March
Friday, Mar 1, 2019 - Tuesday, Apr 30, 2019 | All Day
Rock Springs Nature Center, Decatur, IL
See wildlife and nature through the lens of photographer Fred Delcomyn in the South Gallery of Rock Springs Nature Center.
Read MoreKatherine Unruh Art Exhibit
Friday, Mar 1, 2019 - Tuesday, Apr 30, 2019 | All Day
Rock Springs Nature Center, Decatur, IL
Explore drawings and paintings of animals and natural landscapes in the North Gallery of Rock Springs Nature Center.
Read MoreFree Field Trip Transportation from Decatur Audubon
Wednesday, Mar 20, 2019 - Tuesday, Dec 31, 2019 | All Day
Rock Springs Nature Center, Decatur, IL
The Decatur Audubon Society will cover transportation costs for 20 school buses to take field trips to Rock Springs Nature Center or any of the five Macon County Conservation Areas, from now until the end of the 2018-2019 school year.
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Wednesday, Mar 27, 2019 | 9:30 am
Rock Springs Nature Center, Decatur, IL
Children ages 1-5 will drift into the science behind clouds and discover how to make their own cloud. Register online by noon the day before camp.
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Wednesday, Mar 27, 2019 | 1:00 pm - 4:00 pm
Rock Springs Nature Center, Decatur, IL
To earn this badge, scouts will learn the history of a Native American tribe, make a breech cloth, and discover Native American leaders. Register online by March 26.
Read MoreThursday, Mar 28, 2019 | 5:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Rock Springs Nature Center, Decatur, IL
For this badge, scouts will learn about several local species, why they are important, and how to care for them. Register online by March 27.
Read MoreVolunteer Herbicide Training
Saturday, Mar 30, 2019 | 9:00 am - 10:00 am
Rock Springs Nature Center, Decatur, IL
East Conference Room
We invite volunteers interested in assisting with natural area restoration to attend this training. This training will qualify you to use herbicides as volunteers on Conservation District lands.
Saturday, Mar 30, 2019 | 10:00 am - 1:00 pm
Rock Springs Nature Center, Decatur, IL
Paddle a canoe down one of our local waterways, the Sangamon River. All equipment provided. Register online by March 29.
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Saturday, Mar 30, 2019 | 2:00 pm
Rock Springs Nature Center, Decatur, IL
What kind of sounds do frogs make? Listen to native frog and toad songs, learn about their lives, and meet real amphibians. Register online by March 29.
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Sunday, Mar 31, 2019 | 2:00 pm - 4:00 pm
Oglesby Mansion, Decatur, IL
Tour the restored home of Illinois Governor Richard J. Oglesby. Encounter the lives of its family members and explore their late 1800s lifestyle. $2/person. Members are free.
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Sunday, Mar 31, 2019 | 3:00 pm
Friend’s Creek Conservation Area, Cisco, IL
Bring the family to Friends Creek Conservation Area to hike through the forest and experience early spring in all its glory. Register online by March 29.
Read MoreApril
Wednesday, Apr 3, 2019 | 9:30 am
Rock Springs Nature Center, Decatur, IL
Children ages 1-5 will pop-up to see the Earth welcome spring and create a flower collage to take home. Register online by noon the day before camp.
Read MoreThursday, Apr 4, 2019 | 9:30 am
Rock Springs Nature Center, Decatur, IL
Children ages 1-5 will pop-up to see the Earth welcome spring and create a flower collage to take home. Register online by noon the day before camp.
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Thursday, Apr 4, 2019 | 6:00 pm - 7:30 pm
Rock Springs Nature Center, Decatur, IL
Enjoy music played by Cross Country Classics. Free.
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Saturday, Apr 6, 2019 | 10:00 am - 12:00 pm
Rock Springs Nature Center, Decatur, IL
Dulcimer Club Meetings at Rock Springs Nature Center offer a perfect opportunity to rediscover musical interests and talents. Bring your instrument, learn a new tune or simply enjoy the musical talents of our volunteers. Free and open to the public.
