Neal Smith Wildlife Refuge Nature Walk

We will build on the theme of “Reciprocity” for our August nature walk, where we’ll consider our interconnected relationship with each other and other species as we explore the prairie and Oak Savanna at Neal Smith National Wildlife Refuge.

Our inspiration stems from Birding for Life by LoraKim Joyner: “... we live in a constant state of forgetfulness, and many cultural practices seek to wipe clean any memory of interdependence and replace it with separation so that we do not feel welcome and do not welcome others into a flourishing life."

We’ll meet at 9:00 AM at the Prairie Learning Center parking lot at Neal Smith National Wildlife Refuge, 9981 Pacific St, Prairie City, IA 50228. (The Prairie Learning Center is closed.)*

*Those who wish to carpool can meet at 8:00 am in the East parking lot at First Unitarian Church of Des Moines, 1800 Bell Ave, Des Moines.

Immediately following the nature walk at 10:30, there is an option to take the five-mile auto tour through the bison and elk enclosure.

During the walk, we will have time for conversation, reflections, and quiet. We’ll identify prairie plants, trees, and bird species, and connect more fully to the native and ancient land in which we live. There will be plenty of opportunities to learn about plants and birds, and to practice the spiritual aspects of nature, which is a wonderful mindfulness practice.

This nature walk is co-led by the Centering Nature Leadership Team from First Unitarian Church of Des Moines.

To attend, please make reservations here. Bring comfortable walking shoes, binoculars if you have them, and water and nourishment as needed. Please do not attend if you are ill.