Winter Wildlife Tracking on Snowshoes
Jan
25
10:30 AM10:30

Winter Wildlife Tracking on Snowshoes

  • Jack Creek Preserve Foundation (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

Winter Wildlife Tracking on Snowshoes

with Cedar Mathers-Winn

The world is a canvas, and animals track, chew, dig, and defecate their stories upon it daily. In this class, we will learn to identify tracks and other animal sign, and to interpret the behavior and even the mindset of the animals who have been there. We will start with an hour-long lecture on tracks and trails, then spend the rest of the session on snowshoes, exploring sign in the field. Dress warm, and come curious!

Please register below. Once you submit your registration, you will be redirected to submit payment and complete your registration.

DETAILS:

  • Date: January 25, 2025, 10:30AM to 3PM

  • Meet at Jack Creek Preserve’s Outdoor Education Center

  • Cost: $30 per person

  • For ages 12 and up

  • We will be snowshoeing approximately 2 miles and spending 2-3 hours outside in winter conditions

  • Bring your own lunch, water, snacks, and winter gear

  • Snowshoes will be provided, or you can bring your own

  • We are capping the event at 16 people, please register and pay to save your spot!

About the instructor, Cedar Mathers-Winn: Cedar is a naturalist, biologist, and educator based in Bozeman, MT. He has a Master’s degree in Ecology, and has studied animal behavior in deserts, rainforests, and mountains around the world. He has taught undergraduates, professional scientists, and the public in a great variety of topics in biology and natural history. His mission is to show how common subtleties of nature open up worlds of wildness – always there but hidden in plain sight. 

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CLASS FULL! Fall Wonders - Field Day
Oct
5
10:30 AM10:30

CLASS FULL! Fall Wonders - Field Day

  • Jack Creek Preserve Foundation (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

REGISTRATION FOR THIS CLASS IS CLOSED

Fall Wonders - Field Day
with Cedar Mathers-Winn

Fall at Jack Creek Preserve is truly magical! Come spend the day with us on Saturday, October 5th, 10:30am-3pm to explore the wonders of Fall!

Naturalist instruction by Cedar Mathers-Winn will open your eyes to the details of this season!

COURSE CONTENT:

Elk Rut

  • Learn about why elk bugle during this time of year

  • Understand the differences between ungulates and their behaviors during the rut

  • Listen for elk bugling on the Preserve!

Leaf Changes

  • Discover the logic behind the beauty of why leaves change color

  • Identify different tree species by observing their leaves

Migration

  • Learn about what species are beginning their migrations

  • Discover the intricacies behind mammal migration and autumn adjustments in behavior

  • Learn about how animals are preparing for winter

DETAILS:

  • Date: October 5th, 2024, 10:30AM to 3PM

  • Meet at Jack Creek Preserve’s Outdoor Education Center

  • Cost: $30 per person

  • We will be hiking up to 2 miles and spending 2-3 hours outside

  • Outdoor exploration will follow a classroom portion

  • Bring your own lunch, water, snacks, and hiking gear

About the instructor, Cedar Mathers-Winn: Cedar is a naturalist, biologist, and educator based in Bozeman, MT. He has a Master’s degree in Ecology, and has studied animal behavior in deserts, rainforests, and mountains around the world. He has taught undergraduates, professional scientists, and the public in a great variety of topics in biology and natural history. His mission is to show how common subtleties of nature open up worlds of wildness – always there but hidden in plain sight. 

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Women's Wilderness Weekend
Aug
31
to Sep 2

Women's Wilderness Weekend

  • Jack Creek Preserve Foundation (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

REGISTRATION IS CLOSED

Join us for a weekend of camaraderie and fun outdoor experiences to help you gain confidence in the outdoors and be safe on your adventures!

