Events

Also see the Volunteer page for volunteer opportunities.

UPCOMING EVENTS (free unless otherwise noted)

 

January 1, 2025 - First Day Hike at 9:00 AM Offered by State Parks

Location:  Ebenezer Church Recreation Area

Come join a Park Ranger on an Animals of Jordan Lake Scavenger Hunt at Ebenezer Church Recreation Area to kick off the New Year!  The hike consists of locating various park animal silhouettes throughout the trail. Learn about animals of Jordan Lake and their special adaptations. This event is being offered by Jordan Lake State Recreation Area. No pre-registration required.   


 

PAST EVENTS


November 9, 2024 - Haw River Nature Photographs from 10:00 to 11:00 AM

Location: Bynum UMC Community Center, 28 Charlie Fields Rd, Pittsboro

You may have seen his photos – now meet the photographer!  Dr. Kevin Ricker will give a fascinating presentation about his nature photographs taken at the Haw River. Marvel at his images of birds, butterflies, insects, reptiles, amphibians, and mammals that make the Haw River their home.


November 2, 2024 - Fall Walk with Andy Upshaw from 1:00 to 2:00 PM

Location:  US 64 Haw River Canoe Access. Address is 348 River Access Road, Pittsboro (GPS coordinates 35.73063, -79.10706).

Friends of Lower Haw is offering a Fall Walk with popular naturalist Andy Upshaw to see what we can see along the Haw River. Andy is a local expert known for his entertaining and educational outings. During our outing, he will talk about the variety of vegetation with a couple of quick, easy ways to identify some native species. He will point out invasive plants and talk about their effects on the riparian ecosystem. We’ll also look at river flooding effects.  With luck, we may see some birds and identify them. This event is free and open to the public.  Wear sturdy shoes for walking on uneven ground and bring drinking water. There are no restrooms at this location.

Directions: From US 64, turn onto Foxfire Trace. It will be a right turn if traveling east from Pittsboro or a left turn if traveling west from Apex. Go a short distance on Foxfire Trace and make a left turn on River Access Road. Follow River Access Road downhill to the parking lot.


October 27, 2024 - Nature Walk Scavenger Hunt at 1:00 PM

Location:  US 64 Haw River Canoe Access. Address is 348 River Access Road, Pittsboro (GPS coordinates 35.73063, -79.10706).

Friends of Lower Haw River is offering a guided nature walk/scavenger hunt for kids and youth. Event is free and will last about one hour. Participants will get a free Junior Ranger Activity Guide.  No need to pre-register, just show up!

Directions: From US 64, turn onto Foxfire Trace. It will be a right turn if traveling east from Pittsboro or a left turn if traveling west from Apex. Go a short distance on Foxfire Trace and make a left turn on River Access Road. Follow River Access Road downhill to the parking lot. There are no restrooms at this location. Wear sturdy shoes for walking on uneven ground and bring drinking water.


October 13, 2024 - FLOHA Turning Over a New Leaf Celebration from 3:00 to 5:00 PM

Please join us to acknowledge and celebrate our Friends of Lower Haw River, Inc. independent status as a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization. FLOHA was initially formed in July 2016 as a local chapter of the statewide Friends of State Parks, Inc. This year we successfully filed to be our own tax-exempt organization. This calls for a celebration! Festivities include door gifts, snacks and beverages, games (win a prize!) and a walk across the Bynum pedestrian bridge with our board members. Our event will be held in the Bynum UMC Community Center, 28 Charlie Fields Rd, Pittsboro, NC 27312.


September 28, 2024 - Big Canoes Paddle Trip from 10:00 - 11:30 AM

Friends of Lower Haw is partnering with State Parks to offer a free Big Canoes paddle trip on Saturday, September 28th to celebrate National Public Lands Day. State Parks will be bringing 2 of their Big Canoes, their 29-foot canoes that can each fit up to 14 people. This Big Canoes trip is suitable for children and adults – a great outing for families! Life vests for children and adults will be provided. All ages are welcome, but young children who are unable to paddle or keep themselves upright will need to be accompanied by a guardian. Guides will be State Parks Interpretation & Education staff and FLOHA volunteers. We will take a leisurely paddle on Robeson Creek to where it joins the Haw River and look for wildlife living around the Haw River and Jordan Lake. Round trip lasts about 1.5 hours.


June 7, 2024 - Lazy Float Down the Haw River at Historic Bynum Mill from 6:00 to 7:30 PM

Note - this event was previously scheduled for June 6, but has been rescheduled to June 7.

Friends of Lower Haw is partnering with NC State Parks staff to offer this free event.  Learn some history of Bynum Mill at the Haw River, then float ¾ mile down the river in tubes.  We will put-in at Bynum Mill parking area and float downstream to the take-out at Pokeberry Creek.  This event involves walking back to the put-in location at Bynum Mill, about a ¾ mile walk through the woods on uneven terrain. Tubes and life jackets will be provided.  All participants are required to wear a life jacket while tubing.  Come dressed to get wet.  Wear closed-toe shoes that can get wet that will also be suitable for walking back to the put-in location.  Bring a water bottle and towel. Participants should be comfortable in the water and be able to swim if needed.  Please note, there are no restroom facilities at this location. No alcohol allowed.


