Nature Walk at Neal Smith Wildlife Refuge

Our September nature walk theme is “balance,” marking the fall equinox and its balance of light and dark. As fall arrives, there's no better place to honor nature's balance — between light and dark, growth and rest — than the vast prairie.

“There is something infinitely healing in the repeated refrains of nature—the assurance that dawn comes after night, and spring after the winter.” — Rachel Carson, Silent Spring

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 south parking lot at First Unitarian Church of Des Moines, 1800 Bell Ave, Des Moines.

Along the way, we will have time for conversation, reflection, and quiet. We’ll look at prairie plants and bird species and connect more deeply with the ancient land we call home. There will be plenty of opportunities to learn about plants and birds, and to practice the spiritual aspects of nature — a wonderful mindfulness practice.

This nature walk is co-led by the Centering Nature Leadership Team from First Unitarian Church of Des Moines and is funded by the REACH program (Radical Engagement And Creative Happenings) through the church.

Please let us know if you plan to attend! RSVP here and/or email us at [centeringnature@ucdsm.org](mailto:centeringnature@ucdsm.org).

Bring comfortable walking shoes, binoculars if you have them, and water and nourishment as needed. Please do not attend if you’re feeling unwell.