Instructors Jillian Acosta, MPH, RN, Dr. Maura Davenport, MD, will be focusing instruction on First Aid Certification and outdoor first aid skills during the first two days. Beginning the second day, Alex Stokman with Venery and JCPF staff will expand on wilderness survival techniques through an introduction to hunting concepts, conservation and ethics, shelter building, and skill application scenarios. Outside of instruction time participants will have opportunities to build community and try new recreational activities like archery and fly casting. Below are some of the topics that will be covered:

  • First Aid Certification with an emphasis on backcountry skills

  • Backcountry preparedness and shelter building

  • Bear awareness

  • Navigation skills

  • Hunting basics, regulations, and access

  • Firearms safety

  • Wildlife identification and behavior

  • Conservation and ethics

  • Hiking - scouting, tracking, and glassing

  • Building confidence and community in the outdoors

  • Inspiration, fun, adventure!

The program will be held at the Preserve’s Outdoor Education Center and most activities will be outside. We welcome participants 18 and over and of all fitness levels; hikes will be shorter with training stations along the way.

We are very grateful to our sponsors that make it possible to keep registration fees lower. Thank you!!

ABOUT THE INSTRUCTORS:

Jillian Acosta, MPH, RN
Jill is a Registered Nurse who has worked in emergency medicine for over 15 years, in places as diverse as post-Katrina New Orleans, Sub-Saharan Africa, and rural Montana. She is currently working as a Flight Nurse for Life Flight Network and as an instructor for the American Heart Association. She loves to travel and spend time outdoors, no matter the season, and is passionate about helping women feel comfortable adventuring in the wilderness.

Dr. Maura Davenport, MD
Maura is a Family Medicine Physician who has been working in medicine for over 20 years in a variety of capacities including EMS and search and rescue. She is currently working at Madison Valley Medical Center as a full spectrum family medicine doctor, chief of staff and medical director for the Madison Valley Ambulance Service. Her love of wilderness medicine combines her passion for medicine and love of the outdoors. Maura’s goal is to share her knowledge and skills with as many people as possible to ensure that people are safe and confident as they venture into the great outdoors.

Alex Stokman Founder of Venery
Alex is a Montana Master Hunter, an Artemis Ambassador for Montana, and a dedicated FWP Hunter Safety Instructor and Range Safety Officer. But Alex is more than just accolades; she's a mother of three who understands the importance of time for herself. For Alex, hunting is both a personal journey and a way to provide for her family. She values harvesting food from nature, from berries to deer and elk, finding deep satisfaction in nourishing her loved ones while minimizing waste. Alex's love for hunting goes beyond sustenance; it's about connecting with the Earth, embracing the elements, and rejuvenating her spirit.

Through Venery, Alex and her team empower women by teaching them the art, sport, and ethics of hunting. They create a welcoming community where women mentor and learn from each other, fostering self-reliance and sustainability. Together, they make hunting a powerful way to bring people closer and promote conservation.

You can learn about JCPF staff here: STAFF — Jack Creek Preserve Foundation

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Open Archery Day - 3D Course
Aug
24
9:00 AM09:00

Open Archery Day - 3D Course

Join us on August 24th from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM for an open archery day at our 16 station 3D archery course!

When: Saturday, August 24, 2024, 9:00AM to 3:00PM
Where: Jack Creek Preserve Foundation’s Outdoor Education Center (Directions)
What: All levels of archers are welcome! This will be just a fun shoot without training, instruction, or competition. Participants must bring their own bows and arrows. Restrooms are available. Participants should bring water, sunscreen, a hat, and bear spray. You are welcome to pack a lunch and make a day out of it, if you wish!

Please RSVP (by 10AM August 23) to reserve your spot:

Following your RSVP, we will confirm your attendance and will provide a road pass and directions.

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Green Drinks
Jul
20
3:30 PM15:30

Green Drinks

Join us Saturday, July 20th at 3:30pm for refreshments and discussion on conservation, community, and sustainability. Learn more about Jack Creek Preserve and what we do year round!

Some beverages (alcoholic and non-alcoholic) will be provided but you are encouraged to bring you own cup/glass to minimize waste!

This event will take place at our beautiful Outdoor Education Center located at 1206 Jack Creek Road. Click here for directions! Carpooling is encouraged.

