NH Audubon

Tips for Growing Tomatoes: Trellising, Pruning, and More
2025-06-14 09:30 - 11:00 (America/New_York) | Massabesic Center, 26 Audubon Way, Auburn, NH, United States
Description: Fresh tomatoes from the garden are the BEST but growing them can present some challenges. In this workshop, we’ll explore some ways to overcome challenges of disease and pests and support the plants for better production. We’ll discuss and demonstrate different support methods: staking, caging, overhead trellising, and the “Florida Weave.” We’ll show how to prune tomatoes to control growth and improve disease prevention and more. The workshop will take place primarily outdoors, so dress for the weather and wear sturdy footwear.
Presenter: Will Lowenthal, UNH Extension Master Gardener
Cost: $10 for NH Audubon members/Extension Master Gardeners; $15 for non-members.
Registration Required by: June 11. Register here.
Logistics (inside/outside, what to bring): The workshop will take place primarily outdoors, so dress for the weather and wear sturdy footwear.
For reasonable accommodation requests, please contact Massabesic Center Director, Kimmie Whiteman.
This program is brought to you through an on-going partnership between the University of New Hampshire Extension’s Master Gardener Program and New Hampshire Audubon. The Demonstration Gardens at NH Audubon’s Massabesic Center provide a place for sharing best practices in eco-friendly home and community gardening, which enhance human health and well-being and wildlife habitat.

Massabesic Gardens Tour
2025-06-14 11:00 - 12:30, 2025-07-12 13:00 - 14:30, 2025-08-16 10:00 - 11:30, 2025-08-26 17:30 - 19:00, 2025-09-10 17:00 - 18:30, 2025-10-05 14:00 - 15:30 | Massabesic Center, 26 Audubon Way, Auburn, NH, United States
Join us for an intimate guided tour of the gardens at the Massabesic Center in Auburn. We will lead you on a fun ramble of the grounds, and dig into the history, upkeep, and future of each of our unique garden spaces.
You’ll learn about NH Audubon’s partnership with the University of New Hampshire Extension’s Master Gardener Program to create Demonstration Gardens that provide a place for sharing best practices in eco-friendly home and community gardening, for human health and well-being and wildlife habitat. These gardens include spaces for pollinators, birds, butterflies, veggies, rainwater, and an ornamental space that serves as the backdrop for wedding ceremonies.
You’ll also learn about our community partnership with the Massabesic Garden Club and their efforts to rehabilitate the space lovingly called the Barn Garden.
Last but not least, discover our plan for expanding the Garden for the Senses, and take a peaceful pause in the Cathy Small Memorial Garden.
You’ll leave with an appreciation for the hard work that goes into our spaces by the team of over 40 volunteers who maintain our grounds. We’ll provide information for upcoming educational workshops and ways you can get involved with volunteering in our gardens.
Dress for walking in short grass on flat but uneven terrain. Bring your camera, sunscreen, bug spray, and questions about creating pollinator habitat at your home.
This event is free to attend. Please RSVP to help us get a headcount of how many people to expect. This event will be cancelled if severe inclement weather is forecasted.
Support our programs and join or renew your membership today! Not sure of your membership status? Email our member services department or call (603) 224-9909 x310.
For mobility, sensory, behavioral, or other accessibility accommodations, please contact Massabesic Center Director, Kimmie Whiteman.
Photo: Garden Room with a View by Walt Swist

Preserving the Bounty: How to Can and Preserve Surplus Produce
2025-07-09 18:00 - 19:30 | Massabesic Center, 26 Audubon Way, Auburn, NH, United States
Description: This workshop will introduce food preservation techniques. We discuss proper and safe ways to preserve food at home through freezing, drying, lacto-fermentation, refrigerator pickling, water-bath canning, and pressure canning. You will learn where and how to find trustworthy recipes, the equipment needed for different methods of home preservation, and how to gain confidence in your skills to make your harvest last.
Presenter: Sean O’Brien, UNH Extension Home Horticulture Program Manager
Cost: $10 for NH Audubon members/Extension Master Gardeners; $15 for non-members.
Registration suggested by: July 6. Register here.
For reasonable accommodation requests, please contact Massabesic Center Director, Kimmie Whiteman.
This program is brought to you through an on-going partnership between the University of New Hampshire Extension’s Master Gardener Program and New Hampshire Audubon. The Demonstration Gardens at NH Audubon’s Massabesic Center provide a place for sharing best practices in eco-friendly home and community gardening, which enhance human health and well-being and wildlife habitat.

Gifts of the Garden: Engaging with the Experts
2025-07-10 09:00 - 11:00, 2025-08-07 09:00 - 11:00, 2025-09-04 09:00 - 11:00, 2025-10-02 09:00 - 11:00 | Massabesic Center, 26 Audubon Way, Auburn, NH, United States
Visit the Massabesic Center to meet the team who are outstanding in their fields and know all the dirt. No need to herb your enthusiasm! Bring your pressing questions about plants, find your inner peas, discover inspiration for laying down roots at home, or just dig the blooms!
Our volunteer team of UNH Extension Master Gardeners like to have fun and teach others about what it takes to create and maintain the luscious, wildlife-friendly gardens on the grounds. These informal meet and greet events are the perfect way to learn about getting involved in volunteer gardening opportunities with NH Audubon, and about ways you can duplicate our gardens in your own backyard, whether you have an acre or a patio pot.
The beautiful gardens on site include pollinator and bird-friendly plants, a rain garden space, vegetable gardens, raised beds, and more. As an ongoing partnership between New Hampshire Audubon and University of New Hampshire Extension’s Master Gardener Program, Massabesic’s Demonstration Gardens provide a place for sharing best practices in eco-friendly home and community gardening, which enhance human health and well-being and wildlife habitat.
Dress for walking in short grass on flat but uneven terrain. Sunscreen and personal insect repellant are recommended. Building hours (and bathroom access) are 11am to 5pm, but come early before the heat of the day chases the gardeners away. Visit the gift shop and meet our animal ambassadors after you spend your morning exploring the gardens. Consider packing a lunch to enjoy at one of the picnic tables surrounding the gardens. Children are welcomed and encouraged!
Gardeners will not be on site during inclement weather, but visitors are still welcomed.
This event is free to attend. RSVP is recommended to let us know how many visitors to expect
Support our programs and join or renew your membership today! Not sure of your membership status? Email our member services department or call (603) 224-9909 x310.
For mobility, sensory, behavioral, or other accessibility accommodations, please contact Massabesic Center Director, Kimmie Whiteman.

