REFUGE/DDWS

Furthering its mission to reach and connect with underserved urban communities, the J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge will return to Lakes Park in Fort Myers for its 35th annual “Ding” Darling Day on April 20 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. The celebration will also observe Earth Day, which falls on April 22. The refuge and “Ding” Darling Wildlife Society-Friends of the Refuge have planned a day of free outdoor activities, including carnival games, prizes, archery, a dunk tank, face painting, rock climbing wall, Earth Day crafts, artist-in-residence demonstrations, guided birding and nature walks, live music and educational interactions with other local conservation organizations. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, DDWS and Tarpon Bay Explorers co-sponsor the event with support from the local community and businesses. Lakes Park is at 7330 Gladiolus Drive, Fort Myers.