Spread your blanket, unpack your lunch, and join a naturalist for a Friday picnic in the park. Naturalist Lunch Box programs will be held from 12:00 p.m. – 1:00 p.m. at McFarland Park (56461 180th Street) northeast of Ames on Friday, June 15 and Friday, July 13.

Each one-hour program will feature a fun nature topic that you’ll experience through stories and activities. Learn about magical monarchs on June 15, come on July 13 for a program that will be tree-rific, or come to both! These programs are free and appropriate for all ages; bringing a picnic lunch is optional. Adults are expected to remain with their children. In the event of inclement weather, the programs will be held inside the conservation center. These programs are free, and registration is not required.

For more information about this or other programs, contact Story County Conservation at 515-232-2516 (8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m., Monday – Friday), email conservation@storycountyiowa.gov, or visit www.storycountyconservation.org.

Story County Conservation manages more than 3,100 acres of parks and natural areas, including lakes, campgrounds, and trails, and an additional 5,500 acres of roadside habitat through our Integrated Roadside Vegetation Management program. The environmental education staff serves Story County schools and the public with interpretive and informational programs for all ages. Story County Conservation’s volunteer program provides volunteer opportunities to individuals and groups interested in making a difference in local natural resources.  No individual will be excluded from events conducted by Story County Conservation because of a disability or impairment. To request accommodations to participate, contact Story County Conservation.