Hot Topics in the Garden: UNH Extension Yard and Garden Infoline Live!
2025-08-14 18:00 - 19:30 | NH
Location: NH Audubon’s Massabesic Center (26 Audubon Way, Auburn NH) or on Facebook Live
Join us for a special Infoline Live event where the participants take the floor to ask a panel of UNH Extension Home Horticulture staff and Master Gardener volunteers their pressing yard and garden questions as well as to hear more about this year’s hot topics. This event will also be promoted as a Facebook Live event from our UNH Extension Yard and Garden page for those who want to join online.
Bring your questions!
Presenters:
Steph Sosinski, UNH Extension Home Horticulture Program Manager
Sean O’Brien, UNH Extension Home Horticulture Program Manager
Will Lowenthal, UNH Extension Master Gardener (2018), vegetable grower
Stacey Scaccia, UNH Extension Master Gardener (2019), pollinator gardener
Ruth Smith, UNH Extension Master Gardener Program Manager, moderator
Cost: This event is free, but pre-registration is required to help us plan.
Registration suggested by: August 11. Register here.
For reasonable accommodation requests, please contact Massabesic Center Director, Kimmie Whiteman.
This program is brought to you through an on-going partnership between the University of New Hampshire Extension’s Master Gardener Program and New Hampshire Audubon. The Demonstration Gardens at NH Audubon’s Massabesic Center provide a place for sharing best practices in eco-friendly home and community gardening, which enhance human health and well-being and wildlife habitat.

Composting: How and Why?
2025-09-06 09:30 - 11:00 | Massabesic Center, 26 Audubon Way, Auburn, NH, United States
Description: Compost happens, but there are techniques for making the process quicker and more successful. A short presentation will focus on the purposes for and the science behind composting. Attendees will then venture out into the Demonstration Gardens to tour the composting area and get hands-on with materials, tools as well as several types of composting structures and solutions. Active demonstrations will highlight best practices, and we’ll answer your composting questions.
Presenter: Jason Phelps, UNH Extension Master Gardener
Cost: $10 for NH Audubon members/Extension Master Gardeners; $15 for non-members.
Registration suggested by: September 3. Register here.
For reasonable accommodation requests, please contact Massabesic Center Director, Kimmie Whiteman.
This program is brought to you through an on-going partnership between the University of New Hampshire Extension’s Master Gardener Program and New Hampshire Audubon. The Demonstration Gardens at NH Audubon’s Massabesic Center provide a place for sharing best practices in eco-friendly home and community gardening, which enhance human health and well-being and wildlife habitat.

Beginning Gardener Series: Gardens in the Fall: Season Extension and Fall Planting
2025-10-04 09:30 - 11:00 | Massabesic Center, 26 Audubon Way, Auburn, NH, United States
Description: Join us for the final workshop of the 2025 Beginning Gardener series to learn tips, tricks, and elements of fall gardening. We will discuss methods for extending the growing season to get the most out of your garden. Tasks include planting garlic and other vegetables that can be overwintered to get a head start on next year’s growing season. We’ll also discuss important actions to prepare your garden for the colder months.
Presenter: Sean O’Brien, UNH Extension Home Horticulture Program Manager
Cost: $10 for NH Audubon members/Extension Master Gardeners; $15 for non-members.
Registration suggested by: October 1. Register here.
For reasonable accommodation requests, please contact Massabesic Center Director, Kimmie Whiteman.
This program is brought to you through an on-going partnership between the University of New Hampshire Extension’s Master Gardener Program and New Hampshire Audubon. The Demonstration Gardens at NH Audubon’s Massabesic Center provide a place for sharing best practices in eco-friendly home and community gardening, which enhance human health and well-being and wildlife habitat.

Foodscaping 101 - Growing Flowers and Food Together
2026-03-26 17:30 - 18:30 | Massabesic Center, 26 Audubon Way, Auburn, NH, United States
There’s no rule saying you can’t grow your carrots next to your cosmos, so why is it that we feel the need to separate our flowers from our food? Join Willa Coroka of The Magpie’s Apprentice to discuss the variety of ways you can incorporate edible crops amongst your pre-existing or future flower gardens. From peppers tucked amongst the peonies, to kiwis winding along the front porch, there are so many ways to make your yard appealing to both eyes as well as tummies. Foodscaping is revolutionizing yards across the country. Let’s figure out if this new trend can catch on in your neighborhood!
Cost:
$10 for NH Audubon members and UNH Ext. Master Gardeners
$15 for non-members
Support our programs and join or renew your membership today! Not sure of your membership status? Email our member services department or call (603) 224-9909 x310.
Registration required by March 24th. If you miss the registration deadline, please email Kimmie Whiteman to inquire about availability. Walk-ins will be accepted if space allows, but late registrants may miss pre-workshop or cancellation communications. Limit 50 attendees.
This in-person presentation will take place entirely indoors at the Massabesic Center, in the main conference room. Dress for the weather for the short, easy walk from the dirt parking lot to the building. This program is intended for adults. Children are welcome, however in the event of disruptions, we ask that children are accompanied by a guardian to enjoy the Nature Lab or gardens until the presentation concludes. Accommodations for persons with limited mobility, sensory concerns, or other accessibility needs can be provided if you contact Massabesic Center Director Kimmie Whiteman in advance.
This program is brought to you through an on-going partnership between New Hampshire Audubon and University of New Hampshire Extension’s Master Gardener Program. The Demonstration Gardens at NH Audubon’s Massabesic Center provide a place for sharing best practices in eco-friendly home and community gardening, which enhance human health and well-being and wildlife habitat.
PayPal Disclaimer:
NH Audubon’s ticket system utilizes PayPal to process payments. Users are not required to use PayPal to check out; a guest option is provided. PayPal is a trusted way to pay online.

