NH Audubon

Behind the Scenes Habitat Management At Odiorne Point State Park program with the Seacoast Chapter
2026-06-10 19:00 - 20:30 (America/New_York)
Behind the Scenes Habitat Management At Odiorne Point State Park – Wednesday, June 10
Odiorne Point State Park is not only a favorite birding Hot Spot, it is also where one of the largest and most successful invasive plant control projects in NH has been improving habitat for birds and other wildlife. During this program, we will look for birds and learn from the Rockingham County Conservation District about all of the incredible habitat work that has been completed and still planned at Odiorne.
Bio: Arianna Spear, Tracy Degnan and Lenny Lord of the Rockingham County Conservation District and Matt Tarr of the UNH Cooperative Extension.
Contact: Dan Hubbard, 603 978-0218, danielhubbard@peoplepc.com

Backyard and Beyond in Watercolor Exhibit
2026-06-11 11:00 - 17:00, 2026-06-12 11:00 - 17:00, 2026-06-13 11:00 - 17:00, 2026-06-17 11:00 - 17:00, 2026-06-18 11:00 - 17:00, 2026-06-19 11:00 - 17:00, 2026-06-20 11:00 - 17:00, 2026-06-24 11:00 - 17:00 and 5 more dates | McLane Center, 84 Silk Farm Road, Concord, NH, 03301, United States
Backyard and Beyond in Watercolor Exhibit by Elaine Packard: May 6-July 2 at the McLane Center in Concord
Art exhibit viewing access may be restricted during private event rentals. Calling ahead to confirm is recommended.

Exhibit Description: Backyard birds, flowers, insects, and animals have been the inspiration for my watercolor journey. While I am fairly new to this medium, I don’t need to look very far for subject matter! Waterfowl and owls are favorites of mine as well, with their varied colors and textures.
I also enjoy the beauty of New England and like to take pictures of landscapes, mountains, lakes, and local landmarks to use as reference photos. A late summer (first-time) trip to the top of Mt. Washington last year via the Cog Railway was truly stunning and I plan to create a few more paintings with the incredible clouds, and distant mountain ranges.
Thank you for supporting the NH Audubon Society and I hope you enjoy my paintings and get a sense of the beautiful part of the country we live in!
Examples of Elaine’s art. (Click to enlarge.)
Bio: From a young age, I found happiness in quiet little things; flowers, birds, animals and scenery and I have integrated them into my artwork. I took many art classes in my high school years and received an Art Scholarship to Rivier College (which wasn’t utilized). Later in life, time constraints of a full-time career and raising a family meant something needed to take the back seat. Life changes in recent years have allowed me the time to return to painting, which I am enjoying immensely!
I believe that continuous learning and being curious helps keep you young and I am currently discovering the beautiful subtleties and technical aspects of watercolor painting. I enjoy this medium very much, although I must admit; there have been some struggles along the way.
I tend to work towards realism, studying the little details of my subjects, moss on a tree branch or the anatomy of a birds’ wings. While birds and animals are some of my favorite subjects, seascapes and landscapes are a good challenge and learning opportunity.
One of my goals was achieved last year; to show my work in a gallery. This was an accomplishment for me personally. The growth from that experience will remain with me for a long time. Meeting art enthusiasts, collectors, and other artists is something I enjoyed and am eager to continue.
My hope is that you find a sense of peace and calmness in my artwork and allow your mind to slow down, notice the small things and enjoy nature, because that is what I feel when I am creating.

Newfound Region Photography Exhibit
2026-06-11 11:00 - 17:00, 2026-06-12 11:00 - 17:00, 2026-06-13 11:00 - 17:00, 2026-06-17 11:00 - 17:00, 2026-06-18 11:00 - 17:00, 2026-06-19 11:00 - 17:00, 2026-06-20 11:00 - 17:00 | Massabesic Center, 26 Audubon Way, Auburn, NH, United States
Newfound Region Photography Exhibit by Dave LaBar: May 2-June 20 at the Massabesic Center in Auburn
Art exhibit viewing access may be restricted during private event rentals. Calling ahead to confirm is recommended.

Exhibit Description: Dave’s exhibit showcases the natural beauty of the Newfound Lake area and what it has to offer. The northern shore of Newfound Lake is home to NH Audubon’s Paradise Point Nature Center. Dave enjoys this wonderful resource next to his home, often hiking trails to explore the shoreline and finding inspired scenes to photograph. Dave’s mission is to share the beauty of the lake and bring awareness to the birds and wildlife that call Newfound Lake home, as he does. He hopes that viewing his photographs will inspire you to see in person what he sees through his lens every day.
As a bigger enticement for visiting the Newfound Lake region, kayak and canoe rentals are available at Paradise Point for those who want to paddle out onto the lake and experience the pristine beauty that is Newfound Lake! Consider attending a summer science talk – NH Audubon’s Newfound Nature Series is held in partnership with Newfound Lake Region Association, whose Grey Rocks Conservation Area also provides photographic inspiration for Dave’s photography.
Examples of Dave’s art. (Click to enlarge.)
Bio: Dave, owner of Dave Labar Photography, is a New Hampshire based photographer who calls Hebron, on the north end of Newfound Lake, home. Newfound Lake is conveniently located in the northern part of the Lakes region and southern part of the White Mountains Region to bring you the best of both worlds.
Dave also travels to the coast for photos of the seacoast and occasionally ventures out on the ocean for photos from the sea.