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Saturday, Apr 6, 2019 | 10:00 am
Rock Springs Nature Center, Decatur, IL
Discover the truth behind animals that are often misunderstood or not considered particularly “cute” or “cuddly”, and the important roles they play in the ecosystem. Register online by April 5.
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Sunday, Apr 7, 2019 | 2:00 pm - 4:00 pm
Rock Springs Nature Center, Decatur, IL
Venture into the forests and prairies with volunteer Jerry Sievers. We will search for as many species of these beautiful spring delights as we can, including Virginia bluebells, spring beauties, and more. Register online by April 5.
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Sunday, Apr 14, 2019 | 1:00 pm - 4:00 pm
Rock Springs Nature Center, Decatur, IL
Bluegrass Music Jam at Rock Springs Nature Center offer a perfect opportunity to rediscover musical interests and talents. Bring your instrument, learn a new tune or simply enjoy the musical talents of our volunteers. Free and open to the public.
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Tuesday, Apr 16, 2019 | 9:30 am
Rock Springs Nature Center, Decatur, IL
Children ages 1-5 will discover why busy bees are nature’s helpers through hands-on-activities and fragrant smells. Register online by noon the day before camp.
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Tuesday, Apr 16, 2019 | 5:00 pm - 9:00 pm
Rock Springs Nature Center, Decatur, IL
This free 8-hour Illinois Department of Natural Resources class covers boating laws, boating terms, and safety requirements. Must attend both class days and pass a written test in order to receive your certificate. Register online by April 15.
Read MoreWednesday, Apr 17, 2019 | 9:30 am
Rock Springs Nature Center, Decatur, IL
Children ages 1-5 will discover why busy bees are nature’s helpers through hands-on-activities and fragrant smells. Register online by noon the day before camp.
Read MoreMacon County Conservation District Board Meeting
Wednesday, Apr 17, 2019 | 5:30 pm
Rock Springs Nature Center, Decatur, IL
Macon County Conservation District Board Meeting at Rock Springs Nature Center
Read MoreThursday, Apr 18, 2019 | 5:00 pm - 9:00 pm
Rock Springs Nature Center, Decatur, IL
Day 2 of free Boater Safety Class. Must attend both days to receive your certificate. Register online by April 15.
Read MoreOffices Closed for Good Friday
Friday, Apr 19, 2019 | All Day
Rock Springs Nature Center, Decatur, IL
Nature Center Open, Offices Closed
Read MoreSaturday, Apr 20, 2019 | 10:00 am - 12:00 pm
Rock Springs Nature Center, Decatur, IL
Dulcimer Club Meetings at Rock Springs Nature Center offer a perfect opportunity to rediscover musical interests and talents. Bring your instrument, learn a new tune or simply enjoy the musical talents of our volunteers. Free and open to the public.
Read MoreOffices & Nature Center Closed for Easter
Sunday, Apr 21, 2019 | All Day
Rock Springs Nature Center, Decatur, IL
The Rock Springs Nature Center and business offices will be closed for Easter.
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Sunday, Apr 21, 2019 | 2:00 pm
Rock Springs Nature Center, Decatur, IL
Bird Study: “West Nile and Mosquitoes” with Macon County Mosquito Abatement
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Thursday, Apr 25, 2019 | 8:00 pm - 10:00 pm
Leighty-Tabor Science Center – Millikin University, Decatur, IL
Meet at Rock Springs Nature Center to learn about what’s visible in the night sky, then hop in our van as we attend a Public Observation Night at Millikin’s Requarth Observatory. Register online by April 24.
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Saturday, Apr 27, 2019 | 10:00 am - 12:00 pm
Rock Springs Nature Center, Decatur, IL
Help make the river a safer and more beautiful place for both wildlife and people as you clear trash from the banks of the Sangamon River.