Wildlife Friendly Gardening
2026-03-28 10:00 - 11:00 | Massabesic Center, 26 Audubon Way, Auburn, NH, United States
(Rescheduled from original February 21 date.)
Join NH Audubon Senior Biologist Diane DeLuca as she guides us through the steps for creating a wildlife friendly sanctuary in our own backyards. We’ll learn about the needs of pollinators, birds, and other animals that you can attract to your yard, and why it’s so important to support wildlife with natural habitat. We’ll discuss maximizing year round sources for food and shelter using native plants, water sources, and other features. We’ll talk about threats facing our local wildlife, including pesticides and habitat loss, and how we can individually make a big, lasting impact on protecting these species long term. You’ll reap the rewards as you enjoy wildlife watching from your own window for years to come.
This in-person presentation will take place entirely indoors at the Massabesic Center, in the main conference room. Dress for the weather for the short, easy walk from the dirt parking lot to the building. This program is intended for adults. Children are welcome, however in the event of disruptions, we ask that children are accompanied by a guardian to enjoy the Nature Lab or gardens until the presentation concludes. Accommodations for persons with limited mobility, sensory concerns, or other accessibility needs can be provided if you contact Massabesic Center Director Kimmie Whiteman in advance.
Cost:
$10 for NH Audubon members and UNH Ext. Master Gardeners
$15 for non-members
Support our programs and join or renew your membership today! Not sure of your membership status? Email our member services department or call (603) 224-9909 x310.
Registration required by the end of the day on March 25. If you miss the registration deadline, please email Kimmie Whiteman to inquire about availability. Walk-ins will be accepted if space allows, but late registrants may miss pre-workshop or cancellation communications. Limit 75 attendees.
This program is brought to you through an on-going partnership between New Hampshire Audubon and University of New Hampshire Extension’s Master Gardener Program. The Demonstration Gardens at NH Audubon’s Massabesic Center provide a place for sharing best practices in eco-friendly home and community gardening, which enhance human health and well-being and wildlife habitat.
PayPal Disclaimer:
NH Audubon’s ticket system utilizes PayPal to process payments. Users are not required to use PayPal to check out; a guest option is provided. PayPal is a trusted way to pay online.

Easy to Grow Vegetables
2026-04-18 10:00 - 12:00 | Massabesic Center, 26 Audubon Way, Auburn, NH, United States
Join UNH Extension Master Gardener Maureen Sinclair to learn how to start growing vegetables without getting overwhelmed. What are the “easy” vegetables to grow? How do you pick healthy plants from the garden center? What should we be observing in our gardens? All these questions and many more will be answered to help you maximize early successes, learn by doing, and have fun growing vegetables.
Logistics:
This presentation will take place both indoors and outdoors at the Massabesic Center. We’ll start with a lecture in the main conference room and then head out to the garden, weather-permitting, to observe vegetable garden practices in action. The small partially fenced vegetable garden at Massabesic produces 400-500 pounds of food every year, despite sharing some of our crops with the local wildlife.
Dress for the weather for the short, easy walk from the dirt parking lot to the building, and from the building to the gardens. The trail through the gardens is flat packed gravel, suitable for most mobility devices including walkers and wheelchairs. Muddy conditions may be present, especially if you choose to walk into the grassy areas surrounding some garden spaces. An email will be sent out the day before the program with weather expectations.
This program is intended for adults. Children are welcome, however in the event of disruptions, we ask that children are accompanied by a guardian to enjoy the Nature Lab or gardens until the presentation concludes. Accommodations for persons with limited mobility, sensory concerns, or other accessibility needs can be provided if you contact Massabesic Center Director Kimmie Whiteman in advance.
Cost:
$10 for NH Audubon members and UNH Ext. Master Gardeners
$15 for non-members
Support our programs and join or renew your membership today! Not sure of your membership status? Email our member services department or call (603) 224-9909 x310.
Registration required by April 16th. If you miss the registration deadline, please email Kimmie Whiteman to inquire about availability. Walk-ins will be accepted if space allows, but late registrants may miss pre-workshop or cancellation communications. Limit 30 attendees. By attending this event, you and anyone you register on behalf of agree to NH Audubon’s Outdoor Education Program Liability Release & Agreement Waiver.
This program is brought to you through an ongoing partnership between New Hampshire Audubon and University of New Hampshire Extension’s Master Gardener Program. The Demonstration Gardens at NH Audubon’s Massabesic Center provide a place for sharing best practices in eco-friendly home and community gardening, which enhance human health and well-being and wildlife habitat.
PayPal Disclaimer:
NH Audubon’s ticket system utilizes PayPal to process payments. Users are not required to use PayPal to check out; a guest option is provided. PayPal is a trusted way to pay online.

