A Full and Vibrant Fall at Park 538
The JNDC community has enjoyed a full and exciting fall and winter season at Park 538, with three new programs added alongside our ongoing bird and nature walks. Each program brought new energy, new participants, and new opportunities to connect with nature and with one another.
Fall Family Bird & Nature Walk
We launched the season with a family bird and nature walk over Sukkot. Kids and adults explored the prairie and woodland trail using our new “Birds of Park 538” checklist. The program was a collaborative effort led by Chicago Bird Alliance volunteers and JNDC’s Adina Mayer, with binoculars for children generously provided by Walder Science. Participants enjoyed spotting fall birds and learning about the life cycle of native plants.
Fall Native Planting with the Chicago Park District
In partnership with the Chicago Park District, volunteers planted prairie favorites such as purple clover and little bluestem. Before planting, everyone took part in a short nature walk highlighting the ecological value of native plants. The new plot will bloom in the spring, and the community is already looking forward to seeing the results.
Mindful Birding for Women
JNDC held its second “Mindful Birding for Women” program in November, bringing women together for a peaceful morning of mindfulness and nature connection at Park 538. Participants took time to slow down, breathe, and enjoy the sights and sounds of fall birds. Feedback was overwhelmingly positive, and many requested that this become a regular offering.
Owl Prowl
Although the new Owl Prowl program had to be postponed due to rain, interest was extraordinary, with more than 30 registrations and strong community enthusiasm. JNDC and the Chicago Bird Alliance will reschedule the program for January and will include additional guides to accommodate the high turnout.
Park 538 continues to grow as a vibrant community resource, offering nature-based programs that welcome families, strengthen connections, and highlight the ecological richness of our neighborhood. We’re grateful to all who participated and look forward to more learning and exploration together.