Jack Creek Road is a private road. Click here to acquire a road pass for this event! The Gate Code (for Big Sky and Ennis sides) is 072024#

For more information on Bozeman Green Drinks click here!

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Summer Wonders - Field Day
Jul
20
10:30 AM10:30

Summer Wonders - Field Day

  • Jack Creek Preserve Foundation (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

Summer Wonders-Field Day
with Cedar Mathers-Winn

Enjoy a day in nature learning about and discovering the wonders of Summer! Learn about wildflowers, pollinators, and birdsong while spending time in the sunshine on Jack Creek Preserve. Naturalist instruction from Cedar Mathers-Winn will have your mind buzzing just like the bees! See summertime in the mountains like you never have before!

COURSE SKILLS:

Wildflowers

  • Discover the reasons for different flower shapes, colors and scents

  • Identify unknown wildflowers in the field

Pollinators

  • Discover the beauty & diversity of local pollinators

  • Learn what pollinators need to thrive

Birdsong

  • Learn about the sounds birds make, and why

  • Learn to identify local birds by song

  • Discover the intricacies of bird communication

Summer Wonders - Field Day
$30.00
Add To Cart

DETAILS:

  • Date: July 20, 2024, 10:30AM to 3PM

  • Meet at Jack Creek Preserve’s Outdoor Education Center

  • Cost: $30 per person

  • We will be hiking up to 2 miles and spending 2-3 hours outside

  • Outdoor exploration will follow a classroom portion

  • Bring your own lunch, water, snacks, and hiking gear

About the instructor, Cedar Mathers-Winn: Cedar is a naturalist, biologist, and educator based in Bozeman, MT. He has a Master’s degree in Ecology, and has studied animal behavior in deserts, rainforests, and mountains around the world. He has taught undergraduates, professional scientists, and the public in a great variety of topics in biology and natural history. His mission is to show how common subtleties of nature open up worlds of wildness – always there but hidden in plain sight. 

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Evening at the Preserve
Jul
16
7:00 PM19:00

Evening at the Preserve

Join Us at the Preserve For An Opportunity To Connect, Learn About Our Mission And Programs, And Converse About The Amazing Place We Get To Call Home!

Evening at the Preserve ($100/person)
$100.00
Add To Cart

Join us July 16th, 7-9 PM for a fun, casual, and unique outdoor evening at Jack Creek Preserve’s Outdoor Education Center. Tapas will be provided by Star Mountain Kitchen, fun drinks by Skye Darden, mixologist with Bottom’s Up, live music by Mike Haring, outdoor activities like axe throwing, and conversation about conservation!

Directions, access to the Preserve, and any other details will be provided after you RSVP and pay for your spot.

We look forward to spending some time with you!

Conveniently located between two sections of the Lee Metcalf Wilderness, the Preserve’s 4500 acres provide important wildlife habitat and boundless opportunities for engaging participants in an outdoor setting to accomplish our mission of conservation education.

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Wildlife Speaker Series: Wildlife, Montana, and Working Landscapes: From Research to Life Application
Jul
13
6:00 PM18:00

Wildlife Speaker Series: Wildlife, Montana, and Working Landscapes: From Research to Life Application

  • When: July 13, 2024

    • 6PM potluck dinner and Burnt Tree Brewing keg

      • Pulled pork sandwiches will be provided, please bring a side dish, salad, or dessert.

    • 7PM talk starts

  • What: Wildlife Speaker Series: Wildlife, Montana, and Working Landscapes: From Research to Life Application

  • Who: Dr. Jared Beaver, Assistant Professor and Extension Wildlife Specialist for Montana State University

  • Where: At Jack Creek Preserve Foundation’s Outdoor Education Center. DIRECTIONS

  • Access: The GATE CODE WILL BE 071324#. Parking is limited, carpooling is strongly encouraged!

Join us July 13th at 6 PM for a Wildlife Speaker Series talk on Wildlife, Montana, and Working Landscapes: From Research to Life Application. Arrive at 6PM for a potluck dinner (we will provide pulled pork sandwiches) and we will have a keg, thanks to Burnt Tree Brewing!