Herb Gardening
2026-05-21 17:30 - 18:30 | Massabesic Center, 26 Audubon Way, Auburn, NH, United States
This presentation by Advanced Master Gardener Doris Buco is for gardeners at any level interested in adding herbs to a new or existing garden space or containers. Attendees will learn about the propagation and growth habits of readily available herbs and some that are more difficult to find. An overview of the environmental conditions needed to grow herbs will also be included. The use of culinary herbs is included in the presentation; the medicinal usage of herbs will not be addressed.
Cost:
$10 for NH Audubon members and UNH Ext. Master Gardeners
$15 for non-members
Support our programs and join or renew your membership today! Not sure of your membership status? Email our member services department or call (603) 224-9909 x310.
Registration is required by May 19th. If you miss the registration deadline, please email Kimmie Whiteman to inquire about availability. Walk-ins will be accepted if space allows, but late registrants may miss pre-workshop or cancellation communications. Limit 30 attendees. By attending this event, you and anyone you register on behalf of agree to NH Audubon’s Outdoor Education Program Liability Release & Agreement Waiver.
Logistics:
This presentation will take place primarily indoors at the Massabesic Center. An optional self-guided visit to the raised bed herb garden in the Demonstration Gardens behind the main building is encouraged after we conclude (weather-permitting).
Dress for the weather for the short, easy walk from the dirt parking lot to the building, and from the building to the gardens. The trail through the gardens is flat packed gravel, suitable for most mobility devices including walkers and wheelchairs. Muddy conditions may be present, especially if you choose to walk into the grassy areas surrounding some garden spaces. An email will be sent out the day before the program with weather expectations.
This presentation is intended for adults. Children are welcome, however in the event of disruptions, we ask that children are accompanied by a guardian to enjoy the Nature Lab or gardens until the presentation concludes. Accommodations for persons with limited mobility, sensory concerns, or other accessibility needs can be provided if you contact Massabesic Center Director Kimmie Whiteman in advance.
This program is brought to you through an ongoing partnership between New Hampshire Audubon and University of New Hampshire Extension’s Master Gardener Program. The Demonstration Gardens at NH Audubon’s Massabesic Center provide a place for sharing best practices in eco-friendly home and community gardening, which enhance human health and well-being and wildlife habitat.
PayPal Disclaimer:
NH Audubon’s ticket system utilizes PayPal to process payments. Users are not required to use PayPal to check out; a guest option is provided. PayPal is a trusted way to pay online.

Senior Garden Tour & Planting Activity
2026-05-27 10:00 - 11:30 | Massabesic Center, 26 Audubon Way, Auburn, NH, United States
Seniors are invited to NH Audubon’s Massabesic Center to experience a private tour of the Demonstration Gardens. Join us for this special guided meander on our All Persons Trail through native pollinator gardens, including a monarch waystation, bird-friendly gardens, vegetable and herb gardens, and a rain garden. You will also enjoy our luscious Wedding Garden and experience a Garden for the Senses. We will stroll the gardens in small groups with UNH Extension Master Gardener volunteers leading the way on a level, hard packed, mobility friendly path, geared to visitors with a wide array of physical abilities.
In addition to the beautiful gardens and pollinator habitat, keep an eye on the sky as we enjoy the wildlife that NH Audubon is protecting at this beautiful and accessible sanctuary. Our pace will be slow with plenty of opportunities for photos should you be inspired. Finish your visit with a free potting activity where you may choose flower seeds to plant in a take-home pot. Watch your flowers grow and bloom all summer as you reminisce about your experience here at the Massabesic Center.
This in-person workshop will take place primarily outdoors. Dress for the weather for the short, easy walk from the dirt parking lot to the building, and for outdoor exploration of the gardens. The garden trail is a short distance meander over flat-packed gravel suitable for most mobility devices, including walkers and wheelchairs. Tables will be set up outdoors with chairs for the potting activity, along with plenty of benches for resting.
This program is intended for seniors (ages 65 and up), but all ages are welcome. Accommodations for persons with limited mobility, sensory concerns, or other accessibility needs can be provided if you contact Massabesic Center Director Kimmie Whiteman in advance.
An RSVP is required by May 25th to help ensure adequate supplies. Please RSVP for each individual in your group. If you miss the registration deadline, or if you have questions about groups sharing supplies, please email Kimmie Whiteman to inquire about availability. Limit 35 attendees. By attending this event, you and anyone you register on behalf of agree to NH Audubon’s Outdoor Education Program Liability Release & Agreement Waiver.
Inclement weather date: Friday, May 29th, 2026. Confirmation of program date and time will be sent to all registrants on May 26th.
This program is made possible thanks to grant funding from the NH Master Gardeners Alumni Association (NHMGAA).
Support our programs and join or renew your membership today! Not sure of your membership status? Email our member services department or call (603) 224-9909 x310.

Massabesic Gardens Tour
2026-06-02 17:30 - 19:00 | Massabesic Center, 26 Audubon Way, Auburn, NH, United States
Join us for an intimate guided tour of the gardens at the Massabesic Center in Auburn. We will lead you on a fun ramble of the grounds, and dig into the history, upkeep, and future of each of our unique garden spaces.
You’ll learn about NH Audubon’s partnership with the University of New Hampshire Extension’s Master Gardener Program to create Demonstration Gardens that provide a place for sharing best practices in eco-friendly home and community gardening, for human health and well-being and wildlife habitat. These gardens include spaces for pollinators, birds, butterflies, veggies, rainwater, and an ornamental space that serves as the backdrop for wedding ceremonies.
You’ll learn about our community partnership with the Massabesic Garden Club and their efforts to rehabilitate the space lovingly called the Barn Garden. Discover our plan for expanding the Garden for the Senses and take a peaceful pause in the Cathy Small Memorial Garden.
You’ll leave with an appreciation for the hard work that goes into our spaces by the team of over 40 volunteers who maintain our gardens and grounds. We’ll provide information for upcoming educational workshops and ways you can get involved with volunteering in our gardens.
This tour will take place outdoors in the gardens surrounding the buildings at the Massabesic Center. We will meet in front of the entrance to the main building. Bathrooms and drinking fountains will be available at the beginning and end of the tour.
Dress for the weather. There is a short, easy walk from the dirt parking lot, across paved asphalt to the building. Most of the tour will take place on flat packed gravel that is suitable for most mobility devices including walkers and wheelchairs. Some portions of the tour will cross nearby grassy areas.
This program is intended for adults, but children are very welcome! Special accommodations for persons with limited mobility, sensory concerns, or other accessibility needs can be provided if you contact Massabesic Center Director Kimmie Whiteman in advance.
Bring your camera, sunscreen, bug spray, and questions about creating pollinator habitat at your home.
This event is free to attend. Please RSVP by May 31 to help us get a headcount of how many people to expect. If you miss the RSVP deadline, email Kimmie Whiteman to inquire about availability. Walk-ins will be accepted if space allows, but late registrants may miss pre-workshop or cancellation communications. The tour will be cancelled in the event of inclement weather. Limit 25 attendees. By attending this event, you and anyone you register on behalf of agree to NH Audubon’s Outdoor Education Program Liability Release & Agreement Waiver.
Support our programs and join or renew your membership today! Not sure of your membership status? Email our member services department or call (603) 224-9909 x310.

