March 18, 2024

Bison Day on Sept. 27 at Neal Smith NWR

The Neal Smith National Wildlife Refuge will celebrate its annual Bison Day from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sept. 27.

Bison Day festivities kick off at 10 a.m. and will be ongoing throughout the day. Activities include arts and crafts, games, scavenger hunts, archeological and Native American displays and a weaver’s guild demonstration. Participants also will enjoy hands-on activities including rope-making and a chance to learn flint knapping to craft an arrowhead.

This year, John Price, Iowa native and author of “Man Killed by Pheasant and Other Kinships,” also will be providing book readings and signings. In addition, at 1:30 p.m., Iowa State University bison researcher Peter Eyheralde will present some of the interesting things he has learned about the bison at Neal Smith NWR. A 2 p.m. Bison Chip Toss contest will complete the day’s activities with prizes for each the winners.

All ages are welcome to spend a day on the prairie and discover the wonders of North America’s largest land mammal. The event is free. Bison burgers and hot dogs available for purchase. For more information on the event, contact Brianna Patrick at (515) 994-3400 or brianna_patrick@fws.gov.