Hobbs showcases wildlife
Several programs are part of Hobbs State Park-Conservation Area’s annual Wonders of Winter Wildlife event set for Saturday at the visitor center.
Bird banding and a program on birds by University of Arkansas students is from 9 to 10:30 a.m.. Students will show live songbirds to visitors before the birds are released. A nature hike takes place at 11 a.m.
A replica of a bald eagle nest will be on display from 9:30 a.m.to 1 p.m. Ornithologist Joe Neal will give a talk at 1:30 p.m. on the birds of Beaver Lake. Lynn Sciumbato with Morning Star Wildlife Rehabilitation will give a program at 3 p.m. on birds of prey. She will bring live birds that are under her care.
All programs are free. Call the visitor center, 479-789-5000 for details.
Naturalist chapter starts
A Master Naturalist chapter is forming in Fort Smith.
Western Arkansas Master Naturalists will begin classes at 9 a.m.on Jan. 28 at the Janet Huckabee Nature Center in Fort Smith. Cost for 60 hours of classes and a oneyear Master Naturalist membership is $165.
To enroll or for more information, call the chapter at 479-259-1799.
Draw down set
Loch Lomond in Bella Vista will be lowered two feet so a lake wall can be built in front of Lakepoint Restaurant.
The draw down begins Thursday and will end by Jan. 27. The wall will be built during February and the lake will be allowed to return to its normal level afterward.