Fort Nature
Learn about nature at Fort RoberdeauMonarch Butterfly Migration
September 27, 2026 | 2:00 pm- 3:30 pm
Join Master Naturalist Kristy Gallo for a program all about Monarch Butterflies! The program will begin with a slideshow presentation, followed by a walk through the Fort conservation grasslands for a butterfly spotting walk. This program is free.
More details to be posted soon.
The Birds of Fort Roberdeau:
Birding for Beginners and Identification
June 20, 2026 | 8:30pm- 10:00pm
Walk the paths of Fort Roberdeau and explore what bird species call this wonderful place their home! Learn about bird identification, habitat use and conservation with Emily Young, a biology graduate student and bird researcher. Participants are asked to gather in the upper barn for the presentation. Please wear outdoor shoes and bring your own binoculars. After the presentation join Emily for a birding walk around Fort Roberdeau’s bluebird trail and practice your new birding skills! Please avoid bringing pets as this may interfere with the bird’s natural behavior.
This program is free! Donations are welcome to help support Fort Roberdeau and future programming. In case of rain, please check the fort’s social media for updates.
Going Batty!
July 11, 2026 | 8:00 pm- 10:00pm
Fort Roberdeau invites the public to an after-hours educational event, “Going Batty at Fort Roberdeau” on Saturday, July 11, 2026 from 8pm to 10pm. Join Qualified Bat Surveyor Garrett Harris for an engaging program all about the mysterious and marvelous bats of Fort Roberdeau.
This event begins with an indoor presentation in the upper barn where guests will learn about bat biology, behavior, and the essential role these nocturnal creatures play in local ecosystems. Following the talk, participants will head outside to listen for real-time bat calls and observe bats departing the barn and bat boxes. Weather permitting, a mist net will be used to humanely trap bats and process them for conservation research.
Please come dressed for outdoor activities, bring your own flashlight and bug spray, and a blanket or lawn chair to watch the bats. Admission and parking are free. Donations are welcome to help support Fort programming.
The Firefly:
Silent Fireworks
June 20, 2026 | 8:30pm- 10:00pm
Join Fort Roberdeau and Jody “The Creature Teacher” Wallace for The Firefly: Silent Fireworks on Saturday, June 20, 2026 from 8:30pm until 10:00pm.
Walk the paths of Fort Roberdeau’s fields at night to witness the explosive display of fireflies. Learn where fireflies live, what they eat, why they light up, and how to protect these delightful creatures.
This family-friendly event offers a unique opportunity to engage with nature, experience nature’s fireworks, and learn about the world around you. Wear sturdy shoes, dress for the weather, bring a flashlight, and meet at the back of the barn.
In case of bad weather, a rain date will be posted on Fort Roberdeau social media. This event is free with donations welcome to support future programming.
Turtle Talk!
May 30, 2026 | 2:30pm-3:30pm
Join Lisa Haas from the Blair County Conservation District and their LIVE TURTLE AMBASSADORS for a Turtle Talk on Saturday, May 30 from 2:30pm- 3:30pm.
Discover what turtles eat, where they live, and why they are important for the enviroment.
Please be dressed for the weather. This program is free. Donations are welcome and help support Fort Roberdeau and future nature programs.
Earth Day Plantapaloza
April 19, 2026 | 1pm-3pm
Restore Stream Habitats! Fight Climate Change! Plant a tree!
Help plant trees and remove invasive plants along the Roberdeau Run and riparian buffer zone. Wear long sleeves, long pants, and please bring your own gloves. If you don’t have gloves, please borrow ours while supplies last. Shovels provided.
Free program. Donations welcome to help support Fort Roberdeau Nature Programs.
This event is held in partnership with the Juniata Valley Audubon Society and PA Department of Environmental Protection.
Peep of Spring
March 14, 2026
Join herpetologist Angie Spagnoli and Jody Wallace “Creature Teacher” at Fort Roberdeau to learn about spring peepers and other emerging amphibians. The Vernal Pool Program at Fort Roberdeau will begin at 5:30pm in White Oak Hall. Explore the fascinating animals that depend on these temporary woodland wetlands for survival. Participants will then learn how to protect these fragile ecosystems at a hands-on decontamination station, where Angie will demonstrate how to properly clean boots and gear to prevent the spread of invasive species and harmful pathogens.
Weather permitting, the program concludes with a guided walk to the Buttonbush sinkhole, where attendees will listen for frog calls, search for salamanders, and experience the sights and sounds of a living vernal pool. This program offers a unique opportunity to discover the hidden world of seasonal wetlands while learning how to help conserve them.
2026 Special Events
Come and join us in experiencing Blair County’s living history at any of the Fort Roberdeau
events now listed on our 2026 calendar!