The Importance of Insects

You squash them! You spray them! You may even run from them, but did you know that you could not live without them?  Insects have many important roles in our ecosystems from pollinating plants to decomposing organic matter.  The public is invited to Hobbs State Park – Conservation Area visitor center Friday October 3rd and Saturday October 4th to celebrate the diversity and benefits of these amazing little creatures.

Friday October 3, 2014
7:30 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.:  Entomologist Brian Baldwin will begin in the Park’s visitor center presenting a short, basic program highlighting the benefits of insects.  Baldwin will then lead an outdoor citizen science insect observation hour where participants will get an up-close look at some of the creepy-crawlies found in our area.  The insects identified will be added to the Arkansas State Parks’ Natural Resource Inventory Database.  (NRID)  Join us for this free, fun evening of citizen science that will have you seeing insects in a whole new light.

Saturday, October 4
10 a.m. – 2 p.m.:  Mr. Baldwin will have his beautiful collection of insects on display in the lobby of the Hobbs State Park – Conservation Area visitor center.  Bring the family, school group, or scout troop to be amazed by his array of insects, and learn more about these amazing creatures. 

Where: Hobbs State Park – Conservation Area visitor center located on U.S. Hwy 12 just east of the Hwy 12/War Eagle Road intersection.
When:  Friday Oct. 3, 7:30 p.m. – 9 p.m. and Saturday, Oc.t 4, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Cost:    Free

For more information call:  479-789-5000 or go to the web site:  www.friendsofhobbs.com