Family Playgroup
Thursday, March 5, 2026
Thursday, March 19, 2026
10:30-11:30am
Free
Families with children ages 0–5 are invited to join us at Grass River Natural Area for free, nature-based playgroups on the 1st & 3rd Thursdays each month. Enjoy stories, playtime, snacks, and connection with other families — all in the beauty of the outdoors.
Owl Prowl
Friday, March 6, 2026
7:00-8:30pm
$10 per person, must pre-register
Join us as we learn about our local owls and their conservation with an introductory presentation, and then head out for a night hike in search of these amazing birds. Participants should be comfortable walking outdoors at night for about 1 mile on uneven trails. Bring a light. $10 per person. Must pre-register.
Aquatic Insect ID and Stream Monitor Training
Saturday, March 7, 2026
10:00am-12:00pm
Free, RSVP
All are welcome to join GRNA in learning how to identify common aquatic insects and about the MiCorp Stream Monitoring Program and protocol. This program is perfect for those who want to learn more about Northern Michigan's Waterways or are interested in participating in our yearly stream monitoring. This program will cover different aquatic insects, the traits that make them unique and why they are important to Michigan’s waterways. Practice your ID skills with real specimens and experienced professionals to help answer questions throughout the event. If you are a returning or aspiring GRNA stream monitoring participant then this event is required to brush up on sampling techniques, sharpen your insect knowledge, and understand the MiCorp Protocol from beginning to end! This program is free! Please RSVP to emma@grassriver.org so we can be prepared.
Signs of River Otters & Other Elusive Animals
Friday March 13, 2026
1:00-3:00pm
Register through NMC Extended Education
River otters are active and healthy at Grass River Natural Area. Join a naturalist to learn the natural history of river otters and how to spot signs of these elusive and fun indicators of water quality. On the trail we will look for signs of other elusive animals, like bobcat, mink, or black bear (dress to be outdoors). Register through NMC at Signs of River Otters & Other Elusive Animals - NMC Extended Education & Training
Early Spring Bird Walk
Saturday March 14, 2026
9:00-11:00am
$10 per person
Who are the first birds to show up in the spring? Join us for the first walk in our birding series at the start of spring as we look and listen for these early arrivals. Binoculars are available to borrow, or bring your own. If there is still snow bring snowshoes, or rent some for an additional $5 in the Grass River Center.