‘A Day in the Woods’ reemerges at Gaskins Forest Education Center (photos)

Browse 30 fantastic photos and learn all you need to know about “A Day in the Woods,” an annual, family friendly, entirely free event sponsored by the Gaskins Forest Education Center, a conservation reserve nestled on nearly five thousand acres of pine trees near the Alapaha River in South Georgia. In the accompanying photo a drone flown by Babe McGowan takes complete precedence for kids, despite young Finn Tucker scratching his nose, on Saturday afternoon, April 22, 2017, at the center. Photography by Wenda G. Bailey / Berrien.SmugMug.com

The Gaskins Forest Education Center, a spectacular privately owned conservation reserve nestled on nearly five thousand acres of pine trees bordering the 202-mile-long Alapaha River, unleashes a well-attended, annual community event in April on the third Saturday.

“A Day in the Woods” is free for people of all ages in the rural South Georgia city of Alapaha, pronounced uh-lap-uh-haw. Most forest and wildlife activities will be ongoing, and folks can come and go at their leisure. Samples of game meat — deer and hog — will be provided, but participants must bring a picnic lunch or potluck for sharing. Some activities are in the woods, so closed shoes are recommended.

The main event will take place outdoors from 1–5 p.m. Local people will share their craftsmanship and knowledge of local traditions. Demonstrations and activities related to forests, wildlife, crafts, and traditions will occur throughout the afternoon.

Guided nature walks will include natural communities, wildlife habitat, and birding. Activities designed for children include animal footprints, leaf prints, pine-cone bird feeder, and casting with a fishing pole.

Forestry activities will include measuring trees [Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College Forestry Club], fire behavior…