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Saturday, Apr 27, 2019 | 12:00 pm - 4:00 pm
Rock Springs Nature Center, Decatur, IL
Celebrate Earth Day and welcome spring with an afternoon of outdoor family activities. Enjoy wagon rides, canoeing, crafts, pony rides, and learn what other organizations are doing in our community to protect water and wildlife.
Read MoreSunday, Apr 28, 2019 | 2:00 pm - 4:00 pm
Oglesby Mansion, Decatur, IL
Tour the restored home of Illinois Governor Richard J. Oglesby. Encounter the lives of its family members and explore their late 1800s lifestyle. $2/person. Members are free.
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Tuesday, Apr 30, 2019 | 9:00 am - 5:00 pm
Rock Springs Nature Center, Decatur, IL
Explore three different historic Springfield residences and learn the history behind them. We will stop at the Governor’s Mansion, the Dana-Thomas House, and the Lincoln Home National Historic Site. Register online by April 29.
Read MoreMay
Alan and Chris Perry PhotographyWednesday, May 1, 2019 - Sunday, Jun 30, 2019 | All Day
Rock Springs Nature Center, Decatur, IL
Enjoy scenic photos of a variety of nature subjects including wildlife, flowers, and landscapes from photographers Alan and Chris Perry in the North Gallery of Rock Springs Nature Center.
Read MoreKattina Williams Photography
Wednesday, May 1, 2019 - Sunday, Jun 30, 2019 | All Day
Rock Springs Nature Center, Decatur, IL
View photography of wildlife, flowers, and exotic birds in the South Gallery of Rock Springs Nature Center.
Read MoreThursday, May 2, 2019 | 6:00 pm - 7:30 pm
Rock Springs Nature Center, Decatur, IL
Enjoy music played by Cross Country Classics. Free.
Read MoreSaturday, May 4, 2019 | 10:00 am - 12:00 pm
Rock Springs Nature Center, Decatur, IL
Dulcimer Club has been canceled for May 4, 2019.
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Saturday, May 4, 2019 | 10:00 am - 6:00 pm
Rock Springs Nature Center, Decatur, IL
Let us drive you down to St. Louis to tour this unique museum. See amazing art, architectural gems, and explore artificial caves. Register online by May 3.
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Saturday, May 4, 2019 | 1:00 pm - 4:00 pm
Friend’s Creek Conservation Area, Cisco, IL
See what going to school was like in the early 20th century at this historic one-room schoolhouse located at Friends Creek Conservation Area.
Read MoreJunior Girl Scout Journey: Get Moving!
Thursday, May 9, 2019 | 5:00 pm - 7:00 pm
Rock Springs Nature Center, Decatur, IL
This Journey is all about energy! Juniors will learn about different types of energy in nature and at home, take a hike, and create a poster challenging others to conserve energy. Register online by May 8.
Read MoreSaturday, May 11, 2019 | 10:00 am - 1:00 pm
Rock Springs Nature Center, Decatur, IL
Paddle a canoe down one of our local waterways, the Sangamon River. All equipment provided. Register online by May 10.
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Saturday, May 11, 2019 | 10:00 am - 12:00 pm
Rock Springs Nature Center, Decatur, IL
Discover the fascinating world of fungus during this talk presented by Dr. Andrew Miller, a mycologist with the Illinois Natural History Survey at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign. Learn about Illinois’ native fungi, which mushrooms are poisonous and which are not, and then go on a short hike to look for fungi.
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Saturday, May 11, 2019 | 1:00 pm
McLean County PONY Baseball League Fields, Bloomington, IL
Join us for the national pastime: base ball! Cheer for your home team, the Rock Springs Ground Squirrels, in a game of vintage base ball played with authentic 1858 rules. Away game in Bloomington, IL.
