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🍀🌱 March Spotlight: Full Worm Moon 🌑🐛
The Full Worm Moon on March 14 signals when the soil begins to thaw and earthworms emerge from their winter slumber. With the arrival of warmer weather, these wriggling creatures come to life, which means spring is just around the corner.
The activity of these earthworms plays a crucial role in maintaining soil health—by aerating the earth and helping to break down organic matter, worms improve soil structure and fertility, making it easier for plants to grow.
The Worm Moon also signals the return of migratory birds like robins, who eagerly arrive to feast on the newly-exposed worms, another wonderful sign of spring’s return. As these birds and other creatures begin their seasonal migrations, the cycle of life continues to unfold in our backyards, forests, and fields.
This time of year serves as a reminder that, beneath the surface, nature is quietly at work, with countless unseen processes that support all life on earth. As the soil warms and the earthworms awaken, we’re reminded of the importance of healthy soil and the delicate balance of nature that sustains life.
Look at the end of this newsletter for a fun activity to celebrate this event and bring the magic of the Worm Moon into your own home!
🐦 Photo: Catbird with a Worm Snack by Yumi Okamoto, submitted to the Maryland Department of Natural Resources Photo Contest.
🍀🌈 March Programs 🌿🌼
All Month Long - Spring Scavenger Hunt 🔎🌱🌼
Self-Guided Adventure Throughout the Park!
Spring is emerging in the park! From blooming wildflowers to returning birds and budding leaves, March is full of seasonal wonders to explore!
Pick up a Spring Scavenger Hunt card at the Park Office or download one from the park’s website, and see what signs of spring you can find this month during your adventures at Seneca Creek State Park!
March 2: Sugaring Off 🍁🥞
2:30 p.m. at the Nature Center
Back in January, we tapped a sugar maple and a black walnut tree—now it’s time to see the magic happen! Stop by to watch the sap being boiled down into delicious syrup and learn about more than 30 different trees that can be tapped. Plus, enjoy a sweet maple treat while you're here!
🔥 Photo: Boiling Sap from the 2018 Maple Syrup Festival at Cunningham Falls State Park, by Stephen Schatz via Maryland Department of Natural Resources.
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Wednesdays in March: Hike for Your Health 🥾🌿
3 p.m. at the Boat Center
Hiking is more than just a hobby—it’s a great way to boost your physical and mental health! Join our weekly hikes to explore nature, meet new people, and enjoy the many benefits of being outdoors. These easy hikes last about two hours, covering 2–3 miles following a different route each week.
✨Please dress for the weather, wear sturdy hiking shoes, and bring drinking water.
March 15: Lake Frank Eagle Nest Watch Hike 🦅🌲
10:30 a.m. at Meadowside Nature Center
5100 Meadowside Lane
🧭Find the hike location on Google Maps
Join us for a scenic 2.5-mile round-trip hike through this Montgomery County park, home to a bald eagle nest. Along the way, we may spot eagles, as well as an active beaver lodge.
👣 This hike follows a natural surface trail with some hills, so please dress appropriately for the weather and trail conditions. Bring binoculars for a closer look and water to stay hydrated. Please note that there are no restrooms at this location.
March 23: Try a New Trail System 👣🗺️
3 p.m. at the Schaeffer Farm Trailhead
14920 Schaeffer Road
🧭Find the hike location on Google Maps
Explore more than 11 miles of multi-use trails at Schaeffer Farm, a hidden gem within Seneca Creek State Park. Winter is the perfect time for hikers to enjoy these trails with fewer bicyclists around. This guided hike will cover about 3.5 miles of rolling terrain on natural surface trails.
Be sure to bring water, wear sturdy hiking shoes, and dress appropriately for the weather. Please note that there are no restrooms at this location.
📌Photo: Map detail of the Schaeffer Farm Trail System, click to view the full map.
