Here is a feature article from the Winter, 2007 Issue

Head into the woods!

If you’re suffering from cabin fever this winter, visit the Macon Museum of Arts and Sciences before April 22 and hike through the museum’s Focus on Forestry exhibit.

The museum has teamed up with the Georgia Forestry Commission, Georgia Forestry Association, and other industry sponsors to create an exhibit highlighting Georgia’s forestry industry. Nature lovers can test their ability to identify trees using real bark, seeds and leaves. Computer lovers can learn about Georgia’s forests using an interactive computer video encased in a log. History buffs will enjoy the display of antique turpentine tools and historical photos.

“We wanted visitors to walk into the exhibit and experience the feeling of walking into a forest,” exhibit curator Nikki Price said, describing the real tree trunks that greet visitors at the exhibit entrance. “So many people don’t enjoy the outdoors, but hopefully we’ll change that and help them come to enjoy the outdoors.

The exhibit also educates visitors about how forestry professionals maintain timber stands to provide habitats for wildlife and people. An interactive map of Georgia explains the different types of trees found in each forestry region of the state. A life-size Smokey Bear stands guard over a display that explains how to prevent accidental forest fires and how controlled burns are beneficial to forests. Ever wondered what a pinebeetle looks like? Specimens are on view under a microscope.

Outside, take time to walk the museum’s Sweet Gum Trail where you’ll see native plants and trees, a pond, and the historic Kingfisher Cabin, the historic writing retreat of Georgia author Henry Stillwell Edward. Be on the lookout for birds and squirrels!

The museum will host Family Forestry Day on Saturday, March 3, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Activities will include a tree care workshop. Tree surgeons will give demonstrations, and children can make homemade paper and explore interactive games in the Georgia Forest Forever Mobile Classroom. Smokey Bear will also be on hand.

The Museum, located at 4182 Forsyth Rd. in Macon, Georgia, is open Mon. – Sat. from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Sun. from 1 to 5 p.m., and the last Friday of the month from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. For more information visit www.masmacon.com or call 478-477-3232. Admission to Forestry Day and all of the exhibitions are included in general admission which is: adults $8, seniors $6, students $5, and children under 12 $4. Infants and museum members are free.

Your ticket also includes a trip through space in the Mark Smith Planetarium, a world of discovery in the Discovery House, and a view of exotic animals in the Mini-Zoo.