More than 32,000 people attended the third annual "Go Wild at the Mall" at West Acres Mall in Fargo, N.D. on Oct. 8.  The day-long event included 17 booths such as "bug-a-rama," "bird buffet," "furry critters" and "wetland bubble."  Youngsters and their parents got close-up looks at an airboat, fire fighting equipment and a large tank with native fish.  The event was staffed by Service personnel from 10 field stations in three states and two regions, plus six other partners. 

In its third year, "Go Wild at the Mall" has become a "destination event."  Several visitors said they just stumbled onto the event in its first two years, but they had marked this year's date on their calendars in advance.

"Go Wild at the Mall" was created to give young people a better understanding of their environment, as well as the workings of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and its partners.

H