Read MoreSunday, May 12, 2019 | 1:00 pm - 4:00 pm
Rock Springs Nature Center, Decatur, IL
Bluegrass Music Jam at Rock Springs Nature Center offer a perfect opportunity to rediscover musical interests and talents. Bring your instrument, learn a new tune or simply enjoy the musical talents of our volunteers. Free and open to the public.
Read More
Sunday, May 12, 2019 | 2:00 pm - 4:00 pm
Rock Springs Nature Center, Decatur, IL
Venture into the forests and prairies with volunteer Jerry Sievers. We will search for as many species of these beautiful spring delights as we can, including Virginia bluebells, spring beauties, and more. Register online by May 10.
Read MoreMacon County Conservation District Board Meeting
Wednesday, May 15, 2019 | 5:30 pm
Rock Springs Nature Center, Decatur, IL
Macon County Conservation District Board Meeting at Rock Springs Nature Center
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Saturday, May 18, 2019 | 8:00 am
Rock Springs Nature Center, Decatur, IL
Breakfast Potluck at Rock Springs Conservation Area Pavilion
Read MoreSaturday, May 18, 2019 | 10:00 am - 12:00 pm
Rock Springs Nature Center, Decatur, IL
Dulcimer Club Meetings at Rock Springs Nature Center offer a perfect opportunity to rediscover musical interests and talents. Bring your instrument, learn a new tune or simply enjoy the musical talents of our volunteers. Free and open to the public.
Read MoreSaturday, May 18, 2019 | 9:00 pm - 11:00 pm
Rock Springs Nature Center, Decatur, IL
Test your frog-finding abilities by searching for as many species of frogs as you can discover! Bring your flashlights as we scope out water habitats for eye shine. Register online by May 17.
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Sunday, May 19, 2019 | 10:00 am - 4:00 pm
Rock Springs Nature Center, Decatur, IL
Join us as we visit one of the world’s largest and finest bell towers and woodland and prairie garden in our state’s capital city. Register online by May 17.
Read MoreThey Called President Lincoln a ‘What’?
Sunday, May 19, 2019 | 2:00 pm
Rock Springs Nature Center, Decatur, IL
Today’s political landscape is fraught with disrespect and uncivility previously unknown in American history. Or is it? Join former Illinois’ Lincoln Curator and noted Lincoln expert Kim Bauer as he examines a time in America where political discourse was thrown out the window.
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Saturday, May 25, 2019 | 12:00 pm
BeautifulTrobaughField, Decatur, IL
Join us for the national pastime: base ball! Cheer for your home team, the Rock Springs Ground Squirrels, in a game of vintage base ball played with authentic 1858 rules.
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Saturday, May 25, 2019 | 8:00 pm - 10:00 pm
Friend’s Creek Conservation Area, Cisco, IL
Explore Friends Creek Conservation Area in the dark and use your senses to find the way through the woods. Discover what makes your eyes, ears, and nose work at night. Register online by May 24.
Read MoreSunday, May 26, 2019 | 2:00 pm - 4:00 pm
Oglesby Mansion, Decatur, IL
Tour the restored home of Illinois Governor Richard J. Oglesby. Encounter the lives of its family members and explore their late 1800s lifestyle. $2/person. Members are free.
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Sunday, May 26, 2019 | 2:00 pm - 4:00 pm
Rock Springs Nature Center, Decatur, IL
Experienced singers from the Charleston-Mattoon Sacred Harp Singers will delight the public with their unique music.
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Sunday, May 26, 2019 | 2:00 pm
Rock Springs Nature Center, Decatur, IL
Learn how to attract bees to your flower garden by creating a one-of-a-kind bee bath. Register online by May 24.
Read MoreOffices Closed for Memorial Day
Monday, May 27, 2019 | All Day
Rock Springs Nature Center, Decatur, IL
Rock Springs Nature Center is open. Business offices are closed.
