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MAINE

October 12 and 13, 2007
9:30am - 3:00pm
Volunteer Work Days
Rachel Carson National Wildlife Refuge
Libby Field in Scarborough, ME
(park on Route 77 near the Spurwink River fishing pier)
Come help us plant 500 native shrubs to enhance habitat for New England cottontail rabbits and other shrubland dependant species.
Call for more information and to sign up. Phone: 207-646-9226 extension 23.

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MARYLAND
October 28, 2006
11:00am - 2:00pm
Dedication and Grand opening: Eastern Neck Island Water Trail and Marsh Overlook trail
Eastern Neck National Wildlife Refuge
Rock Hall Maryland
Explore the new Observation Platform, Interpretive Trail and Photo Blind as well as an Interpretive Paddling trail. Complete with Map and Guide Kayaking demonstrations will be held following lunch at Bogals Wharf Boat Launch. Demonstrations will be hosted by some of our Paddling Partners. Paddlers are encouraged to bring their Kayaks.
410-639-7056

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MASSACHUSETTS

October 16th
9:00am - 11:00am
Whose Clues? Homeschool Tracking Program

Parker River National Wildlife Refuge
6 Plum Island Turnpike
Newburyport, MA 01950
How can you tell when an animal has been around? Can you discover the clues
that they leave behind? Follow the animal tracks and become a wildlife detective in this fun educational program for homeschoolers. Dress for indoor and outdoor activities. Meet at the Refuge Visitor Center.
Ages 6-10
Registration is required for all programs, unless otherwise indicated. Visit us on the web or call 978-465-5753 for more information http://parkerriver.fws.gov

October 20th
2:00pm - 3:00pm
Going Batty!
Parker River National Wildlife Refuge
6 Plum Island Turnpike
Newburyport, MA 01950
Halloween is coming, so let’s talk about that scary creature of the night, the BAT! Learn about common bat myths, find out which bats live in our area, and take home a fun bat craft to share! Meet at the Refuge Visitor Center.
Ages 6-10
Registration is required for all programs, unless otherwise indicated. Visit us on the web or call 978-465-5753 for more information http://parkerriver.fws.gov

October 26th AND October 27th
10:30am - 11:30am and 1:00pm - 2:00pm
Nature Tots: Spooky Spiders
Parker River National Wildlife Refuge
6 Plum Island Turnpike
Newburyport, MA 01950
It’s almost Halloween…and what better animal to learn about than the scariest one of all…the SPIDER! Introduce your preschooler to the wonderful webby world of the spider through songs, stories, crafts and meet a live spider friend in this fun, hands-on program. Decide for yourself if spiders are as scary as they seem! Meet at the Refuge Visitor Center.
Ages 3-5
Registration is required for all programs, unless otherwise indicated. Visit us on the web or call 978-465-5753 for more information http://parkerriver.fws.gov

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MINNESOTA

October 13, 2007
12:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.
National Wildlife Refuge Week Celebration
Prairie Wetlands Learning Center
Fergus Falls, MN
Celebrate wildlife with games, walks and outdoor activities that explore the prairie and wetlands. FREE.
MidwestNews@fws.gov

October 16, 2007
7:00 p.m.
Naturally Speaking
Prairie Wetlands Learning Center
Fergus Falls, MN
Each month we will feature a speaker on interesting nature, conservation or outdoor recreation topics. Call for this month's theme. FREE.
MidwestNews@fws.gov

September 30, 2006
10 am - 4 pm
Tamarac National Wildlife Refuge Fall Open House -
Bringing Back the Birds
Tamarac National Wildlife Refuge
Rochert, MN
The Fall Open House on Saturday, September 30, 10:00 am to 4:00 pm.  A grand opening for a new observation platform will be one of the highlights. This year the refuge will feature conservation efforts for birds of special concern. Guided bus tours of the refuge will take you to out-of-the-way places on the refuge as you travel through habitats suitable for the Golden-wing Warbler, Trumpeter Swan, Bald Eagles and more.  You'll learn how biologists are collecting information to monitor the health of these populations.
218-847-2641
http://www.refugenet.org/tamaracfriends/

