Plants and Animals

Bats play a surprisingly large role in the ecosystem of the Ozark Plateau as essential pollinators. But sometimes people view them as “creepy” or “scary.” As with many things, the more we learn about something the less fear we may experience. These mammals are unique in that they can fly and definitely worth your time to learn more about. Please join us to learn some interesting details about Arkansas’ most diverse group of mammals -- their lives, activities, and why they are also some of the most endangered species found in the Natural State. 

Day of the week: Tuesday

Date: November 21  

Time: 5:30 p.m.

Cost: FREE!

In this course, you will investigate pain relieving herbs and learn how to use them on various types of injuries. Master Herbalist Wendy Fargo will teach you how to incorporate these herbs into oral and topical applications, including fomentations (infused warm compresses). You will develop your own herbal first aid kit that will be beneficial to your family and even your pets. You will learn how to process herbs to create sprays, ointments, creams, tinctures and teas.  There will be plenty of hands-on experiences. Takeaways from this class will be many and satisfying as you put together your kit. A $25 supply fee will be paid to the instructor at the first class and will include the instructor’s textbook for the class. 

Day of the week: Mondays

Dates: October 2 – 30 (5 sessions) 

Time: 5:30 – 7:30 p.m.

Cost: $75 ($25 supply fee will be paid to instructor at first class)

If you or someone you know suffers from diabetes, kidney and liver diseases, or cholesterol and blood pressure issues, this course can provide you with alternative ways to gain victory over such conditions. Examine the true causes of these afflictions and how the body works to overcome and remedy them.  Learn how to apply a combination of dietary and herbal processes to address many of the most common health concerns in America today. This course uses a holistic approach to fighting disease and includes hands-on opportunities making your own herbal tea blends customized to your health needs. The instructor has written a textbook that will help participants gain knowledge of the therapeutic properties of many herbs and how they can aid in healing common health issues. 

Day of the week: Tuesdays

Dates: October 3 – 31 (5 sessions)

Time: 5:30 – 7:30 p.m.

Cost: $75 ($25 supply fee should be paid to  instructor at first class)

Have you ever wondered about the medicinal uses of plants? Make your own herbal remedies and naturally therapeutic products with Certified Advanced Master Herbalist Jamon Henderson. Learn to identify plants with medicinal properties by foraging locally. Discover how to process herbs into various forms such as teas, salves, creams, and infused oils. This informative class will allow you to make your own natural remedies and products to take home with you.

 

Day of the week: Thursdays

Dates: September 7 – October 5 (5 sessions) 

Time: 5:00 - 6:30 p.m.

Cost: $90 (all supplies are included; students may want to bring a notebook and pencil)

Snakes are seemingly very polarizing. If someone hears the word snake, they are either likely to run towards it or get as far away from it as possible. Regardless of your position on the creatures, they play a vital role in the ecosystem. They are as much predators as they are prey. They are indicators that you are in a healthy ecosystem. Join us as we learn about the native snakes of Arkansas and the value that they bring. 

Day of the week: Tuesday

Date: September 26

Time: 5:30 p.m.

Cost: FREE!

There are over 400 bird species that have been documented in Arkansas. Wings Over Arkansas is a reward-based program to encourage people to find as many bird species as possible in the state. We will learn about the birds of Arkansas, tools that can be used to bird in the field, how to document your sightings, and how to start working towards these rewards.  

Day of the week: Tuesday

Date: October 24

Time: 5:30 p.m.

Cost: FREE!