Events & Programs

Picture of Red Lake Preserve announcing photo contest

Seasons in the Wild: A Year-Long Nature Photo Contest

January 1 - December 31

We’re excited to launch a new year-long challenge that invites you to explore the stunning preserves of the Indian River Lakes Conservancy and capture the beauty of nature throughout the seasons. Whether you’re hiking, birdwatching, or simply soaking in the scenery, we want to see your experiences through your lens! Duration: January 1, 2025 –…

Learn More »
WHIRL students with a fish

Project WHIRL

July 7 - July 23

Project WHIRL is a unique summer program for teens ages 13-18 that combines outdoor adventure with real-world environmental science. Participants explore local lakes, wetlands, and forests while learning about conservation, water quality, and ecology through hands-on fieldwork and activities. It’s a fun and empowering way for young people to connect with nature, build skills, and…

Learn More »
Girl at Kids Camp does a wood craft

Elizabeth May Duvall Foundation Nature Grows Kids Camp

July 15 - July 17
Redwood Hill Preserve

Nature camp kicks off tomorrow! We are so excited to see all our campers. We are aware of the air quality and will be making a call by 7:30 AM tomorrow. Currently the conditions show the air quality will be shaping up for tomorrow July 15, 2025. As for now camp is a GO! If…

Learn More »
people gathering at a pickleball court

IRLC’s Nature on the Courts: Beginner Pickleball Clinic

July 15 - July 16
Mills Park

Enjoy the outdoors by learning to play the fastest growing sport, pickleball – where camaraderie and competition join forces.  Under the guidance of a certified instructor, this three hour fundamentals clinic will cover basic rules, serving and returning techniques, a few strokes and footwork. Once we tackle the basics, we will enjoy fun match play and…

Learn More »

“Color Our World” Story Walk

July 15 - August 21
Baker Woods Preserve

As part of the 2025 Summer Reading Program, Carthage Free Library invites families to experience the “Color Our World” Story Walk at Baker Woods Preserve. This year’s theme celebrates color in art and nature, inspiring creativity and exploration through reading and the outdoors. From July 8 through August 14, visitors can enjoy a self-guided Story…

Learn More »
Sunset on a lake in the fall

Celebration of the Lakes

August 3
2:00 pm
- 5:00 pm
Thousand Islands Winery

Join us for our annual Celebration of the Lakes fundraiser. This year’s Celebration of the Lakes promises great food by 24 Carrot Catering, local wine from Thousand Islands Winery, live music, and an exciting live/silent auction(s) featuring one-of-a-kind experiences and locally crafted treasures—all in support of IRLC. As a special thank-you, all Celebration of the…

Learn More »
eagle perched in tree

King or Queen of the Eighteen: IRLC Inter-Lake Pickleball Challenge

August 9

Get ready for a little friendly competition! Date: Saturday, August 9 Time: 8:30 AM Start Location TBD (Gouverneur or Alexandria Bay) We’re excited to announce the King or Queen of the Eighteen: IRLC Inter-Lake Pickleball Challenge – a spirited round-robin tournament where pride (and bragging rights) are on the line for each of our 18…

Learn More »