October 7, 2006
10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.
Wildlife Festival
Sherburne NWR
Zimmerman, MN
Family activities, live raptor program, archery and air rifle workshops. hay ride, sunrise crane watch, scavenger hunt, nature crafts. Free event.  Food available for purchase.
763-389-3323/Sherburne@fws.gov
http://www.fws.gov/midwest/Sherburne

October 11, 2006
7:00 pm
Open House
Rice Lake National Wildlife Refuge
McGregor, MN (located five miles south of McGregor on State Hwy 65)
Attend a special book signing by nationally known author/naturalist wildlife photographer Stan Tekiela -- hear "Uncommon Facts about Common Birds" and observe the fall migration at Rice Lake National Wildlife Refuge.

218-768-2402 

December 16, 2006
7:30 a.m.
Christmas Bird Count
Sherburne NWR
Zimmerman, MN
Spend a half-day or full day counting birds within a 15 mile radius of the refuge.  Tally submitted to MN Ornithological Union.
763-389-3323/Sherburne@fws.gov
http://www.fws.gov/midwest/Sherburne

January 11, 18, 25, 2006
7:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.
Wildlife Film Festival
Sherburne NWR
Zimmerman, MN
Each evening holds a variety of family oriented films on local wildlife.
763-389-3323/Sherburne@fws.gov
http://www.fws.gov/midwest/Sherburne

February 3, 2007
10:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
Winterfest
Sherburne NWR
Zimmerman, MN
Family activities. Live raptor program, snowshoeing, sleigh ride, bonfire, nature crafts, wildlife fur expo, scavenger hunt and more.  Free event.  Food available for purchase.
763-389-3323/Sherburne@fws.gov
http://www.fws.gov/midwest/Sherburne

April 14, 2007
8:00 a.m.
Spring Birding Tour
Sherburne NWR
Zimmerman, MN
Join an experienced birder to discover the migratory birds returning to the refuge. Bring binoculars.
763-389-3323/Sherburne@fws.gov
http://www.fws.gov/midwest/Sherburne

May 12, 2007
7:00 a.m. & 8:30 a.m.
International Migratory Bird Day
Sherburne NWR
Zimmerman, MN
Two birding tours offered:  7:00 a.m. Songbird Search for experienced birders.  8:30 a.m. Birds in the Wetlands for beginning birders. 
763-389-3323/Sherburne@fws.gov
http://www.fws.gov/midwest/Sherburne

May 12, 2007
10:00 a.m. –1:00 p.m.
Friends Plant Sale
Sherburne NWR
Zimmerman, MN
Native and cultivated flowers and shrubs donated by local gardeners are available for purchase. 
763-389-3323/Sherburne@fws.gov
http://www.fws.gov/midwest/Sherburne

June 2, 2007
7:00 a.m.
Summer Birding Tour
Sherburne NWR
Zimmerman, MN
Join an experienced birder to discover the summer resident birds along the Wildlife Drive. Bring binoculars.
763-389-3323/Sherburne@fws.gov
http://www.fws.gov/midwest/Sherburne

June 9, 2007
9:00 a.m.
Rally for the Refuge
Minnesota Valley National Wildlife Refuge
Bloomington, MN
5K Fun Run
952-858-0706 /info@friendsofmnvalley.org
http://www.friendsofmnvalley.org
 

June 9, 2007
10:00 a.m.
Wildflower Tour
Sherburne NWR
Zimmerman, MN
Join us to learn more about the spectacular wildflowers blooming along the Wildlife Drive.
763-389-3323/Sherburne@fws.gov
http://www.fws.gov/midwest/Sherburne

September 8, 2007
8:00 a.m.
Fall Birding Tour
Sherburne NWR
Zimmerman, MN
Join an experienced birder to search for the fall warblers and other birds migrating through the refuge. Bring binoculars.
763-389-3323/Sherburne@fws.gov
http://www.fws.gov/midwest/Sherburne

