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: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
BEGIN:DAYLIGHT
TZOFFSETFROM:-0700
TZOFFSETTO:-0600
TZNAME:MDT
DTSTART:20270314T090000
END:DAYLIGHT
BEGIN:STANDARD
TZOFFSETFROM:-0600
TZOFFSETTO:-0700
TZNAME:MST
DTSTART:20271107T080000
END:STANDARD
END:VTIMEZONE
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Denver:20260121T090000
DTEND;TZID=America/Denver:20260121T110000
DTSTAMP:20260414T172816
CREATED:20250929T170421Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260114T205927Z
UID:10003117-1768986000-1768993200@www.montananaturalist.org
SUMMARY:How to Know the Minerals: Crystallization and Identification
DESCRIPTION:Date: Wednesday\, January 21\, 2026\nTime: 9:00 a.m. – 11:00\nLocation: MNHC\nCost: $20 MNHC members/$25 non-members.\nAdd your MNHC membership to your order when you check out! \nPart 1 of a 2-part course. Sign up for one or both! Learn about part 2 here. \nREGISTER HERE \nHave you ever held a crystal in your hand and wondered how it formed?  \nQuartz\, jasper\, agate and chalcedony are all formed from the same elements\, silicon and oxygen\, yet they display wonderful variation in form and color. The science behind crystal formation and the chemical composition of minerals is a fascinating exploration of our earth’s treasures. Join geologist Bruce Baty and his extensive collection of mineral specimens to learn how to identify minerals and to find out how and why crystals form. \nInstructor: Bruce Baty graduated from Bowling Green State University in 1967 with a major in geology. In September of 1967 he enrolled in a master’s graduate program in geology at the University of Montana. While there\, he taught some undergraduate geology lab courses and enjoyed the challenge of designing course work\, tests\, and working with students. As a result of those experiences\, Bruce graduated with a master’s degree in geology with a teaching endorsement in earth science. He taught geology and earth science at Hellgate High School for the next thirty years\, retiring from teaching in 2001. \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/how-to-know-the-minerals-crystallization-and-identification/
LOCATION:Montana Natural History Center
CATEGORIES:Community Event,Discovery Day,Naturalist Field Experience,Presentation
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.montananaturalist.org/wp-content/uploads/Agate-__quartz-lined_geode_Dryhead_Montana_USA_2_31912720794-scaled-e1759165085203.jpg
GEO:46.8706038;-114.0060024
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Denver:20260122T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/Denver:20260122T210000
DTSTAMP:20260414T172816
CREATED:20251212T232956Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251231T203345Z
UID:10003260-1769108400-1769115600@www.montananaturalist.org
SUMMARY:Naturalist Trivia Night - Winter Ecology!
DESCRIPTION:Date: Thursday\, January 22\nTime: 7:00 – 9:00 p.m.\nLocation: Montana Natural History Center\nCost: Free and open to the public. $5 suggested donation. \nShow off your skills or come to learn something new—trivia nights are fun for any background level. Join a team when you arrive or bring a crew to compete in Naturalist Trivia Night. This month’s theme is Winter Ecology. MNHC teaching naturalist Ryan Mahar is running the show. We’re excited to bring you another fun trivia night! \nThis is a FREE event\, but registration is required so we don’t overcrowd the space! \nREGISTER HERE\nBYOB and snacks. \nHow does Naturalist Trivia work? \nCome with a team or join up with new friends when you arrive. MNHC staff will help you find a table. There are usually 4 rounds of questions each frequently on a common theme such as “Montana cats” or “poisonous plants.” Some rounds are verbal\, others are visual\, or auditory (such as “guess that bird call”!). \nAfter each round the answers are divulged and each team’s score is displayed.\nTwo hours later there will be a winner! \nTrivia nights this season are: \nNovember 19th (Wednesday)\nDecember 16th (Tuesday)\nJanuary 22nd (Thursday)\nFebruary 18th (Wednesday – WILD LOVE TRIVIA!)\nMarch 26th (Thursday) \nRegister here:
URL:https://www.montananaturalist.org/event/naturalist-trivia-night-7/
LOCATION:Montana Natural History Center
CATEGORIES:Community Event,Evening Programs,Naturalist Trivia Night
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.montananaturalist.org/wp-content/uploads/Untitled-design-45.png
GEO:46.8706038;-114.0060024
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Denver:20260123T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/Denver:20260123T210000
DTSTAMP:20260414T172816
CREATED:20251223T232306Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260102T184506Z
UID:10003341-1769191200-1769202000@www.montananaturalist.org
SUMMARY:Winter Fireside Storytelling with Chris La Tray
DESCRIPTION:Date: Friday\, January 23\, 2026\nTime: 6:00-9:00 p.m.\nLocation: The Native Plant Garden at Fort Missoula (directions)\nCost: $10 MNHC members/$15 non-members\nFree for Native peoples. \nREGISTER HERE!\nFor millennia\, Indigenous people passed the winter telling stories. Some stories – particularly trickster stories – were allowed to be told only in winter\, or when the land was covered with snow. This winter\, spend an evening with Anishinaabe/Métis storyteller and 11th Montana poet laureate Chris La Tray and the Montana Natural History Center in\ndipping our toes fireside into this ancient\, inter-tribal tradition. \nTHIS IS AN OUTDOOR\, WINTER EVENT\nThis is an evening\, wintry\, outdoor event – there will be cold and snow. Please dress for the weather and note that there will be very limited artificial light. There will be an outdoor bonfire to keep us warm and light our way. Guests should bring their own camp chairs (MNHC will NOT be providing). A porta potty will be onsite and available for use. \nIncludes hot beverages (such as cider and hot chocolate). \nAbout Chris La Tray: Chris La Tray is a Métis storyteller\, a descendent of the Pembina Band of the mighty Red River of the North and a citizen of the Little Shell Tribe of Chippewa Indians. His third book\, Becoming Little Shell: A Landless Indian’s Journey Home\, was published by Milkweed Editions on August 20\, 2024 and has received a number of accolades including a Pacific Northwest Book Award and a Writing the West Award\, and Best Memoir of the Year selections from both People and Esquire magazines. His first book\, One-Sentence Journal: Short Poems and Essays from the World at Large won the 2018 Montana Book Award and a 2019 High Plains Book Award. His book of haiku and haibun poetry\, Descended from a Travel-worn Satchel\, was published in 2021 by Foothills Publishing. Chris served as the 2025 Kittredge Distinguished Visiting Writer at the University of Montana and was awarded the 2025 Montana Heritage Keeper Award by the Montana Historical Society. Chris writes the weekly newsletter “An Irritable Métis” and lives near Frenchtown\, Montana. He was the 11th Montana Poet Laureate\, holding that post for 2023–2025. \nwww.chrislatray.com\nhttps://chrislatray.substack.com \n\n \nFAQ \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/winter-fireside-storytelling-with-chris-la-tray/
