Neal Smith National Wildlife Refuge is asking for help with stewardship activities in honor of J.N. “Ding” Darling from 9 a.m. to noon Saturday.
Join NSNWR as prairie seeds are collected in a community effort to restore the tallgrass prairie ecosystem; registration is required. Volunteers will meet at the Prairie Learning Center at 9 a.m., and then disperse across the Refuge in search of seeds. After the event, a free lunch will be provided by Friends of the Neal Smith National Wildlife Refuge. Bring a water bottle, sturdy shoes, long pants and your enthusiasm for the prairie.
One of the most important conservationists in our nation’s history, J.N. “Ding” Darling came from Iowa and even worked for the Des Moines Register. In the early 20th century, Ding Darling was a Pulitzer Prize winning journalist who drew political cartoons and wrote stories that positively influenced public opinion about conservation issues. To celebrate the way Darling dedicated his skills and writing to conservation issues, Neal Smith NWR will be holding this special day of stewardship volunteer activities.
The goal is to have at least 100 volunteers involved in this community event. Besides just having a fun and rewarding morning outside with friends, participants will also receive a free lunch sponsored by the Friends of the Neal Smith National Wildlife Refuge.
Register by contacting Megan Wandag at 515-994-3400 or Megan_Wandag@fws.gov. Call 515-994-3400 with any questions.