Conservation Days

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A free annual event series presented by Outdoor Murfreesboro’s Natural Resource Division in support of our Conservation in Action initiative. 

May 6-11, 2024

Theme: Nurturing Nature:

Exploring the many ways in which connecting with nature nurtures us physically and emotionally - and many ways in which we can nurture our shared natural spaces and systems through sound stewardship. Hikes, activities, and information geared towards ages 10 and up. 

Want to help with Conservation Days? Contact us!
Read about past years' events: 2023, 2022


Weekday Activities: May 6-10

Ranger on one knee showing flower to group of hikers along a forest path in spring Opens in new windowA smorgasbord of naturalist-led hikes and stewardship activities held at various times and places in and around Murfreesboro. Choose your own adventure! Hear first-hand from natural resource professionals about their work, experience new ways of connecting with nature, explore local environmental issues, and discover citizen science projects and volunteer stewardship opportunities in and around Murfreesboro. Sign up for one or do them all!

Click on a title below for details.

People in coats and hats looking at small yellow flowers in wet, rocky opening - early spring Opens in new windowTake a hike with an expert and learn about the plants and animals in your choice of several different local ecosystems. Group size is limited, and pre-registration required. There will be naturalist-led walks on Saturday, too! (See the Expo section.)

Can't wait? Check out our ongoing stewardship opportunities!


Conservation in Action Expo: Saturday, May 11

People behind a display table with literature. Under a tent in a park. Opens in new window9 am - 3 pm  at the Wilderness Station, Barfield Crescent Park 
Conservation Expo activities are led by naturalists, professional natural resource managers, and other knowledgeable folks who will share their expertise with you. Check out the native plant sale, exhibits by natural resource organizations, presentations, hands-on workshops, and naturalist-led hikes. Or enjoy self-guided hikes, the Wilderness Station Nature Center & Gift Shop, and the Nature Play Area

Click on a title below for details.

Potted plants on and in front of tables outdoorsMIPP LOGO9 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. Come early for the best selection! Pick up purchased plants by 2:30 pm.

Purchase locally-native (indigenous) plants to enhance your landscaping and support backyard wildlife, then park them in our plant corral while you take part in Conservation Days activities. (Be sure to take a Native Garden tour during the day for more inspiration!)

Learn more about MIPP, the Murfreesboro Indigenous Plant Project


Participating Organizations

Many thanks to the organizations, businesses, and individuals who pitch in to bring so much depth and substance to Conservation Days on top of their own projects and initiatives! These are the folks who work every day to better understand and care for Middle Tennessee's rich natural heritage and the businesses that provide products that allow individuals to do the same. Visit with them during the Conservation in Action Expo on Saturday of Conservation Days: Learn about their projects and products, find volunteer opportunities and other ways to support their efforts, and delve into ways in which you can contribute to the health of our local natural areas and systems as an independent natural resource steward.

Conservation Days is presented by Outdoor Murfreesboro’s Natural Resource Division in support of our Conservation in Action initiative.