BEGIN:VCALENDAR
VERSION:2.0
PRODID:-//Montana Natural History Center - ECPv6.15.18//NONSGML v1.0//EN
CALSCALE:GREGORIAN
METHOD:PUBLISH
X-ORIGINAL-URL:https://www.montananaturalist.org
X-WR-CALDESC:Events for Montana Natural History Center
REFRESH-INTERVAL;VALUE=DURATION:PT1H
X-Robots-Tag:noindex
X-PUBLISHED-TTL:PT1H
BEGIN:VTIMEZONE
TZID:America/Denver
BEGIN:DAYLIGHT
TZOFFSETFROM:-0700
TZOFFSETTO:-0600
TZNAME:MDT
DTSTART:20240310T090000
END:DAYLIGHT
BEGIN:STANDARD
TZOFFSETFROM:-0600
TZOFFSETTO:-0700
TZNAME:MST
DTSTART:20241103T080000
END:STANDARD
BEGIN:DAYLIGHT
TZOFFSETFROM:-0700
TZOFFSETTO:-0600
TZNAME:MDT
DTSTART:20250309T090000
END:DAYLIGHT
BEGIN:STANDARD
TZOFFSETFROM:-0600
TZOFFSETTO:-0700
TZNAME:MST
DTSTART:20251102T080000
END:STANDARD
BEGIN:DAYLIGHT
TZOFFSETFROM:-0700
TZOFFSETTO:-0600
TZNAME:MDT
DTSTART:20260308T090000
END:DAYLIGHT
BEGIN:STANDARD
TZOFFSETFROM:-0600
TZOFFSETTO:-0700
TZNAME:MST
DTSTART:20261101T080000
END:STANDARD
END:VTIMEZONE
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Denver:20250815T090000
DTEND;TZID=America/Denver:20250815T120000
DTSTAMP:20260415T171601
CREATED:20250707T175504Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250708T221728Z
UID:10002891-1755248400-1755259200@www.montananaturalist.org
SUMMARY:Confident Color Mixing for Nature Journaling with Nancy Seiler
DESCRIPTION:Date: Friday\, August 15\, 2025\nTime: 9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.\nLocation: Meet at Greenough Park (the site with the picnic pavillion and playground)\nCost: $50\, $45 MNHC members \nREGISTER HERE\nMaster color mixing with artist Nancy Seiler! \nHave you been nature journaling for a while and feel a bit overwhelmed when mixing colors? This class is for you! Nancy will help you understand how to choose colors to match the natural objects that you see. She’ll explain pigments so that you will come away understanding how to obtain bright and dull colors\, use complimentary colors\, mix grays\, and utilize whatever watercolors you have on hand. \nNancy will be teaching from the QoR Mini 12-pigment set. We’ll start with swatching to understand the pigments you have\, tricks for blending and layering color\, and how values play a big part of helping your drawings pop. The first two hours will be teaching and working with your pigments. The last hour will be color mixing on your own from objects you find at site with Nancy there to help you achieve color matches. \nNancy Seiler received her Visual Communications degree from The Art Institute of Pittsburgh in 1981. As a Golden Working Artist for Golden Artist Colors she presents lectures\, demonstrations\, and workshops in acrylics\, watercolors\, and oils in Southern California and Montana. She has taught classical botanical illustration and nature journaling since 2003. Her work is represented by Frame of Reference Fine Art in Whitefish and Bigfork\, Montana. \nWhat to Bring: \n\nwater/snacks\nclothes for changing Montana weather conditions – layers\, sunscreen\, hat\nyour watercolor set\nwatercolor paper or watercolor/mixed media journal\n#8 round brush or similar\ngraphite pencil and eraser\nmicro pen (any size point)\nanything you may need to be comfortable sitting and journaling outside for 3 hours. There are picnic tables\, but you may want your own chair\, or pillow\, or whatever you use when journaling.\n\nFAQs\nWhat’s the refund policy? \nThe course fee (minus a 25% administrative fee) is refundable if a cancellation is made up to 7 days before the event. No refunds will be issued for cancellations made after this deadline. See our full refund/cancellation policy here. \nDo I have to bring my printed ticket to the event? \nNope! We will have a list of all the attendees.
URL:https://www.montananaturalist.org/event/confident-color-mixing-for-nature-journaling-with-nancy-seiler/
LOCATION:Montana Natural History Center
CATEGORIES:Community Event,Naturalist Field Experience
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.montananaturalist.org/wp-content/uploads/unnamed-13-e1751915756960.jpg
GEO:46.8706038;-114.0060024
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Denver:20250819T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/Denver:20250819T210000
DTSTAMP:20260415T171601
CREATED:20250620T184525Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250626T180857Z
UID:10002886-1755630000-1755637200@www.montananaturalist.org
SUMMARY:FUNdraising with the PaddleHeads!
DESCRIPTION:Date: Tuesday\, August 19\nTime: Gates open at 6:00 p.m.\, first pitch at 7:05 p.m.\nLocation: Ogren Park at Allegiance Field\nCost: Ticket prices vary\, depending on seat ($9-$50) \nGather your friends\, family\, and fellow supporters\, and let’s fill the stands to support MNHC! \nWe are excited to invite you to a special night at the ballpark in support of the Montana Natural History Center! Join us at the Missoula PaddleHeads game on August 19th as we come together for a fun-filled evening while raising funds for MNHC. \nPaddleHeads Community Tuesdays at the ballpark are a celebration\, recognition\, and educational opportunity focused on nonprofits in Missoula for all who attend. \n50% of every ticket purchased through this link goes directly to supporting MNHC and our mission to connect people with nature. The Missoula PaddleHeads ownership will then match that 50%! Meaning 100% of the ticket revenue will go back to supporting our organization! This is a fantastic way to enjoy a great game at an affordable price while making a difference in our community! \nGET YOUR TICKETS TODAY and help us knock this fundraiser out of the park!
URL:https://www.montananaturalist.org/event/fundraising-with-the-paddleheads/
LOCATION:Montana Natural History Center
CATEGORIES:Community Event,Fundraiser
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.montananaturalist.org/wp-content/uploads/Untitled-design-75-e1750961331730.png
GEO:46.8706038;-114.0060024
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Denver:20250821T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/Denver:20250821T200000
DTSTAMP:20260415T171601
CREATED:20250728T220633Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250728T220634Z
UID:10002413-1755799200-1755806400@www.montananaturalist.org
SUMMARY:Scavengers Photography Club
DESCRIPTION:Dates: Third Thursday of the Month\nTime: 6:00 – 8:00 p.m.\nLocation: Montana Natural History Center \nCome find community and inspiration for your nature photography passion at our Scavengers Photography Club! Everyone is welcome – hobbyists\, enthusiasts\, professionals\, and new beginners! Peggy Christian\, artist\, author\, and Master Naturalist\, hosts this unique club. \nAt each session we will share our photos (up to 6 per person) and discuss current projects\, interests\, successes\, and challenges. Some sessions will feature a guest presentation on an aspect of photography. \nPhoto by Forest Chaput de Saintonge \nFor August’s meeting we are joined by Forest Chaput de Saintonge\, former director of Rocky Mountain School of Photography\, who will outline a step-by-step workflow to take you from your first star trail photo to capturing a deep-sky image of a galaxy or nebula in just five nights of shooting. Included are making star trails and pinpoint stars\, finding faint objects\, and photographing them with a long lens. Anyone new to astrophotography or curious about the topic will enjoy this presentation. \nNote: Please bring your photos to share on a thumb drive to use in our computer. \n“A great photograph is one that fully expresses what one feels\, in the deepest sense\, about what is being photographed.”\n― Ansel Adams \nShare your perspective and connection to nature through photography!
