Summer kicks off with two great outdoor events on June 12, creating a wonderful opportunity for a family day trip idea.       

        This year the Deer Flat National Wildlife Refuge is holding BioBlitz 2010 on the same weekend as Free Fishing Day!

        Families are invited to participate in the refuge’s 5th annual BioBlitz Festival on Saturday June 12 from 10am–3pm at the Refuge Visitor Center. This free event includes guided boat trips to net fish on Lake Lowell, guided nature walks, and insect collecting.  Visitors can also view live birds of prey, fish, and reptiles; learn to identify insects at the Bug Tent; learn how to draw wildlife; visit interactive exhibits from wildlife-related organizations in Idaho; and participate in kids’ crafts and activities. Some events require pre-registration, so the Refuge Visitor Center recommends that you call ahead.

        Maybe you’re wondering what a BioBlitz is. A BioBlitz is a 24-hour rapid survey of biological diversity.  Beginning on June 11, local scientists, naturalists, and volunteers will comb Deer Flat National Wildlife Refuge to find and identify as many different species of plants and animals as possible.  Although BioBlitzes have been held across the country, this is Idaho’s only one.

        Kids Fishing Day at Deer Flat is part of the statewide Free Fishing Day program, sponsored by Idaho Fish and Game. Kids can learn about fish biology, fishing ethics, and water safety. There will also be some fishing related activities and crafts. Visitors will have a chance to practice casting and rigging and then test their newly-learned skills fishing in Lake Lowell. Families are encouraged to bring their poles to Gotts Point for some fishing, too! (Fishing poles will also be available to borrow.)

For Contact Information

Deer Flat National Wildlife Refuge Center
(208) 467-9278
www.fws.gov/deerflat/
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Idaho Fish & Game
(208) 334-3700
www.fishandgame.idaho.gov
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