LOCATION:Montana Natural History Center
CATEGORIES:Community Event,Evening Programs
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.montananaturalist.org/wp-content/uploads/Chris_La_Tray.png
GEO:46.8706038;-114.0060024
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Denver:20260127T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Denver:20260127T110000
DTSTAMP:20260414T172816
CREATED:20250728T225016Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250729T211452Z
UID:10002994-1769508000-1769511600@www.montananaturalist.org
SUMMARY:miniNaturalist Pre-K Program
DESCRIPTION:The miniNaturalist pre-K program encourages curiosity for the natural world.\nDates: Every Tuesday\, September – May\nTime: 10:00-11:00 am\nLocation: Montana Natural History Center\, 120 Hickory Street. \nThe miniNaturalist program encourages curiosity for the natural world through exploration and play. We sing songs\, read books\, play games\, and develop skills with art and science tools. Each program begins with songs\, movement\, and stories. We then provide materials for learner directed discovery in our garden. We look for bugs and birds\, color on rocks\, build with branches\, experiment with science tools and play with a variety of art materials. \nPlease bring clothes for outdoor play! We have some snow clothes to borrow. \nBest for ages 2-4\, though any age is welcome! \nCost: FREE!
URL:https://www.montananaturalist.org/event/mininaturalist-pre-k-program-2/2026-01-27/
LOCATION:Montana Natural History Center
CATEGORIES:Kids' Program,miniNaturalist Pre-K Program
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.montananaturalist.org/wp-content/uploads/prek-kids-painting-e1736271114732.jpeg
GEO:46.8706038;-114.0060024
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Denver:20260128T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Denver:20260128T120000
DTSTAMP:20260414T172816
CREATED:20250929T173250Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260120T184454Z
UID:10003118-1769594400-1769601600@www.montananaturalist.org
SUMMARY:How to Know the Ore Minerals: Mining and Identification
DESCRIPTION:Date: Wednesday\, January 28\, 2026\nTime: 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.\nLocation: MNHC\nCost: $20 MNHC members/$25 non-members\nAdd your MNHC membership to your order when you check out! \nPart 1 of a 2-part course. Sign up for one or both! Learn about part 1 here. \nREGISTER HERE \nFrom early gold rushes\, silver claims\, copper kings and the Berkeley pit\, the mineral ores take center stage in the Montana’s extractive resource history. \nJoin geologist Bruce Baty and his extensive collection of mineral specimens to learn how to identify the mineral ores. You will also find out how they are mined\, concentrated\, and turned into useful products. Using techniques like the Moh’s hardness scale and streak plates you will get to investigate the ores hands-on! \nInstructor: Bruce Baty graduated from Bowling Green State University in 1967 with a major in geology. In September of 1967 he enrolled in a master’s graduate program in geology at the University of Montana. While there\, he taught some undergraduate geology lab courses and enjoyed the challenge of designing course work\, tests\, and working with students. As a result of those experiences\, Bruce graduated with a master’s degree in geology with a teaching endorsement in earth science. He taught geology and earth science at Hellgate High School for the next thirty years\, retiring from teaching in 2001. \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/how-to-know-the-ore-minerals-mining-and-identification/
LOCATION:Montana Natural History Center
CATEGORIES:Community Event,Naturalist Field Experience
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.montananaturalist.org/wp-content/uploads/NatCopper-e1759167088731.jpg
GEO:46.8706038;-114.0060024
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Denver:20260128T113000
DTEND;TZID=America/Denver:20260128T130000
DTSTAMP:20260414T172816
CREATED:20250804T203050Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260330T183906Z
UID:10003017-1769599800-1769605200@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/2026-01-28/
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:20260129T083000
DTEND;TZID=America/Denver:20260201T170000
DTSTAMP:20260414T172816
CREATED:20251216T205202Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251218T160904Z
UID:10003340-1769675400-1769965200@www.montananaturalist.org
SUMMARY:Certified Interpretive Guiding Course
DESCRIPTION:Dates: Thursday\, January 29 – Sunday\, February 1\nTime: 8:30 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.\nLocation: Thursday & Friday – Montana Natural History Center; Saturday & Sunday – Historical Museum at Fort Missoula\nCost: $600 regular registration (includes a complimentary one-year NAI membership)\n$525 with NAI member discount. Student discounts available (please contact MNHC at 406.327.0405 for more information). \nRegister with the National Association of Interpretation. \nAbout this Course\nThe nationally recognized Certificate of Interpretive Guiding (CIG) program is designed for anyone wanting to learn more about developing and leading interpretive programs. This course will introduce you to the history\, definitions\, and principles of interpretation. During the course\, you will develop a program outline and deliver a 10-minute thematic presentation\, all with the support of your instructor(s) and fellow participants. You will learn how to make your programs purposeful\, enjoyable\, relevant\, organized\, and thematic\, and leave ready to facilitate meaningful experiences that inspire engagement with the world around us. \nJoin instructors from both the natural interpretation and historical interpretation world for this great class. Class will be held at the Montana Natural History Center for the first two days and the Historical Museum at Fort Missoula for the final two. \nBefore the start of the course\, you will receive information from your instructors on how the course will work and the times you will be meeting. \nInstructors: Kristjana Eyjólfsson and Christine Morris \nSpecial Terms and Cancellations\nCourses may be canceled due to low enrollment. If this course is canceled\, NAI will contact you\, and you will receive a full refund.\nCancellations requested before January 22\, 2026: will be subject to a $75 cancellation fee; no refunds will be issued after this date. If you need to cancel your registration it must be emailed to certificate@nai-us.org. \nRegister with the National Association of Interpretation.
