Program policies are subject to change without notice.

Our Program Pricing: Making Nature Experiences Accessible & Sustainable

At the Potomac Valley Audubon Society (PVAS), we believe that everyone deserves the opportunity to connect with nature, regardless of financial circumstances.

It is important for us as an organization to finance our programs sustainably. Our programs require resources to operate. From program materials to administrative support, these resources ensure we can continue providing high-quality experiences.

We recognize that financial barriers could prevent some people from participating in paid programs. To ensure that cost is never a barrier to participation and to give people clear options for how they can contribute to the financial sustainability of our programs, PVAS has organized its programs into several types, including 1) free/donation-based and 2) fee-based.

Our free/donation‑based programs are made possible by incredible volunteers who donate their time, skills, and expertise—but even volunteer‑led events incur coordination and administrative costs. That’s why we suggest modest donations, which go directly toward staff time, materials, and facility expenses to keep these programs running and growing. For those who are able, the Pay-It-Forward level offers an opportunity to invest in our community. Contributions at this level allow us to continue free registrations, ensuring that financial accessibility remains a cornerstone of our work.
Our fee-based programs are those that require extra planning, specialized instructors, or materials. We charge a fee to cover those higher costs. PVAS members receive member benefits, and need‑based scholarships will be available so that everyone can participate regardless of means. If you must cancel your registration for a fee‑based program, you may receive a refund in line with our cancellation policy.

By offering a free registration option whenever possible, we make sure that everyone—regardless of income—can experience the benefits of our nature programs!

Pricing, Benefits, and Refund Policies

Type of Program:

Free/Donation-Based

This includes most of our guided walks (like bird walks) and talks/presentations.

Fee-based

This includes classes/workshops and other programs that require more complicated planning, like field trips.

Audubon Discovery Camp/School’s Out! Camps

Base Rate

Three Options:

Free – A free option for those who need it.
Donate to Cover Costs – Covers the basic cost of the program such as scheduling, training volunteers, insurance, advertising, etc..
Donate to Pay-It-Forward – Helps fund free and reduced-cost registrations for others.

Price is listed on website/registration.

Member benefits & scholarships

None, though the free option is always available.

10% discount for PVAS members
Need-based scholarships will be available.

When a participant cancels a registration…

We understand that last minute cancellations may happen, but please try to let us know as soon as possible, so that depending on the circumstance, 1) we can let the guide/instructor know not to expect you and 2) we can open the spot to someone else.

We will keep your tax-deductible donation. Thank you for your support!

More than 7 days before the program: 75% refund. Due to processing fees, full refunds are not available.
7 days before the program – day before the program : 25% refund.
Day of program start or later: No refund.

See the cancellation policy in the Camp Information Handbook.

When PVAS cancels or reschedules a program…

We will keep your tax-deductible donation. Thank you for your support!

Full refund if the rescheduled date does not work for you.
In the event that PVAS must shorten a multi-session program, you will receive a partial refund determined by PVAS staff.

See the cancellation policy in the Camp Information Handbook.

When would PVAS cancel or reschedule a program?

In general, programs PVAS’s scheduled programs happen rain or shine! We believe that with the right clothing, we can enjoy nature in a variety of conditions. Registrants will be notified by email of any cancellations by 5:00 p.m. the evening before the program, whenever possible. PVAS might cancel a program if:

Hazardous weather is expected: Although PVAS programs happen rain or shine, there are some circumstances in which a program may be canceled due to hazardous forecasted weather, such as when the forecasted weather…
- Would create unsafe road conditions or unsafe conditions for being outside.
- Would prevent the scheduled activities from occurring.
- These may be evaluated on a case-by case basis depending on the hazard.
Not enough people are signed up: The session doesn’t meet PVAS’s minimum number of registered participants by 4 pm the day before the program.
The program host is ill: A staff member or volunteer critical to conducting an event is ill or undergoing some other unexpected situation that prevents them from being able to attend.

Participation Policies

Appropriate gear, clothing and footwear are very important for ensuring safety and comfort. Participants are expected to dress for the weather and to bring whatever else they need to be comfortable and safe.
Alcohol is not allowed during programs unless otherwise approved by PVAS. Smoking and vaping are not permitted during programs.
Program participants must abide by the safety instructions given either verbally or in writing by the Potomac Valley Audubon Society, its designated employee(s), or its designated volunteer program hosts. Violation of any of the following participation policies are grounds for dismissal.
Unlawful conduct is prohibited. Participants must abide by the rules and regulations of the Potomac Valley Audubon Society as well as the rules/regulations of the agencies that manage the land where the program is taking place.
Inappropriate conversation or personal conduct; bullying, assault or inappropriate physical conduct; offensive behavior or remarks toward other participants or Potomac Valley Audubon Society employees and/or volunteers, including use of racial, religious or sexual slurs and/or intimidation are strictly prohibited.
Pets are prohibited on most programs. Service animals are permitted in designated areas and/or as otherwise permitted by controlling law. Please communicate with PVAS about your needs.
Program participants are responsible for their own transportation to and from the program site.
The Potomac Valley Audubon Society and its employees and volunteers are not responsible for the storage, care, custody, or control of equipment, materials or furnishings owned by participants.

There are additional policies for Audubon Discovery Camp and School’s OUt! Day Camps in the Camp Information Handbook.

Equity, Diversity, Inclusion and Belonging Policy

The Potomac Valley Audubon Society (PVAS) does not exclude, deny benefits to, or otherwise discriminate against any service recipient, applicant, program staff, or the public on the basis of race, color, religion, national or ethnic origin, disability, age, sex, gender identity and expression, sexual orientation, political affiliation, or veteran status.

Program Policies