May 18, 2024 - Meet the Photographer Outing with Leah Purvis

Friends of Lower Haw offered a free “Meet the Photographer” outing with Leah Purvis for our donors, volunteers, and members as a special way to say “thank you”. This behind-the-scenes outing offered a small group of people the opportunity to “tag along” with nature photographer Leah Purvis to see where she goes to take photos and how she gets such great images. Photographers like Leah know something about their subjects to know where to find them and signs of their activity. That is an aspect of nature photography that is just as important as knowing camera technique. Learning how to operate the camera is just a part of the picture. The group focused on how to find subjects and practiced looking and noticing. The outing became a group effort to find cool things to photograph and everyone learned something from what each were seeing and pointing out. Participants began taking photos themselves and learned from each other on ways to improve their photos. It was an opportunity to see how to look more deeply and play around with their photos. Some of Leah's tips from the outing included: get down low to get eye-level with your subject, hold your breath when taking a close-up, and use iNaturalist for help with identifying your subjects.


April 27, 2024 - Aquatic Critters from 10:00 to 11:30 AM

Join Environmental Educator Leah Purvis to learn about the incredible creatures that live in the Haw River! You will learn how to collect and identify fish and macroinvertebrates, and understand how these organisms can tell us about the health of the river. Please wear pants and shoes you won't mind getting wet and dirty! Old tennis shoes, rubber boots, or waders are recommended. We will walk about a quarter of a mile to the sampling site. All sampling materials will be provided, but feel free to bring your own net if desired! Group size is limited to 20 participants. Pre-registration is required. Sign up using this form.


April 6, 2024 - "Learn to Fish" with Chatham County Parks & Rec and Friends of Lower Haw (we also need volunteers to help)

Registration is now open for this free event offered by Friends of Lower Haw and Chatham County Parks & Recreation! Youth ages 5 to 15 can learn the basics of fishing during this program from 10:00 to 11:30 AM on April 6th. Equipment will be provided for participants. Register online at https://ccparksandrec.recdesk.com/ or call 919-545-8555. If you would like to volunteer to help with this event, contact lowerhawevents@gmail.com 


March 23, 2024 - Visit our booth at Spring Ag Fest

Spring Ag Fest is a free annual event at the Chatham County Agriculture & Conference Center in Pittsboro that celebrates the county's agriculture, forestry, and natural resources. This family-friendly event has something for everyone! There will be indoor and outdoor exhibitors and vendors, demonstrations, kids activities and free pony rides, livestock, food trucks, and Smokey Bear. Be sure to stop by our indoor booth from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM on March 23rd.


January 1, 2024 - First Day Hike from 1:00 to 2:30 PM

Start out your New Year by getting off the couch and taking a hike! Join our board member Megan Lynch for a special hike on January 1, 2024 to the uplands area of the Lower Haw River State Natural Area above US 64. Winter is a great time for an uplands hike when the leaves are off the trees, making spectacular views of the river possible. Hike will be from 1:00 to 2:30 PM. No need to preregister - just show up! Meet in the parking lot next to the US 64 bridge on the Pittsboro side of the river. Address is 348 River Access Road, Pittsboro. This is a medium to strenuous hike on uneven terrain. Bring water, wear sturdy shoes and dress in layers for the weather. Please note there are no restroom facilities at this location. 


November 4, 2023 - Soils Beneath Our Feet: A Brief History of Lower Haw Soils Hike from 1:00 to 3:00 PM 

Are you interested in the world below your feet? We often see buildings come up and go down, trees grown and then cut, and floodwaters rise and then recede, but what happens to the soil below it? Join Reuben Wilson, a Soil Scientist with the USDA for a conversation and hiking tour about how soil is influenced by human activity in the Lower Haw. The hike will start at the historic Bynum Bridge and end at Pokeberry Creek with three stops along the way. Topics will include a background conversation about the geology of the Lower Haw, what natural soil formation tends to look like on a floodplain and the adjacent land, and a look at three or four profiles of soils in the area. There will be opportunities to get your hands dirty, so feel free to bring a rag to wipe your hands! Wear sturdy shoes for walking on uneven ground. Directions: from US 15-501, turn onto Durham-Eubanks Road (right turn if from Pittsboro, left turn if from Chapel Hill). Follow Durham-Eubanks Road to stop sign. At stop sign, go straight to cross over Bynum Road and continue uphill on Bynum Church Road. After passing the church on the right, continue downhill on Bynum Church Road and the large State Parks parking lot will be on the right. There are no restroom facilities.


October 21, 2023 - USGS Bynum Gage Hike from 1:30 to 3:30 PM

October 21st is the Great Trails State Day and Friends of Lower Haw is offering an outing to the USGS Bynum Gage. Contact lowerhawevents@gmail.com if you would like to attend. Group size is limited. Ever wonder how USGS measures river height in feet and flow in cubic feet per second? River level data is important information for recreating responsibly by helping paddlers and other recreational users of the Haw River make informed decisions about river conditions. Learn about how the USGS uses gages such as the one in Bynum to collect data and how they use that data. Join us for a special outing with Lara Chapman, Hydrologic Technician with the U.S. Geological Survey, to visit the gage equipment and learn about how it works. This outing will require a quick 20-minute walk for approximately 1 mile to reach the site. We will meet at 1:30 PM in the small State Parks parking lot on Bynum Road next to the historic Bynum pedestrian bridge. The outing will last about 2 hours. Directions to meeting location: from US 15-501, turn onto Durham-Eubanks Road (right turn if from Pittsboro, left turn if from Chapel Hill). Follow Durham-Eubanks Road to stop sign. At stop sign, turn right onto Bynum Road and parking lot will be a short distance on the left next to the historic bridge. There are no restroom facilities.


