A Spooktacular Evening of Conservation and Community
The NWTF Washtenaw County Conservationists Chapter of Michigan joined the Pittsfield Parks and Recreation Department and the Leslie Science and Nature Center at Lillie Park for a Creatures of the Night Halloween event, engaging youth in the NWTF mission, celebrating nature and bringing the Pittsfield community together.
“We’re proud to partner with the National Wild Turkey Federation and the Leslie Science and Nature Center, who brought the magic of the wild to life through exciting, hands-on encounters,” said Ashleigh Donahey, Pittsfield Township recreation specialist.
Over 170 children attended the event and visited with the NWTF Washtenaw County Conservationists Chapter. The chapter set up an informational table with mystery boxes that young attendees could put their hands in to guess what natural objects are hidden in each box.
“The NWTF Washtenaw County Conservationists are committed to building community through conservation, which is rooted in the NWTF's vision of a nation united by the life-changing power of the outdoors,” said Jen Davis, NWTF R3 hunting and shooting coordinator for Michigan. “The local chapter's banquet committee chair, Stacie Jackson, works for the Pittsfield Parks and Recreation Department and connected us with them to support them in this Halloween-themed effort to get kids and their families outside, engaging with natural areas during the fall. When our chapter has an opportunity to support these efforts with the community, we help build the kind of connection with the natural world that leads to long-term habitat conservation and enjoyment.”
The youth had the opportunity to go on a hayride, decorate a pumpkin, meet scary critters with the Leslie Science Center, and enjoy a hike on a spooky-themed trail. Along the hike, the young attendees were looking around for nocturnal animals that might be lurking in the shadows. At the end of the night, the kids went trunk-or-treating.
“Creatures of the Night transforms Lillie Park into a moonlit adventure filled with discovery, community and just the right amount of spooky fun,” Donahey said. “This unique event invites families to explore the park’s scenic trails in a whole new light, guided by glowing decorations and fascinating wildlife facts sprinkled along the path. Each stop along the way helps our young explorers learn about the amazing creatures that call our parks home and the vital roles they play in keeping our habitats thriving.”
The event wouldn’t have been possible without the help of community volunteers and local businesses such as the generous sponsorship from Whacker, Hazel Coffee Co., the Pittsfield Township Farmers Market and Nemeth Greenhouse and Farm.
