Hidden Valley Nature Center (HVNC) in Jefferson is known for its woods; 1,000 acres of forest serve as the nature center’s classroom, playground and woodlot. HVNC’s programs feature many different ways that we can appreciate and benefit from forests. Coming up are two great workshops that will highlight the wonders of wood.

Learn the art of Spoon Carving on Saturdays, Aug. 1 and 8, 8 a.m. to noon. The hands-on, two part workshop will introduce students to the tools and the practice of carving. Students will learn from woodworker and educator, Kenneth Kortemeier of The Bristol Folk School who has been carving and teaching spoon carving since 1996. This class is for beginners and experienced wood carvers. All tools and materials (from locally harvested birch) will be provided. Several varieties of spoon carving techniques will be demonstrated. This is a great way to learn a traditional craft and develop woodworking knowledge, hand-tool use and carving skills. Cost: $65 for members, $75 for non-members.

On Saturday, Sept. 12, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., join Wanda Garland for a Basket Making Workshop. Students will learn to make a gathering basket. Gathering baskets are shallow baskets intended for collecting. They make the perfect mushroom foraging basket, but are also useful at home and in the garden. Most tools and materials are provided. This class is appropriate for beginners and experienced basket makers alike. Cost: $75 for members, $85 for non-members.

For more details about either class, or to register online please visit www.hvnc.org/registration. Pre-registration for both classes is required. Please also note that for the time being members of the Damariscotta Lake Watershed Assoc., Sheepscot Valley Conservation Assoc., Pemaquid Watershed Assoc., and the Sheepscot Wellspring Land Alliance are entitled to HVNC membership discounts.

For more information about HVNC’s events, or to find out how you can support HVNC visit www.hvnc.org, write to info@hvnc.org, or call 207-200-8840.