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MISSISSIPPI
October 21, 2006
9:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.
National Refuge Week Event
Noxubee NWR
Brooksville, MS
A fun and informative event, free to the public, to raise appreciation of the importance of habitats for wildlife, with Exhibits, Demonstrations, Children's Activities, and Live Music. The event will take place in and around the Visitor Center.
662-323-5548/fonr@friends-of-noxubee-refuge.org
Friends of Noxubee website

November 4, 2006
9:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.
Paint the Fall Colors
Noxubee NWR
Brooksville, MS
Melissa Dixon, a fine art graduate from Mississippi State, will host this painting workshop. Bring a sack lunch, a camera, a canvas or other material to paint on, brushes, the paint of your choice, an easel, and a chair or blanket to sit on. Because outdoor light changes quickly, acrylic paint is a good choice. We will meet in front of the Visitor Center.
662-323-5548/fonr@friends-of-noxubee-refuge.org
Friends of Noxubee website

November 18, 2006
10 a.m. until 12 p.m.
Nature Crafts for the Holidays
Noxubee NWR
Brooksville, MS
Get in the holiday spirit by making wreaths, ornaments and birdfeeders with natural materials. We will have materials available and you can bring some, if you like. Event will take place at the Visitor Center.
662-323-5548/fonr@friends-of-noxubee-refuge.org
Friends of Noxubee website
 
December 2, 2006
10 a.m. until 12 p.m.
Preparation for the Jr. Duck Stamp Contest
Noxubee NWR (Visitor Center)
Brooksville, MS
The Junior Duck Stamp program combines art and science, teaching wetlands habitat and waterfowl conservation to school children. We introduce participants to the program with a video and activities. Then what students have learned may be communicated visually with an entry to the Junior Duck Stamp art contest. We will provide application forms and correct paper for submitting entries.
For more information: http://www.fws.gov/duckstamps/junior/junior.htm.
 
December 2, 2006
2 p.m.
Story Time for Children
Noxubee NWR (Visitor Center)
Brooksville, MS
A great time to hear winter nature stories and to take a break from the holiday hustle. We will have snacks and beverages available.
662-323-5548/fonr@friends-of-noxubee-refuge.org
Friends of Noxubee website
 
January 6, 2007
10 a.m.-12 p.m.
Eagles and Waterfowl, A Guided Birdwalk
Noxubee NWR (Meet at Visitor Center)
Brooksville, MS
Winter is a great time to see eagles in courtship over Bluff Lake and an abundance of waterfowl. Species that may be seen include Bald Eagle, American Wigeon, Green-winged Teal, Shovler, Gadwall, Ring-necked Duck and Mallards. Binoculars are available or bring your own.
662-323-5548/fonr@friends-of-noxubee-refuge.org
Friends of Noxubee website

January 20, 2007
5 p.m.
Astronomy for Beginners
Noxubee NWR
Brooksville, MS

What better place to stargaze than the refuge? An exciting program will be presented by Professor Lawrence Croft and David Lamb. The presentation will start at the Visitor Center with a slide show describing the celestial objects we are expecting to see that night and an introduction to the Dobsonian Telescope. The group will then travel to Morgan Hill Prairie (1.5 miles), where David will set up his 18” telescope for celestial observations. Dress warmly and if you wish, bring binoculars or a spotting scope.
662-323-5548/fonr@friends-of-noxubee-refuge.org
Friends of Noxubee website

February 3, 2007
10:00am-1:00pm

Celebrate World Wetlands Day
Noxubee NWR (Meet at Visitor Center)
Brooksville, MS

Find out why wetlands are such an important habitat; recognize their important values and functions, such as flood control, groundwater replenishment, water purification, storm protection, and havens of biodiversity and cultural values.  National Wildlife Refuges are home to about 46 million acres of all types of wetlands.  Dr. John Guyton will be discussing a few of his favorite wetland plants, their characteristics and uses, and Professor Jeanne Jones will lead an educational wetland walk.
662-323-5548/fonr@friends-of-noxubee-refuge.org
Friends of Noxubee website
 