Gifts of the Garden: Q&A Sessions
2026-06-04 09:00 - 11:00 | Massabesic Center, 26 Audubon Way, Auburn, NH, United States
Visit the Massabesic Center to meet the people who are outstanding in their fields and know all the dirt. No need to herb your enthusiasm! Bring your pressing questions about plants, find your inner peas, discover inspiration for laying down roots at home, or just dig the blooms!
Our volunteer team of University of New Hampshire Extension Master Gardeners enjoy connecting with our visitors and sharing what it takes to create and maintain the luscious, wildlife-friendly gardens at Massabesic. The gardens on site include pollinator and bird-friendly plants, a rain garden space, vegetable and herb gardens, raised beds, wheelchair-accessible beds, and more. As an ongoing partnership between New Hampshire Audubon and University of New Hampshire Extension’s Master Gardener Program, Massabesic’s Demonstration Gardens provide a place for sharing best practices in eco-friendly home and community gardening, which enhance human health and well-being and wildlife habitat.
This informal drop-in style event during a volunteer workday is the perfect opportunity to learn how you can create similar garden spaces in your own backyard, whether you have an acre or a patio pot. Curious about what plants might work well in full sun or full shade? What plants attract birds and pollinators? How can you grow vegetables for yourself, while being friendly to the local wildlife who might want to share your crops?
This event is also the perfect time to learn about getting involved in volunteer gardening opportunities at the Massabesic Center.
Logistics:
You can arrive any time between 9am and 11am. As you approach the front entrance of the main building, follow the All-Persons Trail to the right, around the back of the building. The trail will lead you into the gardens, where you’ll find UNH Extension Master Gardeners wearing nametags while working. They’ll be expecting you, so please strike up a conversation and let the plants be your guide!
Dress for the weather. The All-Persons Trail pathway is flat packed gravel suitable for wheelchairs and most mobility devices. Some portions of the gardens are grassy or mulched. The parking lot is primarily dirt and some areas may be muddy or puddled after rains. Sunscreen and personal insect repellant are recommended. Don’t forget your camera!
Building hours (and bathroom access) are 11am to 5pm. Visit the gift shop and meet our animal ambassadors after you spend your morning exploring the gardens.
This event is free to attend. Please RSVP before June 3 to help us get a headcount of how many people to expect. Walk-ins are welcome but may miss cancellation communications. Gardeners will not be on site during inclement weather. By attending this event, you and anyone you register on behalf of agree to NH Audubon’s Outdoor Education Program Liability Release & Agreement Waiver.
Children are welcome! Special accommodations for persons with limited mobility, sensory concerns, or other accessibility needs can be provided if you contact Massabesic Center Director Kimmie Whiteman in advance.
Support our programs and join or renew your membership today! Not sure of your membership status? Email our member services department or call (603) 224-9909 x310.

Pollinator Gardens
2026-06-04 17:30 - 19:00 | Massabesic Center, 26 Audubon Way, Auburn, NH, United States
The importance of native pollinators has gained a lot of attention lately. Learn about who they are, why they’re important and how you can attract and support them all year long in your own backyard. This presentation will include an overview of gardening for pollinators whether you’re a new or seasoned gardener.
Presenter:
Stacey Scaccia, UNH Extension Master Gardener
Logistics:
This lecture-style presentation will take place indoors, in the main conference room at the Massabesic Center. Dress for the weather for the short, easy walk from the dirt parking lot to the building, and for optional outdoor exploration of the gardens.
We encourage participants to enjoy the gardens after the program concludes. The garden trail is a short distance walk over flat-packed gravel suitable for most mobility devices including walkers and wheelchairs. Muddy conditions may be present, especially if you choose to walk into the grassy areas surrounding some garden spaces. An email will be sent out the day before the program with weather expectations and other details. This program will take place rain or shine.
This presentation is intended for adults. Children are welcome, however in the event of disruptions, we ask that children are accompanied by a guardian to enjoy the Nature Lab or gardens until the presentation concludes. Accommodations for persons with limited mobility, sensory concerns, or other accessibility needs can be provided if you contact Massabesic Center Director Kimmie Whiteman in advance.
This program is brought to you through an on-going partnership between the University of New Hampshire Extension’s Master Gardener Program and New Hampshire Audubon. The Demonstration Gardens at NH Audubon’s Massabesic Center provide a place for sharing best practices in eco-friendly home and community gardening, which enhance human health and well-being and wildlife habitat.
Cost:
$10 for NH Audubon members and UNH Ext. Master Gardeners
$15 for non-members
Support our programs and join or renew your membership today! Not sure of your membership status? Email our member services department or call (603) 224-9909 x310.
Registration required by June 2nd. If you miss the registration deadline, please email Kimmie Whiteman to inquire about availability. Walk-ins will be accepted if space allows, but late registrants may miss pre-workshop or cancellation communications. Limit 50 attendees. By attending this event, you and anyone you register on behalf of agree to NH Audubon’s Outdoor Education Program Liability Release & Agreement Waiver.
PayPal Disclaimer:
NH Audubon’s ticket system utilizes PayPal to process payments. Users are not required to use PayPal to check out; a guest option is provided. PayPal is a trusted way to pay online.