URL:https://www.montananaturalist.org/event/certified-interpretive-guiding-course/
LOCATION:Montana Natural History Center
CATEGORIES:Community Event,Discovery Day,Naturalist Field Experience
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.montananaturalist.org/wp-content/uploads/Picture3.png
GEO:46.8706038;-114.0060024
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Denver:20260203T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Denver:20260203T110000
DTSTAMP:20260414T172816
CREATED:20250728T225016Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250729T211452Z
UID:10002995-1770112800-1770116400@www.montananaturalist.org
SUMMARY:miniNaturalist Pre-K Program
DESCRIPTION:The miniNaturalist pre-K program encourages curiosity for the natural world.\nDates: Every Tuesday\, September – May\nTime: 10:00-11:00 am\nLocation: Montana Natural History Center\, 120 Hickory Street. \nThe miniNaturalist program encourages curiosity for the natural world through exploration and play. We sing songs\, read books\, play games\, and develop skills with art and science tools. Each program begins with songs\, movement\, and stories. We then provide materials for learner directed discovery in our garden. We look for bugs and birds\, color on rocks\, build with branches\, experiment with science tools and play with a variety of art materials. \nPlease bring clothes for outdoor play! We have some snow clothes to borrow. \nBest for ages 2-4\, though any age is welcome! \nCost: FREE!
URL:https://www.montananaturalist.org/event/mininaturalist-pre-k-program-2/2026-02-03/
LOCATION:Montana Natural History Center
CATEGORIES:Kids' Program,miniNaturalist Pre-K Program
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.montananaturalist.org/wp-content/uploads/prek-kids-painting-e1736271114732.jpeg
GEO:46.8706038;-114.0060024
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Denver:20260207T090000
DTEND;TZID=America/Denver:20260207T160000
DTSTAMP:20260414T172816
CREATED:20251203T171055Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260129T173441Z
UID:10003255-1770454800-1770480000@www.montananaturalist.org
SUMMARY:Winter Raptor Excursion
DESCRIPTION:Date: Saturday\, February 7\nTime: 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.\nLocation: meet at MNHC\, travel to the Ninepipe in MNHC bus\nCost: $100 MNHC members/$110 non-members \nREGISTER HERE!\nRegistration closes on Monday\, February 2nd. \nEnjoy the beauty and majesty of Montana’s winter raptors while learning key identification techniques\, anatomy\, and behaviors. \nNaturalist Brian Williams will begin the day with an in-class orientation and a series of journaling exercises to reinforce field mark recognition. We will then move into the field to practice our skills and gain greater understanding of raptor behavior and ecology. \nNinepipe National Wildlife Refuge and the Mission Valley provide spectacular raptor viewing opportunities including: rough legged hawks\, harriers\, kestrels\, merlins\, bald eagles\, red-tailed hawks\, and more. \nInstructor: Brian Williams sharpened his birding chops under the Montana Natural History Center’s first staff naturalist – Charles Miller – in the early 2000s. Since then he has worked as a professional bird guide in South Texas\, staff naturalist at MNHC\, 4th-grade teacher at Hawthorne Elementary School\, and\, most recently\, a Forester for the State of Montana. He coordinated the Christmas Bird Count at the Ninepipe NWR for 10 years. \n\nWe will meet at the Montana Natural History Center and travel by bus to the field site.\nActivity level: easy. minimal walking\, less than one mile. Frequent getting on and off the bus. Potentially cold temperatures. Please bring whatever you need to be comfortable in cold weather.\nMinimal bathroom breaks.\n\nPlease Bring: \n\nWarm clothes! Hand and toe warmers\, layers\, hat\, etc.\nBoots\nWater\nLunch and snacks\nJournal\nBinoculars (MNHC has some to borrow)\nID guide of your choice (MNHC has copies to borrow)\nWhatever you need to be comfortable on and off the bus\n\nRecommended reading: \n\nHawks in Flight by Pete Dunne\, David Sibley\, and Clay Sutton (Brian’s Favorite)\nHawks from Every Angle: How to Identify Raptors by Jerry Liguori\nA Photographic Guide to North American Raptors by Brian K. Wheeler\nRaptors of the West: Captured in Photographs by Kate Davis\, Rob Palmer\, and Nick Dunlap\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. \nREGISTRATION CLOSES ON MONDAY\, FEBRUARY 2.
