The Neal Smith National Wildlife Refuge in Prairie City is in need of volunteers for their Second Saturday Stewardship event.

Volunteers are needed to clean and prepare native prairie seeds to help build more tallgrass prairie. The process involves removing the stem, leaves, and other parts and leaving just the seeds for planting. The effort will help reconstruct diverse tallgrass prairie at the refuge. The work will be done inside the seed lab at the visitor center this Saturday from 9:00am – 12:00pm. Individuals, families, and groups are welcome to participate in the event, and free hot chocolate and snacks will be available for volunteers. Participants are required to fill out a volunteer agreement, and those under the age of 18 must have a parent or legal guardian sign the form. Volunteers are also required to wear closed sturdy shoes and pants.

For additional information or to register, contact the Neal Smith National Wildlife Refuge at 515-994-3400.