Coos Bay, Ore. – The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) is offering free Junior Ranger programs for kids at various locations on the southwest Oregon coast on Saturdays beginning June 8. BLM park rangers will present fun programs that explore nature and wildlife. These activities are best for children 5 to 13 years old, but all ages are welcome. Those participating in the programs should bring sunscreen, a hat, snack, and water. Each program lasts approximately one hour, and the nature hikes will be about one mile long. Fun Fit Nature Hike – June 8th at 10 a.m. New River Nature Center – Enjoy hiking the trails at New River Area of Critical Environmental Concern, where Junior Rangers will learn the plants and animals of the area by participating in a scavenger hunt during the hike. Meet at the New River Nature Center, located 9 miles south of Bandon on U.S. Highway 101, 86342 Croft Lake Lane, Bandon, Oregon. What Elk? June 22 at 10 a.m. – Dean Creek Elk Viewing Area – Junior Rangers will learn all about the Roosevelt elk that roam the meadows at Dean Creek Elk Viewing Area. Participants should meet Dean Creek Elk Viewing Area pavilion, located three miles east of Reedsport along Highway 38. Fishing 101 – July 6 at 10 a.m. – New River Nature Center – Junior Rangers will embark on a fun day of fishing on New River, while learning about the unique estuary. Participants will meet at the New River Nature Center. New River Nature Center is located 9 miles south of Bandon on U.S. Highway 101, 86342 Croft Lake Lane, Bandon, Oregon. Fun, Fit Nature Hike – July 20 and August 10 at 10 a.m. – Blue Ridge Trails – Junior Rangers will hike sections of the forested Blue Ridge Trails, east of Coos Bay, and will learn about the plants and animals of the area, and the history of Blue Ridge. Hikers should meet at the BLM Coos Bay District Office at 1300 Airport Lane, North Bend, Oregon. For additional information on the Junior Ranger programs, contact Leslie Peters at (541) 756-0100. Additional information on the BLM’s Coos Bay District is available at blm.gov/office/coos-bay-district-office
