DEVEL SITE - The Clifton Institute

Bird Walk
2023-09-23 07:30 - 09:30 (America/New_York) | The Clifton Institute, 6712 Blantyre Road, Warrenton, VA, 20187, United States
Cost: Free!
Age: Adults and children accompanied by an adult.
Weather policy: Rain or shine except in case of extreme weather (e.g. thunderstorm or significant snow fall).
COVID-19 Information: This program will be entirely outdoors (an outside porta potty will be available). Please do not attend if you are experiencing or have experienced in the last two weeks any symptoms associated with COVID-19 (fever, cough, shortness of breath, etc.).
Registration is REQUIRED.
Cancellation policy: If you register and can no longer attend this event, please let us know as soon as possible so that we can open your spot to someone else.
By registering for this event, you are affirming that you have read and agree to our liability release policy.
We look forward to seeing you at the Clifton Institute!

Party in the PawPaw Patch
2023-09-22 18:00 - 19:30 | The Clifton Institute, 6712 Blantyre Road, Warrenton, VA, 20187, United States
Join us way down yonder for a Pawpaw party! Every year in late September we host this celebration of our only native tropical fruit tree. We will give a brief talk on the ecology and cultural history of the species before we meander to the pawpaw patch to pick fruits to sample. Warning: You MIGHT be encouraged to participate in a sing-along.
Cost: Free!
Age: Adults and children accompanied by an adult.
Weather policy: Date and time subject to change dependent on weather. Please check your email for updates on the morning of the event.
COVID-19 Information: This program will be entirely outdoors (an outside porta potty will be available). Please do not attend if you are experiencing or have experienced in the last two weeks any symptoms associated with COVID-19 (fever, cough, shortness of breath, etc.).
Registration is REQUIRED.
Cancellation policy: If you register and can no longer attend this event, please let us know as soon as possible so that we can open your spot to someone else.
By registering for this event, you are affirming that you have read and agree to our liability release policy.
We look forward to seeing you at the Clifton Institute!

Walk with a Naturalist
2023-09-16 13:00 - 15:00 | The Clifton Institute, 6712 Blantyre Road, Warrenton, VA, 20187, United States
Join us for a walk around the field station to see what we can see! Led by a staff naturalist, we’ll encounter birds, bugs, plants and more.
Cost: Free!
Age: Adults and children accompanied by an adult.
Weather policy: Date and time subject to change dependent on weather. Please check your email for updates on the morning of the event.
COVID-19 Information: This program will be entirely outdoors (an outside porta potty will be available). Please do not attend if you are experiencing or have experienced in the last two weeks any symptoms associated with COVID-19 (fever, cough, shortness of breath, etc.).
Registration is REQUIRED.
Cancellation policy: If you register and can no longer attend this event, please let us know as soon as possible so that we can open your spot to someone else.
By registering for this event, you are affirming that you have read and agree to our liability release policy.
We look forward to seeing you at the Clifton Institute!

Volunteer Day: Trail Work
2023-09-16 09:00 - 12:00 | The Clifton Institute, 6712 Blantyre Road, Warrenton, VA, 20187, United States
A few of our trails need some love! Habitat Specialist Andrew Eberly will lead this event. No trail maintenance experience required.
Age: Adults only.
Bring: Work gloves and a water bottle. If you have personal garden tools you’d like to bring, feel free. Please dress appropriately for warm weather and working in the woods.
Weather policy: Date and time subject to change dependent on weather. Please check your email for updates on the morning of the event.
COVID-19 Information: This program will be entirely outdoors (an outside port-o-potty will be available). Please do not attend if you are experiencing or have experienced in the last two weeks any symptoms associated with COVID-19 (fever, cough, shortness of breath, etc.).
Registration is REQUIRED so that we can communicate with you in case of changes.

Volunteer Training - Fall K-12 Field Trips
2023-09-15 09:00 - 12:00 | The Clifton Institute, 6712 Blantyre Road, Warrenton, VA, 20187, United States
More than a thousand K-12 students visit the Clifton Institute on field trips each year. Our goal is to get students outside, engaging with plants and animals, and learning that anyone can participate in research–including kids!
On these trips, students help collect data for one of our on-going research projects. They spend anywhere between 2 and 5 hours exploring Clifton’s 900 acres, learning to identify local species, practicing field techniques, analyzing data, and discussing their results. For some students, this is their first experience in a semi-wild space. Having enthusiastic, engaged adults at their side makes a huge difference in the quality of their trip. Clifton’s education team is very small and we need help to give these students the best experience possible!
If you are interested in working with kids outdoors or simply curious about our education programs, please register for this Education Volunteer Training (and check out our Field Trips page)! By attending the training, you are not automatically beholden to volunteer. This is simply a way for you to learn more about what the field trips look like, what a volunteer’s role would be, and hone your own identification and field work skills. At the end of the training, there will be further instructions for how to sign up to volunteer.
Cost: Free!
Age: Adults
Availability Requirements: Volunteers must be able to volunteer on Thursdays or Fridays, as those are our big field trip days. Our busy seasons are from September – November and March – May. We ask that volunteers help with a minimum of 3 trips per season. In the fall, the research topics are insects, grassland restoration, and waterfowl behavior. The spring field trips are vernal pools, tree phenology, and insects.
There will be an additional training for the spring season trips in February. We appreciate your interest in helping us get Fauquier County kids outside and engaged with science! If you have questions about this training or our education programs, email Bridget Bradshaw (bbradshaw@cliftoninstitute.org)
COVID-19 Information: This program will be entirely outdoors (an outside porta potty will be available). Please do not attend if you are experiencing or have experienced in the last two weeks any symptoms associated with COVID-19 (fever, cough, shortness of breath, etc.).
Registration is REQUIRED.
Cancellation policy: If you register and can no longer attend this event, please let us know as soon as possible so that we can open your spot to someone else.
By registering for this event, you are affirming that you have read and agree to our liability release policy.
We look forward to seeing you at the Clifton Institute!

