The Mahaska County Conservation Board is hosting a variety of educational programs at the Environmental Learning Center, beginning with a Playscape Lunch & Learn on June 24. The program, titled “Firefly Magic: Bioluminescence,” will take place from noon to 12:45 p.m. Participants are encouraged to bring their lunch and gather under the Nature Playscape pergola to learn about fireflies, including how and why they produce their signature glow. No registration is required.
Adults are invited to participate in the O.W.L.S. (Older, Wiser, Livelier Souls) program on June 26 from 1 to 2 p.m. The session will feature a guided walk through the Nature Playscape to explore native plants, followed by a relaxed drawing activity inspired by what participants observe. All supplies will be provided, and no artistic experience is necessary. Advance registration is required.
The month concludes with a screening of the nature documentary “Ghost of the Mountains” on June 30 from 1 to 2:30 p.m. The film follows the elusive snow leopard and examines the challenges filmmakers faced while documenting the endangered species in its remote mountain habitat. Registration is required for the documentary program.
The Environmental Learning Center is open Monday through Wednesday from 12:30 to 4:30 p.m., Thursday and Friday from 12:30 to 7 p.m., and Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. The Nature Playscape remains open daily from dawn until dusk.
For more information or to register for programs, contact the Mahaska County Conservation Board at (641) 673-9327.
Source: Mahaska County Conservation Board / Caldwell Park Environmental Learning Center.
