When: May 5, 2026 @ 5:00 pm
Discover the biodiversity of Historic Welch Farm Preserve!
Join our Conservation Outreach Associate Alina on a late spring walk at Welch Farm Preserve outside of Andrews, where we will explore the abundance and diversity of birds, plants, insects, and other animals that can be found along this short trail. We will discuss the history of the property as well as how the River Cane is managed. Participants will learn some beginner identification tips for various common species, as well as how to take close-up photos of flowers, insects, and lichens using a smartphone and magnifying device! This event is geared towards beginner naturalists or those who are looking for a place to start, but is open to nature lovers, hikers, and people all knowledge and skill levels who enjoy moving slowly through the landscape.
We’ll meet in the Welch Farm Preserve between 4:45 and 4:55pm on Tuesday, May 5th and begin the walk at 5pm. See the map below for exact location. The walk will take about two hours of slow walking, and is on a wide level grassy trail that is rated easy and is mown regularly, with one step up and one down when crossing a bridge. We will never be more than 15 minutes from the trailhead. We suggest bringing water, a snack, a light rain jacket, sturdy water-resistant hiking shoes or rain boots (due to the dewy grass), and any naturalist tools you may want such as a notebook or a hand lens. We will provide magnifying tools as well!
This event is donation-based, with a suggested donation of $10. No one will be turned away for lack of funds, but please give what you can. Your support allows us to protect the special creatures, plants, landscapes, and heritage of WNC for all to enjoy! Donations can be made online (select “upcoming event” from the dropdown box), or by cash or check at the event.
Space is limited, so please fill out the form below to register then grab your notebook and prepare for a fun evening of learning about the biodiversity found at Welch Farm in May! This event is weather dependent and will be cancelled if there is heavy rain or thunder storms, but will proceed with a light drizzle. Please leave pets at home. Email Alina at [email protected] with any questions.
Meet your teacher
As Mainspring’s Conservation Outreach Associate, Alina Martin aims to encourage the protection and appreciation of land by connecting communities to the birds, plants, mammals, amphibians, and reptiles that share our home here in the Southern Blue Ridge. Her adventures up and down the east coast have introduced her to a wide variety of habitats, and those experiences inspire her to continue nurturing her understanding of wildlife and plant ecology. Armed with her identification knowledge and ever-increasing wonder, Alina leads a variety of educational programs here at Mainspring, and finds something curious and new each time. She is a life-long birder, all-around naturalist, and avid user of eBird and iNaturalist.
Please treat your registration as a formal ticket. Read this event description thoroughly and ensure that the date, time, and location work for your schedule. We monitor event sign-ups, and restrict group size to ensure you have a quality experience out in the woods with us. If you register and can no longer attend, email Alina at [email protected]. Thank you!