URL:https://www.montananaturalist.org/event/scavengers-photography-club-3-2-2-2-3-3/
LOCATION:Montana Natural History Center
CATEGORIES:Community Event,Discovery Day,Presentation
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.montananaturalist.org/wp-content/uploads/DSCN7866-3-Edit-e1745957299415.jpg
GEO:46.8706038;-114.0060024
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Denver:20250908T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/Denver:20250908T200000
DTSTAMP:20260415T171601
CREATED:20250819T195731Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250829T193528Z
UID:10002878-1757354400-1757361600@www.montananaturalist.org
SUMMARY:Nature Writing "Hush Hour(s)"
DESCRIPTION:Date: Second Monday of the Month\nTime: 6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.\nLocation: Montana Natural History Center\nCost: Free\, but please register \nREGISTER HERE\nWhatever genre you prefer — poetry\, essay\, prose\, flash\, etc. — writing can help us connect with and reflect on our natural surroundings in deeply personal\, unexpected\, rewarding ways. But finding the time to write can often be challenging. This writing “hush hour(s)” is designed to provide nature writers with a quiet\, supportive setting to work on your craft. This isn’t a workshop; this is space to write. \nIn this group\, we’ll spend roughly the first 20 minutes inviting individuals to share what projects you’re working on\, questions you might have about your work\, suggest resources\, any hurdles or writing blocks\, and writing successes! Then we’ll write\, write\, write. \nBring your notebook\, journal\, or computer. Writing prompts will be available if you’re feeling stuck\, or just want to play with words. Your MNHC group leaders are Allison De Jong (Montana Naturalist magazine editor and MNHC Field Notes instructor\, and writer) and Beth Conway (Events and Marketing Coordinator\, and writer). \nFeel free to BYOB and snacks. We’ll have light refreshments available.
URL:https://www.montananaturalist.org/event/nature-writing-hush-hours-5-5/
LOCATION:Montana Natural History Center
CATEGORIES:Community Event,Evening Programs
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.montananaturalist.org/wp-content/uploads/nature-writing-2.png
GEO:46.8706038;-114.0060024
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Denver:20250908T183000
DTEND;TZID=America/Denver:20250908T203000
DTSTAMP:20260415T171601
CREATED:20250812T183018Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260106T190209Z
UID:10003026-1757356200-1757363400@www.montananaturalist.org
SUMMARY:Virtual Naturalist Book Club #2
DESCRIPTION:Date: Monthly\, on the second Monday of the month (except January\, June\, July\, and August)\nTime: 6:30 p.m.\nLocation/Platform: Virtual Zoom Classroom \nThe only thing better than reading a fascinating natural history book (and there are so many of them!) is getting to discuss it with a wonderful group of like-minded people. We can help you do that! Join one of our free naturalist book clubs\, where you can read and discuss a great new book each month\, enjoying various perspectives and insights\, all from the comfort of your own home. (Cozy pjs are perfectly acceptable attire.) This book club meets September-May and breaks for the summer. \nBook List \nSeptember: Light Eaters\nOctober: The Serviceberry\nNovember: The Stubborn Light of Things\nDecember: Flight Paths\nJanuary: no meeting this month\nFebruary: Woman Among Wolves\nMarch:  What an Owl Knows\nApril: Restoring the Kinship Worldview                                                                                                                May: Tenacious Beasts \nYour hosts will be Sherry Staub and Cas Kendley. Sherry has led the Sacajawea book club for over two years in Bozeman and has extensively read in the nature book genre. Cas started and led a book club as a UM student and is looking forward to starting an advanced degree in forestry at the UM. \nYou will need a computer that can access the internet and Zoom platform in order to participate. \nInterested in joining? There are spaces available! Email Christine at cmorris [at] montananaturalist [dot] org to sign up. \nGroup is limited to 10 participants.
URL:https://www.montananaturalist.org/event/naturalist-book-club-2/2025-09-08/
LOCATION:Virtual Zoom Classroom
CATEGORIES:Community Event,Evening Programs
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.montananaturalist.org/wp-content/uploads/depositphotos_219045558-stock-photo-reading-outdoor-theme-image-open-e1760043072780.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Denver:20250909T183000
DTEND;TZID=America/Denver:20250909T203000
DTSTAMP:20260415T171601
CREATED:20231214T180948Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250107T173314Z
UID:10001312-1757442600-1757449800@www.montananaturalist.org
SUMMARY:Virtual Naturalist Book Club #1
DESCRIPTION:Date: Monthly\, on the second Tuesday of the month  \nTime: 6:30 p.m. \nLocation/Platform: Virtual Zoom Classroom \nThe only thing better than reading a fascinating natural history book (and there are so many of them!) is getting to discuss it with a wonderful group of like-minded people. We can help you do that! Join one of our free naturalist book clubs\, where you can read and discuss a great new book each month\, enjoying various perspectives and insights\, all from the comfort of your own home. (Cozy pjs are perfectly acceptable attire.) \nYour hosts are Master Naturalist Suzanne Hendrich and Deborah Drain. \nYou will need a computer that can access the internet and Zoom platform in order to participate. \nThere are some spaces available in this book club. Contact cmorris (at) montananaturalist.org to sign up.  \nGroup is limited to 10 participants.
URL:https://www.montananaturalist.org/event/virtual-naturalist-book-club-1-2/2025-09-09/
LOCATION:Virtual Zoom Classroom
CATEGORIES:Community Event,Evening Programs,Virtual Class
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.montananaturalist.org/wp-content/uploads/book-and-cup-of-coffee-in-hands-of-girl-on-winter-evening-near-picture-id909045284-e1736271185658.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Denver:20250910T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/Denver:20250910T203000
DTSTAMP:20260415T171601
CREATED:20250624T205500Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250829T194113Z
UID:10002888-1757530800-1757536200@www.montananaturalist.org
SUMMARY:Hush of the Land: Stories from the Bob Marshall Wilderness
DESCRIPTION:Date: Wednesday\, September 10th\nTime: 7:00-8:30 p.m.\nLocation: Montana Natural History Center\nCost: Free\, but please register! (Donations are always appreciated.***) \nREGISTER HERE \nIn Hush of the Land: Stories from the Bob Marshall Wilderness\, Arnold “Smoke” Elser and Eva-Maria Maggi take the audience on a journey with horses and mules deep into the mountains of Western Montana. This engaging\, hands-on campfire storytelling event is based on the inspiring memoir Hush of the Land\, which chronicles the six-decade quest of packer and outfitter Smoke Elser to protect wild lands by bringing thousands of people deep into Montana’s mountains on horseback. Experience the joys and thrills of summer rides\, harrowing grizzly bear encounters\, fishing in clear mountain streams\, and many nights around a campfire in some of the West’s last wild places. In this lively program\, Eva shares how meeting Smoke ignited her love for storytelling\, while Smoke recounts how his testimony for the Wilderness Act and his fight to preserve and expand Montana’s wilderness lands influenced his career as an outfitter and educator\, giving him a voice at the center of Montana’s conservation movement. \nAbout the presenters: Arnold “Smoke” Elser is a legendary packer\, author\, teacher\, and U.S. conservationist who has traveled every trail of the 1.5 million-acre Bob Marshall Wilderness Complex in Western Montana on horseback over the past sixty years. As a professional wilderness outfitter\, he has provided a once-in-a-lifetime experience deep in the mountains for thousands of people\, many of whom had never ridden a horse before. His famous “Horse and Mule Packing Class” has been taken by the U.S. Navy SEALs\, U.S. Army\, U.S. National Park Service\, U.S. Forest Service\, as well as thousands of civilians and college students. He is the co-author of the leading textbook on horse and mule packing\, Packin’ in on Horses and Mules. His skills\, life\, and persistent work to preserve public lands and wilderness for future generations have been featured in the PBS documentary 3 Miles an Hour\, National Geographic\, The Guardian\, The New York Times\, and The Washington Post\, among others. Smoke is the recipient of numerous awards\, including the 2023 Distinguished Alumni Award from the University of Montana\, the Distinguished Citizen Award from the Boy Scouts of America\, the Lifetime Conservation Achievement Award from The Conservation Roundtable\, and the Backcountry Horseman of America award. He is honored to be the only inductee of both the Montana Outdoor Hall of Fame and the Montana Cowboy Hall of Fame. He lives with his wife Thelma\, their dog Spunky\, and their horses and mules in Missoula\, MT. \nEva-Maria Maggi is a writer\, teacher\, and packer. Her new book\, Hush of the Land: A Lifetime in the Bob Marshall Wilderness (Bison Books)\, is co-written with and about Montana outfitter\, conservationist\, and packer Arnold “Smoke” Elser. She holds a Ph.D. in political science and has been teaching college classes and giving public talks for over 15 years. Currently\, she teaches Wilderness Policy and Packing at the University of Montana\, Missoula. Her recent work has been published in Big Sky Journal and the Montana Magazine of Western History (both forthcoming). Her past research on Europe and the Middle East was published as the book The Will of Change (2018\, Springer) and in several academic journals\, newspapers\, and magazines. She grew up in Germany\, lived in Italy and Morocco\, and now calls Missoula home. \n***This program was previously offered free to the community thanks to support from Humanities Montana\, which has since lost their federal funding and shuttered their Montana Conversations programming. Smoke and Eva are committed to keeping their program accessible to the community; this is a free event and open to the public. Any donations are greatly appreciated and will support MNHC and these knowledgeable speakers.