Piedmont Polliwogs : 2023-24
2023-09-14 10:00 - 23:30 | The Clifton Institute, 6712 Blantyre Road, Warrenton, VA, 20187, United States
Piedmont Polliwogs is a monthly program for pre-K children that includes a lesson on a different topic every month, story time and short nature walk. Students get to know each other, grow their independence, and gain confidence in the outdoors with our skilled instructors. The 9-month series will take place on the second Thursday of each month from 10 to 11:30 on the following dates:
September 14
October 12
November 9
December 14
January 11
February 8
March 14
April 11
May 9
We understand that you may have children outside the 2-5-year-old range that need to come along with you to Polliwogs. You are welcome to keep them with you or for them to entertain themselves during the class. It is also fine with us if slightly older children participate. When you register below, please register and pay for the number of children you expect to participate in the class each month.
Registration Notes: *If you are purchasing tickets for multiple students, please write all of their names together in the same box, i.e. “Sam, Martie, and Alex Bradshaw” when registering. The form does not give you separate spaces to enter different names for each ticket.*
Cost: $90 per child ($75 for Friends of the Clifton Institute)
Age: Children ages 2-5, accompanied by a caregiver
Bring: Please bring a snack and drink. There will be a snack break.
Weather policy: Rain or shine except in case of extreme weather (e.g. thunderstorm or significant snow fall).
Registration is REQUIRED.
Cancellation policy: If you register and can no longer attend this series, please let us know as soon as possible so that we can open your spot to someone else. No refunds will be given upon registrant cancellation within 1 month of the program’s start date. No refunds will be given for any missed programs.
By registering for this event, you are affirming that you have read and agree to our liability release policy.
We look forward to seeing you at the Clifton Institute!

Bird Walk
2023-09-13 07:00 - 09:00 | The Clifton Institute, 6712 Blantyre Road, Warrenton, VA, 20187, United States
Cost: Free!
Age: Adults and children accompanied by an adult.
Weather policy: Rain or shine except in case of extreme weather (e.g. thunderstorm or significant snow fall).
COVID-19 Information: This program will be entirely outdoors (an outside porta potty will be available). Please do not attend if you are experiencing or have experienced in the last two weeks any symptoms associated with COVID-19 (fever, cough, shortness of breath, etc.).
Registration is REQUIRED.
Cancellation policy: If you register and can no longer attend this event, please let us know as soon as possible so that we can open your spot to someone else.
By registering for this event, you are affirming that you have read and agree to our liability release policy.
We look forward to seeing you at the Clifton Institute.

Night-time Family Nature Walk
2023-09-09 19:30 - 21:30 | The Clifton Institute, 6712 Blantyre Road, Warrenton, VA, 20187, United States
Families with children in grades K-8 are invited to come along as we explore the field station AT NIGHT! We’ll see how long we can walk without flashlights and then explore the woods to look for nocturnal animals and listen to the sounds of the night. We might hear owls screeching and flying squirrels calling and we can expect to see moths and katydids and other insects that are hard to see during the day. This is a special opportunity to see the Clifton Institute at a time of day when we usually don’t have programs and it’s a great way for families to explore nature together.
Cost: Free!
Age: Families with children in grades K-8.
Bring: Please bring a flashlight.
Weather policy: Date and time subject to change dependent on weather. Please check your email for updates on the morning of the event.
COVID-19 Information: This program will be entirely outdoors (an outside porta potty will be available). Please do not attend if you are experiencing or have experienced in the last two weeks any symptoms associated with COVID-19 (fever, cough, shortness of breath, etc.).
Registration is REQUIRED.
Cancellation policy: If you register and can no longer attend this event, please let us know as soon as possible so that we can open your spot to someone else.
By registering for this event, you are affirming that you have read and agree to our liability release policy.
We look forward to seeing you at the Clifton Institute!

Creatures Of The Night
2023-09-09 19:30 - 21:30 | The Clifton Institute, 6712 Blantyre Road, Warrenton, VA, 20187, United States
Join us to look and listen for creatures of the night! We’ll start by listening to the evening chorus of birds and katydids. Then we will take a gentle walk through fields and woods to look for nocturnal animals. Back at the farm house we will see what kinds of moths and beetles we can attract with black lights.
Cost: Free!
Age: Adults and children ages 12 and up, accompanied by an adult. If you have younger children be sure to check out our Night-time Family Nature Walk happening at the same time!
Bring: Please bring a flashlight.
Weather policy: Date and time subject to change dependent on weather. Please check your email for updates on the morning of the event.
COVID-19 Information: This program will be entirely outdoors (an outside porta potty will be available). Please do not attend if you are experiencing or have experienced in the last two weeks any symptoms associated with COVID-19 (fever, cough, shortness of breath, etc.).
Registration is REQUIRED.
Cancellation policy: If you register and can no longer attend this event, please let us know as soon as possible so that we can open your spot to someone else.
By registering for this event, you are affirming that you have read and agree to our liability release policy.
We look forward to seeing you at the Clifton Institute!