September 23, 2023 - Annual Membership Meeting

Friends of Lower Haw will hold its Annual Membership Meeting on Saturday, September 23rd from 3:00 to 4:15 pm at the Bynum Methodist Community Building (former Bynum Ruritan Club). Address is 28 Charlie Fields Rd, Pittsboro NC 27312. We will have elections, and our speaker will be Brian Baker of Alamance County. He was their first Haw River Trail Coordinator, then headed up their Parks Department before becoming Assistant County Manager. He will speak on Alamance's successful approach on developing land and paddle trails and the benefits of getting state trail status for the Haw River Trail. We will also have a thank-you drawing for volunteers - a paddle trip certificate donated by the Haw River Canoe and Kayak Company! After the meeting you are invited to hike down the Bynum footpath with naturalist Adam Prince. 


April 1, 2023 - Birding by Ear Walk at 8:30 AM

Join Friends of Lower Haw board member Matt Spangler for a birding-by-ear walk around Bynum Mill and Bynum Bridge. We'll focus on experiencing and learning birdsong of year-round residents as well as migrants that are establishing territories along the Haw River. We'll also try out some apps that can help us identify birds by song. Feel free to bring binoculars to see the beautiful creatures we'll be hearing, but the morning will focus on the auditory experience. We will start at 8:30 AM. Plan to walk less than a mile, but wear sturdy shoes that can handle wet grass. For the best experience, download the free Merlin App by Cornell Lab of Ornithology prior to the walk. Register for Birding by Ear event using this link. For questions contact us at lowerhawevents@gmail.com.


January 1, 2023 - First Day Outdoors Hike from 12:00 Noon to 1:00 PM

Hop off your cozy couch and join Friends of Lower Haw for a First Day Outdoors hike on Sunday January 1, 2023 from 12:00 Noon to 1:00 PM. We will be hiking a section of the Lower Haw River State Natural Area located off US 15-501 upstream of the Bynum Dam. This is a relatively easy loop hike of about 1 mile. Dress in layers for the weather and wear sturdy shoes. All ages are welcome. Pets are welcome but must be on leash at all times. Please note there are no restroom facilities at this location. This hike is free and open to the public with no registration required. Meet in the large parking lot on US 15-501 at the Haw River between Chapel Hill and Pittsboro. If headed south on US 15-501 from Chapel Hill, the parking lot is on the right before crossing the Haw River. If headed north on US 15-501 from Pittsboro, make a U-turn after crossing the Haw River then head south on US 15-501 and the parking lot will be a short distance on the right.


December 10, 2022 - ecoEXPLORE Family Outing from 2:00 to 3:30 PM

Families with children in grades K-8 are invited to hike the lower Haw and learn about ecoEXPLORE, a citizen science program for kids in grades K-8 developed by The North Carolina Arboretum. The program encourages kids to explore the natural world, record their observations with phones or tablets, and submit them to the ecoEXPLORE website to earn badges and great prizes. The Lower Haw River State Natural Area has been designated a HotSpot for the program. Our hike leader will give an overview of what it means to be a citizen scientist, explain how to participate in ecoEXPLORE, and then lead a short hike to practice making scientific observations.


September 24, 2022 - Annual Meeting and Volunteer Appreciation

Friends of Lower Haw River State Natural Area held its Annual Meeting and Volunteer Appreciation on Saturday afternoon, September 24th, from 3:00 to 4:30 pm in the Bynum Methodist Church Community Building (formerly the Bynum Ruritan Club). There was a brief business session with elections by our membership and an update on our activities and accomplishments. Guest speaker was Matt Spangler who gave an entertaining and informative presentation about the Secret Life of Animals captured by our wildlife cameras placed throughout the Lower Haw River State Natural Area. Matt's presentation is available here and on our Publications page.


May 21, 2022 - Birding with Ranger McMurray from 9:30 to 11:00 AM

Ready to see what’s hanging around the Haw River? Join Ranger McMurray on the historic Bynum Bridge for an hour or two exploring the areas around the bridge. We will try to locate what birds are in the area and discuss bird identification and songs. Anyone is welcome, from beginner to expert, from young to old.  Dress for the weather, bring binoculars and anything else you may need. A spotting scope will be available for those birds that perch long enough! Meet on the historic pedestrian bridge in Bynum. Event is free and open to the public. No pre-registration required. Parking is available in the small parking lot next to the bridge and in the larger parking lot off Bynum Church Road, downhill from the bridge in the Lower Haw River State Natural Area. For further information contact Ranger McMurray at steve.mcmurray@ncparks.gov. Find location at this link.

April 10, 2022 - Upland Explore Hike from 2:00 to 3:30 PM

Friends of Lower Haw invites you to say goodbye to winter's open forest views on our Upland Explore Hike along the lower Haw River. On this walk you can enjoy the last of the eastern vista across the Haw before the trees and their leaves block the view. This is a ramble in an area that is not heavily used along the river by US 64. The hike is somewhat strenuous due to an elevation change. A hiking pole/stick and sturdy shoes are suggested as well as water. No dogs please. The hike should take about 1.5 hours. There are no restroom facilities at this location. The hike will be limited to 16 participants. Pre-registration required by signing up at this link and more details will be provided. For questions about the hike or if you are having difficulties with our new online pre-registration form, contact us at lowerhawevents@gmail.com.

