'NaturePalooza Nebraska' is Sept. 24

NaturePalooza Nebraska will be held from 3-8 p.m., Sept. 24 at Hardin Hall on UNL's East Campus.
NaturePalooza Nebraska will be held from 3-8 p.m., Sept. 24 at Hardin Hall on UNL's East Campus.

Want to explore a pit full of snakes? How about hold giant insects in your hands? Curious about water-saving tips and how to be more eco-friendly? Look no further than "NaturePalooza Nebraska."

The University of Nebraska-Lincoln's School of Natural Resources will host "NaturePalooza Nebraska" from 3:00 to 8:00 p.m., Sept. 24 at Hardin Hall, located at 33rd and Holdrege streets on the UNL East Campus.

"NaturePalooza is completely reimagined this year," said Lisa Pennisi, assistant professor of practice. "NaturePalooza will now offer fun tips to live in a more sustainable way. Sustainability will focus on five areas: wildlife habitat, air and climate, soil, water and recycling waste. You can buy native plants and get a rain barrel and bird feeder for your yard."

Wildlife Encounters and Raptor Recovery will show live animals. The String Beans will perform live music encouraging kids of all ages to sing and dance. Live shows are supported by the Nebraska Academy of Sciences and will take place in the Hardin Hall auditorium.

Local organizations and food trucks will also be at the event. The Lincoln Bike Kitchen, an organization that provides refurbished bikes and parts to community members, will be at the event offering free bike tune-ups.

Scientists from various groups within the school will provide interactive stations explaining the science behind Nebraska's water, weather and wildlife. Explore the snake pit, discover the biomechanics of bones,
hold giant insects, play with robots and so much more.

"SNR is proud to showcase natural resource education and is very pleased that many community partners will join us at this event," said Ken Dewey, SNR outreach coordinator and professor of applied climate sciences.

Admission and parking are free. Bring the family for an event packed with fun activities. For a complete list of activities and booths that will be featured at NaturePalooza, visit http://snr.unl.edu/naturepalooza.

— Mekita Rivas, Natural Resources

More details at: http://go.unl.edu/qes