Wild Turkeys Will Be Highlighted at Indiana’s Paynetown SRA, Nov. 24

With Thanksgiving right around the corner, Monroe Lake is celebrating turkeys on Sunday, Nov. 24, at Paynetown State Recreation Area.

The focus isn’t on the domestic turkey, which most people serve for dinner, but the wild turkey.

The day begins with the “Turkey Trek” at 10:30 a.m. This hike will meet at the overflow parking area, which is on your right after passing the Paynetown entrance gatehouse. The naturalist will lead a search for signs of wild turkey activity and discuss the life of turkeys during winter.

Participants should dress for the weather, wear good hiking shoes and be prepared for off-trail hiking. The 75-minute hike is recommended for ages 8 and older.

Families with children ages 6 to 12 are invited to drop in between 1 and 4 p.m. for “Turkey Time” at Paynetown’s Activity Center, which is next to the beach. Four activity stations will each have a different turkey-themed craft and teach wild turkey facts. Kids also can touch a turkey skull, feathers and feet.

Both programs are free, and there is no fee to enter Paynetown during the off-season. Paynetown is at 4850 S. State Road 446, Bloomington.

For more information, call (812) 837-9967, or email naturalist Jill Vance at jvance@dnr.IN.gov.

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."