When the Moose Tree Nature Preserve opened to the public this school year, those in charge had no idea what to expect.
For example, Naturalist Jennie Klein wasn’t sure if last Saturday’s ‘Meet and Greet Open House? would generate 20 people or 200.
Klein got her answer. It was 200.
And that was just at the halfway point of the four-hour event.
‘We’ve been open since Labor Day, but this is really our big kick-off for the year,? Klein said.
Typically used as a curriculum tool for Lake Orion elementary schools, Moose Tree is now hosting a variety of community events, while also being open some weekends for the public to come and enjoy the building and trail.
‘A lot of people that have lived here for years have never been able to visit,? Klien said, getting support from some visitors walking the Moose Tree grounds for the first time.
Popular activities at the open house included arts and crafts, nature games, and rock painting.
Visitors could paint a rock for a $1 donation, and the finished products will find a home in the flower garden for all to see.
‘The proceeds will fund different activities and supplies for our outdoor classroom,? said volunteer Jennifer Pearson.
‘Every donation adds up. We have storytellers and authors that will visit, and to keep our doors open and people coming in to see our facilities is great.?
Pearson was one of 15 volunteers helping out on Saturday, a list that includes working adults and students from both Lake Orion High School and Oakland University.
Pearson, who has two sons in the Lake Orion district, has been volunteering for about a month and said Moose Tree provides a perfect opportunity for the community to get involved.
‘It’s fantastic to have people from all over turn out,? she said. ‘We’re very happy with the turnout.?
Klein said there will be more opportunities for the public to visit in the coming weeks.
Upcoming events include ‘Honey and Apples,? where families can learn about, as well as make, some old-fashioned apple cider and learn about bees? role in apple and honey production. The Oct. 7 event costs $5 per person and runs from 1-2:30 p.m.
Klein is particularly excited about the upcoming ‘SPOOKtacular Story Stroll? on Saturday, Oct. 27 from 7-8:30 p.m.
She said the event is for all ages and costs just $7 per person. Groups leave every 15 minutes to head into the family-friendly haunted forest.
For more information about Moose Tree or their upcoming events, Klein can be reached at (248)391-3649.