URL:https://www.montananaturalist.org/event/hush-of-the-land-stories-from-the-bob-marshall-wilderness/
LOCATION:Montana Natural History Center
CATEGORIES:Community Event,Evening Lecture,Evening Programs,Presentation
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.montananaturalist.org/wp-content/uploads/Hush-of-the-Land-Eva-Smoke-1-e1750798313690.jpg
GEO:46.8706038;-114.0060024
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Denver:20250916T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/Denver:20250916T193000
DTSTAMP:20260415T171601
CREATED:20250902T223908Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250911T155759Z
UID:10003100-1758045600-1758051000@www.montananaturalist.org
SUMMARY:Hunting Dinosaur Fossils in the Bighorn Basin!
DESCRIPTION:Date: Tuesday\, September 16\nTime: 6:00 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.\nLocation: Montana Natural History Center\nCost: $15 for MNHC members\, $20 for non-members\n(Children 17 and under free with ticketed adult.) \nREGISTER HERE!\nIf you’re a fan of dinosaurs\, this evening program is for you! \nMNHC has partnered with Elevation Science Institute to prepare and conserve dinosaur fossils collected by their paleontologists and citizen-scientists each summer in southern Montana. These fossils come from the world-famous Morrison Formation of southern Montana\, rocks dating back over 150 million years! \nIt has been a record year for the team from Elevation Science Institute. Join Jason Poole to hear the latest from this summer’s field work digging up dinosaur bones in Montana’s Bighorn Basin\, some of which will be exposed over the next few months at the Montana Natural History Center before your very eyes! \nDrinks and light refreshments/snacks provided. \nInstructor: Jason C. Poole has worn many hats\, Adjunct Professor of Paleontology\, Scientific Illustrator\, art teacher\, and Paleontology field instructor. Jason has excavated dinosaurs on three continents\, including Africa\, South and North America. Paralititan\, Dreadnoughtus and Suuwassea are three dinosaurs worked on by Poole\, all were new to science when discovered and two of which are supermassive titanosaurs. Poole is also a Paleontological Artist who has published in National Geographic and whose art work appears in many museum and private collections. Jason resides in Missoula\, Montana and can often be found sketching in the studio and the great outdoors. \nWhat’s the refund policy? \nThe course fee (minus a 25% administrative fee) is refundable if a cancellation is made up to 7 days before the event. No refunds will be issued for cancellations made after this deadline. See our full refund/cancellation policy here. \nDo I have to bring my printed ticket to the event? \nNope! We will have a list of all the attendees.
URL:https://www.montananaturalist.org/event/hunting-dinosaur-fossils-in-the-bighorn-basin/
LOCATION:Montana Natural History Center
CATEGORIES:Community Event,Evening Lecture,Evening Programs
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.montananaturalist.org/wp-content/uploads/3-6-e1756871540583.png
GEO:46.8706038;-114.0060024
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Denver:20250917T173000
DTEND;TZID=America/Denver:20250917T190000
DTSTAMP:20260415T171601
CREATED:20250828T221122Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250903T035315Z
UID:10003098-1758130200-1758135600@www.montananaturalist.org
SUMMARY:Fall Tree Fruits with Marilyn Marler
DESCRIPTION:Date: Wednesday\, September 17\, 2025\nTime: 5:30-7:00 p.m.\nLocation: Meet at the Root Interpretive Center at University of Montana\, between Main Hall and the Natural Sciences Greenhouse. Free parking after 5 pm.\nCost: Free\, and open to the public \nCome on a short\, shady walk with botanist Marilyn Marler (MNHC’s Executive Director) to learn about fall fruit types in the State of Montana Arboretum at UM. Many trees produce fruit\, but they go way beyond the sweet edible varieties. Instead of pears and apples\, we’ll talk about legumes\, samaras\, capsules\, nuts and maybe a few berries. Non-crop tree fruits are beautiful and diverse. \nWheelchair accessible\, no prior knowledge needed. Kiddos welcome with a grown up but no dogs please (except service dogs).
URL:https://www.montananaturalist.org/event/fall-tree-fruits-with-marilyn-marler/
LOCATION:Montana Natural History Center
CATEGORIES:Community Event
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.montananaturalist.org/wp-content/uploads/Untitled-design-92-e1756871587808.png
GEO:46.8706038;-114.0060024
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Denver:20250918T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/Denver:20250918T200000
DTSTAMP:20260415T171601
CREATED:20250902T170011Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250902T170024Z
UID:10002414-1758218400-1758225600@www.montananaturalist.org
SUMMARY:Scavengers Photography Club
DESCRIPTION:Dates: Third Thursday of the Month\nTime: 6:00 – 8:00 p.m.\nLocation: Montana Natural History Center \nCome find community and inspiration for your nature photography passion at our Scavengers Photography Club! Everyone is welcome – hobbyists\, enthusiasts\, professionals\, and new beginners! Peggy Christian\, artist\, author\, and Master Naturalist\, hosts this unique club. \nAt each session we will share our photos (up to 6 per person) and discuss current projects\, interests\, successes\, and challenges. Some sessions will feature a guest presentation on an aspect of photography. \nFor our September class\, Marcy James\, owner of Paper & Ink Studio in Missoula\, joins us for a guest critique focused on composition and intention behind the image(s). If you would like to have your pictures critiqued\, please email 3-5 large JPEG files to eyster.kathy@gmail.com by September 16. \nPhoto by Marcy James \nNote: Please bring your photos to share on a thumb drive to use in our computer. \n“A great photograph is one that fully expresses what one feels\, in the deepest sense\, about what is being photographed.”\n― Ansel Adams \nShare your perspective and connection to nature through photography!