URL:https://www.montananaturalist.org/event/winter-raptor-excursion/
LOCATION:Montana Natural History Center
CATEGORIES:Community Event,Naturalist Field Experience
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.montananaturalist.org/wp-content/uploads/71545911-720px-1-e1769708070443.jpg
GEO:46.8706038;-114.0060024
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Denver:20260207T110000
DTEND;TZID=America/Denver:20260207T130000
DTSTAMP:20260414T172816
CREATED:20260126T163337Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260127T230808Z
UID:10003364-1770462000-1770469200@www.montananaturalist.org
SUMMARY:Saturday Kids’ Activity:  Big Fauna of Montana
DESCRIPTION:Date: Saturday\, February 7\nTime: 11:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m.\nLocation: Montana Natural History Center\nCost: Free with membership/cost of admission \nJoin us for exciting and educational Saturdays filled with delightful activities designed to captivate young minds and inspire a love for nature! \nOur drop-in Saturday programs feature activities\, art\, science experiments\, and more. Stop in anytime between 11:00 a.m and 1:00 p.m. for the fun! Kids might look for Osprey with binoculars\, dissect owl pellets\, or walk a model of the solar system. Every month features a new topic. The whole family can be involved\, as the exploration and activities are suitable for a wide age range. \nOn Saturday\, February 7th we’ll explore the big fauna of Montana!! \nSaturday Kids’ Activities are great for kids ages pre-k through elementary school. \nDates and themes for 2026 Saturday Kids’ Activities at MNHC are:\n• January 24: Creatures of the Night\n• February 7: Big Fauna of Montana\n• February 21: Glow in the Dark\n• March 7: Geology\n• March 28: Beavers\n• April 11: Ospreys\n• April 25: Slimy Creatures\n• May 2: Flowers
URL:https://www.montananaturalist.org/event/saturday-kids-activity-big-fauna-of-mt/
LOCATION:Montana Natural History Center
CATEGORIES:Kids' Program,Saturday Kids' Activities
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.montananaturalist.org/wp-content/uploads/Untitled-design-155.png
GEO:46.8706038;-114.0060024
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Denver:20260209T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/Denver:20260209T200000
DTSTAMP:20260414T172816
CREATED:20260122T230502Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260209T173851Z
UID:10003126-1770660000-1770667200@www.montananaturalist.org
SUMMARY:Nature Writing "Hush Hour(s)" - CANCELED
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 \nTHE FEBRUARY 9TH SESSION OF NATURE WRITING “HUSH HOUR(S)” IS CANCELED. We hope you can join us in March. \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 10-20 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-6-5/
LOCATION:Montana Natural History Center
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:20260209T183000
DTEND;TZID=America/Denver:20260209T203000
DTSTAMP:20260414T172816
CREATED:20250812T183018Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260106T190209Z
UID:10003031-1770661800-1770669000@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-2/2026-02-09/
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:20260210T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Denver:20260210T110000
DTSTAMP:20260414T172816
CREATED:20250728T225016Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250729T211452Z
UID:10002996-1770717600-1770721200@www.montananaturalist.org
SUMMARY:miniNaturalist Pre-K Program
DESCRIPTION:The miniNaturalist pre-K program encourages curiosity for the natural world.\nDates: Every Tuesday\, September – May\nTime: 10:00-11:00 am\nLocation: Montana Natural History Center\, 120 Hickory Street. \nThe miniNaturalist program encourages curiosity for the natural world through exploration and play. We sing songs\, read books\, play games\, and develop skills with art and science tools. Each program begins with songs\, movement\, and stories. We then provide materials for learner directed discovery in our garden. We look for bugs and birds\, color on rocks\, build with branches\, experiment with science tools and play with a variety of art materials. \nPlease bring clothes for outdoor play! We have some snow clothes to borrow. \nBest for ages 2-4\, though any age is welcome! \nCost: FREE!
URL:https://www.montananaturalist.org/event/mininaturalist-pre-k-program-2/2026-02-10/
LOCATION:Montana Natural History Center
CATEGORIES:Kids' Program,miniNaturalist Pre-K Program
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.montananaturalist.org/wp-content/uploads/prek-kids-painting-e1736271114732.jpeg
GEO:46.8706038;-114.0060024
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Denver:20260210T183000
DTEND;TZID=America/Denver:20260210T203000
DTSTAMP:20260414T172816
CREATED:20231214T180948Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250107T173314Z
UID:10001317-1770748200-1770755400@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-1-2/2026-02-10/
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:20260211T140000
DTEND;TZID=America/Denver:20260211T160000
DTSTAMP:20260414T172816
CREATED:20251030T151901Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260331T190829Z
UID:10003133-1770818400-1770825600@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/2026-02-11/
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:20260211T160000
DTEND;TZID=America/Denver:20260211T190000
DTSTAMP:20260414T172816
CREATED:20251213T000600Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251213T001338Z
UID:10003326-1770825600-1770836400@www.montananaturalist.org
SUMMARY:Spring 2026 Master Naturalist Certification - 12 Week Wednesday Course
