Edible Weeds And Incredible Snakes

SOUTHBURY — Discover that “hidden salad” in you backyard and meet a scaly critter or two at Southford Falls State Park, on Route 188 at the Southbury-Oxford line. Programs will be offered at the park every Sunday at 11 am through August 19, sponsored by State of Connecticut Department of Environmental Protection.

On Sunday, July 15, at 11 am, participants can discover which plants in the yard are edible. Sue Quincy, formerly of Flanders Nature Center in Woodbury and now of DEP’s Kellogg Environmental Center in Seymour, will discuss which “weeds” can be turned into dinner.

Live snakes and turtles will be visiting on Sunday, July 22, at 11 am. Staff from Meigs Point Nature Center at Hammonasset Beach State Park in Madison will present “Radical Reptiles” to park visitors. Participants will not only learn about the different types of snakes and turtles in Connecticut, but they will meet a few too.

Both programs are part of Kettletown State Park’s 45th birthday celebration. All participants will receive coupons that can be redeemed for prizes during the Southbury park’s Birthday Bash on July 28, featuring live hawks and owls with Wind Over Wings.

For more information or to receive a complete schedule of events, contact Kettletown Park Interpreter Lisa Monachelli at 203-264-5678 or 203-264-5169. Programs can also be accessed via the Web at dep.state.ct.us/calendar/calendar.htm.