Spring Fling at Tackett’s Mill March 29

Schedule of Events:
11 a.m.Tackett’s Mill Lake Tour with Tim Hughes and Bobby Jocz, environmental specialists with PWC Public Works, Watershed Management Division:
Find out how urban stormwater runoff in the Lake Ridge community flows from parking lots, roof tops and roads to this small manmade lake, or stormwater retention pond. The tour includes a demonstration on how properly designed and maintained stormwater ponds help filter pollutants and protect water quality in our local streams and rivers. We will also provide an overview of the findings from the recent study on the Occoquan Watershed.

Noon: Street Tree Tour with Rachel Habig-Myers
Lake Ridge is lucky to have mature landscapes with tall trees. Learn how to keep theneighborhood lush by maintaining trees, removing trees, and planting new ones - the right ones in the right place!

Tour leader Rachel Habig-Myers has been working for PWC for three years, investigating the spread of invasive forest insects, getting the word out, and searching for ways to combat them. She also loves to kill invasive plants, hike, and make ceramic objects.

1 p.m. Purple Martin House Tour with Nanette Mickle
Join the tour to learn more about these cool birds, their habitat preferences, nesting box requirements and ongoing research projects.

Tour leader Nanette Mickle is an avid gardener, long-time Purple Martin landlord, and scientific researcher with a 78 cavity colony of Purple Martins in her backyard. She designs beautiful silver jewelry and invests all profits in bird research and conservation projects.

Ongoing Native Plant Volunteer Planting
Landscaping with native plants is a great way to attract butterflies and birds… and show off the beautiful flowers that naturally thrive in our climate and soils. There’s no need for Virginia gardens to look like those in Arizona or Maine! Bring the kids and help plant new spring flowers at Tackett’s Mill.

Ongoing Nature Games , Crafts & Critters
Featuring live aquatic critters, animal skulls, pelts and more. Try your hand at fun games with an environmental theme ... celebrate art and nature with local organizations.

Participants include Prince William County Department of Parks and Recreation, Prince William Soil and Water Conservation District, Virginia Department of Game and Inland Fisheries.