Gifts of the Garden: Q&A Sessions
2026-07-09 09:00 - 11:00 | Massabesic Center, 26 Audubon Way, Auburn, NH, United States
Visit the Massabesic Center to meet the people who are outstanding in their fields and know all the dirt. No need to herb your enthusiasm! Bring your pressing questions about plants, find your inner peas, discover inspiration for laying down roots at home, or just dig the blooms!
Our volunteer team of University of New Hampshire Extension Master Gardeners enjoy connecting with our visitors and sharing what it takes to create and maintain the luscious, wildlife-friendly gardens at Massabesic. The gardens on site include pollinator and bird-friendly plants, a rain garden space, vegetable and herb gardens, raised beds, wheelchair-accessible beds, and more. As an ongoing partnership between New Hampshire Audubon and University of New Hampshire Extension’s Master Gardener Program, Massabesic’s Demonstration Gardens provide a place for sharing best practices in eco-friendly home and community gardening, which enhance human health and well-being and wildlife habitat.
This informal drop-in style event during a volunteer workday is the perfect opportunity to learn how you can create similar garden spaces in your own backyard, whether you have an acre or a patio pot. Curious about what plants might work well in full sun or full shade? What plants attract birds and pollinators? How can you grow vegetables for yourself, while being friendly to the local wildlife who might want to share your crops?
This event is also the perfect time to learn about getting involved in volunteer gardening opportunities at the Massabesic Center.
Logistics:
You can arrive any time between 9am and 11am. As you approach the front entrance of the main building, follow the All-Persons Trail to the right, around the back of the building. The trail will lead you into the gardens, where you’ll find UNH Extension Master Gardeners wearing nametags while working. They’ll be expecting you, so please strike up a conversation and let the plants be your guide!
Dress for the weather. The All-Persons Trail pathway is flat packed gravel suitable for wheelchairs and most mobility devices. Some portions of the gardens are grassy or mulched. The parking lot is primarily dirt and some areas may be muddy or puddled after rains. Sunscreen and personal insect repellant are recommended. Don’t forget your camera!
Building hours (and bathroom access) are 11am to 5pm. Visit the gift shop and meet our animal ambassadors after you spend your morning exploring the gardens.
This event is free to attend. Please RSVP before July 8 to help us get a headcount of how many people to expect. Walk-ins are welcome but may miss cancellation communications. Gardeners will not be on site during inclement weather. By attending this event, you and anyone you register on behalf of agree to NH Audubon’s Outdoor Education Program Liability Release & Agreement Waiver.
Children are welcome! Special accommodations for persons with limited mobility, sensory concerns, or other accessibility needs can be provided if you contact Massabesic Center Director Kimmie Whiteman in advance.
Support our programs and join or renew your membership today! Not sure of your membership status? Email our member services department or call (603) 224-9909 x310.

Garden Pest Control
2026-07-21 17:30 - 19:00 | Massabesic Center, 26 Audubon Way, Auburn, NH, United States
This workshop will cover garden insect pest control, including what symptoms/signs to look for, insect identification tips, and how to distinguish between pest insects and beneficial insects. We will also cover integrated pest management (IPM) concepts for the home gardener and strategies to control pest insects in your backyard and garden.
Presenter:
Amber Vinchesi-Vahl, UNH Extension State Specialist, Entomology and Integrated Pest Management
Logistics:
This lecture-style presentation will take place indoors, in the main conference room at the Massabesic Center.
Dress for the weather for the short, easy walk from the dirt parking lot to the building, and for optional outdoor exploration of the gardens. We encourage participants to enjoy the gardens after the program concludes. See our own integrated pest management practices in action and how we co-exist with beneficial insects in a pesticide-free environment. The garden trail is a short distance walk over flat-packed gravel. Muddy conditions may be present, especially if you choose to walk into the grassy areas surrounding some garden spaces. An email will be sent out the day before the program with weather expectations. This program will take place rain or shine.
This program is intended for adults. Children are welcome, however in the event of disruptions, we ask that children are accompanied by a guardian to enjoy the Nature Lab or gardens until the presentation concludes. Accommodations for persons with limited mobility, sensory concerns, or other accessibility needs can be provided if you contact Massabesic Center Director Kimmie Whiteman in advance.
Cost:
$10 for NH Audubon members and UNH Ext. Master Gardeners
$15 for non-members
Support our programs and join or renew your membership today! Not sure of your membership status? Email our member services department or call (603) 224-9909 x310.
Registration required by July 19th. If you miss the registration deadline, please email Kimmie Whiteman to inquire about availability. Walk-ins will be accepted if space allows, but late registrants may miss pre-workshop or cancellation communications. Limit 50 attendees.
This program is brought to you through an ongoing partnership between New Hampshire Audubon and University of New Hampshire Extension’s Master Gardener Program. The Demonstration Gardens at NH Audubon’s Massabesic Center provide a place for sharing best practices in eco-friendly home and community gardening, which enhance human health and well-being and wildlife habitat.
PayPal Disclaimer:
NH Audubon’s ticket system utilizes PayPal to process payments. Users are not required to use PayPal to check out; a guest option is provided. PayPal is a trusted way to pay online.
Refund Policy:
All ticket sales are final. All ticket fees support NH Audubon’s mission.

Gifts of the Garden: Q&A Sessions
2026-08-06 09:00 - 11:00 | Massabesic Center, 26 Audubon Way, Auburn, NH, United States
Visit the Massabesic Center to meet the people who are outstanding in their fields and know all the dirt. No need to herb your enthusiasm! Bring your pressing questions about plants, find your inner peas, discover inspiration for laying down roots at home, or just dig the blooms!
Our volunteer team of University of New Hampshire Extension Master Gardeners enjoy connecting with our visitors and sharing what it takes to create and maintain the luscious, wildlife-friendly gardens at Massabesic. The gardens on site include pollinator and bird-friendly plants, a rain garden space, vegetable and herb gardens, raised beds, wheelchair-accessible beds, and more. As an ongoing partnership between New Hampshire Audubon and University of New Hampshire Extension’s Master Gardener Program, Massabesic’s Demonstration Gardens provide a place for sharing best practices in eco-friendly home and community gardening, which enhance human health and well-being and wildlife habitat.
This informal drop-in style event during a volunteer workday is the perfect opportunity to learn how you can create similar garden spaces in your own backyard, whether you have an acre or a patio pot. Curious about what plants might work well in full sun or full shade? What plants attract birds and pollinators? How can you grow vegetables for yourself, while being friendly to the local wildlife who might want to share your crops?
This event is also the perfect time to learn about getting involved in volunteer gardening opportunities at the Massabesic Center.
Logistics:
You can arrive any time between 9am and 11am. As you approach the front entrance of the main building, follow the All-Persons Trail to the right, around the back of the building. The trail will lead you into the gardens, where you’ll find UNH Extension Master Gardeners wearing nametags while working. They’ll be expecting you, so please strike up a conversation and let the plants be your guide!
Dress for the weather. The All-Persons Trail pathway is flat packed gravel suitable for wheelchairs and most mobility devices. Some portions of the gardens are grassy or mulched. The parking lot is primarily dirt and some areas may be muddy or puddled after rains. Sunscreen and personal insect repellant are recommended. Don’t forget your camera!
Building hours (and bathroom access) are 11am to 5pm. Visit the gift shop and meet our animal ambassadors after you spend your morning exploring the gardens.
This event is free to attend. Please RSVP before August 5 to help us get a headcount of how many people to expect. Walk-ins are welcome but may miss cancellation communications. Gardeners will not be on site during inclement weather. By attending this event, you and anyone you register on behalf of agree to NH Audubon’s Outdoor Education Program Liability Release & Agreement Waiver.
Children are welcome! Special accommodations for persons with limited mobility, sensory concerns, or other accessibility needs can be provided if you contact Massabesic Center Director Kimmie Whiteman in advance.
Support our programs and join or renew your membership today! Not sure of your membership status? Email our member services department or call (603) 224-9909 x310.