30% of the proceeds from this exhibit will benefit New Hampshire Audubon.

McLane Center Pollinator Garden Tours
2026-06-11 16:00 - 18:00 | McLane Center, 84 Silk Farm Road, Concord, NH, 03301, United States
Join us for a late afternoon guided tour of the gardens at the McLane Audubon Center. Stroll through the pollinator gardens that surround the Center as we share the story of how these spaces were created, how they continue to evolve, and the vital role they play in supporting bees, butterflies, and other wildlife.
Along the way, you’ll learn how native plants form the foundation of healthy ecosystems and gain practical ideas for creating pollinator-friendly habitat in your own landscape. From early spring blooms to late-season nectar sources, these gardens demonstrate how thoughtful design can provide beauty and ecological value throughout the growing season.
You’ll leave with a deeper appreciation for the importance of native pollinator gardens, and for the dedicated team of more than 20 volunteers who care for these spaces. We’ll also share information about upcoming workshops and opportunities to get involved, whether you’re interested in learning more or lending a hand in the gardens.
Come be inspired, connect with nature, and see what’s in bloom.
This tour will take place outdoors in the gardens surrounding the buildings at the McLane 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, and a paved concrete pathway that weaves through the gardens. Most of the tour will take place along a walkway 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 Diane De Luca in advance. Bring your camera, sunscreen, bug spray, and questions about creating pollinator habitat at your home.
This event is free to attend. If you feel inspired to support NH Audubon’s work, please consider a gift to our Annual Fund at nhaudubon.org/donate. Your contribution supports priorities like monarch conservation and pollinator habitat creation across New Hampshire.
Please RSVP at least 24 hours in advance to help us get a headcount of how many people to expect. If you miss the RSVP deadline, email Diane De Luca 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.

Restoration of the American Chestnut
2026-06-13 11:00 - 13:00 | McLane Center, 84 Silk Farm Road, Concord, NH, 03301, United States
Join long-time volunteer Jack Swatt and NH Audubon’s Lands Director on a journey through the history of the American Chestnut, once called the “Redwood of the East.” These trees, a dominant staple of New England forests, fell to an imported blight fungus, and efforts are underway to restore them to the forests of the Appalachian Range. Register below to learn more about this fascinating tree’s history, lifecycle, and struggle. After the indoor presentation, attendees can join a hike on the trails around the McLane Center to visit surviving American Chestnut sprouts and a demonstration planting of grafted trees to test for blight resistance.
By attending this event, you and anyone you register on behalf of agree to NH Audubon’s Outdoor Education Program Liability Release & Agreement Waiver.
Cover photo by Zoe Dawson of the McLane Center American Chestnut demonstration planting.

Butterfly ID Field Training #2
2026-06-13 11:00 - 13:00
Butterflies are one of the most beautiful elements of the natural world, and scientists recognize that they can also serve as an important indicator of ecosystem health. NH Audubon is partnering with NH Fish and Game and the North American Butterfly Association (NABA) to collect long-term data on butterflies in the Concord region and beyond. We welcome public participation, and while knowledge of butterflies is a plus, it is not necessary. Join us for these amazing opportunities to learn and participate in butterfly conservation.
Trainings (Tuesday 6/9 from 11am-1pm and Saturday 6/13 from 11am–1pm): Steve Mirick, avid birder and expert butterfly enthusiast who has guided both the birding and butterfly communities through his passion, skill and commitment will lead this exploration of the butterfly species in Concord, NH at Karner Blue Butterfly Easement (west end, just past 25 Chenell Drive, Concord). This is an optional (but highly recommended) training to prepare participants for the Capital Area Butterfly Survey in July. (Rain dates 6/10 and 6/14, respectively, from 11am-1pm.)
Following your training be sure to join the Capital Area Butterfly Survey on Saturday 7/25 from 9am–3pm!
Participation in both training and survey events is free of charge. By attending this event, you and anyone you register on behalf of agree to NH Audubon’s Outdoor Education Program Liability Release & Agreement Waiver. For more information, please contact Lindsay Herlihy at LHerlihy@nhaudubon.org.
The North American Butterfly Association (NABA) organizes the counts and publishes their annual reports. For more information on NABA and the Count Program, please send a self-addressed, stamped business envelope to: NABA, 4 Delaware Road, Morristown, NJ 07960. Or check out their website at www.naba.org.

