LIMESTONE, Maine — National Wildlife Refuge Week will be observed October 9-15 this year, and the Aroostook National Wildlife Refuge will offer a full slate of family-friendly activities to mark the occasion.
Celebrated during the second full week of October since 1996, Refuge Week highlights the National Wildlife Refuge System — the network of lands and waters that protect wildlife and their habitat — and reminds Americans how nature enriches our lives and adds to the beauty of our country.
The Limestone refuge will celebrate with an entire week of open house activities beginning Saturday, Oct. 8, with a tour of the Weapons Storage Area and a special edition of the activities in the Family Adventure Backpacks.
The week’s schedule will include:
Saturday, Oct. 8, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.: The gate to the Weapons Storage Area will open with a guided tour. This gate will stay open all week, so folks can use the auto route tour map and a new app, Aroostook.oncell.com, to learn the history of the area.
Sunday, Oct. 9, 11 a.m.-3 p.m.: Family Adventure Backpacks will be available for exploring the many trails.
Monday, Oct 10, through Friday, Oct. 14, 1-4 p.m.: Family Adventure Backpacks will be available for exploring the many trails.
Thursday, Oct. 13: The Red Cross will also present “The Pillowcase Project,” an emergency preparedness program that helps children ages 8-11 prepare for emergencies.
Saturday, Oct. 15, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.: Family Adventure Backpacks will be available for exploring the many trails. There will also be pumpkin decorating, an herb walk and refreshments.
The ANWR offers a range of recreation possibilities, including miles of hiking/cross country ski trails and ponds with wildlife observation blinds. The public is welcome to visit, volunteer or join the Friends of Aroostook National Wildlife Refuge. Call 328-4634 for more information or visit the refuge on Facebook.