Late Summer Wildflower Walk
2023-09-09 15:00 - 17:00 | The Clifton Institute, 6712 Blantyre Road, Warrenton, VA, 20187, United States
Come and see our fields at their best! The fields we call Lower and Upper Woodcock are unplanted and naturally dominated by native plants. We will look for Gray Goldenrod, Slender Lespedeza, Green Milkweed, Field Thistle, Upland Ironweed, Elliott’s Bluestem and Little Bluestem in the drier areas, and Great Blue Lobelia, New York Ironweed, and Indiangrass in the moister areas. Executive Director Bert Harris will lead this walk through one of our most interesting habitats and teach participants about Piedmont prairies and how to identify grassland plants.
Cost: Free!
Age: Adults and children accompanied by an adult.
Weather policy: Rain or shine except in case of extreme weather (e.g. thunderstorm or significant snow fall).
COVID-19 Information: This program will be entirely outdoors (an outside porta potty will be available). Please do not attend if you are experiencing or have experienced in the last two weeks any symptoms associated with COVID-19 (fever, cough, shortness of breath, etc.).
Registration is REQUIRED.
Cancellation policy: If you register and can no longer attend this event, please let us know as soon as possible so that we can open your spot to someone else.
By registering for this event, you are affirming that you have read and agree to our liability release policy.
We look forward to seeing you at the Clifton Institute!

Parks for Pollinators Bioblitz
2023-09-09 10:00 - 13:00 | Riverside Preserve, 8150 Leeds Manor Road, Marshall, VA, 20115, United States
Come along while we partner with the Fauquier County Department of Parks and Recreation to participate in the Parks for Pollinators Bioblitz!
We’ll explore Riverside Preserve with the goal of documenting as many different kinds of butterflies and bees as possible! This event is part of the Fauquier County Bee City USA initiative to learn about and conserve pollinators in our county. All levels of naturalists are welcome!
Please note that this program meets at Riverside Preserve, NOT at the Clifton Institute. The address is 8150 Leeds Manor Rd, Marshall, VA 20115. We will meet by the environmental education shed / port-a-potty. You can park on the lawn near the building or you can drive all the way to the lot at the bottom of the hill and walk back up.
Cost: Free!
Age: Adults and children accompanied by an adult.
Weather policy: Rain or shine except in case of extreme weather (e.g. thunderstorm or significant snow fall). Please check your email for updates on the morning of the event.
COVID-19 Information: This program will be entirely outdoors (an outside porta potty will be available). Please do not attend if you are experiencing or have experienced in the last two weeks any symptoms associated with COVID-19 (fever, cough, shortness of breath, etc.).
Registration is REQUIRED.
Cancellation policy: If you register and can no longer attend this event, please let us know as soon as possible so that we can open your spot to someone else.
By registering for this event, you are affirming that you have read and agree to our liability release policy.

Nature School : 2023-24
2023-09-06 09:00 - 13:00 | The Clifton Institute, 6712 Blantyre Road, Warrenton, VA, 20187, United States
We are in our third full year of offering Nature School! Students meet every other Wednesday from September through May to learn about different natural history subjects through hands-on research, restoration, and exploration. This year, we are extending the duration to be from 9AM – 1PM, so that students will bring a picnic lunch to eat (in addition to the usual snacks). This will allow us to travel farther and dig deeper during each session! We invite returning and new Nature School students alike to sign up. The dates for the 2023-24 school year are below:
September 6 & 20
October 4 & 18
November 1, 15, & 29
December 13 (break for last 2 weeks of December)
January 3, 17, & 31
February 14 & 28
March 13 & 27
April 10 & 24
May 8 (Graduation)
Registration Notes: *If you are purchasing tickets for multiple students, please write all of their names together in the same box, i.e. “Sam, Martie, and Alex Bradshaw” when registering. The form does not give you separate spaces to enter different names for each ticket.*
Cost: $260 per child ($235 for Friends of the Clifton Institute)
Age: Children in grades 1-5, drop-off only.
Bring: Please bring a small backpack packed with a full water bottle, snack, and a picnic lunch. We also recommend a small towel, seat pad, or piece of tarp to sit on when snacking and journaling.
Weather policy: Rain or shine except in case of extreme weather (e.g. thunderstorm or significant snow fall).
Registration is REQUIRED.
Cancellation policy: If you register and can no longer attend this series, please let us know as soon as possible so that we can open your spot to someone else. No refunds will be given upon registrant cancellation within 1 month of the program’s start date. No refunds will be given for any missed programs.
By registering for this event, you are affirming that you have read and agree to our liability release policy.
We look forward to seeing you at the Clifton Institute!

