Learn About Native Plants and Rattlesnakes

The Morrison Knudsen Nature Center plans two workshops this weekend; one on Saturday about gardening for wildlife and the other on Sunday about rattlesnake awareness. From 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., Saturday, April 29, the Nature Center's native plant gardener will explain how to use native plants to garden for wildlife. Participants in the "Native Plants: Gardening for Wildlife Workshop" will learn what plants attract wildlife, and how and when to plant. They also may tour the nature center garden to see how native plants and wildlife coexist. Space is limited so call 334-2225 to pre-register. Coffee, tea and water will be available along with a lunchtime snack. Cost is $10. Rattlesnake Awareness At 1 p.m. Sunday, the Nature Center will present a workshop on rattlesnake awareness and outdoor safety - a must for anyone who spends time outdoors. Wildlife educator Frank Lundburg will present the program with the help of Idaho native snakes, including rattlesnakes. The program includes a "hands-on" experience, identification of selected snakes, tips on avoiding "accidents" and discussion of habitat, venom and snakebite. Lundburg will compare the non-native Western diamondback and Idaho native Western rattlesnake. And he will illustrate the discussion of venom with the Arizona native gila monster, an endangered species, and one of only two venomous lizards in the world. Live snakes will be used in the program. Admission is $5 for adults and free for children under 12. Seating is limited and on a first-come, first served basis. The Nature Center will open at 11 a.m. Sunday, April 30.