Wake County Parks: Compost Magic, Hawk Eyes and Fishing Fun!

Wake County Parks are hosting an assortment of fun activities for people of all ages this summer.

Saturday, Aug. 18 - The Rotten Truth About Composting
Kids, ages 9-12, are invited to sniff out the facts behind composting on Saturday, Aug. 18, 2007, from 9:30-11 a.m., at Blue Jay Point County Park. Compost is king as kids learn the ancient history of the natural wonder and why it's still important today. Participants will learn about the chemistry of compost through interactive games and visit Blue Jay's onsite compost bin. Space is limited, and classes fill quickly. Registration is $5, and pre-registration is suggested. For more information, call 870-4330. Blue Jay Point County Park is located at 3200 Pleasant Union Church Road, Raleigh.

Saturday, Aug. 18 - Going Native in Your Yard
Discover the difference between native and non-native invasive exotic plants at Crowder District Park on Saturday, Aug. 25, 2007, from 10-11:30 a.m. Learn how to identify problem plants and what to do about them, as well as discover the many benefits of "Going Native" in your yard. The event is open to adults and older youth. Registration is $3. For more information, call 662-2850. Crowder District Park is located at 4709 Ten Ten Road, Apex.

Thursday, Aug. 23 - Hawk Eye
Take a look at one of nature's most popular birds of prey, the hawk, on Thursday, Aug. 23, 2007, 11a.m. to noon at the American Tobacco Trail. These birds rely on specialized hunting and survival skills to find food and avoid being food. The fee for the event is $2 per person or $5 per family. Meet in the White Oak Church parking lot, New Hill. For more information, call 387-2117. Visit www.wakegov.com for detailed directions.

Saturday, Aug. 25 - Mill Interpreter Training
Are you interested in helping interpret Historic Yates Mill? If so, join park staff for a day of training on Saturday, Aug. 25, 2007, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Historic Yates Mill County Park. This program is required for any volunteers who wish to become mill interpreters. Lunch and other refreshments are provided. Pre-registration is required. For information and to register, call 856-6675. Historic Yates Mill is located at 4620 Lake Wheeler Road, Raleigh.

Wednesday, Aug. 29 - Go Fishin'!
Learn the best tips to catch the biggest fish on Wednesday, Aug. 29, 2007, from 10-11:30 a.m. at Harris Lake County Park. Fishing is fun when you know what to do! Learn the basics from bait to where to fish on Harris Lake. Bring your own rod or borrow one at the park. Bait will be provided. Meet at the fishing pond. For more information, call 387-4342. Harris Lake is located at 2112 County Park Drive, New Hill.

For more information on Wake County Parks, go to www.wakegov.com/parks.