A father and daughter decorate a pine cone together on Dec. 10 at Make and Take, an initiative that offered families the hands-on experience of making crafts from pine cones.
The county board of commissioners and the Camden County Certified Gardeners hosted a group of families on Dec. 10 for Make and Take, a chance to learn about conifers and create pine cone crafts.
Held at the Camden County Sustainability Center in Blackwood, the event focused on both instruction and hands-on activities.
“It was a wonderful day for family fun, and we’re thrilled so many could join us,” said Commissioner Jonathan Young, liaison to the Office of Sustainability. “Bringing the community together to explore nature and sustainability while making lasting memories is what these events are all about.”
The Certified Gardeners kicked off Make and Take by leading a discussion about conifers, their ecological significance and the types of cones they produce. A conifer is a tree that bears cones and needle-like or scale-like leaves that are typically evergreen.
Attendees at Make and Take learned the science behind the conifers and their role in supporting wildlife and ecosystems. The also got the opportunity to ask questions and interact with the Certified Gardeners, who explained how conifers contribute to a sustainable environment.
After the educational session, the families rolled up their sleeves and got creative with pine cones. The hands-on workshop included making decorative ornaments and bird feeders from the cones for a piece of nature-inspired art made with materials like ribbons, paint, bird seed and string.
The event cost each family $15; proceeds will fund future workshops and initiatives by the Certified Gardeners and the Office of Sustainability. For more information about upcoming events, visit the latter’s website at www.camdencounty.com.