Read MoreJune
Tuesday, Jun 4, 2019 | 9:30 am
Rock Springs Nature Center, Decatur, IL
Children ages 1-5 will explore the life of wiggly caterpillars through movement, hands-on activities, and outdoor exploration.
Read MoreThursday, Jun 6, 2019 | 10:00 am
Rock Springs Nature Center, Decatur, IL
Children ages 1-5 will explore the life of wiggly caterpillars through movement, hands-on activities, and outdoor exploration.
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Tuesday, Jun 11, 2019 | 9:30 am
Rock Springs Nature Center, Decatur, IL
Children ages 1-5 will rediscover leaves, bark, and roots through sight, touch, and play.
Read MoreThursday, Jun 13, 2019 | 10:00 am
Rock Springs Nature Center, Decatur, IL
Children ages 1-5 will rediscover leaves, bark, and roots through sight, touch, and play.
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Tuesday, Jun 18, 2019 | 9:30 am
Rock Springs Nature Center, Decatur, IL
Children ages 1-5 will fly into the world of hawks and observe a hawk skull and egg.
Read MoreThursday, Jun 20, 2019 | 10:00 am
Rock Springs Nature Center, Decatur, IL
Children ages 1-5 will fly into the world of hawks and observe a hawk skull and egg.
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Sunday, Jun 23, 2019 - Tuesday, Jun 25, 2019 | All Day
Rock Springs Nature Center, Decatur, IL
Join staff on a trip to the Great Lakes to fish for walleye on a charter boat. Price includes two day charter, fishing equipment, transportation, and lodging. For all ages. Register online by June 14.
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Tuesday, Jun 25, 2019 | 9:30 am
Rock Springs Nature Center, Decatur, IL
Children ages 1-5 will feel the sun on your face as we explore the mysteries and wonders of our warm, shining sun.
Read MoreThursday, Jun 27, 2019 | 10:00 am
Rock Springs Nature Center, Decatur, IL
Children ages 1-5 will feel the sun on your face as we explore the mysteries and wonders of our warm, shining sun.
Read MoreJuly
Tuesday, Jul 2, 2019 | 9:30 am
Rock Springs Nature Center, Decatur, IL
Children ages 1-5 will learn about speedy ruby throated hummingbirds through a feathery craft and watch wild hummingbirds in nature.
Read MoreWednesday, Jul 3, 2019 | 10:00 am
Rock Springs Nature Center, Decatur, IL
Children ages 1-5 will learn about speedy ruby throated hummingbirds through a feathery craft and watch wild hummingbirds in nature.
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Tuesday, Jul 9, 2019 | 9:30 am
Rock Springs Nature Center, Decatur, IL
Children ages 1-5 will discover rainbows and the colors of nature through activities, songs, and stories.
Read MoreThursday, Jul 11, 2019 | 10:00 am
Rock Springs Nature Center, Decatur, IL
Children ages 1-5 will discover rainbows and the colors of nature through activities, songs, and stories.
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Tuesday, Jul 16, 2019 | 9:30 am
Rock Springs Nature Center, Decatur, IL
Children ages 1-5 will find out why woodpeckers tap on wood and what they eat as we learn about the many kinds of local woodpeckers.
Read MoreThursday, Jul 18, 2019 | 10:00 am
Rock Springs Nature Center, Decatur, IL
Children ages 1-5 will find out why woodpeckers tap on wood and what they eat as we learn about the many kinds of local woodpeckers.
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Tuesday, Jul 23, 2019 | 9:30 am
Rock Springs Nature Center, Decatur, IL
Children ages 1-5 will step into the lives of foxes, nuthatches, and many more forest animals while observing pelts, skulls, and eggs.
Read MoreThursday, Jul 25, 2019 | 10:00 am
Rock Springs Nature Center, Decatur, IL
Children ages 1-5 will step into the lives of foxes, nuthatches, and many more forest animals while observing pelts, skulls, and eggs.
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