Wildflower Hike: Long Pond Ironworks, Join author, George Petty, for this moderate hike along a historical woods road built in the mid-nineteenth century. He will share his knowledge and experience in discovering spring wildflowers such as: anemones, bloodroot, hepaticas, fringed polygala, pink ladyslippers, spring beauties, trout lilies and pinkster. The hike will reach the summit of Big Beech Mountain, just over 1,200 feet high, the tallest peak in the Sterling Forest tract. Open ledges at the south end of the Big Beech Ridge offer year round views. All hikes carpool from Weis at 10:00 am or meet at the trailhead at 10:30 am. Heavy rain will postpone the hike to the next day, otherwise wear appropriate hiking footwear, dress in layers and bring plenty of water. The cost of this Wildflower hike is $8 per person, with a $3 discount for members of the New Jersey Audubon Society. Directions to the trailhead will be sent upon registration (if requested). Pre-registration is required as space is limited. To register mail your name, address, phone number, the number of participants and payment to: NJAS’ Weis Ecology Center, 150 Snake Den Road, Ringwood, NJ 07456. For more information, or to register with a credit card, contact the Weis Ecology Center office at (973) 835-2160 between 9 am and 4 pm, Wednesday through Sunday. Visit them online at www.njaudubon.org. New Jersey Audubon Society (NJAS) fosters environmental awareness and a conservation ethic; protects New Jersey's birds, animals, and plants (especially endangered and threatened species); and promotes the preservation of New Jersey's valuable natural habitats. NJAS is a privately supported, not-for-profit, statewide membership organization. Founded in 1897, it is one of the oldest independent Audubon societies. With more than 20,000 caring and committed members, NJAS is one of the largest and most effective conservation organizations in the state. Find the NJAS center nearest you by visiting www.njaudubon.org or by calling NJAS Headquarters at 908-204-8998. The Weis Ecology Center is one of nine staffed centers operated by the New Jersey Audubon Society Specializing in full-day and residential environmental education programs for schools, scouts and other youth and adult groups, Weis is also recognized for its popular public programs for adults, kids and families. The Weis Visitors Center, open during business hours, houses their turtle, snakes, seasonal exhibits and an NJAS Nature Store featuring field guides, bird feeders and accessories, kid stuff, regional trail maps and more.