Friends of Hagerman NWR upcoming events

Refuge Rocks - The Secret Life of Fungi! (Ages 5-10) (April 18, 2026)

Sat, 18 Apr 2026 15:00:00 GMT

Mushrooms aren’t just mysterious—they’re mighty important! Young nature explorers are invited to uncover the fascinating world beneath their feet at The Secret Life of Fungi, a hands-on children’s program at Hagerman National Wildlife Refuge. This interactive class will take place Saturday, April 18, 2026, from 10:00–11:30 a.m. and is designed for youth ages 5–10.

During this fun and educational program, participants will learn about the important role fungi play in nature and on the refuge—from breaking down fallen trees to helping plants grow. Kids will take a closer look at mushrooms and discover why fungi are often called nature’s recyclers and underground helpers.

The program includes:

An age-appropriate mini lesson on fungi and mushrooms
A creative, fungi-themed craft to take home
A fun, hands-on activity that brings the secret life of fungi to life

Blending science, creativity, and outdoor discovery, The Secret Life of Fungi is perfect for curious kids who love nature, exploration, and a little mystery.

Program Details:

Date: Saturday, April 18

Time: 10:00–11:30 a.m.

Ages: 5–10 years

Location: Hagerman National Wildlife Refuge

Space is limited, and advance registration is encouraged.

Come discover the hidden world that helps nature thrive—the secret life of fungi is waiting to be explored!

Special Youth Fishing Derby FREE Event 9:00-11:30 (Ages 16 and under) (May 02, 2026)

Sat, 02 May 2026 14:00:00 GMT

Calling all kids! Let's Go Fishin' on Saturday, May 2nd with Hagerman NWR staff and volunteers. This special Refuge Rocks event is for youth ages up to 16. We will be fishing from 9:00a.m. to 11:30a.m. and this is open to children ages 16 and under. With the help of volunteers, kids will be able to demonstrate their fishin' skills!

Gear will be available for kids to check out and bait will be provided. No registration is required for this event, and you can come and go as you please. We'll also be providing a fishing-themed craft table.

Registration is not necessary for this very special come-and-go event.

Refuge Rocks FREE Youth Program: Nest Builders-Nature's Amazing Architects (Ages 5-10) (May 16, 2026)

Sat, 16 May 2026 15:00:00 GMT

Have you ever found a bird's nest while exploring outside? They are absolutely amazing. What makes it even more incredible is that these little creatures do it all with no hands!

Join us at the education pavilion during this special Refuge Rocks program occurring during our day-long Birdfest celebration!

Bird nests can be made of twigs, grass, plants, mud, spider silk, moss and almost any other materials birds can get their beaks on. Some birds, like eagles, build their nests high in the trees to keep them safe from predators. Other birds build their nests on the ground or in low shrubs. There are as many type of bird nests are there are types of birds!

Come join us for a fun challenge.....can you build a nest using natural materials just like real birds do? NO GLUE OR TAPE ALLOWED!

This "Make a Bird's Nest" project is a fun way to test out our creative building ideas and problem solving.

This free nature activity is for youth ages 5-10. Registration required.