URL:https://www.montananaturalist.org/event/scavengers-photography-club-3-2-2-2-3-4/
LOCATION:Montana Natural History Center
CATEGORIES:Community Event,Discovery Day,Presentation
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.montananaturalist.org/wp-content/uploads/DSCN7866-3-Edit-e1745957299415.jpg
GEO:46.8706038;-114.0060024
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Denver:20250924T090000
DTEND;TZID=America/Denver:20250924T130000
DTSTAMP:20260415T171601
CREATED:20250828T193115Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250922T180348Z
UID:10003097-1758704400-1758718800@www.montananaturalist.org
SUMMARY:Voyage to the Varves: Glacial Lake Missoula Field Day
DESCRIPTION:Date: Wednesday\, September 24\, 2025\nTime: 9:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.\nLocation: Meet at MNHC\, travel by MNHC bus\nCost: $40 MNHC and/or GLM Chapter members/$60 non-members \nREGISTER HERE \nSee Glacial Lake Missoula’s seasonal calendar recorded in sediment with geologist Jim Shelden! \nVarves are annual sediment depositions\, often recording seasons in differently colored bands. Darker bands are deposited in winter as organic matter settles\, and lighter bands are deposited in the summer as glacial flour and run-off sediments drift to the lake bed. Varves also give a minimum depth of water greater than 300 feet. Glacial lake varves are often beautifully preserved. \nThe Ninemile varves are crucial to understanding the story of Glacial Lake Missoula. Not only do they record the minimum number of years Glacial Lake Missoula existed\, they also record the number of times the glacial lake emptied in catastrophic floods\, forever changing the landscape. See these varves up close and hold pieces of them in your hands! \nJim Shelden will recount the story of Glacial Lake Missoula and the importance of the varves using materials and displays at the Montana Natural History Center. Then we will travel by MNHC bus to the Ninemile varves roadcut. You will be able to inspect the varves and take samples home. This program is a wonderful way to learn more about one of the major and defining geological events in Western Montana. \nActivity level: easy. \nWhat to Bring: \n\nWater/snacks\nClothes for changing Montana weather conditions\nSneakers or boots\nSack lunch for the bus if desired\nAnything you need to be comforatable standing\, sitting on the bus\, or walking\n\n  \nFAQs\nWhat’s the refund policy? \nThe course fee (minus a 25% administrative fee) is refundable if a cancellation is made up to 7 days before the event. No refunds will be issued for cancellations made after this deadline. See our full refund/cancellation policy here. \nDo I have to bring my printed ticket to the event? \nNope! We will have a list of all the attendees.
URL:https://www.montananaturalist.org/event/voyage-to-the-varves/
LOCATION:Montana Natural History Center
CATEGORIES:Community Event,Naturalist Field Experience
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://www.montananaturalist.org/wp-content/uploads/deposits-sedimentation-Glacial-Lake-Missoula-Montana-e1756486352622.webp
GEO:46.8706038;-114.0060024
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Denver:20250924T113000
DTEND;TZID=America/Denver:20250924T130000
DTSTAMP:20260415T171601
CREATED:20250804T203050Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260330T183906Z
UID:10003013-1758713400-1758718800@www.montananaturalist.org
SUMMARY:Drop-In Nature Journaling
DESCRIPTION:Date: Last Wednesday of the Month\nTime: 11:30 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.\nLocation: Montana Natural History Center\nCost: Free with admission/membership! \nFellow naturalists! Are you looking for community\, accountability\, inspiration\, and more? We’re excited to offer monthly drop-in nature journaling / phenology wheel / nature writing sessions September-May. Bring your nature journals\, phenology wheels\, pens\, pencils\, and paints\, and have fun crafting your observations in community. We’ll have some supplies available (colored pencils\, micron pens\, watercolor pencils\, etc.)\, as well as field guides and specimens\, and we’ll provide a fun journal prompt\, too! For those working on phenology wheels – whether daily\, monthly\, or seasonal – this is a great time to work on your wheel template for the next month or catch up on your daily or monthly observations. \nScheduled over the lunch hour\, this is a perfect mid-day break; please feel free to bring lunch or snacks. \nThis program is FREE with admission/membership! \nCome join us for fun\, creativity\, and naturalist exploration! \n2025-2026 dates:\nSeptember 24th\, 2025\nOctober 29th\, 2025\nNovember 26th\, 2025\nNO SESSION in DECEMBER\nJanuary 28th\, 2026\nFebruary 25th\, 2026\nMarch 25th\, 2026\nApril 29th\, 2026\nMay 27th\, 2026 \nWe’ll be back in September!
URL:https://www.montananaturalist.org/event/drop-in-nature-journaling/2025-09-24/
LOCATION:Montana Natural History Center
CATEGORIES:Community Event,Drop in With a Naturalist
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.montananaturalist.org/wp-content/uploads/monthly-nature-journaling.jpg
GEO:46.8706038;-114.0060024
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Denver:20250924T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/Denver:20250924T193000
DTSTAMP:20260415T171601
CREATED:20250702T231041Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250915T035658Z
UID:10002890-1758736800-1758742200@www.montananaturalist.org
SUMMARY:Saving the Big Sky
DESCRIPTION:Date: Wednesday\, September 24\nTime: 6:00-7:30 p.m.\nLocation: Montana Natural History Center\nCost: Free and open to the public\, but please register \nJoin authors Bruce A. Bugbee\, Robert J. Kiesling\, and John B. Wright for a presentation of their book Saving the Big Sky: A Chronicle of Land Conservation in Montana. In documenting conservation accomplishments and suggesting what more can be done\, Saving the Big Sky invites readers to participate in conserving Montana—or whatever cherished landscape they call home. \nREGISTER HERE\nDuring this lecture\, we’ll learn more about the compelling study of how six million acres of biodiverse land were conserved in Montana over the past fifty years. Indigenous and non-Indigenous knowledge about land stewardship has evolved and since the 1970s tribes\, nonprofit organizations\, land trusts\, and government agencies have conserved land in many creative ways. \nLight refreshments and book signings\, too. Offered in partnership with Fact and Fiction. \nAbout the authors:\nBruce A. Bugbee is a land conservation consultant and founder of American Public Land Exchange. \nRobert J. Kiesling is a real estate broker\, conservation consultant\, and former executive director of the Montana Environmental Information Center and the Big Sky (Montana/Wyoming) office of The Nature Conservancy. \nJohn B. Wright has completed over one hundred conservation easements in Montana and the Rocky Mountain West and is professor emeritus of geography and environmental studies at New Mexico State University.
URL:https://www.montananaturalist.org/event/saving-the-big-sky/
LOCATION:Montana Natural History Center
CATEGORIES:Community Event,Evening Lecture,Evening Programs
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.montananaturalist.org/wp-content/uploads/Untitled-design-78-e1753810234212.png
GEO:46.8706038;-114.0060024
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Denver:20251002T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/Denver:20251002T203000
DTSTAMP:20260415T171601
CREATED:20250702T223836Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250926T224621Z
UID:10002889-1759431600-1759437000@www.montananaturalist.org
SUMMARY:Rooted at the Edge: Reading and Book Signing with Donna Erickson
DESCRIPTION:Date: Thursday\, October 2\nTime: 7:00-8:30 p.m.\nLocation: Montana Natural History Center\nCost: Free\, and open to the public \nMNHC is excited to host author Donna Erickson for a reading and signing of her book\, Rooted at the Edge: Ranching Where the Old West and New West Collide. \nRooted at the Edge paints a portrait of a ranching community in a threatened landscape steeped in history\, conflict\, and beauty. \nAcross the West rural lifestyles are increasingly compromised by suburbanization\, economic hardship\, and family dynamics; a way of life and a way of work are vanishing. Ranchland may be simultaneously cherished by a family for the life its members have made there and coveted by urban neighbors for open space. Community residents may love a place for its scenery and wildlife habitat while others wish it converted to a commercial parking lot. Complex ecological relationships can be bulldozed in a single afternoon. And the threats of climate change and shifting populations compromise the edge even more. \nLight refreshments provided. This event is offered in partnership with Fact and Fiction.  \nAbout the Author: Donna Erickson is the author of Rooted at the Edge: Ranching Where the Old West and New West Collide (2025)\, published by the University of Nebraska Press. Erickson grew up on a ranch in Missoula’s North Hills and was a professor of landscape architecture and planning at the University of Michigan for 16 years. She has consulted with land conservation groups across the west from her home in Missoula and has published extensively in design and planning. Erickson’s previous book is MetroGreen: Connecting Open Space in North American Cities.
