Neal Smith National Wildlife Refuge hosts weekend programs

Do It Yourself Prairie Series

Would you like to learn how to care for your own prairie garden? The final installment in the Do It Yourself (DIY) Prairie Series will be held from 10 to 11 a.m. Saturday, July 14. This program will give you the information you need to establish your own prairie. From seed cleaning and planting to weed control and using a prairie garden for educational purposes, learn a new skill every month in this series. This series continues once a month through July.

The May topic will be “Caring for Your Garden”. Your plants may be in the ground, but the work is far from over! Learn various maintenance methods as we confront common issues including weeds, pests and more.

For more information, please contact Patrick_bryant@fws.gov or call 515/994-3402.

Prairie Wildflower Walk

On Sunday, July 15, at 10 a.m., join volunteer naturalists at the Neal Smith National Wildlife Refuge for a guided nature walk along the 1/2 mile paved Overlook Trail loop and learn about wildlife, wildflowers, and management of the refuge. See the prairie in bloom, watch for birds and butterflies and find out about the bison and elks herds. Recommended for adults and children ages 12 and older accompanied by their favorite adult. We recommend wearing sturdy, closed-toe shoes, long pants and bring insect repellent, sunscreen and drinking water. To pre-register call 515-994-3400 or email Doreen_vanryswyk@fws.gov.

Junior Ranger Program at Neal Smith NWR

Children ages 6-11 are invited to bring their favorite adult and join a refuge naturalist at the Neal Smith National Wildlife Refuge from 1 to 2:30 p.m. on Sunday, July 15. The Junior Naturalist program will give students a chance to study science in nature, participate in reading, make a craft and search for wildlife up close. The topic for this month’s program will be “Discovering Bison.” The program is free and open to the public.

Junior Ranger programs are educational experiences that are especially designed for young learners. Programs focus on engaging children in the outdoors by using hands-on and interactive activities. To register or if you have questions, please contact Doreen Van Ryswyk at 515-994-3400 or Doreen_vanryswyk@fws.gov.

July Photo Hike

Neal Smith National Wildlife Refuge (NWR) will host the July Photo Hike from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. on Sunday, July 15. This program is free and open to the public. Participants will meet at the Prairie Learning Center at 6:50 p.m. sharp before leaving for a specified area on the Refuge.

Pre-registration is required. Sign up in advance by contacting Doreen Van Ryswyk at 515-994-3400 or Doreen_vanryswyk@fws.gov.

Amateur and professional photographers of all ages and skill levels are welcome. Bring your camera equipment, comfortable closed-toe shoes/boots, long pants, insect repellent, a water bottle and your sense of wonder. Weather permitting, be prepared to go off the walking trails. In case of inclement weather, the Photo Hike will be cancelled. Please check Facebook for any cancellations.

Pre-registration is required. Please sign up in advance by contacting Doreen Van Ryswyk at 515-994-3400 or Doreen_vanryswyk@fws.gov.

Connect with us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/NealSmithNWR for information regarding all upcoming events.

For more information on the Midwest Region of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service visit http://midwest.fws.gov.