At 7 PM we will welcome Dr. Jared Beaver, Assistant Professor and Extension Wildlife Specialist for Montana State University who will cover various topics including the vital role of rural working lands for wildlife conservation; emerging technologies and wildlife conflict case uses; the importance of translating research into life applications; and wildlife management and your property.

The talk will start at 7 PM so please arrive a little early to grab a beer, some food, and snag a seat. The talk will last approximately 1 hour and there will be some time for questions.

About the Speaker:

Jared Beaver is an Assistant Professor and Extension Wildlife Specialist for Montana State University. He strives to blend wildlife research with applied management by identifying conservation opportunities that have direct relevance for private landowners and wildlife biologists responsible for conserving and managing wildlife. Much of his work has focused on population ecology and habitat management of large mammals, with a particular interest in the utilization of emerging technologies for improving wildlife monitoring methodology, habitat management efforts, and wildlife-livestock conflict mitigation. However, his program is continually looking for ways to develop partnerships and gain additional insight into broad multifaceted questions pertaining to improving wildlife management and conservation efforts on working landscapes. He is also co-founder and co-host of the Working Wild University podcast immerses the listener in the action with the people and wildlife of the American West while exploring the challenges and success of sharing and managing working landscapes that support both people and wildlife.

 

We are excited to have Burnt Tree Brewing beer at our event! Thank you Burnt Tree for your support and contribution!

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Wildflower Stroll 2024
Jul
13
3:00 PM15:00

Wildflower Stroll 2024

THIS EVENT IS NOW FULL!

WILDFLOWER STROLL

Join Kevin and Kaye Suzuki on July 13, 2024, for a wildflower stroll at the Preserve. The walk will start at 3 PM from the Outdoor Education Center and will wrap up at 5 PM. Please note this walk focuses on plant identification and information, it is not a hike.

  • When: July 13, 2024, 3:00 PM to 5:00PM

  • Where: Jack Creek Preserve Foundation’s Outdoor Education Center (Directions)

  • Access: A road pass will be provided

  • What to bring: Participants should come ready with snacks, water, a field guide if available, and layers for all kinds of weather.

At 6PM we will have a potluck dinner and at 7PM a Wildlife Speaker Series talk. You are welcome to stay for the evening!

Kevin Suzuki
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RAFFLE - 2024 Youth Deer Hunt
Jun
15
to Sep 6

RAFFLE - 2024 Youth Deer Hunt

SUPPORT OUR MISSION OF CONSERVATION EDUCATION

We are raffling off access to Jack Creek Preserve for a 2024 Youth (12-15) Deer Hunt! Only 150 tickets will be sold at $50 each, giving you excellent odds at winning access to the private 4500-acre property The winner will be drawn at 4PM on September 6, 2024.

PURCHASE: 2024 YOUTH DEER HUNT RAFFLE TICKET
$50.00
Quantity:
Add To Cart

MORE INFORMATION

What can I win?

  • One 2024 youth deer-only (either sex Mule or White-tailed deer) rifle hunt on Jack Creek Preserve’s 4500 acres (valued at $2,000).

  • You will be the only hunter on the property at that time.

  • Convenient access to the Taylor Hilgard & Spanish Peaks Units of the Lee Metcalf Wilderness.

  • Up to three non-hunting guests may accompany the hunter.

  • Use of two rustic log hunting cabins for your base camp (road conditions permitting).

  • A once in a lifetime experience in a scenic setting in southwest Montana!

Requirements:

  • The hunt is only October 17-18, 2024

  • Age 12-15

  • Must be a MT resident

  • Must have a general MT hunting license

  • Accompanied by a non-hunting adult at least 18 years of age

  • Transportation (4x4, high clearance vehicle)

  • Jack Creek Road pass (issued by JCPF)

How much do tickets cost? $50 each, maximum of 10 tickets per person. Eligible payments include debit cards online, cash, and check. (Make checks out to Jack Creek Preserve Foundation and mail to PO Box 3, Ennis, MT 59729).

