrestrial invertebrates, with emphasis on insects. Explore their roles in the ecosystem, some of their adaptations and behaviors. Learn methods of collection and study.

The mission of the WV Master Naturalist Program is to train interested people in the fundamentals of natural history, nature interpretation and teaching, and to instill in them an appreciation of the importance of responsible environmental stewardship.  Everyone is welcome to attend individual Master Naturalist classes, or you can attend them all to earn your Master Naturalist certification. Contact the Schrader Center for more details on certification.

Food Preservation 101 (CANCELED)
Preserving the harvest was essential for our ancestor’s survival, and it can still enrich our lives today! This hands-on program walks you through the steps of freezing, canning with a water bath, and using a pressure canner. Leave with dill pickles, hot pepper jelly, canned tomatoes, and more! Bring an apron if you have one. Program includes a homemade lunch. Led by mother-daughter duo, Cindy & Molly Check. Preregistration required.

Nurturing Naturalists Spring
Designed for our youngest independent naturalists, who are ready to attend without an adult. Create meaningful connections and memories through hands-on nature activities, crafts, stories, songs and outside exploration.

Roots ‘N Shoots Preschool Program Winter Series
The Roots ‘N Shoots series provides adults and their children the opportunity to connect with nature in all seasons. Create meaningful connections and memories through hands-on nature activities, crafts, stories, songs, and outside exploration. 

Seussical Science Night
Celebrate the one and only Dr. Seuss on his 119th birthday with some Seussical science! We’ll read stories by Dr. Seuss and then honor his work with a corresponding STEM project. Includes dinner and s’mores over the campfire!

Girls in Science
We’re celebrating all things science with this fabulous hands-on science program for girls only! Each club session will include a snack and a spotlight on a female scientist who made major contributions to her field.

On the Bunny Trail
Our classic family Easter event is back! Bring your Easter basket for the egg hunt, make an Easter craft, and visit with the Easter Bunny! Search for and collect 10 eggs along our forested trails, then turn in the eggs for candy and toy prizes! An ‘easy option’ egg hunt will be set-up closer to the building for families with strollers or mobility issues. Event also includes face painting, games, 50-50 raffle, and a chocolate bunny raffle. Concessions for sale (including hotdogs, popcorn, candy, pop, water, & juice boxes).

Pre-registration required – sign up for a time slot, then stay as long as you’d like. Adults must accompany their children. (Limit 50 children per time slot)

Daytime and Nighttime Astronomy
It’s National Astronomy Day! Explore the solar and lunar skies at a special astronomy event at Speidel Observatory in Oglebay Park. Solar observing, space science activities, and observatory tours from 1-4pm. Telescope observing, constellation talk, and observatory tours from 8-11pm.

National Trails Day Hike
Spend the afternoon on the trails of Grand Vue Park (in Moundsville). Meet at the trailhead parking lot (just south of the main office) and get ready for some rejuvenating time spent in nature!

Orienteering
Do you have a good sense of direction? Learn how to use a map and compass, a life skill that will help you find your way anywhere in the world. Work in groups or on your own to complete the orienteering course in our forest – will you be able to find all the points? All equipment provided. Dress comfortably for walking off-trail through the forest – long pants recommended, and no open-toed footwear. Preregistration required.

Night Hike
A summer evening is the perfect time to head outside! Led by a Naturalist, take a walk in the woods to listen for owls, look at stars, and enjoy the music of the night. Enjoy fun activities that test your night vision. Please bring a flashlight.

Moth Madness
It’s National Moth Week! Celebrate these winged wonders as we lure them in with a lighted sheet for up-close study. Collection jars, microscopes, and field guides provided.

End-of-Summer Campfire Jam
Enjoy an evening around the crackling campfire with a live band for entertainment! End the summer the way it should be – outside, under the stars! Concessions for sale. BYOB.

Nature Walk
Enjoy a guided nature walk along the Schrader Center’s trails as our Naturalist points out animal tracks, flowers, birds, edible plants, and other features of the forest. Nature is always changing – you never know what we may see!

A.B. Brooks Nature Hike
Nature Hikes are part of a long tradition of nature study in Oglebay Park. The A.B. Brooks Nature Hike will focus on natural history and serves as a venue for socialization and the sharing of ideas.The Schrader Center staff will lead groups of up to 20 participants through 1 mile of trails around Oglebay. It is recommended to wear comfortable, closed-toe shoes and clothing that is weather-appropriate. Sunglasses are a plus. Field guides and binoculars will be provided.