Nature Club : 2023-24
2023-09-02 13:00 - 16:00 | The Clifton Institute, 6712 Blantyre Road, Warrenton, VA, 20187, United States
Nature Club is a program where middle and high school students who are interested in the natural world can spend time in a nerd-friendly environment. If they like bones, insects, tools, plants, fungi, research, or simply to be outdoors, then they have found their people! The club meets on the first Saturday of every month throughout the school year. In the 2023-24 year, we will be focusing on the three tenants of our work at Clifton: Research, Restoration, and Education. Members will conduct research in our grassland in the fall and our vernal pools in late winter spring. They will assist in the collection of seeds and propagation of native plants to later be transplanted. Lastly, they will help create programming for younger students and work on a science communication subject of their own choosing and design. There will be a chance for students to share their work with the families at the final gathering in May! Nature Club meets from 1-4PM on the following dates:
September 2
October 7
November 4
December 2
January 6
February 3
March 2
April 6
May 4
Scholarship Opportunity: We have 5 full merit-based scholarships available. To apply, please fill out our Scholarship Application Google Form by August 29th, 2023. If you have any questions, please email Bridget Bradshaw (bbradshaw@cliftoninstitute.org).
Registration Notes: *If you are purchasing tickets for multiple students, please write all of their names together in the same box, i.e. “Sam, Martie, and Alex Bradshaw” when registering. The form does not give you separate spaces to enter different names for each ticket.*
Cost: $125 per student ($100 for Friends of the Clifton Institute)
Age: Youth grades 7-12; this program is drop off only.
Bring: Please bring a water bottle and snack.
Weather policy: Rain or shine except in case of extreme weather (e.g. thunderstorm or significant snow fall).
Registration is REQUIRED.
Cancellation policy: If you register and can no longer attend this series, please let us know as soon as possible so that we can open your spot to someone else. No refunds will be given upon registrant cancellation within 1 month of the program’s start date. No refunds will be given for any missed programs.
By registering for this event, you are affirming that you have read and agree to our liability release policy.
We look forward to seeing you at the Clifton Institute!

Nature Journaling Meetup
2023-09-02 13:00 - 15:30 | The Clifton Institute, 6712 Blantyre Road, Warrenton, VA, 20187, United States
Nature journaling is a powerful tool for learning about plants and animals, a mindful practice for connecting to nature, and just a great way to spend time outside. Managing Director and passionate nature journaler Eleanor Harris runs quarterly nature journaling meetups to help people develop their nature journaling skills and meet other nature journalers in the area. In September, we will be focusing on insects! Eleanor will give a brief introduction to some common types of bugs and some tips about how to journal about them, and then we’ll spend most of the program out on the trail drawing and writing about our discoveries. Whether you have been nature journaling for years or have never nature journaled before but want to try it out, this event is for you!
Cost: Free!
Age: Adults and children accompanied by an adult. Adults will be responsible for monitoring their children, but we would love to have all ages of nature lovers attend.
Bring: Please bring a journal and art supplies. Just a piece of paper and pencil will be enough.
Weather policy: Date and time subject to change dependent on weather. Please check your email for updates on the morning of the event.
COVID-19 Information: This program will be entirely outdoors (an outside porta potty will be available). We require that everyone have a mask with them in case we need to go inside during inclement weather, to administer first aid, or for other reasons. Please do not attend if you are experiencing or have experienced in the last two weeks any symptoms associated with COVID-19 (fever, cough, shortness of breath, etc.).
Registration is REQUIRED.
By registering for this event, you are affirming that you have read and agree to our liability release policy.
We look forward to seeing you at the Clifton Institute!

Bird Hill Grassland and Garden Tour
2023-09-02 10:00 - 12:00 | Bird Hill, Orlean, VA, Orlean, VA, 20115, United States
Join us at the residence of our co-directors to experience a remnant prairie, a planted meadow, and a native plant garden. The remnant prairie on the property hosts a remarkable assemblage of native wildflowers and grasses over sandstone bedrock. Bert and Eleanor are managing the prairie with mowing, burning, and invasive plant control. They have also planted a one-acre meadow on an old lawn and they’ve worked with Hill House Nursery to establish a native plant garden.
This program is a case study of how landowners can manage their land to benefit native plants and animals on a relatively small property.
Location: Near Orlean, VA. Registered attendees will be emailed the address and directions.
Cost: Free!
Age: Adults and children accompanied by an adult
Weather policy: Date and time subject to change dependent on weather. Please check your email for updates on the morning of the event.
COVID-19 Information: This program will be entirely outdoors. Please do not attend if you are experiencing or have experienced in the last two weeks any symptoms associated with COVID-19 (fever, cough, shortness of breath, etc.).
Registration is REQUIRED.
Cancellation policy: If you register and can no longer attend this event, please let us know as soon as possible so that we can open your spot to someone else.
By registering for this event, you are affirming that you have read and agree to our liability release policy.