March 20, 2022 - Spring Explore Hike

We are offering a free Spring Explore Hike on March 20th to members and donors and their families to show our appreciation for your support of Friends of Lower Haw River State Natural Area. This guided hike will be on the section of the Lower Haw River State Natural Area located above the Bynum Dam, known as the "Pegg tract". This 82-acre section contains a variety of habitats, from river bottomland to mixed hardwood and pine forest. This area is also home to a rare species of spring ephemeral wildflower known as Phacelia covillei or Eastern Buttercup Phacelia. Our hike will be led by Megan Lynch, who is on our Board of Directors and a former trails specialist and park superintendent with NC State Parks. The hike will be easy, mostly along level ground, but may have muddy spots and will include a creek crossing. Sturdy closed toe shoes are recommended. Bring water. There are no restroom facilities in this area. Dogs must be kept on leash at all times and bring your own baggies to pick up your pet's poop. Hike will last for about one hour. Please RSVP using this link to let us know you are coming. We are implementing a new online registration form so if you are having difficulties with the link to RSVP, please contact us at lowerhawevents@gmail.comFor questions about the hike, contact us at lowerhawevents@gmail.com.

September 12, 2021 - Annual Membership Meeting

Due to concerns about the delta variant, our Board of Directors decided again this year to hold a scaled-down annual membership meeting. This year we did not have a guest speaker or special program, but held the Annual Membership meeting for elections and bylaws changes in conjunction with our regular Board of Directors meeting on Sunday, September 12th at 2:00 pm outdoors at Fearrington Village under the tent near The Belted Goat.

September 8, 2020 - Annual Membership Meeting

Due to COVID-19, our Board of Directors has decided to hold a scaled-down annual membership meeting. This year we will not have a guest speaker or special program, but we will still hold in-person elections of officers and at-large Board of Directors. We will hold the annual membership meeting for elections in conjunction with our regular Board of Directors meeting on September 8th at 6:30 pm at the Bynum General Store on 950 Bynum Road. Members are invited to attend for the elections and business meeting.

March 8, 2020 - Spring Ephemerals Walk from 1:30 to 3:30 pm

Spring Forward with us as we take a walk in search of lovely spring ephemerals with botanists Ken Moore and Kathy Buck. Ephemerals are the early wildflowers that emerge on the forest floor, grabbing their share of sunlight before the leaves come out on the trees. This will also be a good time to polish your tree identification skills. Group size limited to 12 so pre-registration is required by contacting lowerhawevents@gmail.com with "Spring Flowers" in the subject line.

March 14, 2020 - Haw River Stories at Bynum Storytelling from 6:30 to 9:30 pm  CHANGED TO VIRTUAL SHOW ON FACEBOOK

Due to public concerns about COVID-19, Bynum Front Porch has changed this event to be a virtual show that will be live streamed on their Facebook page on March 14th beginning at 6:30 pm at this link:

https://www.facebook.com/events/389585405060522/?notif_t=plan_edited&notif_id=1584132384696662

March 28, 2020 - Spring Ag Fest from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm  CANCELED

Visit the Spring Ag Fest website for more information.

February 7, 2020 - Not Quite Full Moon Hike - Canceled!

This hike has been canceled due to major flooding at the Haw River. Contact lowerhawevents@gmail.com for more information.

February 16, 2020 - Family Nature Heart Adventure from 1:30 to 3:00 pm

Our family nature adventure will begin with a short scavenger hunt, searching for hearts that nature has created along the Haw River. These may be found in leaves, rocks, or lichens. After our hike we will create nature art in the shape of hearts, made from found materials in the woods. Enjoy a walk by the river and make a Valentine nature art project. No pre-registration needed. Meet in the Bynum Mill Area lower parking lot located off Bynum Church Road. Please drive slowly through the village of Bynum!

February 29, 2020 - Explorer Hike at 12:00 Noon

Leap into the New Year on a trail less traveled! Join Ryan Cadwalader, Board of Directors member with Friends of Lower Haw, on our inaugural Explorer Hike. This hike series will take participants off-trail to Lower Haw River State Natural Area locations rarely visited. Participants should be able to hike uphill on uneven terrain (hiking poles suggested), clamber over fallen trees or rocks in creeks, duck and dance through underbrush, and smile while doing it! If this sounds like an adventure you would enjoy, join us. In this hike we will be walking the area south of US 64 on river right, towards Roberson Creek. Hike distance will depend on the group's wishes, but may be up to 5 miles round trip. Please leave your four-legged adventure companions at home. No pre-registration needed. Meet at 12:00 Noon at the Haw River Canoe Access parking lot on 348 River Access Road next to US 64 on the Pittsboro side of the river.

November 2, 2019 - River Clean-up Event from 8:30 to 11:30 am (also listed on our Volunteer page)

Volunteers needed for our fall clean-up event along the Haw River.  Sign up by contacting lowerhawevents@gmail.com with "Clean-up" in the subject line.

November 3, 2019 - Fungi Walk (rescheduled from October for those already pre-registered)

Explore the fascinating world of fungi with Dr. Van Cotter, fungi research scientist with Duke University.  Our walk will take place somewhere within the Lower Haw River State Natural Area, depending on conditions. (This is not a foraging walk to collect edible mushrooms! No foraging is allowed on State Parks land. Please note State Park rules: The removal, destruction or injury of any tree, flower, artifact, fern, shrub, rock or other plant or mineral in any park is prohibited unless with an approved collection permit for scientific or educational purposes.