URL:https://www.montananaturalist.org/event/rooted-at-the-edge-reading-and-book-signing-with-donna-erickson/
LOCATION:Montana Natural History Center
CATEGORIES:Community Event,Evening Programs
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.montananaturalist.org/wp-content/uploads/Untitled-design-77.png
GEO:46.8706038;-114.0060024
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Denver:20251004T130000
DTEND;TZID=America/Denver:20251004T150000
DTSTAMP:20260415T171601
CREATED:20250805T185011Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250903T035918Z
UID:10003022-1759582800-1759590000@www.montananaturalist.org
SUMMARY:Owl Pellet Bone Box Sip & Build
DESCRIPTION:Date: Saturday\, October 4\, 2025\nTime: 1:00 – 3:00 p.m.\nLocation: MNHC\nCost: $30 MNHC members/$35 non-members \nREGISTER HERE \nCreate a uniquely naturalist spooky display with bones from an owl pellet! \nOwl pellets are a treasure trove. Filled with bones\, fur\, and feathers\, they tell us what an owl has been eating. We will discuss the science behind owl pellets and we will use charts and guides to identify the bones we find within. After our forensic practice\, we will clean the bones and prepare them for our bone box! Materials will include: owl pellets\, small boxes\, glue\, paint\, and your own sense of design. These mini shadow boxes are perfect for Halloween decorations or as art to be enjoyed all year. They definitely adorn some desks here at MNHC! \nEnjoy a beer\, fizzy water\, or cocoa and spend a crafty afternoon with us! \nBest for ages 12 and up.  \nCost: $30 MNHC members\, $35 non-members. Add your MNHC membership to your order when you check out! \n  \nFAQs\nWhat’s the refund policy? \nThe course fee (minus a 25% administrative fee) is refundable if a cancellation is made up to 7 days before the event. No refunds will be issued for cancellations made after this deadline. See our full refund/cancellation policy here. \nDo I have to bring my printed ticket to the event? \nNope! We will have a list of all the attendees.
URL:https://www.montananaturalist.org/event/owl-pellet-bone-box-sip-and-build/
LOCATION:Montana Natural History Center
CATEGORIES:Community Event,Sip & Sketch
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.montananaturalist.org/wp-content/uploads/IMG_3075-1-rotated.jpg
GEO:46.8706038;-114.0060024
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Denver:20251008T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/Denver:20251008T193000
DTSTAMP:20260415T171601
CREATED:20250919T203118Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250924T201034Z
UID:10003112-1759946400-1759951800@www.montananaturalist.org
SUMMARY:Our Sacred Objects\, The Long Trip Home with Tyson and Lona Running Wolf
DESCRIPTION:Date: Wednesday\, October 8\nTime: 6:00-7:30 p.m.\nLocation: Montana Natural History Center\nCost: $10 MNHC members/$15 non-members\nFree for Native people. \nREGISTER HERE\nJoin MNHC\, and Tyson and Lona Running Wolf of Blackfeet ECO Knowledge\, as they share their work to recover Blackfeet sacred objects from museums in the United States and abroad. Tyson and Lona are based in Browning — their reputations as educators\, outfitters\, and policy makers reach across Montana. \nAbout Blackfeet ECO Knowledge: Blackfeet ECO Knowledge’s mission is to revive\, preserve\, and promote Indigenous traditional knowledge systems. We focus on the reciprocal relationships between bio-cultural diversity\, where people and the environment work together for environmental sustainability for future generations. The goals are to ensure cultural perpetuity\, pass on knowledge to future generations\, and protect the environment in ways aligned with our cultural principles. We seek to share this knowledge with the world to develop a better understanding of the importance of balanced and respectful human-environment interactions. https://www.blackfeetecoknowledge.org/ \nLight refreshments provided. \nFAQs\nWhat’s the refund policy? \nThe course fee (minus a 25% administrative fee) is refundable if a cancellation is made up to 7 days before the event. No refunds will be issued for cancellations made after this deadline. See our full refund/cancellation policy here. \nDo I have to bring my printed ticket to the event? \nNope! We will have a list of all the attendees.
URL:https://www.montananaturalist.org/event/our-sacred-objects-the-long-trip-home-with-tyson-and-lona-running-wolf/
LOCATION:Montana Natural History Center
CATEGORIES:Community Event,Evening Lecture,Evening Programs
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.montananaturalist.org/wp-content/uploads/Untitled-design-105-e1758744622877.png
GEO:46.8706038;-114.0060024
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Denver:20251013T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/Denver:20251013T200000
DTSTAMP:20260415T171601
CREATED:20250917T195718Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250917T195720Z
UID:10002879-1760378400-1760385600@www.montananaturalist.org
SUMMARY:Nature Writing "Hush Hour(s)"
DESCRIPTION:Date: Second Monday of the Month\nTime: 6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.\nLocation: Montana Natural History Center\nCost: Free\, but please register \nREGISTER HERE\nWhatever genre you prefer — poetry\, essay\, prose\, flash\, etc. — writing can help us connect with and reflect on our natural surroundings in deeply personal\, unexpected\, rewarding ways. But finding the time to write can often be challenging. This writing “hush hour(s)” is designed to provide nature writers with a quiet\, supportive setting to work on your craft. This isn’t a workshop; this is space to write. \nIn this group\, we’ll spend roughly the first 20 minutes inviting individuals to share what projects you’re working on\, questions you might have about your work\, suggest resources\, any hurdles or writing blocks\, and writing successes! Then we’ll write\, write\, write. \nBring your notebook\, journal\, or computer. Writing prompts will be available if you’re feeling stuck\, or just want to play with words. Your MNHC group leaders are Allison De Jong (Montana Naturalist magazine editor and MNHC Field Notes instructor\, and writer) and Beth Conway (Events and Marketing Coordinator\, and writer). \nFeel free to BYOB and snacks. We’ll have light refreshments available.
URL:https://www.montananaturalist.org/event/nature-writing-hush-hours-5-6/
LOCATION:Montana Natural History Center
CATEGORIES:Community Event,Evening Programs
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.montananaturalist.org/wp-content/uploads/nature-writing-2.png
GEO:46.8706038;-114.0060024
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Denver:20251013T183000
DTEND;TZID=America/Denver:20251013T203000
DTSTAMP:20260415T171601
CREATED:20250812T183018Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260106T190209Z
UID:10003027-1760380200-1760387400@www.montananaturalist.org
SUMMARY:Virtual Naturalist Book Club #2
DESCRIPTION:Date: Monthly\, on the second Monday of the month (except January\, June\, July\, and August)\nTime: 6:30 p.m.\nLocation/Platform: Virtual Zoom Classroom \nThe only thing better than reading a fascinating natural history book (and there are so many of them!) is getting to discuss it with a wonderful group of like-minded people. We can help you do that! Join one of our free naturalist book clubs\, where you can read and discuss a great new book each month\, enjoying various perspectives and insights\, all from the comfort of your own home. (Cozy pjs are perfectly acceptable attire.) This book club meets September-May and breaks for the summer. \nBook List \nSeptember: Light Eaters\nOctober: The Serviceberry\nNovember: The Stubborn Light of Things\nDecember: Flight Paths\nJanuary: no meeting this month\nFebruary: Woman Among Wolves\nMarch:  What an Owl Knows\nApril: Restoring the Kinship Worldview                                                                                                                May: Tenacious Beasts \nYour hosts will be Sherry Staub and Cas Kendley. Sherry has led the Sacajawea book club for over two years in Bozeman and has extensively read in the nature book genre. Cas started and led a book club as a UM student and is looking forward to starting an advanced degree in forestry at the UM. \nYou will need a computer that can access the internet and Zoom platform in order to participate. \nInterested in joining? There are spaces available! Email Christine at cmorris [at] montananaturalist [dot] org to sign up. \nGroup is limited to 10 participants.
URL:https://www.montananaturalist.org/event/naturalist-book-club-2/2025-10-13/
LOCATION:Virtual Zoom Classroom
CATEGORIES:Community Event,Evening Programs
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.montananaturalist.org/wp-content/uploads/depositphotos_219045558-stock-photo-reading-outdoor-theme-image-open-e1760043072780.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Denver:20251014T183000
DTEND;TZID=America/Denver:20251014T203000
DTSTAMP:20260415T171601
CREATED:20231214T180948Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250107T173314Z
UID:10001313-1760466600-1760473800@www.montananaturalist.org
SUMMARY:Virtual Naturalist Book Club #1
DESCRIPTION:Date: Monthly\, on the second Tuesday of the month  \nTime: 6:30 p.m. \nLocation/Platform: Virtual Zoom Classroom \nThe only thing better than reading a fascinating natural history book (and there are so many of them!) is getting to discuss it with a wonderful group of like-minded people. We can help you do that! Join one of our free naturalist book clubs\, where you can read and discuss a great new book each month\, enjoying various perspectives and insights\, all from the comfort of your own home. (Cozy pjs are perfectly acceptable attire.) \nYour hosts are Master Naturalist Suzanne Hendrich and Deborah Drain. \nYou will need a computer that can access the internet and Zoom platform in order to participate. \nThere are some spaces available in this book club. Contact cmorris (at) montananaturalist.org to sign up.  \nGroup is limited to 10 participants.
