New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC), in partnership with Friends of Reinstein Woods, invites the public to celebrate “Winter Wonderland in the Woods” on Saturday, February 11 from 12 p.m. to 4 p.m. at Reinstein Woods Nature Preserve in the town of Cheektowaga, Erie County.

Visitors can discover a variety of outdoor pursuits during the event. Ice-fishing demonstrations will take place throughout the afternoon and visitors will be able to try snowshoes and cross-county skis in a demonstration area (weather permitting). Snowshoe rentals will also be available for those who wish to explore the trails of the preserve.

Children will be able to try snowshoeing regardless of the weather and enjoy winter challenges including a snowball target toss and Wildlife Spotters Challenge trail. Kids can also express their creative side in the snow art area and make crafts indoors.

The Niagara Frontier Search and Rescue Team will be on hand to talk about winter rescue and will provide a compass navigation course for participants looking to test their navigation skills. The DEC Forest Rangers will demonstrate flat ice rescue techniques and DEC’s Environmental Conservation Officers will exhibit confiscated furs and discuss illegal hunting. Visitors can learn about the late-winter activity of maple sugaring with Earth Spirit Education Services.  

After enjoying outdoor activities at the “Winter Wonderland in the Woods,” families can warm up inside the education center with hot drinks and snacks sold by Friends of Reinstein Woods. The SPCA Wildlife Department will present informative talks on wild animal rehabilitation at 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. There will be door prizes, costumed characters, exhibits and more.

Visitors can bring used alkaline batteries for recycling by the Coalition for Positively Charged People and Friends of Reinstein Woods. The event happens regardless of snow conditions, and additional activities like the Winter Wildlife Olympics will be added in case of warm weather.

Registration is not required for this event. There is no entry fee, but donations to Friends of Reinstein Woods are always welcome. Reinstein Woods Nature Preserve is located at 93 Honorine Drive, off of Como Park Boulevard in Cheektowaga. For more information, contact Reinstein Woods at 683-5959, or visit www.reinsteinwoods.org and search for “Winter Wonderland.”