The U.S. Forest Service will host a “Walk When the Moon is Full” program titled “Hiker’s Moon” on May 13 at 6:30 p.m. at the Blue Springs Trailhead parking area of the North Fork Recreation Area of the Ava/Cassville/Willow Springs Ranger District.
Don Smith, current trails volunteer for the U.S. Forest Service, will be presenting a “Leave No Trace” program. “Leave No Trace” is a national and international program designed to assist outdoor enthusiasts with their decisions about how to reduce their impacts while hiking or camping. Participants will also hike the Blue Springs trail (approximately 1/4 mile). Bring water, a lawn chair, and insect repellant.
Commemorative Hiker’s Moon. collector pins will be available for all participants. The event is free and everyone is welcome.
Directions–From Ava: Take Hwy. 14 east to Hwy. 181 South. Travel south on Hwy. 181 to CC Hwy. Travel east approximately seven miles on CC Hwy to North Fork Recreation Area located on the south side of CC Hwy. Follow the road into the recreation area and take the first left. Go past the camping area to the Blue Springs Trail parking area.
From West Plains: Take Hwy. CC approximately 15 miles west to the North Fork Recreation Area which will be on the south side of CC Hwy. Follow the directions above.
From Willow Springs: Take Hwy 76 West to Hwy 181 South. Travel south to Hwy. 14, turn west to Hwy. 181 south. Travel through Dora to CC Hwy. and follow directions above.
For additional information contact Nettie Sitting Up Perez, wildlife biologist, or District Ranger Jenny Farenbaugh at 417-683-4428. Office hours are Monday-Friday 8 am to 4:30 pm.
