Friends of Neal Smith NWR to host Walk for the Wild and Nature Store Barn Sale

The Friends of Neal Smith NWR will again join teams from across the country to host Walk for the Wild events during National Wildlife Refuge Week. The Walk for the Wild 5K Challenge has become a flagship event for Friends groups in partnership with Public Lands Alliance, and has raised more than $90,000 nationally since its inception in 2021.

This will be the Friends of Neal Smith’s third year hosting a guided 5K walk around the Prairie Overlook and Savanna Trails at Neal Smith National Wildlife Refuge. The event starts at 10 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 19, leaving from the walkway in front of the Visitor Center.

You can participate by joining the Friends on a guided walk leaving from the Refuge Visitor Center or walk the suggested 5K route or any route you choose between Oct. 12-19 or even Walk for the Wild on your own time and at your own pace. Spread the word! Participation is FREE! Donations are welcome.

The Friends of Neal Smith National Wildlife Refuge Nature Store has been shut down since extensive storm damage to the Visitor Center in July resulting in the building closing indefinitely. The Friends are exploring options. Currently, the Nature Store does not have a home and a lot of inventory is available.

The organization will be holding a fundraising sale in a nearby barn. All items will be 25 percent off the ticketed price. Cash, checks, and credit cards are accepted. This is a great opportunity to shop for every nature lover. All funds raised will go towards ongoing efforts to support the Refuge, such as funding activities and internships on-site.

Look for the “Walk For the Wild” banner next to the driveway from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday at 8125 W. 109th St. S., Prairie City – Farm Barn just off Highway 163.