February 17 & March 17, 2007
10:00am-1:00pm

Annual Bluebird Workshop
Noxubee NWR
Brooksville, MS

We hope to encourage young birders by inviting parents to bring their children for this workshop.  The day includes an information session on the Eastern Bluebird, a video and building a bluebird box to take home. Come out and join the fun and maybe learn a few things too! Call for reservations.
662-323-5548/fonr@friends-of-noxubee-refuge.org
Friends of Noxubee website
 
March 3, 2007
8:00am-5:00pm

Women in the Outdoors
Noxubee NWR
Brooksville, MS
A great way for women to learn outdoor skills from expert instructors, meet new people and spend time with friends. The program features daylong events, where women receive expert instruction and a chance to try a variety of outdoor activities. The $45 fee includes lunch, equipment, training supplies and a one-year membership to Women in the Outdoors. Register before February 16 and you will receive a discount and a gift!  Participants may attend four of the eight classes offered: Shotgun and Skeet shooting, Archery, Fishing, Snake Identification, Orienteering & Compass, Game & Dutchoven Cooking, Canoeing or Game Calling. The event will take place rain or shine; dress accordingly. Covered outdoor facilities are available. Take time for yourself and discover a new you in the great outdoors. Bring a friend and make this a day to remember. Sponsored by Friends of Noxubee Refuge, National Wild Turkey Federation, and Noxubee National Wildlife Refuge. Registration required!
662-323-5548/fonr@friends-of-noxubee-refuge.org
Friends of Noxubee website
 
April 7, 2007
9:00am-1:00pm

Paint the Colors of Spring
Noxubee NWR (Meet at Visitor Center)
Brooksville, MS

Melissa Dixon, a fine art graduate from Mississippi State, will host this painting workshop. Bring a sack lunch, camera, canvas or other material to paint on, brushes, the paint of your choice, easel, and chair or blanket to sit on. Because outdoor lighting changes quickly, acrylic paint is a good choice for on-site painting due to its quick drying time.
662-323-5548/fonr@friends-of-noxubee-refuge.org
Friends of Noxubee website
 
April 21, 2007
9:00am-1:00pm

Celebrating Earth Day at Osborn Prarie
Osborn Prarie

We will observe Earth Day in 2007 by reaching out to our friends at Osborn Prairie with a prairie rescue stewardship day. Osborn Prairie is in dire need. Junipers are taking over one of the last remnants of the Black Prairie. Activities include cutting and moving junipers of any size. Please bring chain saws, pruning shears (for small trees) and gloves. Information and displays of the prairie flora and fauna will be provided. Call the refuge for directions or car pooling instructions.
662-323-5548/fonr@friends-of-noxubee-refuge.org
Friends of Noxubee website
 
May 5, 2007
10:00am

Exploring the Mississippi Flora
Noxubee NWR (Meet at Visitor Center)
Brooksville, MS
Join Professor Bob Brzuszek for an educational walk through the woods. He will identify the plants found along the trail and discuss how plants are adapted to the different environmental conditions found there. Learn how natives can fit into our home landscape.
662-323-5548/fonr@friends-of-noxubee-refuge.org
Friends of Noxubee website
 
June 2, 2007
9:00am

Ladies Bait Your Hook
Noxubee NWR (Meet at Visitor Center)
Brooksville, MS

Ladies of all ages, who want to learn about and get involved in fishing, will enjoy this informal session on the various types of freshwater fishing. The types of fish you can catch, fishing methods and the various tools of the trade will be shown and demonstrated. After the in-class session, the class will go outdoors to a fishing pond. You will be able to bait your own hook and try your luck at catching some catfish. If you have your own fishing pole bring it, if not, we will have one for you to use.  Registration is required.
662-323-5548/fonr@friends-of-noxubee-refuge.org
Friends of Noxubee website
 
June 16, 2007
8:00am-10:30am

Fifth Annual Youth Fishing Derby
Noxubee NWR
Brooksville, MS
This will be held at our new fishing ponds, stocked with catfish for the event. Their grassy banks make fishing safe and easy. Children ages four through fifteen must preregister to participate, or register the morning of the derby, if our limit is not met. There are two types of registration: $10 includes a rod & reel with tackle assortment or $5 without the rod. Prizes will be awarded for all age categories for the largest fish and heaviest limit. Each registered child will receive a goodie bag and a door prize. Follow the signs to the ponds.
662-323-5548/fonr@friends-of-noxubee-refuge.org
Friends of Noxubee website
 