URL:https://www.montananaturalist.org/event/virtual-naturalist-book-club-1-2/2025-10-14/
LOCATION:Virtual Zoom Classroom
CATEGORIES:Community Event,Evening Programs,Virtual Class
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.montananaturalist.org/wp-content/uploads/book-and-cup-of-coffee-in-hands-of-girl-on-winter-evening-near-picture-id909045284-e1736271185658.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Denver:20251016T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/Denver:20251016T200000
DTSTAMP:20260415T171601
CREATED:20250929T173055Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250929T173142Z
UID:10002415-1760637600-1760644800@www.montananaturalist.org
SUMMARY:Scavengers Photography Club
DESCRIPTION:Dates: Third Thursday of the Month\nTime: 6:00 – 8:00 p.m.\nLocation: Montana Natural History Center \nCome find community and inspiration for your nature photography passion at our Scavengers Photography Club! Everyone is welcome – hobbyists\, enthusiasts\, professionals\, and new beginners! Peggy Christian\, artist\, author\, and Master Naturalist\, hosts this unique club. \nAt each session we will share our photos (up to 6 per person) and discuss current projects\, interests\, successes\, and challenges. Some sessions will feature a guest presentation on an aspect of photography. \nFor our October session\, Kathy Eyster\, a photography teacher for more than 25 years\, will discuss creating effective black and white photos using either a smartphone or digital camera. Kathy will also demonstrate how to change color photos into strong black & white images. Anyone curious about what makes a successful black and white photo will benefit from this presentation. \nNote: Please bring your photos to share on a thumb drive to use in our computer. \n“A great photograph is one that fully expresses what one feels\, in the deepest sense\, about what is being photographed.”\n― Ansel Adams \nShare your perspective and connection to nature through photography!
URL:https://www.montananaturalist.org/event/scavengers-photography-club-3-2-2-2-3-5/
LOCATION:Montana Natural History Center
CATEGORIES:Community Event,Discovery Day,Presentation
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.montananaturalist.org/wp-content/uploads/DSCN7866-3-Edit-e1745957299415.jpg
GEO:46.8706038;-114.0060024
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Denver:20251024T170000
DTEND;TZID=America/Denver:20251024T210000
DTSTAMP:20260415T171601
CREATED:20250529T160608Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251007T171408Z
UID:10002880-1761325200-1761339600@www.montananaturalist.org
SUMMARY:MNHC's 2025 Fall Banquet and Auction
DESCRIPTION:Date: Friday\, October 24th\, 2025\nTime: 5:00-9:00 p.m.\nLocation: University Center Ballroom \nPURCHASE YOUR TICKETS! Click here.\nJoin the Montana Natural History Center for a fun and nature-filled evening at our Fall Banquet and Auction on October 24th\, at the University Center Ballroom! \nGather with us for an evening of food\, drinks\, and fun to support MNHC’s science and nature educational programming for our community\, and support MNHC’s mission of connecting people of all ages to nature. \nThis fun and rewarding evening starts with a large silent auction\, filled with great items donated by local businesses\, artists\, and friends of MNHC. Grab a drink and mingle as you peruse this diverse array and engage in some fun and fierce bidding all while raising funds for a good cause! Once we have all had a chance to bid (more than once!) we will shift to our main event: the live auction! As always\, MNHC’s live auction is full of amazing experiences\, adventures\, and gear—you won’t want to miss it! \nOur emcee for the night is MNHC Teaching Naturalist Kevin Niehaus who will guide us through the evening. And auctioneer\, Reed Tobol with Rivers West Auction\, will keep the bidding hopping! \nAnd because this is MNHC\, we can’t hold an event without offering opportunities for some nature-learning\, trivia\, and a few surprises!! \nThis year we’re making it even easier for patrons to participate in bidding: You’ll have the opportunity to bid & buy early on featured online items\, as well as participate in-person at our exciting silent and live auctions on the night of the event! You can start preview live and silent auction items now! CLICK HERE! \nBring your best bids and a little friendly competition to this rewarding and exciting event! \nPURCHASE YOUR TICKETS! Click here.\nWe’re using the platform GiveSmart to manage our ticket sales and auction items this year. This platform allows early check-in\, streamlines bidding\, and makes check-out a breeze. \nStay tuned for updates as they come in. MNHC staff\, Board\, and auction committee are working tirelessly to put together the greatest fundraiser yet! \nSponsorship Opportunities\nAre you a business interested in being a sponsor for MNHC’s Fall Banquet and Auction? Please contact our Development Director\, Kellen Beck\, at kbeck@montananaturalist.org. \nTHANK YOU TO OUR GROWING LIST OF AUCTION SPONSORS
URL:https://www.montananaturalist.org/event/mnhcs-fall-banquet-and-auction-2025/
LOCATION:University Center Ballroom\, 32 Campus Drive\, Missoula\, MT\, 59812\, United States
CATEGORIES:Community Event,Fundraiser
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.montananaturalist.org/wp-content/uploads/Untitled-design-86.png
GEO:46.8605765;-113.982128
X-APPLE-STRUCTURED-LOCATION;VALUE=URI;X-ADDRESS=University Center Ballroom 32 Campus Drive Missoula MT 59812 United States;X-APPLE-RADIUS=500;X-TITLE=32 Campus Drive:geo:-113.982128,46.8605765
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Denver:20251029T113000
DTEND;TZID=America/Denver:20251029T130000
DTSTAMP:20260415T171601
CREATED:20250804T203050Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260330T183906Z
UID:10003014-1761737400-1761742800@www.montananaturalist.org
SUMMARY:Drop-In Nature Journaling
DESCRIPTION:Date: Last Wednesday of the Month\nTime: 11:30 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.\nLocation: Montana Natural History Center\nCost: Free with admission/membership! \nFellow naturalists! Are you looking for community\, accountability\, inspiration\, and more? We’re excited to offer monthly drop-in nature journaling / phenology wheel / nature writing sessions September-May. Bring your nature journals\, phenology wheels\, pens\, pencils\, and paints\, and have fun crafting your observations in community. We’ll have some supplies available (colored pencils\, micron pens\, watercolor pencils\, etc.)\, as well as field guides and specimens\, and we’ll provide a fun journal prompt\, too! For those working on phenology wheels – whether daily\, monthly\, or seasonal – this is a great time to work on your wheel template for the next month or catch up on your daily or monthly observations. \nScheduled over the lunch hour\, this is a perfect mid-day break; please feel free to bring lunch or snacks. \nThis program is FREE with admission/membership! \nCome join us for fun\, creativity\, and naturalist exploration! \n2025-2026 dates:\nSeptember 24th\, 2025\nOctober 29th\, 2025\nNovember 26th\, 2025\nNO SESSION in DECEMBER\nJanuary 28th\, 2026\nFebruary 25th\, 2026\nMarch 25th\, 2026\nApril 29th\, 2026\nMay 27th\, 2026 \nWe’ll be back in September!
