Date: December 2, 2009
Contact: Merrith Baughman, 402-223-3514
On December 2, 2009 at 9:30 a.m., Homestead National Monument of America will be conducting a deer census. Please come and help the monument count deer, no experience is needed; just show up at the Education Center for a 9:30 a.m. orientation. Wear long pants and good walking shoes. The walkers will hike approximately 3/4 of a mile through the prairie. For those who can't or don't want to walk that far, people are needed to watch the road to the west of the monument and count the deer as they exit. The survey will be completed by 12 p.m. Motorists on State Highway 4 need to be alert for deer crossing the highway as they drive through the monument on the morning of December 2, 2009.
During the September census, eight deer were counted on National Park Service land with 30 volunteers participating in the survey. "By completing the two counts in November it will give us a better idea of how deer use the monument throughout the year." said Superintendent Mark Engler. "This very valuable project would not be possible without volunteers."
There are many reasons to volunteer for the National Park Service and other public land agencies. By volunteering, you can spend quality time in nature, give back to the community, learn new skills, earn rewards, and have fun with fellow volunteers.
For more information, visit our website at www.nps.gov/home or call Homestead National Monument of America at 402-223-3514. The monument is located four miles west of Beatrice, Nebraska on State Highway 4. Hours of operation for both the Education Center and the Heritage Center are 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Monday through Friday and 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday. Admission to all exhibits, displays, and events is free of charge.
