Nature enthusiasts ages 18+ are invited to attend the Wise & Wild program on select Tuesdays at 10 a.m. at Eugene T. Mahoney’s newly renovated James Family Conservatory and Nature Center.

This program is designed for adults who love the outdoors and want to enjoy time in the parks. We will share a variety of nature-related topics with activities indoors and out. Join us on your own or bring along friends of any age. Free program.

2026 Event Schedule

March 10 – Beginner Birding: Learn how to be a birder as we explore beginner birding topics: identification, tools and resources, where to go birding and more.

April 14 – Bird Mist-Netting: Observe the process of mist-netting, a tool used to catch and band birds for research. Get up close and learn about local bird species.

May 12 – Tardigrades & Tiny Things: Explore the micro and macro world in the park as we collect samples and see what is hiding in plain sight.

June 16 – Wildflowers & Watercolors: Learn about wildflowers while creating a simple watercolor artwork, which you will complete as you explore our gardens and prairie.

August 18 – Going Bullfrogging: Learn all about bullfrogs and their biology, then try catching some at the lake with a net or fishing pole. Following the program, we will head to the Marina.

September 1 – Pond Ecology: Use dip nets, scopes and more to explore life in the lake. We will take a close look at critters we find and try to identify them. Meet at the Owen Marina.

September 22 – Primitive Shooting Sports: Try using a “wrist-rocket” sling shot and then throwing a spear with an atlatl as you practice to improve your precision and accuracy. Following the program, we will head to the range.

October 6 – Dutch Oven Desserts: Discover Dutch Oven cooking as we share pointers for perfect desserts. Help add ingredients and then enjoy some delicious desserts.

November 10 – Forest Hike: Hike along wooded trails to discover the forest after the leaves have fallen. Dress for the weather. Trail is hilly, uneven and has steps. We wills start at the tower by Riverview Lodge.

December 1 – Phenology: A Study of Nature’s Calendar: Learn how to keep a journal to record nature’s changes through time. Observe migrations, budding trees, emerging insects and more.

A valid Nebraska state park vehicle permit is required for park entry. Programs are subject to cancellation due to inclement weather or other unforeseen circumstances. Please dress appropriately for the weather and the activity. Contact Kelly Ekue at (402) 332-5022 or [email protected] with questions.