Some call them “creepy” and some call them “cool.” Either way, spiders are definitely interesting, and this workshop is designed to help you discover some the amazing attributes that make them so. We’ll have opportunities to distinguish the sexes of spiders, surely a skill you’ve long desired to acquire. Through our discussion and discovery you’ll gain a better understanding of the different types of webs spiders spin, including how and why they are spun. Their silk is symbolic of the many connections they make in nature, and we’ll have conversations about that too.

We’ll talk about identification of the most common species found around the home. Of course our time together will include a walk in the woods to search for and identify woodland species. Because many spiders tend to reach maturity in the fall, they make themselves a bit more available for study this time of year. Since we’ll be at Goodale State Park, we’ll reserve the right to get a bit distracted if we see something other than a spider that warrants discussion. However, we’ll try to keep it focused and certainly fun.

At the end of the day, you’ll be able to:

1.    Identify several species of spiders common in residential and woodland settings
2.    Describe basic aspects of spider natural history
3.    Appreciate the relationships between spiders and their environment
4.    Feel confident and equipped in moving forward into your own study of spiders

Where:  This training will take place at Goodale State Park, in the midlands and Sandhills Region of South Carolina.  Meet at Picnic Shelter #1, more detailed directions will be sent in advance of the class.  The website, which includes general directions, can be found by clicking here.

When:  September 10, 2026. We’ll meet at 9:00 AM, and conclude at 2:00 PM.

Who: This training is open to the public. No prior knowledge is required. Minimum age is 16. For SC Master Naturalists who have not taken a spider course, this event can count as Advanced Training and towards your statewide certification if you need a Sandhills component. Lunch will last thirty minutes, so depending on when we finish, this will count for approximately four and a half hours of training. If you are not a Master Naturalist, just come have fun with us.

This class will be taught by Austin Jenkins, who teaches and facilitates the popular Midlands Master Naturalist class for the South Carolina Wildlife Federation.  Jenkins teaches Natural History of South Carolina at USC Sumter.

IMPORTANT: Participants should be in good physical shape. We will be outdoors during the whole class, and it may be HOT. In addition, we will be on our feet most of the day.

Cost: The cost is $75.00 per person.

To ensure a quality experience for all, space is strictly limited to 20 participants. Classes fill quickly, register today! After registration, you will receive an email with lodging recommendations, directions, and any other details pertinent to the class.
Other Important Notes:

• Restrooms are available at the park.

• Participants should bring a bag lunch and water and be prepared for a day in the field.
  There is no rain date for this event. We will make every effort to hold it, even in a few rain showers. If we can’t make it happen due to weather or some other situation, we will refund your money.

• After registering you will receive important correspondence via email – if you change your email between now and then, make sure to notify us.

SCWF reserves the right to cancel any event, due to unforeseen circumstances, extreme weather, low registration, or guidance from local/state officials. Any cancellation by SCWF will result in a full refund for all registrants.