Children on fishing jettie of DeSoto Lake - PHOTO: Cindy Myer, Park Ranger

Bass Pro Shop of Council Bluffs fishing clinic - PHOTO: Randy Mays

Columbia Fisheries teaching youth about fish - PHOTO: Randy Mays

Missouri Valley, Iowa - DeSoto National Wildlife Refuge hosted the 8^th annual RefugeFest, Saturday, June 7^nd. 

Approximately 700 visitors participated in the event, which included an early morning carp fishing contest and an afternoon of outdoor recreational activities.  

Some visitors got up early to compete in the carp fishing tournament which featured categories;  most carp caught and longest fish.  Others arrived a bit later for the outdoor recreation activities that lasted from 11 am- 3 pm. 

Visitors were able to take a pontoon ride on a Tracker boat from Bass Pro Shop, paddle canoes and kayaks, learn youth archery skills, get up close and personal with fish caught by the Columbia National Fish and Wildlife Conservation Office, sharpen their fly fishing skills, learn proper use of optics for wildlife viewing, touch furs and antlers at the Wildlife Safari Park display, learn about deer research at the refuge, and have the kids drive a mini-boat provided by the Army Corp of Engineers. 

Friends of Boyer Chute and DeSoto National Wildlife Refuges had a concession stand in case visitors worked up an appetite. 

 The day culminated in the presentation of awards to the winners of the fishing contest and the raffle drawing.  Fishing content prizes were awarded in the child and adult categories.  Prizes were provided by the Friends of Boyer Chute and DeSoto National Wildlife Refuge. 

            RefugeFest is growing more popular every year with many people planning in advance to attend this celebration of outdoor recreation.  This event would not be possible without the partners who help make this an enjoyable experience for the visitors.

       CONTACT:      Sue McDonald, Visitor Services Manager