Naturally Fun Schedule

Canoe Basics:

Tuesdays on May 13, June 3, or June 17 (choose one)
6:00 - 9:00 p.m.
Gray's Lake Park

Basic Birding

Thursday, June 5
7:00 - 8:30 p.m.
Glendale Cemetery, 4909 University Avenue, parking lot
Find out why so many people love the hobby of bird watching! We will start out by learning some of the basic characteristics that help us identify birds and how to use field guides. Then, we will head out into the field to identify and observe birds in their natural habitat. Participants will receive a checklist for the birds of Glendale Cemetery. Dress to walk. Instructor of Biology, DMACC, Urban Campus. All ages are welcome. Children under 10 must be accompanied by an adult. Call 237-1386 for more information.

Advanced Canoe Basics

Tuesdays, June 10 or July 15 (choose one)
6:00-9:00 p.m.
Gray's Lake

Nature's Story Hour - Animal Habitats

Wednesday, June 11
12 noon to 1:00 p.m.
Ashby Park, 38th and Davison
Bring your picnic lunch, blanket and family for an hour of nature stories and activities with a naturalist from Polk County Conservation. Come enjoy the fresh air and sunshine, munch you lunch, listen to a story or two, and discover some new natural areas with your children. This family-friendly program is free. All ages are welcome. Call 323-5300 for more information.

Going Batty

Thursday, June 12
6:30 - 7:30 p.m.
Greenwood Park, Sylvan Amphitheater
Learn the truths and myths about this misunderstood animal. Find out what you can do to help protect these beneficial species. All ages welcome. Call 323-5300 for more information.

Basic Whitewater Canoe Class with Trip to Minnesota

Thursday, June 12
6:00-9:00 p.m.
Optional Trip to Minnesota (Kettle River) June 13-14
Gray's Lake

Swamp Creatures

Tuesday, June 17
6:00 - 8:00 p.m.
Ewing Park Pond, Indianola Avenue, south of McKinley
What lurks beneath the surface of our ponds? Find out during this hands-on pond study. Participants will learn how to find and identify many of the common critters that can be found in and around Iowa's ponds. Each participant will receive a simple guide to identifying our "swamp creatures." In addition, you will have the chance to make your own dragonfly to take home! Dress to get wet and muddy! Led by Melanie Hansen Sadeghpour, Instructor of Biology, DMACC, Urban Campus. All ages are welcome. An adult must accompany children under 10. Call 237-1386 for more information.

Nature's Story Hour - Turtle Talk

Wednesday, June 25
12 noon to 1:00 p.m.
Greenwood Park, 45th Street south of Grand
Bring your picnic lunch, blanket and family for an hour of nature stories and activities with a naturalist from Polk County Conservation. Enjoy the fresh air and sunshine, munch your lunch, listen to a story or two, and discover some new natural areas with your children. This family-friendly program is free. All ages welcome. Call 323-5300 for more information.

Des Moines River Outing

Saturday, July 19 or September 6 (choose one or both)
9:00 a.m. - 12 noon
Local Waterways

2008 Naturally Fun Schedule


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City of Des Moines, Iowa
Parks and Recreation