Upcoming Events

MFFC Programming Update

As MFFC (and the world) emerges from the Covid pandemic, we are thrilled to start ramping up our public programming, slowly, surely, and safely. Look for more events, workshops and trainings as 2022 unfolds.

Visit merckforest.org for an updated schedule of events.

Spring Awakening: Vernal Pools & Spring Phenology

Sunday, April 9, 1pm - 3pm

Come along with us as we investigate the arrival of spring in the water and woods at Merck Forest. We’ll learn about, explore, and use some different methods of documenting spring flora and fauna during this interactive program. Open to naturalists of any age. Register online.

$10/pp

Earth Day Kid’s Workshop

Saturday, April 23, 10am - noon

April is sheep shearing season at Merck Forest, and in the spirit of Earth Day we’ll be using sheep’s wool to create blue and green felted Earth balls in this hands-on crafty program for families with children (one adult must accompany each family group). Register online.

$10/pp

Meet the Lambs

Saturday, May 14, 10am - 2pm

Green grass and gamboling lambs are abundant, and you’re invited to come and visit our newest farm members, with plenty of activities for the family. Join us as we celebrate the new season. More details available soon -- check back periodically.

$3/pp suggested donation at the door

Wilderness First Aid & CPR

Saturday and Sunday, May 21

A two-day Wilderness First Aid course focusing on emergency backcountry skills. Optional CPR component for additional fee and hours. Preregistration online is required. Minimum age 16.

$200, additional $40 for CPR

Meet & Feed

Sunday afternoons May 22 -Sept 4, 3pm - 4:30pm & Thursday afternoons June 30 - August 11

Join Merck staff on Sunday afternoons or Thursday afternoon as they go about afternoon chores feeding our animals. Get to know our sheep, horses, chickens, and pigs during our daily routine. Children must be accompanied by at least one adult/guardian.

$5pp, except for babies in arms; register online. Space is limited to 12 people.

Ecology Open House

Saturday, July 16 10am to 2pm

Join us for a summer celebration of ecology at MFFC! Explore the various ecosystems we have within a half-mile of our farm, and, in the spirit of a Bioblitz, learn how you, too, can become a citizen scientist and contribute to an ever-growing bank of knowledge. The day will include ecology-focused activities for the whole family.

$3/pp suggested donation at the door

Mushroom Workshop for Kids

Saturday, July 23 & Saturday, August 13, 10am - 11:30am

Register for one or both! Families explore and search the forest for fungi. Families should bring baskets to gather mushrooms in. Register online.

$10/pp

Mushroom ID for Adults

Saturday, July 23 & Saturday, August, 13 Noon - 2pm

Register for one or both! A workshop for adults, focusing on identifying mushrooms. Mycologist Sue VanHook will bring some samples, but participants are encouraged to forage and bring in their own mushrooms as well. Register online.

$10/pp

Volunteer Saturdays

June 25, July 30, August 27, 10am - 3pm

Come help MFFC staff with projects that keep our property safe and accessible to all who want to enjoy them. Register online.

Northshire Grown: Direct

4 spring markets - April 13, 27, May 11, and 25

Support the region’s amazing local farms and food producers as well as your and the community’s health through this easy-to-use ordering portal and system. Simply go to northshiregrown.com, join the mailing list and you’ll start receiving order forms in your in-box. www.northshiregrown.com