The Myths & Truths About Eastern Coyotes
Whether you have seen them or not, coyotes are all around us.
Once restricted to the American southwest and parts of Mexico, coyotes can now be found in every US state and territory except Hawaii. Coyotes thrive in deserts, icy northern woodlands, and even the tropical forests of Central America. Perhaps even more impressively, these fascinating animals have found a home in the heart of many of our largest cities, including LA, Chicago, New York, and Philadelphia.
At the same time, coyotes are the most hunted predator animal in North America. So how did we get here? How did one of the most hated animals in the US become so successful in the face of 100 years of attempted eradication? And how did we as a society come to the conclusion that they should be eradicated in the first place?
To answer these questions, Horn Farm student intern, Tess Wilson, is offering a unique presentation and community conversation on the history and biology of the eastern coyote. Based on her research at the College of the Atlantic, Tess will share the history of human and coyote interaction, starting with Native American mythology and branching out into European stories about wolves. We will discuss how these ancient stories have shaped our modern understanding of the coyote.
Tess will also explore the coyote itself; its biology, its natural history, and its role in the ecosystem. We will also attempt to dispel some common misconceptions regarding coyotes and suggest some ways our two species can better co-exist.
Please join us for the “Myths & Truths About Eastern Coyotes.” We offering 2 different formats for this program:
- Virtual Presentation (online): July 21st, 2021 6:00 PM -7:30 PM
- In-Person at the Farm: July 24th, 2021 10:00 AM -11:30 AM
Admission is free. However, registration is required for both events.
Congrats to the Class of 2021!
Last week we wrapped up our inaugural Land Steward Training program. On their last day at the farm, students reflected on what they learned and revisited the projects they completed during their 16 weeks of training. From restoring damaged ecosystems to food production, the graduates of 2021 learned how to reintegrate into the landscape in a way that supports a healthy human lifestyle.
We are so proud of the community of learning and support that this dynamic group of individuals created in such a short time. It was a bittersweet goodbye but we look forward to seeing the impact these new land stewards will make in their own communities. Cheers to the Class of 2021!
Garden Spaces Open – Late Season Discount!
Due to an unexpected vacancy, we now have 4 garden plots available for rent in the Horn Farm Center’s Community Garden. Since we are already halfway though the season, we are offering these plots at a discounted price of 40% off!
- 1 plot: $33
- 2 plots: $54
- 3 plots: $75
- 4 plots: $96
If you have dreams of planting for the fall and are interested in joining our gardens this year, please contact us as soon as possible at education@hornfarmcenter.org.
Take a Walk on the Farm
Thanks to Horn Farm student intern, Tess Wilson, we have a new and improved visitor map of the Horn Farm. The hand-drawn map denotes significant features in the Horn Farm Center landscape and regenerative farming operations. We hope to expand this map in the future to include a self-guided educational tour.
Looking to get outside this weekend? Stop by and explore what regenerative looks like at the Horn Farm!
Nearly 7,000 trees planted, 3,000 more to go this fall.
Our tree planting marathon ended with a sizzle instead of bang this spring. As temperatures surpassed 90 degrees we put away our tree planting shovels. We are taking a break for the summer months and will finish what we started later this year.
We thank ALL of our volunteers who have come out week after week, rain or shine, to make a huge impact on the health of our local waterways! To date we have had over 100 volunteers help us with planting trees this year. Collectively these hardworking volunteers have planted nearly 7,000 trees!
Help us reach our goal to plant 10,000 trees this year starting in October. We have a few volunteer dates scheduled already. We hope to see you at the farm this fall!
Save the Date: Pawpaw Festival at the Horn Farm Center
Mark your calendars for the 17th Annual York County Pawpaw Festival at the Horn Farm Center! Join us on September 18 & 19, 2021 for an outdoor, family-friendly festival celebrating York County’s beloved pawpaw – the largest edible fruit native to the Eastern United States that grows in abundance in the Susquehanna River region.
- Rain or Shine. Free Admission. $5.00 Tasting Fee
- Pawpaw fruit and trees available for purchase.
- Proceeds support local regenerative agriculture practices and education programs at the Horn Farm Center.
Click here for more information!
UPDATED: Horn Farm Center Health and Safety Policy
The Horn Farm Center is offering on-site educational programming with some modifications due to COVID-19. Multiple hand sanitizer stations are available. We will adjust as needed as time passes and things change.
In order to ensure the health and safety of our visitors, volunteers and staff, participant expectations are as follows:
- Participants are required to bring a mask and wear it when indoors, unless you are fully vaccinated.
- Do not attend if sick or recovering.