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March 29: Birds of Gunner’s Lake 🦉🦅🦆
10:30 a.m. at the Southeast Corner of Gunner’s Lake
Parking along the roadway near the trailhead at 12150 Wisteria Drive
🧭 Find the hike location on Google Maps
Discover the incredible birdlife at Gunner’s Lake, a hidden gem in a residential community. This small lake is home to an extraordinary variety of birds—72 species have been reported this winter on eBird, including gadwall, wigeon, canvasbacks, redheads, and various woodpeckers. Enjoy an easy walk along the paved 1.3-mile sidewalk that circles the lake, perfect for birdwatchers of all levels.
Bring your binoculars to get the best views of these feathered visitors! Also be sure to pack water and dress appropriately for the weather.
Please note that there are no restroom facilities at this location.
🦢 Photo: American Wigeon spotted during last month's hike by Volunteer Ranger Bonnie Bell via the Friends of Seneca Creek State Park.
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🌱🐦🌞🌸🍃🌍🌈🐾🎨🍀🎒🌿
🧤 Activity: DIY Wormery (Earthworm Habitat) 🐛
Celebrate the Full Worm Moon by creating your very own wormery—a mini habitat where you can observe earthworms at work. This hands-on activity is a fun way to learn about the vital role worms play in enriching soil, particularly in gardens and farms. Worms help aerate the earth, improving soil structure, water drainage, and nutrient circulation, which allows plants to grow stronger. By watching these creatures in action, you'll understand why they’re called nature's gardeners!
Materials Needed:
🏠 A clear container (glass jar, plastic bottle, or aquarium)
🌱 Soil (preferably garden soil or dirt from your yard)
🌾 Sand (for drainage)
🍃 Leaves (for bedding material)
🐛 Earthworms (gathered from your yard or purchased)
💧 Water (to keep soil moist)
🥄 A spoon or small shovel for layering
Instructions:
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Prepare the container: Fill the bottom of the container with a layer of sand to allow for drainage.
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Add soil: Layer soil on top of the sand. The soil should be moist but not soaking wet.
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Add leaves: Place a layer of leaves on top of the soil. Worms love to feed on decaying plant matter.
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Introduce the worms: Gently place a few earthworms into the habitat and let them explore.
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Cover and observe: Add another layer of soil and leaves to cover the worms. Keep the soil moist, and check on them daily to see how they burrow and feed.
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Watch the magic: Over time, you’ll see how the worms tunnel through the soil, aerating and enriching it as they go.
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Return the worms: Once you’re done observing, make sure to return the worms to your garden or backyard. This allows them to continue their important work in improving soil health and supporting plant growth.
Creating a wormery is a simple yet fascinating way to learn about the crucial role worms play in maintaining a healthy ecosystem. As you watch them at work, you'll not only see how they help the soil but also gain a deeper appreciation for the natural processes that support life around us. Plus, it's a fun and educational way to welcome spring!
Photo: A close-up of a person’s hands cupping dark, rich soil with several earthworms wriggling through it, via Maryland Department of Natural Resources.
🐛🌍🌱🍂🌾🦋🍃🌿🔨🧤
Unless otherwise noted, events are held rain or shine, free and fun for all ages; donations are always welcome. Children under 10 must be accompanied by an adult.
Dress for the weather/activity, wear sunscreen and insect repellent, bring plenty of water and snacks, and remember to check for ticks.
Please email us or call 301-924-2127 for additional information or to register (recommended).
Save Our Pollinators!
Donate today to support butterfly and bumblebee
habitat and education in state parks!
Donations in any amount are a helpful way to make a difference. Thank you!
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 Annual Pass Available for Purchase
$75 for Marylanders; $100 for out-of-state visitors
Our annual State Park and Trail Passport grants unlimited day-use admission and boat launching at state parks, and a 10 percent discount on state-operated concessions and boat rentals.
To enhance convenience and value, this year's pass will arrive in a self-contained packet with a detachable hang-tag, and will be valid for a full year from the month of purchase.
Our network of state parks include more than 900 miles of trails for biking, hiking, and horseback riding, as well as unique water access and camping facilities.
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