About Ecology Walk to Perch at Appleton Farms

Join us for an unforgettable experience with Trustees ecology & agriculture specialists to dive into the world’s grassland birds, farming, & regenerative land management through the lens of Jean Shin’s art exhibit, Perch. Trustees’ farmers work to identify functional symbiosis between ecological conservation and production agriculture—two values which are often at odds with one another. During this talk, delve into the intersection of farming and ecology, the significance of the work being done at Appleton Farms and how two seemingly opposing worlds can live together. After the talk, venture out on a scenic hike to Jean Shin’s Perch exhibition where participants will engage with the art first hand. Discover how Jean’s sculptural pieces, crafted from decommissioned split-rail fences, salvaged copper, and American chestnut branches, provide vital structures for bobolinks, a threatened species of migrating songbirds.

Don’t miss this unique opportunity to connect with art, nature, and the ecology behind it all. Be sure to wear weather-appropriate clothing and sturdy shoes suitable for hiking in potentially muddy terrain. While the program is geared towards adults, art lovers and learners of all ages are welcome to attend, provided they can engage with a one-hour lecture. This hike is suitable for all skill levels, featuring gently hilly terrain and lasting approximately one hour.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) 

• Program Refunds/Cancellations: In the event that a program is cancelled due to severe weather, low enrollment, or other circumstances, we will notify you as soon as possible by email and issue you a full refund within 14 days of the cancellation. If you cannot attend a program as planned, contact appletonfarms@thetrustees.org at least 7 days prior to the start of the program to receive a full refund or transfer to another date/class. Refunds and/or class transfers will not be granted for registration cancellations placed fewer than 7 days before the start of the program. There are no refunds for missed classes. Appleton Farms reserves the right to change program locations, schedules, or instructors when necessary. 
• Where to park: When you arrive at the farm, go right at the fork at the Welcome House (towards Farmhouse, Education Farmyard, Camp & Offices) and park in the lot next to the white Farmhouse / Farm Offices. Overflow parking is located along the drive leading up to the farmhouse between the trees before you cross the 4-way bridge intersection. Please be mindful of roped off areas and no-parking signs.  The group will meet in the blue & grey carriage barn.
• Membership Lookup: Click here to find your membership number.
• Need to see an existing order? Click here to see your current orders.

• The Trustees reserves the right to photograph or video visitors and program participants for promotional use, and usage of its properties implies consent. See the full policy at thetrustees.org/photovideo
• Buy out a class/private events: Have a group that wants to take a class or program together? We have options to buy out our classes and/or create private events. Email appletonfarms@thetrustees.org for more information. 
• While you’re here: Don’t forget to visit the Farm Store open daily Tuesday- Sunday.

All are welcome!

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