From gathering syrup and observing woodpeckers to creating dream catchers, a variety of programs will be held this spring at Schmeeckle Reserve at the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point.

Open to the public free of charge, the workshops are led by UWSP students and are held at the Schmeeckle Reserve Visitor Center, located on North Point Drive near the Michigan Avenue intersection. For more information or to register, call the Schmeeckle Reserve Office at (715) 346-4992.

On Sunday, March 4, from 2-3 p.m., explore the trees of Schmeeckle while learning how Native Americans and pioneers created tasty natural treats such as syrup.

Tap into the unique behaviors of woodpeckers on Tuesday, March 6, from 5:30 - 6:30 p.m.

Discover the fascinating habits of the woodcock on Monday, March 26, from 6:30-7:30 p.m. During this event, experience the biological wonders of the woodcock�s acrobatic mating ritual.

Explore the history and beauty of the dream catcher on Thursday, March 29, from 6:30-7:30 p.m. During this demonstration there will be an opportunity to decorate dream catchers. There is a $2 fee and it is recommended to call and reserve a seat for this workshop.

On Saturday, March 31, from 2-3 p.m., investigate the sly tactics of the opossum, and learn how Wisconsin�s only marsupial survives in the wild by playing dead.

Schmeeckle Reserve is a 265-acre nature preserve on the UWSP campus. Its Visitors Center Browse Shop has gifts for all ages, including a wide variety of nature books and field guides. It is open 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., seven days a week. More information is on the Web at www.uwsp.edu/cnr/schmeeckle.