PARTICIPANTS CAN JOIN A SPRINGTIME NATURE PHOTOGRAPHY WORKSHOP ALONG PENDOLA GARDENS ROAD AS PART OF THE WEEKEND IN THE COUNTY. Spring is a time of reawakening and renewal, a time of birth and bird song, a time to experience and savor Mariposa County as “A simpler time, an unforgettable place.” Longer days and warmer weather, April brings exuberant streams, splashy wildflowers and fresh spring foliage.

With April approaching, it means the Mariposa Agri-Nature Trail Association’s annual “Weekend in the Country” is just around the corner. Scheduled for April 24 and 25, this agri-nature tourism event celebrates Mariposa County’s rural character. Now in its fifth year, the tour showcases a sampling of the county’s agricultural and natural heritage and the talents of local artists and artisans.

This two-day event will feature 11 agriculturally related operations, tours, wine tasting, assorted nature activities, workshops and local artists. Among the locations will be three wineries, alpaca, cattle and sheep ranches, orchards and vegetable gardens.

New this year is a stop at the Mariposa Fairgrounds. The Mining and Mineral Museum, Mariposa Conservation Resource District, the Watershed Council and the Sierra Foothill Conservancy are excited to welcome visitors. Whether attendees are interested in soil erosion protection measures, drought tolerant native plants and learning about upcoming nature hikes, there will be lots to explore.

Nature activities at various locations will include bird walks, a native plant walk and a nature photography workshop. Mariposa Master Gardeners will also rove the Mariposa Creek Parkway both days to answer questions about the native plant garden developed and tended by the local organization.

At the locations along the agri-nature trail you can watch painters, photographers, sculptors, and other artists in various media demonstrate their talents. The artists will be on hand all weekend to talk about their inspiration and their techniques.

Ticket prices for the event are $10 per person and $25 for a family and are valid for the entire weekend. Advance tickets are available from the Mariposa County Visitors Center, the Mariposa Arts Council and participating wineries. Tickets are also available that weekend at the first location visited. Contact Kris Casto at 377-8450 for the details or visit www.MariposaAgTour.com.