Montague Notebook: June 4, 2024

The Great Falls Discovery Center in Turners Falls.

The Great Falls Discovery Center in Turners Falls. FILE PHOTO

Published: 06-04-2024 6:01 AM

Discovery Center program focusing on native bees

TURNERS FALLS — To kick off Pollinator Week, visitors to the Great Falls Discovery Center are invited to learn how important native bees are and what they need to thrive, as well as make their own native bee habitat by “painting” with yarn, fleece, pre-felt shapes and soapy water.

The program, on Sunday, June 16, from 10:30 a.m. to noon, is intended for ages 4 and up, especially families. Children must be accompanied by an adult.

June 15: Family Fishing Day

The 17th annual Free Family Fishing Day will be held Saturday, June 15, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Barton Cove in Gill, with additional activities at the Great Falls Discovery Center in Turners Falls.

Fishing equipment will be provided at Barton Cove, with limited supplies available. Attendees are advised to bring their own fishing pole if they have one. No Massachusetts fishing license is needed.

Meanwhile, at the Discovery Center, participants can view fly lure tying demonstrations, see a guest fish from the Silvio O. Conte Anadromous Fish Laboratory, and experience fish printing, also called Gyotaku.

A free shuttle bus to Barton Cove from the Discovery Center will be offered as needed from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Adults and children of all ages are welcome. Children must be accompanied by an adult. The event will be held rain or shine.

Learn about Jurassic armored mud balls at Discovery Center

TURNERS FALLS — Greenfield Community College Professor Emeritus Richard Little will talk about Jurassic armored mud balls, how they are formed and why they are so rare at the Great Falls Discovery Center on Thursday, June 20, from 6:30 to 8 p.m.

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The program is sponsored by the Friends of the Great Falls Discovery Center and the presentation will be preceded by a brief Friends meeting. After the program, attendees can take a short guided walk to Unity Park to see real armored mud balls. Light refreshments will be provided.