Massabesic Gardens Tour
2026-08-06 17:30 - 19:00 | Massabesic Center, 26 Audubon Way, Auburn, NH, United States
Join us for an intimate guided tour of the gardens at the Massabesic Center in Auburn. We will lead you on a fun ramble of the grounds, and dig into the history, upkeep, and future of each of our unique garden spaces.
You’ll learn about NH Audubon’s partnership with the University of New Hampshire Extension’s Master Gardener Program to create Demonstration Gardens that provide a place for sharing best practices in eco-friendly home and community gardening, for human health and well-being and wildlife habitat. These gardens include spaces for pollinators, birds, butterflies, veggies, rainwater, and an ornamental space that serves as the backdrop for wedding ceremonies.
You’ll learn about our community partnership with the Massabesic Garden Club and their efforts to rehabilitate the space lovingly called the Barn Garden. Discover our plan for expanding the Garden for the Senses and take a peaceful pause in the Cathy Small Memorial Garden.
You’ll leave with an appreciation for the hard work that goes into our spaces by the team of over 40 volunteers who maintain our gardens and grounds. We’ll provide information for upcoming educational workshops and ways you can get involved with volunteering in our gardens.
This tour will take place outdoors in the gardens surrounding the buildings at the Massabesic Center. We will meet in front of the entrance to the main building. Bathrooms and drinking fountains will be available at the beginning and end of the tour.
Dress for the weather. There is a short, easy walk from the dirt parking lot, across paved asphalt to the building. Most of the tour will take place on flat packed gravel that is suitable for most mobility devices including walkers and wheelchairs. Some portions of the tour will cross nearby grassy areas.
This program is intended for adults, but children are very welcome! Special accommodations for persons with limited mobility, sensory concerns, or other accessibility needs can be provided if you contact Massabesic Center Director Kimmie Whiteman in advance.
Bring your camera, sunscreen, bug spray, and questions about creating pollinator habitat at your home.
This event is free to attend. Please RSVP by August 5 to help us get a headcount of how many people to expect. If you miss the RSVP deadline, email Kimmie Whiteman to inquire about availability. Walk-ins will be accepted if space allows, but late registrants may miss pre-workshop or cancellation communications. The tour will be cancelled in the event of inclement weather. Limit 25 attendees. By attending this event, you and anyone you register on behalf of agree to NH Audubon’s Outdoor Education Program Liability Release & Agreement Waiver.
Support our programs and join or renew your membership today! Not sure of your membership status? Email our member services department or call (603) 224-9909 x310.

Hot Topics in the Garden: UNH Extension Yard and Garden Infoline Live!
2026-08-12 18:00 - 19:30 | Massabesic Center, 26 Audubon Way, Auburn, NH, United States
Join us at the Massabesic Center for a special Infoline Live event with a panel of UNH Extension Home Horticulture staff and Master Gardener volunteers, with special guest scientist from NH Audubon.
As a participant, you get to take the floor to ask your pressing yard and garden questions! We’ll also talk about this year’s hot topics – remember the lilac blight of 2025? What’s the latest on NH’s beech trees? What will the summer of 2026 bring for our gardens and our pollinators? Join us to find out!
This event will also be promoted as a Facebook Live event from the UNH Extension Yard and Garden page for those who want to join online. Bring your questions!
Panelists:
Sean O’Brien, UNH Extension Home Horticulture Program Manager
Will Lowenthal, UNH Extension Master Gardener (2018), vegetable grower
Stacey Scaccia, UNH Extension Master Gardener (2019), pollinator gardener
Diane De Luca, NH Audubon Senior Biologist
Moderator:
Ruth Smith, UNH Extension Master Gardener Program Manager
Cost:
FREE
RSVP for in-person attendance preferred by August 10th. If you miss the deadline, please email Kimmie Whiteman to inquire about seat availability. Walk-ins will be accepted if space allows, but late registrants may miss some communications. Limit 50 attendees in-person. Online attendance is open to all!
This event will take place indoors, in the main conference room at the Massabesic Center (and virtually). Dress for the weather for the short, easy walk from the dirt parking lot to the building, if you plan to join us in-person. This program will take place rain or shine.
This program is intended for adults. Children are welcome, however in the event of disruptions, we ask that children are accompanied by a guardian to enjoy the Nature Lab or gardens until the presentation concludes. Accommodations for persons with limited mobility, sensory concerns, or other accessibility needs can be provided if you contact Massabesic Center Director Kimmie Whiteman in advance.
This program is brought to you through an ongoing partnership between New Hampshire Audubon and University of New Hampshire Extension’s Master Gardener Program. The Demonstration Gardens at NH Audubon’s Massabesic Center provide a place for sharing best practices in eco-friendly home and community gardening, which enhance human health and well-being and wildlife habitat.

