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Nature Center & Programs
The Nature Center features live animals such as snakes, aquatic ecosystems, frogs and more. Walking trails are located behind the Nature Center and also on the lake-side of the park. The Nature Center offers many programs throughout the year for both children and adults. The playground and picnic areas are across the street from the Nature Center.
For more information, see the Nature Center facility page.
Park Naturalist Dr. Daniel Duran
Biography
Dr. Daniel P. Duran is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Environmental Science at Rowan University and Naturalist for Scotland Run Park. He has published research papers on new methods for species discovery, biodiversity science, and molecular phylogenetics.
Dr. Duran has described 12 new species of insects, previously unknown to science. He received a B.S. in Environmental Science from Stockton University in 1998, an M.S. in Entomology from University of Missouri in 2002, and a Ph.D. in Evolution and Ecology from Vanderbilt University in 2010. In between his degrees, he has also worked for the Natural History Museum, London, UK, and the Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute in Panama. Dr. Duran is a co-author of the book "A Field Guide to the Tiger Beetles of the United States and Canada, 2nd Edition."
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Educational Programs
Gloucester County Parks and Recreation offers educational lessons on various nature topics.
Link to page -
Fall Paddles
The Scotland Run Park Nature Center offers guided canoe and kayak tours. Come and explore beautiful Wilson Lake and the many wonders it has to offer. Both canoes and kayaks are available. In order to participate in the event you must be able to operate a canoe or a kayak. Due to the limited amount of boats registration is required. This program is free to the public
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Guided Trail Walks
Dr. Dan Duran leads nature walks in the spring and fall. Join us as we explore the trails around the Nature Center and discover all kinds of animals, including birds, frogs, insects and more. We will also explore the native plant vegetation of the park, and how all of these species fit into the larger ecosystem. This program is free to the public. Adults and children are welcome!
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Bi-Monthly Bird Walks
The Scotland Run Park Nature Center and the Gloucester County Nature Club host bird watches!
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Nature Tots
The Nature Tots Program is designed to create a space for children to experience nature in an exciting and interactive way!
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Adult Naturalist Program
Are you interested in learning more about our local wildlife and how you can help conserve biodiversity in your own yard? If so, join Rowan Professor and Park Naturalist Dr. Daniel Duran for the Adult Naturalist Program at Scotland Run Park. Programs are held in the fall from 9:30am - 11:30am every 2nd and 4th Thursday in September and October. Each session includes a presentation inside the Nature Center, as well as outdoor exploration (weather permitting). Pre-registration is required.
Link to page