Indiana: Evening Nature Programs Scheduled at Monroe Library in September

Monroe Lake’s interpretive staff will present two free  programs for the public at the Monroe County Public Library in September.

The first program is “The Monarch Migration” on Sept. 20 at 7 p.m. The program will focus on the annual migration of monarch butterflies to Mexico. Attendees will learn why and how the butterflies make this journey and discover how to create a monarch migration “waystation.”

The second program is “Urban Naturalist” on Sept. 27 at 7 p.m. The program will look at how some animals have adapted to life in the city, occasionally leading to people-animal conflicts. The program will also explore how to have a healthy relationship with birds, insects and other wildlife in an urban residential setting.

Both programs will be in Room 1C.

The Monroe County Public Library is at 303 E. Kirkwood Ave., Bloomington. For more information, call (812) 837-9967.

Monroe Lake is at 4850 South State Road 446, Bloomington, 47401.

Indiana Department of Natural Resources

The Indiana Department of Natural Resources is the agency of the U.S. state of Indiana charged with maintaining natural areas such as state parks, state forests, recreation areas, etc. There are many divisions within the DNR and each has a specific role. The DNR is not only responsible for maintaining resource areas but also manages Indiana's fish and wildlife, reclaims coal mine ground, manages forested areas, aids in the management of wildlife on private lands, enforces Indiana's conservation laws, and many other duties not named here. According to the department's website, their mission is "to protect, enhance, preserve, and wisely use natural, cultural, and recreational resources for the benefit of Indiana's citizens through professional leadership, management, and education."