How many tickets are sold? Only 150 tickets sold with a maximum of 10 tickets per person to increase your odds of winning!

What am I supporting? By purchasing a ticket, you are furthering conservation education for educators and youth. Funds will support our programs, including our Outdoor Skills Camps, inspiring the next generation of hunters and conservationists. Learn more here!

When will tickets be drawn? September 6, 2024, at 4PM.

What am I responsible for? This is an unguided hunt. You will be responsible for your own transportation, meals, and hunting licensing. Understand your state laws regarding raffle tickets. While the raffle ticket may be purchased by persons of any age, MT state hunting laws apply to the hunter.

Where can I learn more? For more information see our Youth Deer Hunt Info Sheet or email us at info@jackcreekpreserve.org. Come visit our booth at the Total Archery Challenge on June 14-16, 2024, to chat with us in person and purchase your ticket!

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2024 Total Archery Challenge - Big Sky
Jun
14
to Jun 16

2024 Total Archery Challenge - Big Sky

  • Total Archery Challenge: Big Sky Resort (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

Join us June 14, 15, and 16 in Big Sky, Montana a this year’s Total Archery Challenge! Stop by the booth to learn about the Jack Creek Preserve Foundation and our mission of conservation education. We will have educational and informational materials available, fundraiser raffle tickets, and will be doing drawings for prizes! Learn more about our raffle for a 2025 archery elk hunt.

For more information, email us at info@jackcreekpreserve.org.

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Volunteer Day
Jun
1
9:30 AM09:30

Volunteer Day

We need your help to get ready for our summer programs!

  • When: June 1, 9:30AM to 3:30PM

  • Where: Jack Creek Preserve Foundation’s Outdoor Education Center (Directions)

  • What: We will be setting up two 3D archery courses, an archery range, erecting 3 canvas tents, and getting the camp area ready.

  • What volunteers will need: Participants should wear sturdy shoes, field clothes that can get dirty, work gloves, water, sunscreen, hat, and you are welcome to bring your bows to stay and shoot after we set up the targets.

  • We will provide water, sandwiches, chips, and cookies for lunch!

NOTE: All volunteers must fill out an activities waiver before arriving to the Preserve. This is included in the RSVP Form. All drivers must fill out the road agreement to access the Preserve. This will be included in a confirmation email. 

Please RSVP by May 30th

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RAFFLE - 2025 Archery Elk Hunt SOLD OUT!!
Jun
1
to Oct 25

RAFFLE - 2025 Archery Elk Hunt SOLD OUT!!

SUPPORT OUR MISSION OF CONSERVATION EDUCATION

We are raffling off access to Jack Creek Preserve for an archery elk hunt for the 2025 season! Only 250 tickets will be sold at $50 each, giving you excellent odds at winning access to the private 4500-acre property The winner will be drawn as soon as all 250 tickets are sold or on the evening of October 25, 2024, during the Ennis Chamber of Commerce’s Hunters Feed event.

ADDITIONAL BIG TICKETS ITEMS

AVAIL 2200 Utility Day Hunting Pack $299 Value

Block Classic Archery Target $90 Value

Kenetrek Bridger High Hiker $335 Value

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What can I win? Access to the private 4500-acre Jack Creek Preserve for a 6-day archery elk hunt (valued at $8,000) in 2025, as the only hunter on the property at that time. You can have up to two non-hunting guests accompany you and will have access to two rustic cabins for your base camp. The Preserve also provides convenient access to the Lee Metcalf Wilderness. Additional big-ticket items for 2nd, 3rd, and 4th place winners thanks to our generous donors! The 2nd ticket drawn gets first pick of the additional big ticket items, 3rd gets the next pick, and 4th gets the remaining item.

How much do tickets cost? $50 each, maximum of 25 tickets per person. Eligible payments include debit cards online, cash, and check. (Make checks out to Jack Creek Preserve Foundation and mail to PO Box 3, Ennis, MT 59729).

How many tickets are sold? Only 250 tickets sold with a maximum of 25 tickets per person to increase your odds of winning!

