Jeffers Bend invites community to annual NatureFest

NatureFest has been a Jeffers Bend Environmental Center staple since 2003 and Charles Turner from Jeffers Bend recently appeared on WHOP to spotlight what outdoor activities they have planned for this year’s fest.

Turner shared that this year’s NatureFest will have over 40 activities and says there will be something for all members of the family.

Ahead of the fest, Hopkinsville Mayor J.R. Knight, Christian County Judge Executive Jerry Gilliam and Hopkinsville Water Environment Authority President Derrick Watson gathered at Jeffers Bend on Friday and proclaimed September as NatureFest month.

Students in the county often visit Jeffers Bend for field days where they get to participate in a mini NatureFest and learn about native animals and vegetation. Before the fest, Turner says they will be hosting a field day for 104 fourth grade students from Todd County.

This year’s NatureFest will include birding activities, storytelling, outdoor survival skills, hayrides, beekeeping, a petting zoo and hopefully canoe tours. Turner says as a result of current drought conditions they may not be able to take canoes onto the Jeffers Bend Lake.

NatureFest will also include a poster making contest. The competition will include four age divisions for children between the ages of 3 to 15. Turner says the creators of the the top three posters in each age division will be awarded prizes.

NatureFest will take over Jeffers Bend on September 21 from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. and entry costs $10 per car and $15 per bus. More information about NatureFest is available on Facebook at Jeffers Bend Environmental Center.