The day’s activities will run from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Rancocas Nature Center located at 794 Rancocas Road in Westampton.
WESTAMPTON — The public is invited to learn about the history and culture of Rancocas Park at the first-ever park day on Oct. 13.
The day’s activities will run from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Rancocas Nature Center located at 794 Rancocas Road in Westampton.
The event begins with a welcome tent where members of the Friends of Rancocas Nature Center will welcome presenters, volunteers and attendees.
Some of the day’s activities include a self-guided scavenger hunt, assisting artist Kathy Casper in creating a ceramic mural, viewing aquatic life at the New Jersey Academy of Aquatic Sciences’ display, learning about watersheds and visiting the park’s Dragonfly Pond.
In addition, a variety of kids crafts will be offered including pumpkin painting, leaf rubbings and Halloween mask making.
Local historian Paul W. Schopp will offer a presentation regarding the early land settlement and use along the Rancocas Creek.
John W. Lawrence, a research archeologist, will discuss the Lenape in a presentation entitled: “The Lenape: What we know, what we think we know and what we’d like to know.”
A presentation will also be offered regarding ancient climate change through the lens of the Rancocas. Dr. Mark Demitroff, of the University of Delaware, will lead the discussion.
An interpretive trail talk and walk will offer participants a guided tour through various trails at Rancocas. The tours will focus on the area’s history, archaeology, culture and botany.
Also offered at the even will be live music performances by Camille Peruto, a folk singer-songwriter, and Lore Constantine, a pianist and flutist. Ms. Peruto and Ms. Constantine will perform at 1 p.m. and 3 p.m., respectively.
From 1 to 4 p.m. at the park’s visitor center the sixth annual Best of RNC Photo Exhibit will be held. Photographers of all ages are encouraged to participate in the exhibit. Call the center or visit www.rancocasnaturecenter.org for submission information.
Event parking is located will be designated toward the entrance near the Irick Road traffic light. Participants are asked not to park at the visitor’s center during the event.
Program fees are $5 for adults, $4 for seniors and $3 for children ages 5-17. Children under 3 and Rancocas Nature Center members are free.
For more information on the event, including directions to the park, visit www.rancocasnaturecenter.org, www.facebook.com/friendsofrnc or email [email protected].