Nature Camp for Grownups
2023-08-26 10:00 - 2023-08-27 15:30 | The Clifton Institute, 6712 Blantyre Road, Warrenton, VA, 20187, United States
Hey grownups! Have you ever wished you could go to summer camp? Well, now you can! This August we are offering our third annual weekend-long Nature Camp for Grownups. Now with an overnight option!
Activities will start on the morning of August 26 and conclude on the afternoon of August 27. Activities will include short workshops (for example on insect orders or plant families), nature walks, nature journaling, crafts, and more. And of course we’ll be making friends and having fun the whole time!
We will tent camp near the farmhouse. Campers will have access to a bathroom in the farmhouse but not a shower. If you prefer to go home on Saturday night you can meet back up with us for or after breakfast on Sunday morning. We will provide simple lunches, dinner, and breakfast. All materials for crafts and other projects will be included.
Times: 10:00AM on August 26 and 10:00AM to 3:30PM on August 27

Cost: $150 ($125 for Friends of the Clifton Institute).

Age: Adults only.

Bring: Snacks, water bottle, a nature journal if you have one. If you will be camping, please bring a tent, sleeping bag, sleeping pad, and any other equipment you need to be comfortable. We have a small number of tents and sleeping bags we can loan out, but not enough for everyone.

Weather policy: Rain or shine except in case of extreme weather.

COVID-19 Information: This program will be mostly outdoors, but we will be inside while preparing meals. We are requiring all participants to be fully vaccinated. We will ask to see vaccination cards. Please do not attend if you are experiencing or have experienced in the last two weeks any symptoms associated with COVID-19 (fever, cough, shortness of breath, etc.). (an outside porta potty will be available).

Registration is REQUIRED.

Cancellation policy: If you register and can no longer attend this event, please let us know as soon as possible so that we can open your spot to someone else. No refunds will be given upon registrant cancellation.

Before attending this event, please read the information included on our liability release form (click here).

We look forward to seeing you at the Clifton Institute!

Walk with a Naturalist
2023-08-19 13:00 - 15:00 | The Clifton Institute, 6712 Blantyre Road, Warrenton, VA, 20187, United States
Join us for a walk around the field station to see what we can see! Led by a staff naturalist, we’ll encounter birds, bugs, plants and more.
Cost: Free!
Age: Adults and children ages 12 and up, accompanied by an adult.
Weather policy: Date and time subject to change dependent on weather. Please check your email for updates on the morning of the event.
COVID-19 Information: This program will be entirely outdoors (an outside porta potty will be available). Please do not attend if you are experiencing or have experienced in the last two weeks any symptoms associated with COVID-19 (fever, cough, shortness of breath, etc.).
Registration is REQUIRED.
Cancellation policy: If you register and can no longer attend this event, please let us know as soon as possible so that we can open your spot to someone else.
By registering for this event, you are affirming that you have read and agree to our liability release policy.
We look forward to seeing you at the Clifton Institute!

Volunteer Day: Native Plant Repotting
2023-08-19 09:00 - 12:00 | The Clifton Institute, 6712 Blantyre Road, Warrenton, VA, 20187, United States
It’s time to move some of our young native plants into bigger pots and we need some help!
Age: Adults and children accompanied by an adult.
Bring: Gardening gloves and a water bottle. Please dress expecting it to be warm!
Weather policy: Date and time subject to change dependent on weather. Please check your email for updates on the morning of the event.
COVID-19 Information: This program will be entirely outdoors (an outside port-o-potty will be available). Please do not attend if you are experiencing or have experienced in the last two weeks any symptoms associated with COVID-19 (fever, cough, shortness of breath, etc.).
Registration is REQUIRED so that we can communicate with you in case of changes.

Bird Walk
2023-08-09 07:00 - 09:00 | The Clifton Institute, 6712 Blantyre Road, Warrenton, VA, 20187, United States
Cost: Free!
Age: Adults and children 12 and up, accompanied by an adult.
Weather policy: Date and time subject to change dependent on weather. Please check your email for updates on the morning of the event.
COVID-19 Information: This program will be entirely outdoors (an outside porta potty will be available). Please do not attend if you are experiencing or have experienced in the last two weeks any symptoms associated with COVID-19 (fever, cough, shortness of breath, etc.).
Registration is REQUIRED.
Cancellation policy: If you register and can no longer attend this event, please let us know as soon as possible so that we can open your spot to someone else.
By registering for this event, you are affirming that you have read and agree to our liability release policy.
We look forward to seeing you at the Clifton Institute!

NABA Butterfly Count
2023-07-22 09:00 - 15:00 | The Clifton Institute, 6712 Blantyre Road, Warrenton, VA, 20187, United States
ONLINE REGISTRATION IS CLOSED BUT PEOPLE ARE STILL WELCOME TO SIGN UP. PLEASE EMAIL BERT AT BHARRIS@CLIFTONINSTITUTE.ORG TO DO SO. BERT WILL ASSIGN YOU TO A TEAM AND SPECIFY A MEETING PLACE AND TIME.
Every year community scientists help count the butterflies in 15-mile-diameter circles all around the country and contribute their data to the North American Butterfly Association. This summer we will host our 28th annual butterfly count and celebrate our 21th year contributing our data to NABA. Butterfly enthusiasts of all levels of experience are welcome! If you feel like you don’t know many butterflies, this is a great way to learn and it’s always helpful to have more eyes pointing out butterflies. Participants will be assigned to small teams, led by an experienced butterfly counter. We will share information about your team closer to the date. Each team will survey a variety of sites within our count circle. We will meet at the Clifton Institute at 3:00 PM to tally our results over cold drinks (provided).
Cost: Free!
Age: Adults and children accompanied by an adult.
Bring: Please bring a lunch and water. We recommend wearing long pants and a broad-brimmed hat and bringing binoculars.
Weather policy: Date and time subject to change dependent on weather. Please check your email for updates on the morning of the event.
COVID-19 Information: This program will be entirely outdoors (an outside porta potty will be available). Please do not attend if you are experiencing or have experienced in the last two weeks any symptoms associated with COVID-19 (fever, cough, shortness of breath, etc.)
Registration is REQUIRED.
Cancellation policy: If you register and can no longer attend this event, please let us know as soon as possible so that we can open your spot to someone else.
By registering for this event, you are affirming that you have read and agree to our liability release policy.
We look forward to seeing you at the Clifton Institute!

