Naturalists start chapter
A Master Naturalist chapter is forming in Fort Smith.
Western Arkansas Master Naturalists will start classes at 9 a.m. Saturday the Janet Huckabee Nature Center in Fort Smith. Cost for 60 hours of classes and a one-year Master Naturalist membership is $165.
To enroll or for more information call the chapter at 479-259-1799.
Hobbs hosts cruises
Hobbs State Park-Conservation Area offers eagle viewing cruises on Beaver Lake each Saturday and Sunday through February. January is the best month to see bald eagles on the lake.
Trips are aboard the park’s 20-passenger pontoon boat. Cruises visit an area of Beaver Lake where bald eagles are commonly seen. Trips leave Rocky Branch Marina at 3 p.m.
Cost is $10 for adults plus tax or $6 for children 6-12. Reservations are required. Call the park visitor center, 479-789-5000 for reservations.
Restoration needs help
Volunteers are needed Feb. 18 to help with a glade restoration project at Hobbs State Park-Conservation Area. Meet at 8:30 a.m. at the Shaddox Hollow Trail parking area on Arkansas 303.
The work involves moving cedar trees uphill at the restoration site. Volunteers should bring gloves, water and wear sturdy shoes. Glades were more numerous at one time, but many have been choked out by encroaching red cedar trees.
For details call the visitor center at 479-789-5000.
Fly tying workshop
Sallyann Brown, a nationally known fly fishing expert, will lead a fly tying workshop at the Hobbs State Park – Conservation Area visitor center from noon to 4 p.m. Sunday.
The workshop will teach the basic techniques for tying all types of flies. Subjects covered will include how to tie knots, apply weights and hackle (long narrow feathers), how to spin deer hair, tie on dubbing, tails, wings, eyes and legs. All equipment will be provided.
The workshop will be held at the Hobbs State Park visitor center
Minimum age is 12 years and the cost is $35. Reservations and pre-payment required at 479-789-5000.