O.W.L.S. TOPIC FEATURES Freshwater Mussels

November 15 -- Story County Conservation invites the public to the monthly O.W.L.S. (Older, Wiser, Livelier Seniors) program at the Story County Conservation Center at McFarland Park (56461 180th Street) northeast of Ames. Freshwater Mussels will be presented by Natural Resource Biologist Jennifer Kurth on Tuesday, December 4, beginning at 11:00 a.m.

Freshwater mussels can be found in many rivers and streams in Iowa. They are valuable components of freshwater biodiversity and healthy ecosystems. Come learn more about freshwater mussels from Kurth. Kurth, who is currently in the midst of a six-year, state-wide survey of freshwater mussels in Iowa rivers and streams, works in the Water Improvement Department at the Iowa DNR.

O.W.L.S. programs are designed for "boomers" or older – but anyone can attend.  An optional luncheon follows the program at 12 p.m.  Lunch is catered for a $7 fee, and registration is required by 3:30 p.m., Friday, November 30.  The planned lunch menu for December is Baked ham, au gratin potatoes, tossed salad, and apple crisp.

For more information about this or other programs, contact Story County Conservation at 515-232-2516 (8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m., Monday-Friday), email us at conservation@storycounty.com, or visit www.storycountyiowa.gov/conservation.