Summer Creatures of The Night
2023-07-14 19:30 - 21:30 | The Clifton Institute, 6712 Blantyre Road, Warrenton, VA, 20187, United States
Join us to look and listen for creatures of the night! Summer is an ideal time to observe several species of katydids, crickets, cicadas and birds. We will also look for beavers, reptiles and amphibians, and other animals! Back at the farm house we will see what kinds of moths and beetles we can attract with black lights. We hope to see you there!

Cost: Free!

Age: Adults and children accompanied by an adult.

Bring: Please bring a flashlight.

Weather policy: Date and time subject to change dependent on weather. Please check your email for updates on the morning of the event.

COVID-19 Information: This program will be entirely outdoors (an outside porta potty will be available). Please do not attend if you are experiencing or have experienced in the last two weeks any symptoms associated with COVID-19 (fever, cough, shortness of breath, etc.).

Registration is REQUIRED.

Cancellation policy: If you register and can no longer attend this event, please let us know as soon as possible so that we can open your spot to someone else.

By registering for this event, you are affirming that you have read and agree to our liability release policy.

We look forward to seeing you at the Clifton Institute!

Bird Walk
2023-07-12 07:00 - 09:00 | The Clifton Institute, 6712 Blantyre Road, Warrenton, VA, 20187, United States
Join us for a bird walk around the property! Birders of all levels welcome.
Cost: Free!
Age: Adults and children ages 12 and up, accompanied by an adult.
Weather policy: Rain or shine except in case of extreme weather (e.g. thunderstorm or significant snow fall).
COVID-19 Information: This program will be entirely outdoors (an outside porta potty will be available). Please do not attend if you are experiencing or have experienced in the last two weeks any symptoms associated with COVID-19 (fever, cough, shortness of breath, etc.).
Registration is REQUIRED.
Cancellation policy: If you register and can no longer attend this event, please let us know as soon as possible so that we can open your spot to someone else.
By registering for this event, you are affirming that you have read and agree to our liability release policy.
We look forward to seeing you at the Clifton Institute!

Butterfly Identification Workshop
2023-07-07 15:00 - 17:00 | The Clifton Institute, 6712 Blantyre Road, Warrenton, VA, 20187, United States
Join us to learn about butterfly identification and biology. Bert Harris will give a presentation on the identification of common butterflies in our area. We will then take a walk around the field station to look for butterflies (and perhaps some dragonflies as well.) All skill levels welcome!

Cost: Free!

Age: This program is intended for an adult audience. Interested children accompanied by an adult are welcome to attend.

Bring: We recommend wearing long pants and a broad-brimmed hat. Binoculars are essential. We have a few spare pairs.

Weather policy: Date and time subject to change dependent on weather. Please check your email for updates on the morning of the event.

COVID-19 Information: This program will be entirely outdoors (an outside porta potty will be available). Please do not attend if you are experiencing or have experienced in the last two weeks any symptoms associated with COVID-19 (fever, cough, shortness of breath, etc.).

Registration is REQUIRED.

Cancellation policy: If you register and can no longer attend this event, please let us know as soon as possible so that we can open your spot to someone else.

By registering for this event, you are affirming that you have read and agree to our liability release policy.

We look forward to seeing you at the Clifton Institute!

Young Explorers Camp (June 26 - 30)
2023-06-26 09:00 - 2023-06-30 12:00 | The Clifton Institute, 6712 Blantyre Road, Warrenton, VA, 20187, United States
During Young Explorers camp (previously Piedmont Polliwogs), your early learner will explore and engage with nature on our beautiful 900-acre field station. We aim to inspire feelings of curiosity and wonder for the natural world, while promoting healthy minds and bodies as children play and learn outside.
Each day has a different theme, which is explored through hands-on activities, a children’s book, and a short sensory walk. Returning campers should note that this is now a drop-off program, so each day will also include elements that build independence, such as learning how to open snack, asking for help, and helping others!
Ages: 5-6 at the time of camp. *This is a drop-off program*
Time: 9AM – 12PM, Monday – Friday
Cost: $95.00. Please note that the ticket will appear as “Free” until registration opens.
Cancellation Policy: Cancellations prior to 30 days before the start of camp will receive a refund, minus a $50 nonrefundable registration fee. Cancellations within 30 days of camp start date forfeit full tuition.
Paperwork: Within 1 week of registration, you will be emailed liability, medical, and emergency contact forms to be filled out and returned by May 31st, 2023. If you do not submit your paperwork by this date, you will be refunded all but the $50 and the spot will be offered to the next person on the wait list. Paperwork is important for us to plan! Please send it to camps@cliftoninstitute.org upon completion!
Vaccination Policy: All staff and campers aged 5 and above must be fully vaccinated for COVID-19, in addition to being up-to-date with all Virginia Board of Health School Immunization requirements for the appropriate age (found here). Masks will be provided and required to be worn by all staff and campers should we need to be indoors during inclement weather or while administering first aid.
Scholarships: If you are interested in a scholarship, please email camps@cliftoninstitute.org before registering so that we can send you a scholarship application. We don’t want financial limitations to get in the way of your child attending camp!