November 10, 2019 - Going Nutz Family Hike from 1:00 to 3:00 pm 

Join Board of Directors member Megan Lynch as we wander along the Haw River. All the animals and plants are preparing for fall/winter. What do they do? Can we notice their preparations? The program will begin with a story about Mr. Squirrel, the best prepared in the woods. All ages welcome! This is an easy hike. Meet in the lower parking lot of the Bynum Mill area off Bynum Church Road (downhill from the old Bynum Bridge). No need to pre-register.

November 17, 2019 - Animal Skins & Skulls from 2:00 to 3:30 pm

Learn about mammals of the Piedmont through skulls and pelts, and what bones reveal about animals.  This is a hands-on family friendly presentation by Patricia Thomas-Laemont with Elon University.  Event will be held at the Bynum Front Porch in the village of Bynum.  Address is 950 Bynum Road, Pittsboro NC 27312.  No need to pre-register.

October 5, 2019 from 9:00 to 11:00 am - Drawing by the River

Join artist Julie Uhler for a charcoal drawing session by the Haw River.  This is a wonderful opportunity for nature lovers or anyone wanting to exercise their creative muscles.  Designed for beginner artists and the artistically curious.  All skill levels welcome. Julie will provide a 20 minute demo covering basic topics such as landscape composition, light effect and value, drawing basic shapes, and perspective. Then enjoy an hour of drawing with charcoal on paper, with the artist using a "follow along with me" approach to guide you along. All materials will be provided. A $5 donation payable to the artist at the event is requested to cover the cost of materials (drawing boards, paper, charcoal, stumps, erasers, and viewfinders). Space is limited to 12 and pre-registration is required by contacting lowerhawevents@gmail.com with "Drawing" in the subject line.

October 20, 2019 from 1:00 to 3:00 pm - Fall Hike

Join Board of Directors members Megan Lynch and Ryan Cadwalader on a fall hike to explore the Pittsboro side of the Lower Haw River State Natural Area in the Hwy 64 area. Pre-registration is required by contacting lowerhawevents@gmail.com with "Fall" in the subject line.

October 26, 2019 from 10:00 to 4:00 pm - Pittsboro Street Fair

Friends of Lower Haw will have an exhibit booth at the Street Fair in downtown Pittsboro.  Stop by to visit us!  We'll have animal skulls and a geology display.  Look for our booth on West Salisbury Street, between Postal Fish Company and the Kids Zone.

September 19, 2019 from 6:30 to 8:00 pm - Annual Membership Meeting

Join us on September 19th for our annual membership meeting, and help us celebrate our volunteers who contribute so much! We will have refreshments and hold raffles throughout the evening to add to the fun.  There will be a special presentation on Eagles of the Haw and Jordan Lake by Ranger Steve McMurray and Doc Ellen.  Skilled at spotting eagles, Ranger McMurray with Jordan Lake State Recreation Area regularly holds programs about eagles and other birds of prey.  Doc Ellen, aka Dr. Margaret Ellen Tinsley, is a retired veterinarian and wildlife photographer who spends many hours photographing and videoing eagles at Jordan Lake.  See her images at www.dreamingsongsphotos.com.  Learn more about these majestic birds and see fabulous images of them around the river and lake.

June 15, 2019 at 8:00 pm - Lights in the Night

Join Friends of Lower Haw at our family friendly event at the Lower Haw River State Natural Area.  Discover the small lights of fireflies (lightening bugs) as they come out.  You will learn some facts about these beetles and catch some for closer inspection.  After we release our friends we will walk over to the bridge to see the almost full moon rise to color the Haw with magical light.  No pre-registration needed.  All ages are welcome!  Bring insect repellent, water, and a jar for firefly catching.  Also bring a net to catch fireflies if you have one.  Please note there are no restroom facilities at this location.  

June 29, 2019 at 8:30 am - Whack Attack Invasive Species Workday

Friends of Lower Haw is planning invasive plant species workdays led by State Parks Piedmont Biologist Sean Gough.  Our first workday is scheduled for Saturday morning, June 29th in the Bynum Mill section of the Lower Haw River State Natural Area.  We will meet at 8:30 am in the Bynum Mill Access parking lot off Bynum Church Road, and work until 11:30 am.  Learn about invasive plant species and removal techniques.  All tools will be provided.  Bring work gloves, wear long pants and sturdy shoes.  Bring insect repellent and water.  Contact lowerhawevents@gmail.com with "Invasives" in the subject line to sign up.  Please note there are no restroom facilities at this location.

May 11, 2019 from 2:15 to 4:00 pm - Nature Observation for Kids

Come explore the beautiful trails beside the Haw River.  Spend quality time with your child as we walk along the river observing plants and animals, and writing and drawing what we see and hear along the way.  Kids are natural scientists, curious about the world around them.  Recording observations helps kids expand their awareness and appreciation of the natural world around them.  This free program is for kids ages 7-11 accompanied by a parent, and parent may bring more than one child.  Preregistration required since space is limited.  Contact lowerhawevents@gmail.com with "Nature Observation" in the subject line. 

May 23, 2019 from 6:30 to 8:00 pm - Skulls and Skins

What are some of the mammals living in the Lower Haw? This hands-on program will introduce you to the species that are commonly found in North Carolina through their skins and skulls. Beyond identification, skins and skulls can reveal insights into animal behavior-what it eats, if it is a predator or prey, its habitat, and how it camouflages.  Patricia Thomas-Laemont is an instructor in Environmental Studies at Elon University with a background in behavioral ecology and mammals.  She will be sharing some of the fascinating secrets about mammals that are revealed in the bones.  Sponsored by Friends of Lower Haw, this event will be held in the Bynum Front Porch/Bynum General Store in the village of Bynum, address is 950 Bynum Road, Pittsboro 27312.

