Green Stuff, Blue Stuff,
and Everything In-between
The Blackstone River Valley is packed with living things to watch, listen to, and sketch. You can compare wing shapes, follow a muddy track, or learn how a maple leaf changes through the seasons. Small habits at home still count too, like turning off lights you do not need, carrying out snack wrappers on a hike, and picking trails that match your group so nobody rushes past fragile plants.
When you head out with family or a scout group, bring a simple notebook, a pencil, and a camera or phone if an adult says it is okay. Jot what you saw, where you stood, and one question you still have. When you are ready, post highlights in the GearHead Gallery so other GearHeads can cheer you on.
As you Explore Nature and GO! on Adventures, try the scavenger hunt sheet or a leaf rubbing before you tackle the deeper guides below.
FIELD READY
Dress in layers you can peel off after you warm up, and tuck a rain shell in a pack even when the sky looks clear. Give yourself time on wide towpaths or riverfront parks so you are not racing sunset. If you collect leaves for rubbings, take extras only where rules allow, and press them flat between paper at home. When you spot wildlife, keep a respectful distance, stay quiet, and never feed animals from your lunch bag. Pair those habits with the Junior Rangers Keeping Our Park Clean ideas so every outing leaves the trail a little cleaner than you found it.
Nature Scavenger Hunt · My Leaf Rubbing
Wings, Stings, and Crawly Things:
Insects of the Blackstone River Valley
Prints and Poops:
Critters of the Blackstone River Valley
Out on a Limb:
Common Trees and Shrubs of the Blackstone River Valley (Coming Soon)