Iroquois National Wildlife Refuge announced today that the refuge headquarters/visitor contact station will be open on weekends, September 26 through October 31, 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. This is in addition to its regular business hours of Monday - Friday 7:30 a.m. to 4 p.m., except holidays. The Flyway Nature Store, operated by the Friends of Iroquois National Wildlife Refuge, Inc., will also operate during these extended hours.

The extended hours coincide with a series of FREE nature programs called Iroquois Observations presented in partnership with the Buffalo Audubon Society. Fall programs include for a tree identification walk 1 pm â€" 3 pm on September 26 led by experienced guide Chuck Rosenberg. Meet at the Kanyoo Nature Trail. On Saturday, October 3 take a quiet canoe trek on Oak Orchard Creek. Meet at the bridge on Knowlesville Road with your canoe and life jackets. The fall season concludes with an owl prowl on Saturday, October 24, 7 pm â€" 9 pm. Meet at the refuge office for a brief orientation before caravanning to the prowl site. Be prepared for an off road walk. Pre-registration is required by calling the refuge office at 585-948-5445.

For additional information contact: Iroquois National Wildlife Refuge, 1101 Casey Road, Basom, NY 14013 or call (585) 948-5445 or visit our website: http://www.fws.gov/northeast/iroquois.

The mission of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is working with others to conserve, protect and enhance fish, wildlife, plants and their habitats for the continuing benefit of the American people. We are both a leader and trusted partner in fish and wildlife conservation, known for our scientific excellence, stewardship of lands and natural resources, dedicated professionals and commitment to public service. For more information on our work and the people who make it happen, visit www.fws.gov.