April 7, 2019 from 11:00 am to 3:00 pm - Family Fishing Fiesta

Friends of Lower Haw will have an exhibit booth at the Family Fishing Fiesta at Jordan Lake's White Oak Access on April 7th from 11:00 to 3:00.  Family Fishing Fiesta is a free family event on conservation education and outdoor recreation held by NC State Parks and the NC Wildlife Resources Commission.  Take a trip in the Big Canoes, cast for fish, make your own fishing pole and practice your knots.  There will be over 20 hands-on interactive stations, including educational games, live birds of prey, non-living snake models, open burning info, and history of Jordan Lake.  Hourly raffles, food trucks, bounce house, and Fiesta Quest scavenger hunt add to the fun. We will have two children's games at our booth, as well as exhibits for the grownups.

April 20, 2019 from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm - Bynum Bridge Fest

Friends of Lower Haw is thrilled to be honored the second year in a row as the charitable beneficiary for the "be PhilARThropy" 2019 Bynum Bridge Fest https://www.bephilarthropy.com/bridge-fest .  Bynum Bridge Fest is a one day Art Market held on the pedestrian bridge overlooking the Haw River in Bynum. Located between Pittsboro and Chapel Hill, just off HWY 15-501, each year the festival has three key themes: support the local arts, support a local charity, support arts in education.  Last year, Bynum Bridge Fest was the largest art festival in Chatham county! Over 40 artists are participating, featuring diverse works.  In 2019, "be PhilARThropy" will once again donate proceeds of the festival and patron donations to Friends of Lower Haw to continue the great work we began in 2018. 

March 9, 2019 from 9:00am to 11:00am - Birding on the Haw River with Ranger McMurray

Ready to see what’s hanging around the Haw River? Join Ranger McMurray on the Bynum Bridge for an hour or two exploring the areas around the bridge. We will try to locate what birds are in the area and discuss bird identification and songs.  Anyone is welcome, from beginner to expert, from young to old.  Dress for the weather, bring binoculars and anything else you may need.  A spotting scope will be available for those birds that perched long enough!  Meet on the historic bridge at Bynum, address 502-592 Bynum Rd, Pittsboro, NC 27312.  Parking available near the bridge and at the lower parking lot at Lower Haw River State Natural Area. 

March 23, 2019 from 2:15 to 4:00 pm - Nature Journaling for Kids

Nature Journaling for Kids is an opportunity for kids ages 7 - 11 to put away their phones, escape from the internet and enjoy the renewing power of nature.  Each child must be accompanied by a parent or guardian but a parent may bring more than one child.  Space is limited, pre-registration required by contacting lowerhawevents@gmail.com with "Nature Journaling" in the subject line.

March 24, 2019 from 9:00 to 10:00 am - Introductory iNaturalist Walk on the Haw

This walk will focus on use of the iNaturalist smartphone app to photograph nature observations and start identifying the subject. The walk will be led by botanist Jame Amoroso with the NC Natural Heritage Program.  After a brief introduction on how to use the iNaturalist app, we’ll head out and find some plants and animals to photograph. To get the most out of the hike, participants will need to install iNaturalist app on your phone before arriving.  The apps are free and available from Google Play or Apple App Store.  Space is limited, pre-registration required by contacting lowerhawevents@gmail.com with "iNaturalist" in the subject line.

March 28, 2019 from 6:30 to 8:00 pm - Native American Culture in North Carolina, Past and Present

Friends of Lower Haw is offering a special evening presentation on Native American Culture in North Carolina - Past and Present by UNC students Ryan Dial-Stanley, Blake Hite, Jamison Lowry and Taner Jacobs from the UNC American Indian Center https://americanindiancenter.unc.edu/.  The program will cover an overview of the eight tribes of North Carolina from the 1600's to the present, including participation in the American Indian Movement.  We'll have handouts with a recommended reading list and children's activities, and displays of maps, flute, and other art objects.   Chatham County resident Crist Holden will also be on hand with his collection of Native American artifacts rescued from the Jordan Lake area.  The presentation will be held on March 28th from 6:30 to 8:00 pm in the Bynum General Store/Bynum Front Porch Music building in Bynum http://www.bynumfrontporch.org/.  Address is 950 Bynum Rd, Pittsboro NC 27312.

March 30, 2019 from 10:00 to 2:00 pm - Spring Ag Fest

Visit our Friends of Lower Haw booth at Spring Ag Fest, a free public event celebrating Chatham County's agriculture, forestry, and natural resources.  There will be lots of indoor and outdoor exhibitors, demonstrations, free pony rides, food trucks, Smokey Bear, and more.  Address is Chatham County Agriculture & Conference Center, 1192 US Hwy 64 West Business, Pittsboro NC 27312.

Feb 9, 2019 from 1:00 to 3:00 pm - High Ridgeline Hike

We are offering a special hike into the lesser traveled highest elevations on the west side of the river within the Lower Haw River State Natural Area.  Spectacular views of the Haw river from the uplands await with plenty of photo opportunities.  Space is limited so pre-registration required by contactinglowerhawevents@gmail.com with "High Ridgeline" in the subject line.

Feb 10, 2019 from 1:30 to 3:00 pm - Nature Heart Family Adventure

Our family adventure will begin with a short scavenger hunt to search for hearts that nature created along the Haw.  After our hike we will create some land art in the shape of hearts.  Enrollment is limited so pre-registration required by contacting lowerhawevents@gmail.com with "Nature Heart" in the subject line.

