National Forest Appreciation Day
Date/Time
Saturday, June 24, 2023
10:00 am - 1:00 pm
Location
Pandapas Pond Day Use Area
Categories
What is it? A day for citizens who use the National Forest to say “thank you” to the Forest Service for all they do to maintain our forests.
When is it? The last Saturday in June.
How did it start? Mary Rhoades, when president of our Chapter, wrote to the Blacksburg Town Council suggesting one thing that makes Blacksburg so special is that we have the National Forest right outside of town. Which we almost all use and enjoy. And she thought it was about time we said “thank you” to the folks who work so hard keeping up the National Forest. The Council liked the idea, so they passed a proclamation declaring the last Saturday in June each year would be NFA Day.
Where do we fit in? We recruit volunteers to run some type of educational adventure out at Pandapas Pond. This year we are focusing on Insect Galls. We set up a table at the edge of the pond, and volunteers man the spot to talk to people visiting the pond that day. Mary Rhoades will furnish the information about insect galls. Usually, we have some activities children like, such as a scavenger hunt. In the past we have had volunteers help out who know the birds, or dragonflies (Bruce), or who can identify invasive or native plants.
You’re Invited! Come and enjoy an educational outing or come and help us talk to visitors. More information closer to June 24.