The Art of Pressed Flowers and Dried Botanicals
2026-08-23 13:00 - 14:30 | Massabesic Center, 26 Audubon Way, Auburn, NH, United States
Join us for this exciting new workshop where we will explore the art of flower pressing, drying, and decorative uses as well as botanical growing tips. This class is perfect for both new and experienced crafters, gardeners, decorators, and everyone in between.
The use of recyclable and compostable materials when crafting has ecological benefits for reducing plastic waste and carbon emissions, especially when materials are collected locally and sustainably to help preserve wildlife habitat. We’ll connect with nature while learning a fun new skill!
Learn the basics of flower pressing to preserve treasured botanicals from your garden. Methods of flower pressing will be shared where you will learn which flowers are easy to press and which are not, and how to prepare them for pressing. Example uses of pressed flowers will be displayed, and resources for additional tips on pressing botanicals will be shared. Interested in making your own press? See an example along with a list of materials for an easy DIY project that will get you hooked on botanical pressing in no time!
After we talk about pressing, we will dive into discussing how dried flowers, leaves, seedpods and more can be useful in arrangements and crafts of all kinds. We’ll also discuss how to grow the best native and pollinator-friendly flowers for preservation, wildlife-friendly tips for sustainable harvesting, and eco-friendly methods that will help botanicals last for years. We’ll explore how these materials can be used in everything from spring displays to holiday wreaths.
Note; we will not be crafting during this class. Expect to take home resources to help put your new knowledge into practice.
Presenters:
UNH Extension Advanced Master Gardener Doris Buco
UNH Extension Master Gardener Patti Elwell
Doris and Patti are NH Audubon Massabesic Center garden volunteers and contribute their designs and dried flowers to the annual holiday wreath program. Their wealth of experience, down to earth kindness, and dedication to NH Audubon’s mission are sure to make this class an exceptionally fun and informative event.
Logistics:
This lecture-style presentation will take place indoors, in the main conference room at the Massabesic Center.
Dress for the weather for the short, easy walk from the dirt parking lot to the building, and for optional outdoor exploration of the gardens. We encourage participants to enjoy the gardens after the program concludes. The garden trail is a short distance walk over flat-packed gravel. Muddy conditions may be present, especially if you choose to walk into the grassy areas surrounding some garden spaces. An email will be sent out the day before the program with weather expectations and other details. This program will take place rain or shine.
This program is intended for adults. Children are welcome, however in the event of disruptions, we ask that children are accompanied by a guardian to enjoy the Nature Lab or gardens until the presentation concludes. Accommodations for persons with limited mobility, sensory concerns, or other accessibility needs can be provided if you contact Massabesic Center Director Kimmie Whiteman in advance.
Cost:
$10 for NH Audubon members
$15 for non-members
Support our programs and join or renew your membership today! Not sure of your membership status? Email our member services department or call (603) 224-9909 x310.
Registration is required by August 20. If you miss the registration deadline, please email Kimmie Whiteman to inquire about availability. Walk-ins will be accepted if space allows, but late registrants may miss pre-workshop or cancellation communications. Limit 25 attendees.
PayPal Disclaimer:
NH Audubon’s ticket system utilizes PayPal to process payments. Users are not required to use PayPal to check out; a guest option is provided. PayPal is a trusted way to pay online.
Refund Policy:
All ticket sales are final. All ticket fees support NH Audubon’s mission.

Gifts of the Garden: Q&A Sessions
2026-09-03 09:00 - 11:00 | Massabesic Center, 26 Audubon Way, Auburn, NH, United States
Visit the Massabesic Center to meet the people who are outstanding in their fields and know all the dirt. No need to herb your enthusiasm! Bring your pressing questions about plants, find your inner peas, discover inspiration for laying down roots at home, or just dig the blooms!
Our volunteer team of University of New Hampshire Extension Master Gardeners enjoy connecting with our visitors and sharing what it takes to create and maintain the luscious, wildlife-friendly gardens at Massabesic. The gardens on site include pollinator and bird-friendly plants, a rain garden space, vegetable and herb gardens, raised beds, wheelchair-accessible beds, and more. As an ongoing partnership between New Hampshire Audubon and University of New Hampshire Extension’s Master Gardener Program, Massabesic’s Demonstration Gardens provide a place for sharing best practices in eco-friendly home and community gardening, which enhance human health and well-being and wildlife habitat.
This informal drop-in style event during a volunteer workday is the perfect opportunity to learn how you can create similar garden spaces in your own backyard, whether you have an acre or a patio pot. Curious about what plants might work well in full sun or full shade? What plants attract birds and pollinators? How can you grow vegetables for yourself, while being friendly to the local wildlife who might want to share your crops?
This event is also the perfect time to learn about getting involved in volunteer gardening opportunities at the Massabesic Center.
Logistics:
You can arrive any time between 9am and 11am. As you approach the front entrance of the main building, follow the All-Persons Trail to the right, around the back of the building. The trail will lead you into the gardens, where you’ll find UNH Extension Master Gardeners wearing nametags while working. They’ll be expecting you, so please strike up a conversation and let the plants be your guide!
Dress for the weather. The All-Persons Trail pathway is flat packed gravel suitable for wheelchairs and most mobility devices. Some portions of the gardens are grassy or mulched. The parking lot is primarily dirt and some areas may be muddy or puddled after rains. Sunscreen and personal insect repellant are recommended. Don’t forget your camera!
Building hours (and bathroom access) are 11am to 5pm. Visit the gift shop and meet our animal ambassadors after you spend your morning exploring the gardens.
This event is free to attend. Please RSVP before September 2 to help us get a headcount of how many people to expect. Walk-ins are welcome but may miss cancellation communications. Gardeners will not be on site during inclement weather. By attending this event, you and anyone you register on behalf of agree to NH Audubon’s Outdoor Education Program Liability Release & Agreement Waiver.
Children are welcome! Special accommodations for persons with limited mobility, sensory concerns, or other accessibility needs can be provided if you contact Massabesic Center Director Kimmie Whiteman in advance.
Support our programs and join or renew your membership today! Not sure of your membership status? Email our member services department or call (603) 224-9909 x310.