DESCRIPTION:Wednesdays\, February 11 – May 6\n4:00 p.m.-7:00 p.m.\nCost: $425 MNHC members/$450 non-members. Some scholarships are available – please contact us at 327.0405 for details.\n3 UM credits available. This course is listed at UM ENST 391. A $155 fee is required to UM Extended Credits to take the class for credit. Credit registration and payment will be conducted at MNHC in class. \nREGISTER HERE! Registration closes January 21\nOur certification courses consist of at least 40 hours of instruction in a mix of lectures\, in-class labs\, and outdoor field trips. We’ll cover a wide breadth of topics with the goal of giving you an essential foundation of skill and knowledge on which you can build. \n“The course has helped me to be more curious\, observant\, and connected with my surroundings. I’ve met people who share this passion\, their experiences\, and curiosity with whom I can wander and wonder.”– 2023 Master Naturalist \n“Revelatory and life changing.” – 2025 Master Naturalist \nTaught by MNHC Naturalist Christine Morris and guest instructors\, this class: \n\nis a 12-week course\nruns on Wednesdays from 4:00 p.m. -7:00 pm (no class March 18\, the week of UM’s spring break)\nincludes 2 full-day Saturday field trips\, 9:00 a.m.-3:00 p.m.\, tentatively scheduled on February 21 and April 18.\n\nThis course will enable you to interpret the landscape on your own; to pry out its secrets and share those secrets with others; to take in the natural world first hand rather than through a guide. This confidence begins with knowing the details: the names of the local flowers\, birds\, trees\, and butterflies. Throughout the course you will practice specific naturalist skills and gain foundational knowledge that will assist in your engagement with the natural world for years to come. \nSee our local forests in new light as you learn about the role our conifers play in a coordinated ecology with fire and snow pack moisture. Or marvel in the diversity of lichen. Spend an entire day identifying winter raptors in the Mission valley. Become attuned to bird songs and butterfly wings. Get a handle on flower identification by recognizing patterns in form. Our emphasis will be on learning how to identify local flora\, fauna\, and landscape processes while gaining insight on how each part is connected. \nGuest instructors include: \n\nbotanist and author Peter Lesica\nbotanist and Missoula College instructor Greg Peters\nnaturalist Kelly Dix\nbirder Chadwick Moore\nMNHC communications coordinator Allison De Jong\nMNHC naturalist Ryan Mahar\ngeologist Ian Watson\nMNHC ED and botanist Marilyn Marler\n\n  \nThe class will be be based at the Montana Natural History Center. Travel to field sites will be by MNHC bus. \nSee sample syllabus here (some elements could be subject to change). \nRegistration Information: \n\nCost: $450/$425 members. Some scholarships are available – please contact us at 327.0405 for details.\nFull payment due upon registration. The course fee (minus a $100 administrative fee) is refundable ONLY if a cancellation is made 30 days before the first day of class. No refunds will be issued for cancellations made after this deadline.\n3 UM credits available. This course is listed at UM ENST 391. A $155 fee is required to UM Extended Credits to take the class for credit. Credit registration and payment will be conducted at MNHC in class.\n\nMaster Naturalist Certification requirements: \n\nAttend at least 40 hours of instruction.\nComplete journal entries and a final project.\n\nIf you want to maintain your certification in years to come (and earn successive Master Naturalist pins)\, you’ll have to log 20 hours of volunteer service per year with organizations connected with the natural world\, as well as 8 hours of continuing education per year. \n*If you have a significant background in the natural sciences or hold a Master Naturalist certificate from another state or Montana provider\, you may want to start with Master Naturalist II. \nFor more information on volunteer service & continuing education requirements\, click here. \nRecommended Materials: \nThe only required material is a blank journal. We will provide details and recommendations on the first day of class. Everything else can be borrowed or used in class from our supply. Each student will receive a Master Naturalist Handbook. \n\nbinoculars (we have plenty to borrow)\nhand lens or loupe\nblank journal (required)\nmicron or small sharpie pen\ncolored pencils or watercolor pencils\nbird guide such as Sibley’s Field Guide to Birds of Western North America\nBotany in a Day by Thomas J. Elpel\nplant/flower guide such as Wildflowers of Montana or Plants of the Rocky Mountains\ninsect guide such as Kaufman’s Guide to Insects of North America\n\nRegister here by JANUARY 21st:
URL:https://www.montananaturalist.org/event/spring-2026-master-naturalist-certification-course/
LOCATION:Montana Natural History Center
CATEGORIES:Master Naturalist Class
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.montananaturalist.org/wp-content/uploads/masternaturalists_hydrology.png
GEO:46.8706038;-114.0060024
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Denver:20260217T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Denver:20260217T110000
DTSTAMP:20260414T172816
CREATED:20250728T225016Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250729T211452Z
UID:10002997-1771322400-1771326000@www.montananaturalist.org
SUMMARY:miniNaturalist Pre-K Program
DESCRIPTION:The miniNaturalist pre-K program encourages curiosity for the natural world.\nDates: Every Tuesday\, September – May\nTime: 10:00-11:00 am\nLocation: Montana Natural History Center\, 120 Hickory Street. \nThe miniNaturalist program encourages curiosity for the natural world through exploration and play. We sing songs\, read books\, play games\, and develop skills with art and science tools. Each program begins with songs\, movement\, and stories. We then provide materials for learner directed discovery in our garden. We look for bugs and birds\, color on rocks\, build with branches\, experiment with science tools and play with a variety of art materials. \nPlease bring clothes for outdoor play! We have some snow clothes to borrow. \nBest for ages 2-4\, though any age is welcome! \nCost: FREE!