July 7, 2007
10:00am-1:00pm

Guided Canoe Trip to Bluff Lake Rookery
Bluff Lake
This is a must-see for bird watchers and people who enjoy wetlands. We will depart from the back of Bluff Lake and canoe along the peninsula. This area is full of lily pads, cypress, and other aquatic dwellers. The wading birds like this area, and the cattle egret rookery should be starting up. We will tour the shoreline then continue to the rookery for a unique wildlife observation experience. Registration required.

662-323-5548/fonr@friends-of-noxubee-refuge.org
Friends of Noxubee website

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MISSOURI
February 2-3, 2007
8:00am – 4:00pm
Eagle Days 2007
Mingo NWR
Puxico, MO
Bi-annual event offering visitors and school groups an opportunity to observe eagles in their natural habitat. Group tours occur at several stations throughout the Refuge with viewing scopes and agency personnel and volunteers on site.  Visitors have access to exhibits, brochures, videos, and also be introduced to eagles that are residents of the World Bird Sanctuary. For more information or to schedule a school visit during the two-day event, contact the Refuge Visitor Center.
Contact: Vergial Harp (573) 222-3589 Email: vergial_harp@fws.gov
http://www.fws.gov/midwest/mingo/

May 05, 2007
7:00 am  - noon
International Migratory Bird Day
Mingo NWR
Puxico, MO
Refuge personnel and Mingo Swamp Friends guide visitors for bird watching on a 5-mile float with canoes and/or kayaks on the Mingo River and Monopoly Marsh in the heart of the Mingo Wilderness Area.
Contact: Vergial Harp (573) 222-3589 Email: vergial_harp@fws.gov
http://www.fws.gov/midwest/mingo/

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NEVADA
May 11-13, 2007
Friday: Noon-5p; Saturday: 9a-4pm; Sunday: 9a-2p
Spring Wings Bird Festival
Fallon Convention Center (Stillwater/Fallon NWRs)
Fallon, Nevada
A celebration of the spring migration through the Lahontan Valley of
Northern Nevada.  Tours, banquet, renowned key note speakers, free displays
and activities all weekend at the Convention Center.
775-428-6452/info@springwings.org
www.springwings.org

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NEW JERSEY
October 14th
1:00 pm - 5:00pm
National Wildlife Refuge Day
Wallkill River NWR & Shawangunk Grasslands NWR
Sussex, New Jersey
Friends of Wallkill River and Shawangunk Grasslands National Wildlife Refuges
are hosting their first National Wildlife Refuge day.  We will be host to many organizations that are involved with the Refuges, with wild life exhibitors,  Land Conservancies,  Search and Rescue,  birding groups, hunting organizations, a live band, children's games, and hiking organizations. 

973-702-7266 ex# 32
friendsofwallkillrivernwr@yahoo.com
http://www.friendsofwallkillrivernwr.org/

October 28, 2006
5:30 pm - 8:30 pm
Wallkill River National Wildlife Refuge
1547 Route 565
Sussex, NJ  07461
Haunted Forest:  The real nocturnal creatures come out this one night of the year as tours go through the trail . Raccoon, Skunk Opossum, Luna Moth, Fire fly, Great Horned Owl, Indian Bat, Black bears, Flying Squirrel, Bullfrog and Spotted Salamander, Red Fox and spiders come out of their "haunt" to tell you all about themselves. Not a scary event for ages kindergarten and up.

October 28, 2006
8:30 a.m. to 12 Noon
Make a Difference Day ("America's largest day of doing good")
Edwin B. Forsythe National Wildlife Refuge
Oceanville, NJ
Community tree planting to reforest refuge lands, followed by pizza and drinks for all participants
609-652-1665 /sandy_perchetti@fws.gov
http://www.fws.gov/northeast/forsythe

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