The Delaware National Estuarine Research Reserve offers many free public programs. The programs are held at the St. Jones Reserve, 818 Kitts Hummock Road, east of the John Dickinson Plantation near Dover or at the Blackbird Creek Reserve, 801 Blackbird Landing Road, Townsend.
Due to limited space, pre-registration is required for each program by calling (302) 739-3436, from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday through Friday.
November
St Jones Reserve Open House & Delaware Native Plant Society Annual Native Plant Sale
Saturday, November 7, 10 a.m. - 3 p.m.
The St. Jones Reserve will host a free Open House and the Delaware Native Plant Society’s 9th Annual Native Plant Sale. The Open House and plant sale will be held rain or shine at the Reserve located at 818 Kitts Hummock Road near Dover.
Held every year on the grounds of the St. Jones Reserve, the Delaware Native Plant Society’s Annual Plant Sale is a much-anticipated event that offers beautiful native plants for sale for home landscapes. Native trees, shrubs, and perennial plants, including ferns, cardinal flower, pawpaw, and other difficult-to- find plants, will be available to purchase at exceptionally low prices. For the best selection, buyers are encouraged to arrive early.
The Open House invites the public to enjoy autumn’s splendor on the estuary with activities planned for all ages, visitors can:
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Tour the St. Jones Center for Estuarine Studies, a building dedicated to understanding Delaware’s coastal areas, including its research laboratory, exhibits and classrooms;
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Watch as real-time weather and wave conditions are reported to the internet from sensors at the Reserve and in the Delaware Bay;
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Explore the amazing creatures that live in our estuaries;
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Hear about the many ways that you can enjoy getting involved;
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Watch the video, Delaware’s Undiscovered Treasure, that features the Blackbird Creek Watershed near Townsend – one of the most beautiful and ecologically important areas in the state;
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Talk with researchers who explore our bays and learn about the Thank You Delaware Bay initiative;
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Test your Coastal IQ with the help of Google Earth; and
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Take part in kids activities, walk the boardwalk trail, and more.
Wetland Walk - St. Jones Reserve
Monday, November 9, 10 - 11 a.m.
Join a naturalist as we journey on the boardwalk through the salt marshes along the St. Jones River. Learn about life in the marsh, current research, and historic uses of the estuary. Wear comfortable shoes. Meet at the main building at the St. Jones Reserve. Registration is required.
Fish Printing - St. Jones Reserve
Wednesday, November 25, 9 - 11 a.m.
Explore the native fish found in the St. Jones River estuary. Learn about the river and various fish habitats. Bring a white t-shirt to fish print as a reminder of what you learned. Meet at the main building at the St. Jones Reserve. Registration is required
December
Bayberry Candle Making - John Dickinson Plantation
Saturday, December 12, 10 - 11 a.m.
Explore the uses of the bayberry shrub! A Reserve naturalist will discuss the ecology of the bayberry while the Plantation staff and volunteers will give insight to the historical use of the plant as we enjoy the art of candle making. What a wonderful way to start off the holiday season!
For more information or to explore the many educational opportunities and workshops offered at the Delaware National Estuarine Research Reserve, please contact Jennifer Holmes at 302-739-3436 or jennifer.holmes@state.de.us