URL:https://www.montananaturalist.org/event/mininaturalist-pre-k-program-2/2026-02-17/
LOCATION:Montana Natural History Center
CATEGORIES:Kids' Program,miniNaturalist Pre-K Program
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.montananaturalist.org/wp-content/uploads/prek-kids-painting-e1736271114732.jpeg
GEO:46.8706038;-114.0060024
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Denver:20260217T173000
DTEND;TZID=America/Denver:20260217T203000
DTSTAMP:20260414T172816
CREATED:20260112T171012Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260210T185307Z
UID:10003360-1771349400-1771360200@www.montananaturalist.org
SUMMARY:Reimagining Relatedness Writing Workshop: Lessons from the Fluvial\, Fungal\, and Forestal
DESCRIPTION:Date: Tuesday\, February 17\, 2026\nTime: 5:30-8:30 p.m.\nLocation: Montana Natural History Center\nCost: $110 MNHC members\, $125 non-members. You can purchase an MNHC membership when you register. \nREGISTER HERE!\nJoin MNHC for an evening of creative imagining of and exploratory writing about systems and relationships. Everyone is welcome. Ahead of our session together\, you’ll be invited to read a few pieces of remarkable\, thought-provoking prose that challenge traditional concepts of the “nature writing” genre. You’ll also be invited to respond to a prompt with your own writing and/or art. During our workshop together\, we’ll write more\, bravely share our work\, and playfully grapple with evolving questions around relationality\, collaboration\, and natural systems. Chandra Brown\, founder of the Missoula-based outdoor arts organization Freeflow Institute\, will facilitate. \nEarly registration is encouraged to allow time for reading materials prior to the class. \nInstructor Chandra Brown is an educator\, river guide\, and writer originally from Alaska. She has worked within the realm of river conservation since her 2010 Fulbright grant to Ecuador\, and she founded Freeflow Institute in 2017. Her stories can be found in places like Adventure Journal\, The Dirtbag Diaries\, Kayak Session\, NRS\, and Patagonia. Chandra earned her M.S. in Environmental Studies from the University of Montana and has called Missoula home since 2014. \nLight refreshments provided. Attendees are welcome to bring additional food\, snacks\, and/or drinks. \nBecause of the pre-work participants will be asked to do\, we ask you to register by Thursday\, February 12th. \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/reimagining-relatedness-lessons-from-the-fluvial-fungal-and-forestal/
LOCATION:Montana Natural History Center
CATEGORIES:Community Event,Evening Programs
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.montananaturalist.org/wp-content/uploads/MNHC-2.17.26-1.png
GEO:46.8706038;-114.0060024
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Denver:20260218T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/Denver:20260218T210000
DTSTAMP:20260414T172816
CREATED:20260105T192212Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260122T231302Z
UID:10003346-1771441200-1771448400@www.montananaturalist.org
SUMMARY:Wild Love Trivia Night!
DESCRIPTION:Date: Wednesday\, February 18th\nTime: 7:00-9:00 p.m.\nLocation: The Balsamroot Conference Room at the Missoula County Extension Office\, 1075 South Ave W at the Missoula Fairgrounds\nCost: $10 a person\, $5 for university/college students – this is an ages 18+ event 😉 \nREGISTER HERE\nJoin us for a special Naturalist Trivia Night at the Missoula County Extension Office at the Fairgrounds! This “Wild Love” Naturalist Trivia\, created by volunteer hosts Leigh and Kylie\, is a hilarious hit every year with questions focused on…you know it! Plant and animal anatomy and mating. \nYou can bring a team or join one when you arrive. Naturalist Trivia Nights are a great way to learn about our local natural world. Come to show off your skills or acquire new knowledge. \nThere are usually 4 rounds of questions. Some rounds are verbal\, others visual or even auditory (guess that sound!). Two hours later\, one team will be the winner. \n\nPlease note the location for this event: Missoula County Extension Office’s Balsamroot Conference Room at the Missoula Fairgrounds! In the past we’ve over-filled the room at MNHC and needed a bigger spot.\nFood will not be served at this event and it is BYOB.\nTickets are $10 a person or $5 for university/college students. Teams can be made up of 5-10 people!\nThis is a popular event and registration is recommended to save your spot.\n\nFAQs:\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/wild-love-trivia-night-2/
CATEGORIES:Community Event,Evening Programs,Naturalist Trivia Night
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.montananaturalist.org/wp-content/uploads/LOVE-IN-THE-WILD-TRIVIA-6-e1767641336313.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Denver:20260219T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/Denver:20260219T200000
DTSTAMP:20260414T172816
CREATED:20260126T224059Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260126T224100Z
UID:10003371-1771524000-1771531200@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 Kathy Eyster \nFor February’s class\, we’ll focus on still life photography. Still life photography is all around us in images of food and cooking\, in fine art creations\, as well as advertisements for products of all kinds. Photographer Kathy Eyster will offer suggestions on arranging and photographing this widely used genre. \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-3-2-2-2-3-8-2/
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:20260220T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/Denver:20260220T200000
DTSTAMP:20260414T172816
CREATED:20260128T202151Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260128T203556Z
UID:10003383-1771614000-1771617600@www.montananaturalist.org
SUMMARY:Cabin Fever Lecture! Glacial Ice History in Mission Valley and Vicinity
DESCRIPTION:Date: Friday\, February 20\nTime: 7:00 – 8:00 p.m.\nLocation: Montana Natural History Center\nCost: Free\, but please register. Donations accepted. \nIt’s that time of the year! Time to contemplate ice ages and glacial lakes.Time for the Glacial Lake Missoula Chapter of the Ice Age Floods Institute’s Cabin Fever Lecture!  Warm up your curiosity about glacial ice history in the Mission Valley with geologist Skye Cooley. \nREGISTER HERE!\nAbout the Instructor: Skye Cooley is a Montana-based field geologist and geomorphologist specializing in quaternary geology\, paleosols (ancient soils)\, and GIS mapping\, currently focused on the Mission Valley. Based in Ronan\, MT\, he has a diverse background including contract mapping for the Idaho Geological Survey\, teaching at Boise State\, and serving as a soil scientist.
URL:https://www.montananaturalist.org/event/cabin-fever-lecture-glacial-ice-history-in-mission-valley-and-vicinity/
LOCATION:Montana Natural History Center
CATEGORIES:Community Event,Evening Lecture,Evening Programs
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.montananaturalist.org/wp-content/uploads/Camp-Scholarships-6.png
GEO:46.8706038;-114.0060024
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Denver:20260221T110000
DTEND;TZID=America/Denver:20260221T130000
DTSTAMP:20260414T172816
CREATED:20260126T164333Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260129T174510Z
UID:10003365-1771671600-1771678800@www.montananaturalist.org
SUMMARY:Saturday Kids' Activity: Glow in the Dark!