Jan 1, 2019 - First Day Hike with Ken Moore Canceled Due to Flooding

Unfortunately, our First Day Hike with Ken Moore is canceled due to potential flooding and has been rescheduled.  Since we had overwhelming response, and even our wait list was full, we are not taking any more pre-registrations.

Jan 26, 2019 from 10:00 to 11:00 am - Birds of Lower Haw Ranger Program

Come out and join a Park Ranger at the Lower Haw River State Natural Area (Bynum Mill Parking Area). This is a great time of year to view migratory waterfowl that make their homes for the winter.  Also, learn about Bald Eagles and other birds that we can spot and identify!  Please come prepared for the weather.  If inclement weather, program will be canceled.  The Bynum Mill parking area is located off Bynum Church Road, approximately 1/4 mile from US 15-501.  A spotting scope will be available and if you have binoculars please bring them.  For further information, contact Ranger Steve McMurray at 919-362-0586 ext. 219 or at steve.mcmurray@ncparks.gov    

Nov 3, 2018 from 9:00 to 11:30 am - Post-Hurricane Clean Up (pre-registration required)

Volunteers needed for a post-hurricane clean-up at the Haw River.  Pre-registration required.

Nov 17, 2018 from 1:00 to 3:00 pm - iPhone Nature Photography (pre-registration required)

Want to improve the nature and landscape pictures you take with your phone?  Join photographer and naturalist Joe Zellers to learn some basic camera features and photography tips that will bring your pictures to the next level.

Nov 18, 2018 from 2:15 to 4:00 pm - Nature Journaling for Kids (pre-registration required)

This is an opportunity for kids ages 7-11 to put away their phones, escape from the internet and enjoy the renewing power of nature.  Each child must be accompanied by a parent or guardian but a parent may bring more than one child.

Nov 25, 2018 from 2:00 to 3:00 pm - Animals of the Haw River (no pre-registration needed)

Oct 14, 2018 from 2:00 to 4:00 pm - iPhone Nature Photography

Want to improve the nature and landscape pictures you take with your phone?  Join photographer and naturalist Joe Zellers to learn some basic camera features and photography tips that will bring your pictures to the next level.

Oct 21, 2018 from 2:15 to 4:00 pm - Nature Journaling for Kids

This is an opportunity for kids ages 7-11 to put away their phones, escape from the internet and enjoy the renewing power of nature.  Spend an afternoon connecting with nature and closely observing plants and animals.  Each child must be accompanied by a parent or guardian but a parent may bring more than one child.

September 23, 2018 - Kick off Take a Child Outside Week by joining us for a family-friendly scavenger hunt nature hike for kids and their grownups!  Scavenger hunt hike led by naturalist Andy Upshaw will take place on Sunday, September 23rd from 1:00 to 2:30 pm. Wear sturdy shoes for walking on uneven ground and bring water and insect repellent.  Event is free and open to the public.  All ages are welcome but space is limited so pre-registration is required by contacting lowerhawevents@gmail.com.  More details and meeting location will be provided with registration confirmation. 

September 18, 2018 at 6:30 PM - Annual Membership Meeting

Learning to Love the Outdoors - Friends of Lower Haw annual meeting features Roads End Naturalist and nature photographer Mike Dunn as guest speaker.  Meeting is open to the public.  There will be a short business session before the guest speaker's presentation.  Join us on Tuesday, September 18th from 6:30 until 8:00 pm at the Bynum Ruritan Club in Bynum, next to the old Bynum Bridge in Chatham County.  Address is 28 Charlie Fields Road, Pittsboro NC 27312.  Light refreshments will be served. Mike Dunn's talk and photos will examine why we need to encourage learners of all ages to explore outside and why this area is ideal for outdoor exploration.  A resident of Chatham County who lives near the Haw River, Dunn's professional experience as a naturalist and educator includes 8 years with NC State Parks, 24 years with the NC Museum of Natural Sciences, and now with the North Carolina Botanical Garden. "Through photography, writing, and guided trips, I hope to share my love of nature with others and inspire people to conserve the beauty and diversity of this planet we call home.  Join me in this journey and see what lies just beyond the end of the road." - Mike Dunn   https://roadsendnaturalist.com/.

June 16, 2018 from 9:30 to 11:30 am:  Get the Dirt on Soil!

Come learn about soil with Rich Hayes and the Mobile Soils Classroom.  Suitable for children and adults. 

May 13, 2018 from 2:30 to 4:00 pm - Nature Journaling for Kids

Ages 7-11 accompanied by parent. 

April 8 and April 22, 2018 from 2:30 to 4:00 pm - Nature Journaling for Kids

Ages 7-11 accompanied by parent. 

March 18, 2018 from 1:00 to 3:00 pm (note this is rescheduled from March 11) - Spicebush Walk

Walk with popular naturalist Andy Upshaw.

March 24, 2018 from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm - Volunteer for a shift or stop by our Friends exhibit booth at the Agriculture & Natural Resources Spring Fest at Chatham County Agriculture & Conference Center in Pittsboro

March 25, April 8, April 22, 2018 from 2:30 to 4:00 pm - Nature Journaling for Kids ages 7-11 accompanied by parent

March 17, 2018 - Haw River Clean-Up-A-Thon Volunteer Opportunity

Our Friends chapter will be participating again this year in the Haw River Clean-Up-A-Thon on Saturday, March 17th from 8:30 to 11:00 am.  Nancy Strong will once again coordinate our team of volunteers. Last year’s team had a lot of fun while doing a good deed!

