20th Annual Youth Outdoor Field Day Draws A Large Crowd and Enthusiasm
Mahaska County Sheriff’s Office K9 unit prepares for a demonstration at the 2023 Youth Outdoor Field Day.
New Sharon, Iowa – The 20th annual Youth Outdoor Field Day was once again a success, with a large turnout of 200 participants comprising children and adults and a dedicated team of 30 volunteers. This milestone event, which took place at Russel Wildlife on Saturday, September 30th, showcased various outdoor activities and educational experiences for attendees.
The event featured ten exciting activity stations designed to engage and educate participants on various aspects of outdoor recreation and conservation.
Attendees could try their hand at bow fishing, learn about firearm safety during .22 shooting, get creative with nature-themed crafts, and receive valuable water safety tips from the Oskaloosa Fire Department.
Fishing enthusiasts had the chance to cast their lines, while nature lovers could explore tree identification. The “Make & Take Seed Balls” station allowed participants to roll dirt and clay with seeds, creating their own seed balls to take home and plant native flowers for pollinators. Disc golf enthusiasts honed their skills, and the Mahaska County Sheriff’s Office K9 unit, led by K9 Rocco, demonstrated its impressive abilities, including sniffing and identifying narcotics and subduing threatening individuals.
For those fascinated by paleontology, the fossil hunting station provided a unique opportunity to discover remnants of the past. Attendees of all ages found something to pique their interest and inspire a love for the great outdoors.
Laura DeCook, with Mahaska County Conservation, was thrilled with the favorable weather conditions that graced the event. Thanks to the dedicated volunteers who contributed their time and efforts to make the event successful.
Special thanks were extended to the Oskaloosa Fire Department, Mahaska County Sheriff’s Office, Oskaloosa Police Department, Scanlon Bait & Tackle, Iowa DNR, Mahaska County Master Gardeners, Oskaloosa Trees Forever, Green Iowa AmeriCorps, Muddy River Bowfishing Team, Oskaloosa Disc Golf, JC’s John’s, Spring Creek Arms and Swim Sports and Awards. The Friends of Mahaska County Conservation also played a crucial role by purchasing water bottles that were given out as prizes for the young participants.
Looking ahead, event organizers expressed a desire to continue expanding and diversifying the activities offered, focusing on providing even more opportunities for families to bond and learn about the wonders of the outdoors. They warmly welcomed new ideas and additional volunteers to join their efforts.
For those who wish to contribute towards next year’s Youth Outdoor Field Day, organizers encourage contacting Mahaska County Conservation to explore donation opportunities.
The 20th Annual Youth Outdoor Field Day showcased collaboration and the shared commitment to promoting outdoor education and recreation.
