Friends of Valley Falls Offering Nature Walks, New Heritage Center

VERNON, CT — The Friends of Valley Falls have slated several events for May and June, including two nature walks and the grand opening of a new Heritage Center.

All events are free and everyone is invited.

A Wildflower Walk is on tap for May 28 at 10 a.m. at Valley Falls Park. Wildflower enthusiast Carol Hatch will lead the walk and help identify the large variety of spring flowers found in the park.

A Tree Walk with Nicholas Cranmer is scheduled for June 3 at 10 a.m. at Valley Falls Park. Canner, a Master of Science student at the University of Connecticut/Natural Resources and the Environment, will identify and talk about the variety of trees in the park.

For both nature walks, visitors can meet at the Park Pavilion.

Valley Falls Park is located at 300 Valley Falls Road, Vernon.

A Grand Opening for the new Heritage Center at Valley Falls Farm is slated for 1 to 4 p.m. on June 10.

The Heritage Center is part of a seven-acre farm that is often called the most scenic spot in Vernon.

Visitors will be able to tour the historic stable, dairy barn, root cellar and three additional unique buildings. Most items on display in museum are original to the property.

Interpretive information panels, tools and household items tell the story of the farm, its former owners and the Valley Falls area. Valley Falls Farm is located at 345 Valley Falls Road, Vernon. Parking for the Heritage Center is at the red dairy barn or at Valley Falls Park and walk the short trail to the barn.

Founded in 1972, the Friends of Valley Falls, Inc. is a non-profit organization dedicated to preserving history and nature. For membership information or a full list of events, visit www.friendsofvalleyfalls.org. You can also join our Facebook page: The Friends of Valley Falls, Inc Vernon CT.