NHFS
Natural History Field Studies
A unique continuing education program for adults providing a comprehensive and stimulating view of our region’s natural history and conservation issues.
Open to learners 18 years or older, environmental professionals or beginners alike.
Course offerings for Winter 2027
Winter is the perfect time to locate and observe waterfowl
Learn about the strategies birds use to survive cold weather, how to attract overwintering birds to your yard, where to look for winter birds, and the essential connection between waterfowl and the Chesapeake Bay.
Class lectures will be via Zoom, with one in-person field trip.
Explore how humans affect ecosystems
You’ll gain an anthropological perspective on the relationship between culture and the environmen by exploring human adaptations to various environmental conditions, as well as the cultural, economic and political factors that influence natural resource management.
Class lectures will be delivered via Zoom, with two in-person field trips.
You will feel awe as you bask in the starlight of the night sky
This introduction to astronomy will emphasize an appreciation of Earth’s relationship to the universe. You’ll delve into topics like the celestial sphere, celestial navigation, motions of the Sun, Moon, planets, and stars, telescopes, timekeeping, phases, and motions of the Moon, tides, eclipses, and more.
Class lectures will be via Zoom, with one in-person field trip.
What students say about Natural History Field Studies
I am incredibly grateful for the opportunity to take classes in the NHFS program. Most environmental education is aimed at children and youth. Because nature programming wasn’t a part of my suburban childhood (and I might not have cared about it or retained it in any case) I am thrilled to be able to learn about natural history as an adult – ‘when the student is ready, the teacher appears.’ Thanks to the Nature Forward, natural history is becoming a passion.
R. Gray, NHFS Student
All admission, enrollment, and program fees support Nature Forward’s non-profit mission work to inspire residents of the greater Washington, DC region to appreciate, understand, and protect their natural environment through outdoor experiences, education, and advocacy.