Friends of Hashawha Bear Branch was started in 2021. Our mission is to improve the parks and the park experience by supporting the nature center, assisting with programs and offering new events, improving the park through gardening and invasive plant removal, and raising funds to support animal care and other programming needs.

Events run or supported by FHBB include the Maple Festival in early March, Adult Easter Egg Hunt, Monarch Festival in early fall, Run for the Raptors in the fall, and the Duck Hunt (rubber ducks) in late fall. FHBB volunteers also offer additional programming throughout the year.

Projects include Adopt a Garden and other gardening work days. FHBB partner organization MTBMD, a local mountain biking group, helps maintain safe, clear trails at Hashawha and connected Union Mills. 

Funds raised through events and donations are used to supplement the cost of care and supplies for animals at the nature center, as well as other projects and exhibits in the park.

FHBB meets monthly at Bear Branch Nature Center on the first Thursday of the month at 7 pm. A link is available to join virtually. Contact FHBB at friendsofhbb@gmail.com for more information. 

Friends of Hashawha Bear Branch officers for 2023-2024:

• Kristin Darby, President

• Michelle Scott, Vice President

• Maggie Kunz, Secretary

• Chris Markle, Treasurer

• Rachel Hall, Social Media and Communications

Friends of Hashawha Bear Branch documents:

FHBB Bylaws

FHBB Conflict Resolution Policy

FHBB Emergency Preparedness Plan