Endangered Species Walk-Run Oct. 8, rain or shine

This year's event focuses on caves and the animals that live in them.

JEFFERSON CITY-Missourians who want to help conserve endangered species ranging from Indiana bats to Ozark cavefish and blind salamanders can do their part by joining the Missouri Conservation Heritage Foundation's Endangered Species Walk/Run Oct. 8.

The event, now in its seventh year, gives people at every level of ability the chance to contribute to endangered species conservation. Athletically inclined participants can choose a 5K or 10K run. Those who want a less strenuous workout can opt for a 5K walk on a separate course.

Prizes are awarded to the first three finishers in eight age divisions from 10 and under to 60 and older. All participants receive Endangered Species Walk/Run t-shirts with an original design by Conservation Department Artist Mark Raithel. This year's design features cave animals.

Organizers say the event will proceed regardless of weather. Participants will gather at 8 a.m. at the Katy Trail pavilion at the intersection of Highways 54 and 63 in North Jefferson City. Races will begin at 9 a.m.

Registration forms and full event information are available at www.mdc.mo.gov/programs/es_walkrun/. Completed forms can be mailed to Missouri Conservation Heritage Foundation, Endangered Species Walk/Run, P.O. Box 366, Jefferson City, MO 65102-0366. Advance registration costs $15 for those 15 and older or $10 for age 14 and under. Add $3 for registrations marked after Sept. 21 or on-site the day of the event. If you can't be there, you can buy a commemorative t-shirt or send donations to the same address.

All proceeds from the event go to the Conservation Heritage Foundation and are channeled into endangered species programs. Project that have benefitted from the event in recent years include a captive-breeding program for the Topeka shiner and studies of least bitterns, spring cavefish and rare wetland species.

-Jim Low-

Click Here To Return To The Previous Page