DESCRIPTION:Date: Saturday\, February 21\nTime: 11:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m.\nLocation: Montana Natural History Center\nCost: Free with membership/cost of admission \nJoin us for exciting and educational Saturdays filled with delightful activities designed to captivate young minds and inspire a love for nature! \nOur drop-in Saturday programs feature activities\, art\, science experiments\, and more. Stop in anytime between 11:00 a.m and 1:00 p.m. for the fun! Kids might look for Osprey with binoculars\, dissect owl pellets\, or walk a model of the solar system. Every month features a new topic. The whole family can be involved\, as the exploration and activities are suitable for a wide age range. \nOn Saturday\, February 21st we’ll explore natural wonders that glow in the dark. \nSaturday Kids’ Activities are great for kids ages pre-k through elementary school. \nDates and themes for 2026 Saturday Kids’ Activities at MNHC are:\n• January 24: Creatures of the Night\n• February 7: Big Fauna of Montana\n• February 21: Glow in the Dark\n• March 7: Geology\n• March 28: Beavers\n• April 11: Ospreys\n• April 25: Slimy Creatures\n• May 2: Flowers
URL:https://www.montananaturalist.org/event/saturday-kids-activities-glow-in-the-dark/
LOCATION:Montana Natural History Center
CATEGORIES:Kids' Program,Saturday Kids' Activities
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.montananaturalist.org/wp-content/uploads/glow-in-the-dark-paint1-e1769708704633.jpg
GEO:46.8706038;-114.0060024
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Denver:20260224T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Denver:20260224T110000
DTSTAMP:20260414T172816
CREATED:20250728T225016Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250729T211452Z
UID:10002998-1771927200-1771930800@www.montananaturalist.org
SUMMARY:miniNaturalist Pre-K Program
DESCRIPTION:The miniNaturalist pre-K program encourages curiosity for the natural world.\nDates: Every Tuesday\, September – May\nTime: 10:00-11:00 am\nLocation: Montana Natural History Center\, 120 Hickory Street. \nThe miniNaturalist program encourages curiosity for the natural world through exploration and play. We sing songs\, read books\, play games\, and develop skills with art and science tools. Each program begins with songs\, movement\, and stories. We then provide materials for learner directed discovery in our garden. We look for bugs and birds\, color on rocks\, build with branches\, experiment with science tools and play with a variety of art materials. \nPlease bring clothes for outdoor play! We have some snow clothes to borrow. \nBest for ages 2-4\, though any age is welcome! \nCost: FREE!
URL:https://www.montananaturalist.org/event/mininaturalist-pre-k-program-2/2026-02-24/
LOCATION:Montana Natural History Center
CATEGORIES:Kids' Program,miniNaturalist Pre-K Program
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.montananaturalist.org/wp-content/uploads/prek-kids-painting-e1736271114732.jpeg
GEO:46.8706038;-114.0060024
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Denver:20260225T113000
DTEND;TZID=America/Denver:20260225T130000
DTSTAMP:20260414T172816
CREATED:20250804T203050Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260330T183906Z
UID:10003018-1772019000-1772024400@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/2026-02-25/
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:20260225T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/Denver:20260225T193000
DTSTAMP:20260414T172816
CREATED:20260126T225845Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260205T154306Z
UID:10003382-1772042400-1772047800@www.montananaturalist.org
SUMMARY:The Blackfoot Place Map: Prehistoric Land and Animal Management
DESCRIPTION:Date: Wednesday\, February 25\, 2026\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. \nSouta Calling Last\, has made it a mission to map significant sites of traditional Blackfoot places of creation\, animal management\, prehistoric presence\, and more for the Blackfoot Place Map that is part of the watershed and land management tool. From bison corrals to fasting shelters\, and from buffalo jumps to rock art and effigies\, she has spent more than 10 years mapping 1\,000 sites (200 of them public) not only in Montana but in Alberta\, Saskatchewan\, Manitoba\, Idaho\, Wyoming\, Colorado\, Nebraska\, Utah\, Nevada\, Arizona\, and New Mexico. Join us on February 25th to learn more about Souta Calling Last’s work. \nMore about Souta Calling Last: Souta Calling Last\, Blackfeet/Blood Nations\, is the Founder and Director of Indigenous Vision\, Inc.\, a non-profit whose mission is to re-vitalize Indigenous peoples\, culture and land. For over 18 years she has focused her efforts around water quality\, mining contamination clean-up\, and water-treatment working for tribal and federal governments. She believes that land and Indigenous peoples knowledge are inextricably linked and that sustainable land management must include Indigenous perspectives.