February 18, 2018 - Conservation Hike

After rescheduling because of rain, we finally had a beautiful day for our guided hike with Tandy Jones and Jeff Masten of the Landspring Group to hear about the mechanisms of how land acquisition evolved for the Lower Haw River State Natural Area.  We learned about what’s involved in creating conservation projects.  We don’t really hear about all the work that goes on behind the scenes, we just hear about the end result.  Tandy and Jeff both worked for Triangle Land Conservancy at the time and were involved in the land acquisitions that created this state natural area.  Our Friends Debbie and Ken Tunnell were also there to talk about their involvement as volunteers and the role Haw River Assembly played.  We hiked on the former Pegg tract that is less familiar to the public. Visit our Facebook page to see photos of the hike.

December 2, 2017 - Geology Hike a Learning Experience

Geologist Phil Bradley led a hike along the west side of the river north of US 64 to show the geologic points of interest in this part of the Lower Haw River State Natural Area. Interesting features include steep slopes, outcrops, and the presence of Mountain Laurel, which is more commonly found in the mountains instead of the Piedmont. 

November 4, 2017 - Fall Clean-up Event

Thanks to our clean-up crew and Nancy Strong, our event organizer, for a successful fall clean-up on November 4th.  Twelve volunteers hauled in 14 bags of trash, one metal tank, two tires and a TV.  Thanks to Clean Jordan Lake and Haw River Assembly for supplying grabbers and work gloves, and to REI for providing our volunteers with stewardship t-shirts and goodies. 

October 22, 2017 - Annual Membership Meeting and First Anniversary Celebration

Save the date!  This year's annual meeting will be Sunday, October 22nd at the Bynum Ruritan Club.  We're celebrating our first year anniversary!  Potluck lunch begins at 12:30 pm, so bring something to share. Meeting begins at 1:00 pm.  Our guest speaker will be Guil Johnson, the Haw River Trail Coordinator with Alamance County Parks & Recreation.  Optional guided walk from 2:30 to 3:30 pm on plants and animals of the lower Haw will be led by environmental educator Megan Lynch.

June 10, 2017 - Next Clean-up Event

Our next clean-up effort is scheduled for Saturday, June 10th, beginning at 9:00 am.  We will focus again on the area at US 64, including the hillsides by the small parking lot on the southeast corner of the US 64 bridge (river left).  Contact us if you would like to volunteer.

April 2, 2017 - Spring Membership Spicebush Walk

Great day for a hike on April 2nd!  We saw some wonderful elements of our universe as expressed in Piedmont riparian habitat.  We also saw a little Fowler's toad, a cormorant, goose, and canoeist on the water, and many more plants and rocks and things, including spicebush, and heard a variety of birds.  Thanks to our leader Andy Upshaw for a great walk, and to George Pauly for organizing it.  Visit our Facebook page to see more photos taken by George during the walk.

March 25, 2017 - Friends Chapter Exhibit Booth at Ag Center Grand Opening

Friends of Lower Haw River SNA had an exhibit booth at the Chatham County Agriculture & Conference Center on Saturday, March 25th from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm.  The Chatham County Agriculture & Conference Center is located at 1192 US 64 W Business, just one mile west of the traffic circle in downtown Pittsboro.  Visitors enjoyed educational exhibits (indoors and outdoors), entertainment, food, and tours of the new Agriculture & Conference Center. The Grand Opening Celebration was hosted by the Chatham County Center of NC State Extension, Chatham County Soil & Water Conservation District, USDA Farm Service Agency, Natural Resources Conservation Service, and the North Carolina Forest Service.  The free event was sponsored by the Chatham County Farm Bureau and was open to the general public.  Visit our Facebook page to see photos of our exhibit.

March 18, 2017 - Friends Participate in HRA's Clean-Up-A-Thon

Members of Friends of Lower Haw participated in Haw River Assembly’s Clean-Up-A-Thon on March 18th.  Our chapter’s Secretary, Nancy Strong, organized a team to work the Haw River below US 64 down to Robeson Creek.  Friends members Ryan Cadwalader and David Everage, and David's daughter and her friend participated along with other volunteers on Nancy’s team.  All of them working in that area hauled in about 20 bags of trash, 2 bags of recyclables, one tire, one soggy couch cushion, and one scorched and sodden sleeping bag.  They also identified two large tanks for removal at a later date.  Although it was raining that Saturday morning, everyone on Nancy’s team showed up ready to do what needed to be done.  What a bunch of troopers!  It was a bit wet and chilly but the river and the woods were quite beautiful.  Everyone said it was fun.  David says the two girls worked for a solid two hours and made him proud!  Thanks to these dedicated volunteers for their good deed to help clean up the Haw River.  Visit our Facebook page to see more photos of the clean-up team.  Our Friends chapter is planning more clean-up events this year.  The next one is June 10th.

September 20, 2016 - Friends of Lower Haw River State Natural Area Membership Meeting

Join us for our chapter meeting on September 20th from 6:30 to 8:00 pm at the Bynum Ruritan Club on 28 Charlie Fields Rd.  Agenda includes business session, guest speaker, and planning discussion on future activities for the Lower Haw River SNA.  Guest speaker will be Hillary Pace with the Chatham County Planning Department, who will give a presentation on the  "Comprehensive Plan:  Parks, Recreation, and Natural Resources".