URL:https://www.montananaturalist.org/event/drop-in-nature-journaling/2025-10-29/
LOCATION:Montana Natural History Center
CATEGORIES:Community Event,Drop in With a Naturalist
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.montananaturalist.org/wp-content/uploads/monthly-nature-journaling.jpg
GEO:46.8706038;-114.0060024
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Denver:20251108T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Denver:20251108T150000
DTSTAMP:20260415T171601
CREATED:20250912T155459Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251023T215122Z
UID:10003104-1762596000-1762614000@www.montananaturalist.org
SUMMARY:Lichen Field Day with Tim Wheeler
DESCRIPTION:Date: Saturday\, November 8\, 2025\nTime: 10:00 a.m.-3:00 p.m.\nLocation: MNHC\, walk along Kim Williams trail\nCost: $60 MNHC members/$65 non-members \nREGISTER HERE!\n\nDelve deep into the study of lichens and never look at your forest the same way again. \nThe Missoula valley has a high diversity of lichen species in an array of beautiful forms. Learn about the ecology and biology of lichens as you become comfortable identifying common species. \nJoin us this fall for a lichen presentation and field trip with Tim Wheeler\, lichenologist and mycologist from the University of Montana. We will begin in the classroom with an introduction to lichens slideshow followed by a walk along the Kim Williams trail exploring saxicolous and terricolous lichen communities and then a short jaunt up the Smokejumpers Trail to investigate the epiphytic lichen communities. \nInstructor: Tim Wheeler is a biologist specializing in fungi (lichenized and otherwise). He has been teaching\, studying\, and publishing on Montana’s mycota for over 20 years.  He is currently a research scientist for the Division of Biological Sciences at UM working on the genetics and genomics of the tree of life. \nCheck out this National Geographic video of UM researchers’ lichen discovery. \nActivity Level (please read): Moderate. Most of the walking is on flat ground. The Smokejumper Trail section is steeper and a dirt trail. This program involves multiple hours of walking and standing. Lunch will be most likely be eaten seated on the ground. There are no bathrooms along the Kim Williams Trail or Smokejumper Trail. \nWhat to Bring: \n\nClothes appropriate for changing Montana weather conditions layers\, rain\, and more\nGood walking shoes or boots\nHand lens (we have some to borrow)\nLunch\nWater\n\nReading Materials for the Curious: \n\nWays of Enlichenment: Lichens of Western North America\, photography by Tim Wheeler\nLichens of North America by Erwin M. Brodo\, Sylvia Duran Sharnoff\, and Stephen Sharnoff\n\nFAQs\nWhat’s the refund policy? \nThe course fee (minus a 25% administrative fee) is refundable if a cancellation is made up to 7 days before the event. No refunds will be issued for cancellations made after this deadline. See our full refund/cancellation policy here. \nDo I have to bring my printed ticket to the event? \nNope! We will have a list of all the attendees.
URL:https://www.montananaturalist.org/event/lichen-field-day-with-tim-wheeler/
LOCATION:Montana Natural History Center
CATEGORIES:Community Event,Naturalist Field Experience
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.montananaturalist.org/wp-content/uploads/19-e1760043021300.jpg
GEO:46.8706038;-114.0060024
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Denver:20251110T183000
DTEND;TZID=America/Denver:20251110T203000
DTSTAMP:20260415T171601
CREATED:20250812T183018Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260106T190209Z
UID:10003028-1762799400-1762806600@www.montananaturalist.org
SUMMARY:Virtual Naturalist Book Club #2
DESCRIPTION:Date: Monthly\, on the second Monday of the month (except January\, June\, July\, and August)\nTime: 6:30 p.m.\nLocation/Platform: Virtual Zoom Classroom \nThe only thing better than reading a fascinating natural history book (and there are so many of them!) is getting to discuss it with a wonderful group of like-minded people. We can help you do that! Join one of our free naturalist book clubs\, where you can read and discuss a great new book each month\, enjoying various perspectives and insights\, all from the comfort of your own home. (Cozy pjs are perfectly acceptable attire.) This book club meets September-May and breaks for the summer. \nBook List \nSeptember: Light Eaters\nOctober: The Serviceberry\nNovember: The Stubborn Light of Things\nDecember: Flight Paths\nJanuary: no meeting this month\nFebruary: Woman Among Wolves\nMarch:  What an Owl Knows\nApril: Restoring the Kinship Worldview                                                                                                                May: Tenacious Beasts \nYour hosts will be Sherry Staub and Cas Kendley. Sherry has led the Sacajawea book club for over two years in Bozeman and has extensively read in the nature book genre. Cas started and led a book club as a UM student and is looking forward to starting an advanced degree in forestry at the UM. \nYou will need a computer that can access the internet and Zoom platform in order to participate. \nInterested in joining? There are spaces available! Email Christine at cmorris [at] montananaturalist [dot] org to sign up. \nGroup is limited to 10 participants.
URL:https://www.montananaturalist.org/event/naturalist-book-club-2/2025-11-10/
LOCATION:Virtual Zoom Classroom
CATEGORIES:Community Event,Evening Programs
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.montananaturalist.org/wp-content/uploads/depositphotos_219045558-stock-photo-reading-outdoor-theme-image-open-e1760043072780.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Denver:20251111T183000
DTEND;TZID=America/Denver:20251111T203000
DTSTAMP:20260415T171601
CREATED:20231214T180948Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250107T173314Z
UID:10001314-1762885800-1762893000@www.montananaturalist.org
SUMMARY:Virtual Naturalist Book Club #1
DESCRIPTION:Date: Monthly\, on the second Tuesday of the month  \nTime: 6:30 p.m. \nLocation/Platform: Virtual Zoom Classroom \nThe only thing better than reading a fascinating natural history book (and there are so many of them!) is getting to discuss it with a wonderful group of like-minded people. We can help you do that! Join one of our free naturalist book clubs\, where you can read and discuss a great new book each month\, enjoying various perspectives and insights\, all from the comfort of your own home. (Cozy pjs are perfectly acceptable attire.) \nYour hosts are Master Naturalist Suzanne Hendrich and Deborah Drain. \nYou will need a computer that can access the internet and Zoom platform in order to participate. \nThere are some spaces available in this book club. Contact cmorris (at) montananaturalist.org to sign up.  \nGroup is limited to 10 participants.
URL:https://www.montananaturalist.org/event/virtual-naturalist-book-club-1-2/2025-11-11/
LOCATION:Virtual Zoom Classroom
CATEGORIES:Community Event,Evening Programs,Virtual Class
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.montananaturalist.org/wp-content/uploads/book-and-cup-of-coffee-in-hands-of-girl-on-winter-evening-near-picture-id909045284-e1736271185658.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Denver:20251112T140000
DTEND;TZID=America/Denver:20251112T160000
DTSTAMP:20260415T171601
CREATED:20251030T151901Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260331T190829Z
UID:10003130-1762956000-1762963200@www.montananaturalist.org
SUMMARY:Master Naturalist Club
DESCRIPTION:Date: Monthly\, on the second Wednesday of the month\nTime: 2:00-4:00 p.m.\nLocation: Various – contact club host \nShare outdoor explorations and learning experiences with other curious naturalists at our monthly Master Naturalist Club! We will connect with experts and hone our skills\, meeting at field locations around Missoula. \nApril Topic: Introduction to Oding:  Looking for dragonflies and damselflies (Odonata) in Western Montana \nSuzanne Hendrich\, Master Naturalist\, has led dragonfly field trips for MOLLI and is in the midst of a multiyear survey of Odonata in this region. She will share keys to identifying Odonata\, key features of their life cycle\, habitat and ecology\, and good local spots for oding adventures. \nClub hosts: Master Naturalists Sarah Elsasser\, Bill Buseman\, and Elizabeth Johns \nInterested in joining? There are spaces available! Email Christine at cmorris@montananaturalist.org to sign up.