Third Annual Dragonfly Count
2023-06-25 | The Clifton Institute, 6712 Blantyre Road, Warrenton, VA, 20187, United States
ONLINE REGISTRATION IS CLOSED BUT ADDITIONAL PEOPLE ARE STILL WELCOME. PLEASE EMAIL BERT AT BHARRIS@CLIFTONINSTITUTE.ORG IF YOU’D LIKE TO ATTEND.
Join us for our third annual Dragonfly Count! Our goals are to learn which species of dragonflies and damselflies are found in our area, to monitor changes in their populations, and to encourage everyone to learn more about Odonates. The map of the count circle is here. The circle includes a wide variety of aquatic habitats, including a sphagnum bog, fish-free marshes, lakes with abundant lily pads, and a variety of clean streams and rivers that range from tiny seeps all the way up to the Rappahannock River. This interesting area has not received as much study as nearby northern Virginia, but 72 species of dragonflies and damselflies have already been documented inside the circle. In 2022, we found 55 species of dragonflies and damselflies, including Laura’s and Rapids Clubtails, Sphagnum Sprite, Appalachian Jewelwing, Amber-winged Spreading, Lilypad Forktail, and Turquoise Bluet. Who knows what else we’ll find this year! We will divide the circle up into several areas, which teams of people will cover, similar to a Christmas Bird Count or NABA butterfly count. We will let you know where to meet closer to the date. The count is open to people of all experience levels. We welcome dragonfly experts as well as anyone who is interested in learning about these fascinating insects.
This event is free but registration is required. Email Bert Harris (bharris@cliftoninstitute.org) with any questions or if you would like to lead one of the teams. Please let us know if you live inside the count circle and you have a fish-free pond or marsh or a pond with lily pads or other emergent aquatic vegetation on your property that you would like to be included in the count. We are partnering with the Fauquier County Parks and Recreation Department, Goose Creek Association, Virginia Outdoors Foundation, and White House Farm Foundation on this event.
Cost: Free!
Age: Adults and children accompanied by an adult.
Bring: It will be hot and we’ll be spending time near or in the water. Shorts and sturdy sandals or rubber boots are usually best, but long pants can come in handy as well. Please bring sunscreen, sun hat, binoculars (ESSENTIAL), camera, insect net, and plenty of water.
Weather policy: Date and time subject to change dependent on weather. Please check your email for updates on the morning of the event.
COVID-19 Information: This program will be entirely outdoors (an outside porta potty will be available). Please do not attend if you are experiencing or have experienced in the last two weeks any symptoms associated with COVID-19 (fever, cough, shortness of breath, etc.).
Cancellation policy: If you register and can no longer attend this event, please let us know as soon as possible so that we can open your spot to someone else.
By registering for this event, you are affirming that you have read and agree to our liability release policy.
We look forward to seeing you at the Clifton Institute!

Bird Walk
2023-06-24 07:00 - 09:00 | The Clifton Institute, 6712 Blantyre Road, Warrenton, VA, 20187, United States
Come walk the property with one of our staff to look for birds! Please bring binoculars if you have them.
Cost: Free!
Age: Adults and children 12 and up, accompanied by an adult.
Weather policy: Date and time subject to change dependent on weather. Please check your email for updates on the morning of the event.
COVID-19 Information: This program will be entirely outdoors (an outside porta potty will be available). Please do not attend if you are experiencing or have experienced in the last two weeks any symptoms associated with COVID-19 (fever, cough, shortness of breath, etc.).
Registration is REQUIRED.
Cancellation policy: If you register and can no longer attend this event, please let us know as soon as possible so that we can open your spot to someone else.
By registering for this event, you are affirming that you have read and agree to our liability release policy.
We look forward to seeing you at the Clifton Institute!

Young Scientists Research Experience (June 19 - 23)
2023-06-19 09:00 - 2023-06-23 16:00 | The Clifton Institute, 6712 Blantyre Road, Warrenton, VA, 20187, United States
During this unique experience, students will explore and carry out their own research project. Young Scientists will engage in inquiry-based, hands-on learning as they develop their own research questions, collect and analyze data, and present their results, all under the guidance of an experienced mentor. This opportunity is perfect for middle and high school students with an interest in the environmental and natural sciences and the desire to experience ecological fieldwork. We welcome motivated students who are excited to spend the week at our beautiful, 900-acre field station in the northern Virginia Piedmont in the company of like-minded peers.
Example research questions include:

How does road noise affect the singing of birds, frogs, and other animals?
Where on the field station is there the most evidence of deer and other mammals?
Are there more insects on plants that are native to Virginia or on exotic plants?

