The Stephen F. Austin State University Department of Agriculture will host an Outdoor Family Fun Day at the SFA Pineywoods Native Plant Center from 9 a.m. to noon Saturday, Aug. 27, as part of its Nacogdoches Naturally program.
"Families will be able to experience a sampling of programs we have planned for the coming year," said Elyce Rodewald, education coordinator for SFA Gardens. "They will be able to learn how to set up a tent, practice casting with a fishing pole, learn how to use a compass, try their hand at outdoor cooking, or just go for a leisurely hike."
According to Kerry Lemon, Nacogdoches Naturally project director, many of the group's program partners will been in attendance at the event.
"With their help, we will offer activities to meet a variety of interests," Lemon said. "Archery, bird watching, making homemade ice cream, and going on a scavenger hunt are enjoyable for people of all ages. We are excited about starting off our program year with this fun, educational day for families to be together outdoors."
Nacogdoches Naturally sponsors include Boyette Consulting, Boys and Girls Club of Nacogdoches, City of Nacogdoches Parks and Recreation Department, Columbia Regional Geospatial Service Center, Ecovirons, Nacogdoches Bass Club, Pineywoods Audubon Society, SFA Garden Volunteers, Friends of the National Forests and Grasslands in Texas, Texas Forest Service, Texas Parks and Wildlife Department, and the U.S. Forest Service.
Families will have an opportunity to sign up for programs scheduled monthly through July 2012.
Nacogdoches Naturally is funded by a matching grant from the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department Community Outdoor Outreach Program.
There is no charge for the Outdoor Family Fun Day, and no registration is required. The center is located at 2900 Raguet St., and parking will be available at Raguet Elementary School. For more information, call (936) 468-1832 or e-mail erodewald@sfasu.edu.
Axe ’Em, Jacks!