URL:https://www.montananaturalist.org/event/an-evening-with-souta-calling-last/
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-154.png
GEO:46.8706038;-114.0060024
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Denver:20260227T090000
DTEND;TZID=America/Denver:20260227T120000
DTSTAMP:20260414T172816
CREATED:20251202T210857Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251212T201343Z
UID:10003253-1772182800-1772193600@www.montananaturalist.org
SUMMARY:Confident Color Mixing for Journaling with Nancy Seiler (Part 2)
DESCRIPTION:Date: Friday\, February 27\nTime: 9:00 a.m.- 12:00 p.m.\nLocation: The Montana Natural History Center\nCost: $45 MNHC members\, $50 non-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! As a follow up to the August\, 2025 color mixing class\, which will be summarized before we start\, you’ll continue to understand how to choose colors to match the natural objects that you see. Nancy will 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. \nPlease note that participation in Part 1 of this workshop is NOT a requirement for the February class. All interested parties are welcome. \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 provided natural objects. Nancy will assist you to achieve color matches. \nInstructor: Nancy Seiler received her Visual Communications degree from The Art Institute of Pittsburgh in 1981. She has taught classical botanical illustration and nature journaling since 2003. Nancy has been painting in acrylics since 2009. She has exhibited her paintings and classical  botanical illustrations since 2002. Her work is represented by Frame of Reference Fine Art in Whitefish and Bigfork\, Montana. \nWhat to Bring: \n\nyour watercolor set\nwatercolor paper or watercolor/mixed media journal\n#8 round brush or smaller\ngraphite pencil and eraser\nmicro pen any size point\nwe will have some of these materials available to use at MNHC if you need them!\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. \nRegister here:
URL:https://www.montananaturalist.org/event/confident-color-mixing-for-journaling-with-nancy-seiler-part-2/
LOCATION:Montana Natural History Center
CATEGORIES:Community Event,Naturalist Field Experience,Sip & Sketch
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.montananaturalist.org/wp-content/uploads/unnamed-13-e1751915756960-1.jpg
GEO:46.8706038;-114.0060024
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Denver:20260303T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Denver:20260303T110000
DTSTAMP:20260414T172816
CREATED:20250728T225016Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250729T211452Z
UID:10002999-1772532000-1772535600@www.montananaturalist.org
SUMMARY:miniNaturalist Pre-K Program
DESCRIPTION:The miniNaturalist pre-K program encourages curiosity for the natural world.\nDates: Every Tuesday\, September – May\nTime: 10:00-11:00 am\nLocation: Montana Natural History Center\, 120 Hickory Street. \nThe miniNaturalist program encourages curiosity for the natural world through exploration and play. We sing songs\, read books\, play games\, and develop skills with art and science tools. Each program begins with songs\, movement\, and stories. We then provide materials for learner directed discovery in our garden. We look for bugs and birds\, color on rocks\, build with branches\, experiment with science tools and play with a variety of art materials. \nPlease bring clothes for outdoor play! We have some snow clothes to borrow. \nBest for ages 2-4\, though any age is welcome! \nCost: FREE!
URL:https://www.montananaturalist.org/event/mininaturalist-pre-k-program-2/2026-03-03/
LOCATION:Montana Natural History Center
CATEGORIES:Kids' Program,miniNaturalist Pre-K Program
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.montananaturalist.org/wp-content/uploads/prek-kids-painting-e1736271114732.jpeg
GEO:46.8706038;-114.0060024
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Denver:20260305T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/Denver:20260305T190000
DTSTAMP:20260414T172816
CREATED:20260210T205423Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260212T155636Z
UID:10003384-1772733600-1772737200@www.montananaturalist.org
SUMMARY:iNaturalist Workshop
DESCRIPTION:Date: Thursday\, March 5th\nTime: 6:00 – 7:00 p.m.\nLocation: Montana Natural History Center\nCost: FREE\, but please register \nREGISTER HERE \nSnap a photo of your nature observations wherever you roam to conserve our state’s remarkable wild diversity!  \nCan using a phone app help scientists with conservation work? Bryce Maxell\,  program director at the Montana Natural Heritage Program\, will show you how to collect and access information on Montana’s plants and animals using iNaturalist. He’ll also explain how agencies use your data to inform conservation of native species and control of invasive species. Come learn about this fun interactive learning tool! \nThe Montana Natural Heritage Program (MTNHP) is Montana’s source for reliable and objective information on over 18\,000 different species and habitats that occur in Montana\, emphasizing those of conservation concern. The MTNHP has centralized over 6.1 million observation records and over 515\,000 surveys for species\, assigned conservation status ranks to over 5\,000 species\, constructed predicted habitat suitability models for over 2\,300 species\, and created predicted biodiversity layers for vertebrates\, species of conservation concern\, and noxious weeds. This and other information the MTNHP manages informs stakeholders in a variety of environmental review\, permitting\, and planning processes and it can be easily accessed by anyone on the program’s Montana Field Guide\, Map Viewer\, Species Snapshot\, and other web pages. \niNaturalist is an online social network of people sharing biodiversity information to help each other learn about nature. iNaturalist helps you identify the plants and animals around you while generating data for science and conservation. Get connected with a community of millions scientists and naturalists who can help you learn more about nature! What’s more\, by recording and sharing your observations\, you’ll create research-quality data for scientists working to better understand and protect nature. \nInstructor: Bryce Maxell (PhD in Fish and Wildlife Biology from the University of Montana) is the Program Coordinator with the Montana Natural Heritage Program. He has worked with the MTNHP in various capacities dating back to 1996 and has led the program in since 2015. Bryce has conducted research on seaweeds in the Puget Sound\, a number of species in Australia and New Zealand\, and Harlequin Ducks\, amphibians\, reptiles\, bats\, and invasive species in Montana.
URL:https://www.montananaturalist.org/event/inaturalist-workshop/
LOCATION:Montana Natural History Center
CATEGORIES:Community Event,Educator Program,Evening Programs,Naturalist Field Experience,Presentation
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.montananaturalist.org/wp-content/uploads/a-student-gets-a-closer-look-at-a-plant-and-adds-it-to-inaturalist-on-the-botany-0dad31-1024.jpg
GEO:46.8706038;-114.0060024
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Denver:20260309T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/Denver:20260309T200000
DTSTAMP:20260414T172816
CREATED:20260225T164718Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260309T210458Z
UID:10003127-1773079200-1773086400@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 \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. \nREGISTER HERE\nIn this group\, we’ll spend roughly the first 10-20 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-6-6/
LOCATION:Montana Natural History Center
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:20260309T183000
DTEND;TZID=America/Denver:20260309T203000
DTSTAMP:20260414T172816
CREATED:20250812T183018Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260106T190209Z
UID:10003032-1773081000-1773088200@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-2/2026-03-09/
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
END:VCALENDAR