Ages: 13-18 at the time of camp.
Time: 9AM – 4PM, Monday – Friday*
*There will be a presentation of student research projects on Friday evening, open to friends and families.
Cost: $350.00. Please note that the ticket will appear as “Free” until registration opens.
Cancellation Policy: Cancellations prior to 30 days before the start of camp will receive a refund, minus a $50 nonrefundable registration fee. Cancellations within 30 days of camp start date forfeit full tuition.
Paperwork: Within 1 week of registration, you will be emailed liability, medical, and emergency contact forms to be filled out and returned by May 31st, 2023. If you do not submit your paperwork by this date, you will be refunded all but the $50 and the spot will be offered to the next person on the wait list. Paperwork is important for us to plan! Please send it to camps@cliftoninstitute.org upon completion!
Vaccination Policy: All staff and campers aged 5 and above must be fully vaccinated for COVID-19, in addition to being up-to-date with all Virginia Board of Health School Immunization requirements for the appropriate age (found here). Masks will be provided and required to be worn by all staff and campers should we need to be indoors during inclement weather or while administering first aid.
Scholarships: If you are interested in a scholarship, please email camps@cliftoninstitute.org before registering so that we can send you a scholarship application. We don’t want financial limitations to get in the way of your child attending camp!

Walk with a Naturalist
2023-06-17 13:00 - 15:00 | The Clifton Institute, 6712 Blantyre Road, Warrenton, VA, 20187, United States
Cost: Free!
Age: Adults and children ages 12 and up, accompanied by an adult.
Weather policy: Date and time subject to change dependent on weather. Please check your email for updates on the morning of the event.
COVID-19 Information: This program will be entirely outdoors (an outside porta potty will be available). Please do not attend if you are experiencing or have experienced in the last two weeks any symptoms associated with COVID-19 (fever, cough, shortness of breath, etc.).
Registration is REQUIRED.
Cancellation policy: If you register and can no longer attend this event, please let us know as soon as possible so that we can open your spot to someone else.
By registering for this event, you are affirming that you have read and agree to our liability release policy.
We look forward to seeing you at the Clifton Institute!

Dragonfly Identification Workshop
2023-06-17 11:00 - 13:00 | The Clifton Institute, 6712 Blantyre Road, Warrenton, VA, 20187, United States
Dragonflies and damselflies are some of the most mysterious and beautiful animals that live at the Clifton Institute, and June is the perfect time to search for them. Join us for a workshop that will cover the basics of dragonfly identification and biology. We will then practice what we learned by visiting lakes, streams, and fish-free vernal pools, each of which host distinct dragonfly communities. You are welcome to bring a lunch and eat on our picnic tables after the program.
Cost: Free!
Age: Adults and children ages 12 and up, accompanied by an adult.
Bring: Please bring binoculars if you have them.
Weather policy: Date and time subject to change dependent on weather. Please check your email for updates on the morning of the event.
COVID-19 Information: This program will be entirely outdoors (an outside porta potty will be available). Please do not attend if you are experiencing or have experienced in the last two weeks any symptoms associated with COVID-19 (fever, cough, shortness of breath, etc.).
Registration is REQUIRED.
Cancellation policy: If you register and can no longer attend this event, please let us know as soon as possible so that we can open your spot to someone else.
By registering for this event, you are affirming that you have read and agree to our liability release policy.
We look forward to seeing you at the Clifton Institute!

Bobolink Walk
2023-06-15 07:30 - 09:00 | The Clifton Institute, 6712 Blantyre Road, Warrenton, VA, 20187, United States
Join us for a visit to an active Bobolink nesting colony in partnership with our friends at Virginia Working Landscapes! Bobolinks are unique and beautiful birds that select hay fields for nesting. Sadly, they are declining as a result of nest losses from cutting the hay early in the summer. We should enjoy views of adults and fledglings and hear their wonderful song that is reminiscent of R2-D2. The private property we will visit still hosts these wonderful birds because the owners delay haying until the Bobolinks have finished nesting. We should also see a variety of other breeding birds such as Purple Martins, Grasshopper Sparrows, Eastern Meadowlarks, and Blue Grosbeaks. Cover photo by Kathlin Simpkins.
Location: The event will take place on a private property near Upperville in northern Fauquier County. Directions will be provided to registered participants.
Cost: Free
Ages: Adults and children accompanied by an adult.
What to bring: We recommend wearing long pants and boots to protect yourself from ticks and a broad-brimmed hat. We also recommend bringing binoculars and a camera.
Weather policy: Date and time subject to change dependent on weather. Please check your email for an update on the afternoon before.
COVID-19 information: This event will be entirely outdoors. Please do not attend if you are experiencing or have experienced in the last two weeks any symptoms associated with COVID-19 (fever, cough, shortness of breath, etc.).
Registration is REQUIRED.
Cancellation policy: If you register and can no longer attend this event, please let us know as soon as possible so that we can open your spot to someone else.
By registering for this event, you are affirming that you have read and agree to our liability release policy.