URL:https://www.montananaturalist.org/event/master-naturalist-club/2025-11-12/
LOCATION:Montana Natural History Center
CATEGORIES:Community Event,Discovery Day,Drop in With a Naturalist,Naturalist Field Experience
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.montananaturalist.org/wp-content/uploads/IMG_2784.jpg
GEO:46.8706038;-114.0060024
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Denver:20251113T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/Denver:20251113T203000
DTSTAMP:20260415T171601
CREATED:20251023T182039Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251113T190823Z
UID:10003122-1763060400-1763065800@www.montananaturalist.org
SUMMARY:Indigenous Food Sovereignty with Mariah Gladstone of Indigikitchen
DESCRIPTION:Date: Thursday\, November 13\nTime: 7:00 – 8:30 p.m.\nLocation: MNHC\nCost: $20 MNHC members/$25 non-members\nFree for Native peoples \nREGISTER HERE \nJoin us for an evening with Mariah Gladstone\, founder of Indigikitchen and celebrated advocate for Indigenous food sovereignty\, as she shares stories and recipes from her new book\, Mountains to Oceans: Kids’ Recipes from Native Land. Through this engaging talk and book signing\, Gladstone will explore the deep connections between culture\, land\, and food\, highlighting the commitment to reclaiming Indigenous culinary traditions. \nAll tickets include an entry for a chance to win a custom gift basket containing food and beauty products from Native companies. (See details below). \nAbout Mariah Gladstone: Mariah Gladstone (Blackfeet\, Cherokee) grew up in Northwest Montana. She graduated from Columbia University with a degree in Environmental Engineering and returned home where she developed Indigikitchen. Mariah has been recognized as a “Luce Indigenous Knowledge Fellow” through the First Nations Development Institute\, a “Culture of Health Leader” through the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation\, and an MIT Solve Indigenous Communities Fellow. She serves on the board of the FAST (Food Access and Sustainability Team) Blackfeet. Mariah completed her Master’s Degree at SUNY – ESF through the Center for Native Peoples and the Environment. \nWin This Gift Basket \n\n\nMountains to Oceans\, Kids’ Recipes from Native Land by Mariah Gladstone\n\n\nDesert Mint White Sage Tea (Desert Decadence\, Arizona)\n\n\nWhite Sonora Wheat Berries (Ramona Farms\, Arizona)\n\n\nFish Batter Mix (Red Lake Nation Foods\, Minnesota)\n\n\nHighbush Cranberry Jelly (Red Lake Nation Foods\, Minnesota)\n\n\n70% Cacao Bar (Hacienda el Castillo\, Ecuador)\n\n\nSweetgrass Sugar Scrub (Sakari Farms\, Oregon)\n\n\nBeaded Earrings by Mariah Gladstone\n\n\nFAQs\nWhat’s the refund policy? \nThe course fee (minus a 25% administrative fee) is refundable if a cancellation is made up to 7 days before the event. No refunds will be issued for cancellations made after this deadline. See our full refund/cancellation policy here. \nDo I have to bring my printed ticket to the event? \nNope! We will have a list of all the attendees.
URL:https://www.montananaturalist.org/event/indigenous-food-sovereignty-with-mariah-gladstone-of-indigikitchen/
LOCATION:Montana Natural History Center
CATEGORIES:Community Event,Evening Programs
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.montananaturalist.org/wp-content/uploads/Screenshot-2025-10-31-at-12.25.54-PM-e1763060891845.png
GEO:46.8706038;-114.0060024
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Denver:20251120T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/Denver:20251120T200000
DTSTAMP:20260415T171601
CREATED:20251030T195943Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251030T200020Z
UID:10002416-1763661600-1763668800@www.montananaturalist.org
SUMMARY:Scavengers Photography Club
DESCRIPTION:Dates: Third Thursday of the Month\nTime: 6:00 – 8:00 p.m.\nLocation: Montana Natural History Center \nCome find community and inspiration for your nature photography passion at our Scavengers Photography Club! Everyone is welcome – hobbyists\, enthusiasts\, professionals\, and new beginners! Peggy Christian\, artist\, author\, and Master Naturalist\, hosts this unique club. \nAt each session we will share our photos (up to 6 per person) and discuss current projects\, interests\, successes\, and challenges. Some sessions will feature a guest presentation on an aspect of photography. \nPhotograph by John Snell \nNovember’s class features Kentucky photographer John Snell who travels around the country\, creating new images. Join John as he shares photographs from Yellowstone\, Devil’s Tower\, the Blue Ridge Parkway\, and Niagara Falls\, among other places\, as well as some tips and challenges regarding how he made these pictures. \nNote: Please bring your photos to share on a thumb drive to use in our computer. \n“A great photograph is one that fully expresses what one feels\, in the deepest sense\, about what is being photographed.”\n― Ansel Adams \nShare your perspective and connection to nature through photography!
URL:https://www.montananaturalist.org/event/scavengers-photography-club-3-2-2-2-3-6/
LOCATION:Montana Natural History Center
CATEGORIES:Community Event,Discovery Day,Presentation
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.montananaturalist.org/wp-content/uploads/DSCN7866-3-Edit-e1745957299415.jpg
GEO:46.8706038;-114.0060024
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Denver:20251121T170000
DTEND;TZID=America/Denver:20251121T190000
DTSTAMP:20260415T171601
CREATED:20251106T222040Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251110T172550Z
UID:10003192-1763744400-1763751600@www.montananaturalist.org
SUMMARY:Exhibit Opening: The University of Montana Herbarium
DESCRIPTION:Location: The Montana Natural History Center\nDate: Friday\, November 21\, 2025\nTime: 5:00 – 7:00 p.m. \nThis is a FREE community event. \nWe are excited to invite you to the opening of our latest exhibit! Join us for a special evening celebrating the quiet wonders of The University of Montana Herbarium where art\, history\, and science come together in our newest exhibit in the Naturalist Field Station. \nEnjoy light refreshments\, meet the herbarium team\, and mingle with other nature lovers! \nWhether you’re a lifelong plant lover or just curious about how leaves become lasting records\, we’d love to share this experience with you. Free and open to all! \n 
URL:https://www.montananaturalist.org/event/exhibit-opening-the-university-of-montana-herbarium/
LOCATION:Montana Natural History Center
CATEGORIES:Community Event,Evening Programs,Exhibit Opening
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.montananaturalist.org/wp-content/uploads/Untitled-design-123-e1762795545388.png
GEO:46.8706038;-114.0060024
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Denver:20251122T130000
DTEND;TZID=America/Denver:20251122T150000
DTSTAMP:20260415T171601
CREATED:20241214T200001Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250929T164629Z
UID:10002156-1763816400-1763823600@www.montananaturalist.org
SUMMARY:Make a Birdseed Wreath!
DESCRIPTION:Date: Saturday\, November 22\nTime: 1:00-3:00 p.m.\nLocation: Montana Natural History Center\nCost: $30 MNHC members\, $35 non-members \nREGISTER HERE\nFeed your feathered friends and get into the holiday spirit with a decorative birdseed wreath! \nElena Ulev will help you get to know the common winter birds who might visit your yard – chickadees\, juncos\, nuthatches\, and more. Then let the festive wreath making begin! Using seeds\, gelatin\, and decorative dried berries\, you will create a lovely wreath to keep or give as a holiday gift. You’ll be able to watch the antics of backyard birds as they fly to and from your wreath\, practice your birding skills\, and connect with wild nature right outside your window! \nInstructor: Elena Ulev is a Master Naturalist and Certified Interpretive Guide with 30 years of experience as a scholar\, professional biologist\, writer\, and educator. She teaches with MNHC\, the Glacier Institute\, MOLLI\, the O’Hara Commons and Sustainability Center\, and her business\, Blue Heron Nature Tours. \nIncluded: \n\nSilicone bundt pan to take home and use year after year\nMaterials to make the wreath in class – birdseed and berries\, gelatin\nRibbon to hang your wreath outside\nHot cocoa to sip while you work!\n\nWhat’s the refund policy? \nThe course fee (minus a 25% administrative fee) is refundable if a cancellation is made up to 7 days before the event. No refunds will be issued for cancellations made after this deadline. See our full refund/cancellation policy here. \nDo I have to bring my printed ticket to the event? \nNope! We will have a list of all the attendees.
URL:https://www.montananaturalist.org/event/make-a-bird-seed-wreath/
LOCATION:Montana Natural History Center
CATEGORIES:Community Event,Sip & Sketch
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.montananaturalist.org/wp-content/uploads/birdseed-wreath-e1753127949353.png
GEO:46.8706038;-114.0060024
END:VEVENT
END:VCALENDAR