Piscassic Greenway field trip with the Seacoast Chapter
2026-06-19 08:00 - 10:00
Piscassic Greenway, Neal Mill Rd, Newmarket, June 19th 8:00 am
Join trip leader Juli Tyson to revisit the trail between Newfields and Newmarket and see what changes June has brought to the area. Please see the April 17th trip for a full description. The trip is limited to 20 participants.
As the trip nears, please visit this website to sign up.

Birds & Butterflies of Pondicherry Wildlife Refuge field trip with the Seacoast Chapter
2026-06-20 08:00 - 10:00
Birds & Butterflies of Pondicherry Wildlife Refuge – Saturday, June 20th 8:00 am
Join Steve Mirick and explore the birds and butterflies (weather permitting!) of the refuge and adjacent areas. Be prepared for a long, but level walk and the possibility of biting insects. Meet at 8:00 AM at the trailhead for the Cherry Pond Trail at 289 Airport Road, Whitefield. Contact: Steve Mirick at smirick@comcast.net or 603-661- 7703. This trip will be limited to 20 participants.
As the trip nears, please visit this website to sign up.

Return to the Wild Exhibit
2026-07-08 11:00 - 17:00, 2026-07-09 11:00 - 17:00 | McLane Center, 84 Silk Farm Road, Concord, NH, 03301, United States
Return to the Wild Exhibit by Jackie Robidoux: July 8-August 29 at the McLane Center in Concord
Art exhibit viewing access may be restricted during private event rentals. Calling ahead to confirm is recommended.

Visit the McLane Center on July 15 from 4-6pm to celebrate Jackie’s photography exhibit with the artist and NH Audubon staff!
Exhibit Description: These images celebrate the wildlife that has found refuge at the Millstone Wildlife Center. Each animal, cared for with gentle hands, holds a special place in our hearts. Look into their eyes, and you’ll glimpse a connection beyond words. There’s a quiet, bittersweet ache in watching a healed creature return to the wild, relief in its freedom, and hope for its future. These animals remind us of the delicate balance of nature and the importance of coexisting with our wild neighbors, whose homes are often right in our own backyards.
A portion of this exhibit’s proceeds will support the vital conservation efforts of New Hampshire Audubon as well as the Millstone Wildlife Center, a nonprofit organization dedicated to rescuing, rehabilitating, and releasing injured and orphaned wildlife back into their natural habitats.

Bio: Jackie Robidoux has been a wildlife photographer for over twenty years. She dedicates her time to capturing the beauty and intricacies of wildlife through a camera lens while actively working to protect that wildlife and its habitat. She is also a licensed New Hampshire wildlife rehabilitator and educator. As a rehabber, she has gained hands-on experience, providing unique insights into animal behavior and ecology. She runs programs in Southern New Hampshire on animal tracking, practicing mindfulness in nature, photography, trail cameras, and wildlife conservation. Over the years, she has participated in studies in New England involving the Canada lynx, eastern coyote, bald eagle, and eastern bluebird. Her passion is educating others on the importance of coexisting with wildlife and connecting people to the natural world.

The Return of the Oystercatcher: Saving Birds to Save the Planet program with the Seacoast Chapter
2026-07-08 19:00 - 20:30
The Return of the Oystercatcher: Saving Birds to Save the Planet – Wednesday, July 8
At a time when the news for birds (for the planet!) has rarely seemed more grim, there is reason for hope. Despite the odds today, all around the world people are actually reviving bird populations, providing a roadmap for wider recovery. In his newest book, The Return of the Oystercatcher, best-selling author and researcher Scott Weidensaul shows why creating a world that works for birds will work for everything, including us. He’ll trace this inspiring arc from a tiny island off the Maine coast to the bird-rich Danube Delta on the Ukrainian border, and vulture restoration in the mountains of Bulgaria to across the world’s largest and most intact forest in Canada where Indigenous communities are permanently protecting hundreds of millions of acres of some of the most important migratory bird habitat on Earth. This is a dose of optimism we all need.
Bio: Scott Weidensaul is the author of nearly 30 books on natural history, including the Pulitzer Prize finalist Living on the Wind and his New York Times bestseller A World on the Wing. His latest book, Return of the Oystercatcher coming in April 2026, showcases what’s working for bird conservation around the world. Weidensaul is a contributing editor for Audubon magazine, a columnist for Bird Watcher’s Digest, and writes for a variety of other publications including the Cornell Ornithology Laboratory’s Living Bird publication. He is a Fellow of the American Ornithological Society and an active field researcher, studying Saw-whet Owl migration for 30 years, as well as winter hummingbirds in the East, bird migration in Alaska, and the winter movements of Snowy Owls through Project SNOWstorm, which he co-founded.
Contact: Dan Hubbard, 603 978-0218, danielhubbard@peoplepc.com

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.
