Upcoming events at Neal Smith NWR

Bison Talk and
Wildflower Walk

Join a volunteer ranger at the Neal Smith National Wildlife Refuge at 1:30 p.m. Saturday and participate in a short program on the natural history and management of the American Bison. Then take a guided walk to the butterfly garden located just outside the visitor center to enjoy and learn about prairie wildflowers. Call to pre-register at 515-994-3400 or email Doreen_vanryswyk@fws.gov.

Learn Nature Photo
Journaling at the Refuge

Learn how to create a nature photo journaling project, beginning at 9 a.m. Sunday at the Neal Smith National Wildlife Refuge. Learn how to look at your surroundings in a new way with Kristie Burns, a professional photojournalist. Participants will also learn basic photography techniques, principles of phenology (documenting plant and animal life cycles), and have the opportunity to experiment and improve their nature photography. Please bring your own camera; digital SLR cameras are recommended but any type of camera can be used. Phone cameras will not work for this workshop. The program will take place both indoors and outdoors so be prepared for the weather conditions and walking off the trails. Space is limited and registration is required. Contact Doreen Van Ryswyk at 515-994-3400 or by email at doreen_vanryswyk@fws.gov to register.