Virginia Master Naturalists Headwaters Chapter

Author: retiredrob

  • Morning Moths

    Morning Moths

    If you are an early riser like me, thank you Navy, maybe the sight of various moth species fluttering about in the soft morning light or perched on the side of a building is something that has gone previously unnoticed.

    I live on the outskirts of Waynesboro surrounded by farmland and woods and first noticed the abundance of moths collecting in my breezeway towards the end of May. I photographed and recorded my first moth, the Red-fringed Emerald, in iNaturalist and over 50 different species later, it has now become part of my morning routine. These morning encounters are likely due to the cooler, moist conditions that follow the night, making moths more visible as they rest or continue their search for food.

    Moths, often overshadowed by their more colorful butterfly cousins, play a crucial role in our ecosystem. They are essential pollinators and serve as a vital food source for birds, bats, and other wildlife. The morning sightings in my breezeway provide a unique opportunity to appreciate these nocturnal insects in a different light.

    For those interested in witnessing this morning marvel, I recommend heading out just after dawn. Bringing a camera and downloading the iNaturalist app can enhance the experience, helping to identify and record the different species spotted.

    Included below are a portion of the moths I have photographed. The pictures aren’t perfect but the subjects are. Enjoy!

    An additional resource listing of butterfly or moth insects that can be found in Virginia are HERE.

    Rob Beaton, Newsletter and Website Committee Chair

    Photos by Rob Beaton.

  • Trail Maintenance

    Trail Maintenance

    Photos by Judy Barlett. Top from left to right, Michael Seth, Jean Stephens, and Jim Fye. Bottom left: American toad. Bottom right: Dogbane leaf beetle.

    On July 25, two Master Naturalists, Jean Stephens and Judy Bartlett, joined three other volunteers to clear a half-mile stretch of briars from the Crawford Knob Trail in the George Washington National Forest (GWNF). Under the direction of Lynn and Malcolm Cameron (another HMN!), about 40 maintainers tend to over 100 miles of trails in GWNF’s North River Ranger District; Lynn and Malcolm serve as North River’s District Managers for the Potomac Appalachian Trail Club (PATC).

    PATC member, Jim Fye, is the trail maintainer for Crawford Knob (#487, see map below), a lovely 2.5-mile trail north of Buffalo Gap. He, and many others, have spent countless hours making this tucked-away trail more accessible and enjoyable. On this recent work trip, we saw lots (and lots) of bear scat, several native flowers (e.g., tall bellflower, southern harebell, wild columbine, nodding onion, Joe-pye-weed), an American toad, and a dogbane leaf beetle.

    Segment of National Geographic Trails Illustrated map “791 Staunton, Shenandoah Mountain”

    We hiked in (and mostly up) about 3.5 miles from SR 688 (Old Parkersburg Turnpike), enjoying the sites, sounds, and each other’s company and then got to work on the briar patch that was blocking the trail. Jim and Jean shared some of the secrets of the trail, including two springs and two hidden outlooks. We had a blast! If you’re interested in doing trail maintenance, which counts towards your HMN hours, reach out to Lynn (slynncameron@gmail.com).

    Judy Barlett, Projects Committee Chair

  • Monarch Tagging and Release at Edith J. Carrier Arboretum

    Monarch Tagging and Release at Edith J. Carrier Arboretum

    Saturday, August 31, 2024
    11:00 AM – 12:00 PM
    Free

    Join us for an enchanting event at the Edith J. Carrier Arboretum as we host a monarch butterfly tagging and release. Witness the beauty of these delicate creatures up close as we contribute to vital research and conservation efforts.

    We invite participants of all ages! Join butterfly enthusiast and Virginia Master Naturalist Gail Napora for our Monarch Tagging and Release. Gail will journey with you through the life cycle of the butterfly with images, trace the route of migration from all points north to Mexico, then share the details of tagging as attendees help hold the butterflies and then release them. 

    Don’t miss this chance to be part of an inspiring moment in nature!

    Meet on the Ernst Tree Terrace beside the Frances Plecker Education Center.

    Register Here

    Please call 540.568.3194 or email Katie Rankin  at rankinkt@jmu.edu with any questions or concerns

    Additional information about monarch tagging HERE

  • Tree Identification Walk

    Tree Identification Walk

    The City of Harrisonburg Department of Public Works is pleased to announce an upcoming Tree Identification Walk. This event is free and will take place at Hillandale Park on July 23 at 1pm and will start at Shelter 12. Participants will have the opportunity to learn about the diverse tree species in our community, guided by knowledgeable experts. This educational walk is open to all ages and is a fantastic way to connect with nature and enhance your understanding of our local ecosystem. We look forward to seeing you there!

  • Conservation Photography

    Conservation Photography

    Join us at the Harrisonburg Central Library, 174 S Main St, Harrisonburg, on July 11, from 7 to 8 pm, for an engaging event on conservation photography as a way of knowing the world. This event will feature stunning visuals and insightful discussions on how photography can highlight environmental issues and inspire conservation efforts. Don’t miss this opportunity to learn from acclaimed photographer Steven David Johnson and explore the power of photography in preserving our planet.

    Elaine Smith, CE Committee Chair