What am I supporting? By purchasing a ticket, you are furthering conservation education for educators and youth. Learn more here!

When will tickets be drawn? On or before the evening of October 25, 2024.

What am I responsible for? You will be responsible for your own transportation, meals, and hunting licensing. Understand your state laws regarding raffle tickets. While the raffle ticket may be purchased by persons of any age, MT state hunting laws apply to the hunter.

Where can I learn more? For more information see our Archery Elk Hunt Info Sheet or email us at info@jackcreekpreserve.org. Come visit our booth at the Total Archery Challenge on June 14-16, 2024, to chat with us in person and purchase your ticket!

Photo credit: Tim Irwin

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Winter Wonders - Field Day
Mar
16
10:30 AM10:30

Winter Wonders - Field Day

  • Jack Creek Preserve Foundation (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

Winter Wonders - Field Day
with Cedar Mathers-Winn

  • What's actually happening during hibernation

  • How animals eat in a time of scarcity

  • How being social helps animals survive

  • The world under the snow!

The northern winter presents a challenge to all living things that call this place home. A persistent snowpack, punishing cold, and shorter days each provide challenges, but also opportunities. In this class, we will explore the surprising and fascinating ways our local plants and animals have adapted to survive, and even thrive, in this unforgiving time of year.

Winter Wonders - Field Day
$30.00
Quantity:
Add To Cart

DETAILS:

  • Date: March 16, 2024, 10:30AM to 3PM

  • Meet at Jack Creek Preserve’s Outdoor Education Center

  • Cost: $30 per person

  • For ages 12 and up

  • We will be snowshoeing up to 2 miles and spending 2-3 hours outside in winter conditions

  • Bring your own lunch, water, snacks, and winter gear

  • Snowshoes will be provided, or you can bring your own

  • We are capping the event at 16 people, please register and pay to save your spot!

About the instructor, Cedar Mathers-Winn: Cedar is a naturalist, biologist, and educator based in Bozeman, MT. He has a Master’s degree in Ecology, and has studied animal behavior in deserts, rainforests, and mountains around the world. He has taught undergraduates, professional scientists, and the public in a great variety of topics in biology and natural history. His mission is to show how common subtleties of nature open up worlds of wildness – always there but hidden in plain sight. 

Photo credit: Christy Howard, Cedar Mathers-Winn, and Abi King

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Wildlife Tracking in a Winter Wonderland - Class is Full!
Feb
24
11:00 AM11:00

Wildlife Tracking in a Winter Wonderland - Class is Full!

  • Jack Creek Preserve Foundation (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

Wildlife Tracking in a winter wonderland

with Cedar Mathers-Winn

The world is a canvas, and animals track, chew, dig, and defecate their stories upon it daily. In this class, we will learn to identify tracks and other animal sign, and to interpret the behavior and even the mindset of the animals who have been there. We will start with an hour-long lecture on tracks and trails, then spend the rest of the session on snowshoes, exploring sign in the field. Dress warm, and come curious!

DETAILS:

  • Date: February 24, 2024, 11AM to 3PM

  • Meet at Jack Creek Preserve’s Outdoor Education Center

  • Cost: $30 per person

  • For ages 12 and up

  • We will be snowshoeing approximately 2 miles and spending 2-3 hours outside in winter conditions

  • Bring your own lunch, water, snacks, and winter gear

  • Snowshoes will be provided, or you can bring your own

  • We are capping the event at 16 people, please register and pay to save your spot!

BOTH 1/10 AND 1/24 WINTER WILDLIFE tRACKING CLASSES ARE FULL. pLEASE CHECK BACK FOR OTHER EVENTS!

About the instructor, Cedar Mathers-Winn: Cedar is a naturalist, biologist, and educator based in Bozeman, MT. He has a Master’s degree in Ecology, and has studied animal behavior in deserts, rainforests, and mountains around the world. He has taught undergraduates, professional scientists, and the public in a great variety of topics in biology and natural history. His mission is to show how common subtleties of nature open up worlds of wildness – always there but hidden in plain sight. 

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