Running retreat in Nashville

Transcend Health and Wellness will host Transcend Running Retreat from Sept. 29 to Oct. 3 in Nashville. The weekend aims to connect women who love running.

The schedule will include group trail runs, workshops and meditations. The location will be given to attendees after they register.

The registration fee is $2,200. Those interested can register at transcendhealthandwellness.com/retreats/fall.

Tick identification help available

Tick Spotters, a program run by the University of Rhode Island, provides free, accurate and timely tick identification information and science-based risk assessments related to ticks.

Expert guidance can offer the best next actions following tick encounters to lessen risk of tickborne disease and bites.

Once on the website at www.web.uri.edu/tickencounter/tickspotters/ visitors will be prompted to upload a photo of the tick in a jpg file and answer a few questions. Experts will respond within 24 hours with an email confirming tick identification and likely riskiness.

The email will also include easy-to-follow tick bite prevention tips, as well as resources and links.

Tips to avoid mosquito bites this summer

National Mosquito Control Awareness Week was last month. In recognition, the American Mosquito Control Association (AMCA) has general information and tips to avoid bites from the insect.

There are more than 30 different species of mosquitos. All mosquito species have a life cycle that is dependent on water.

According to to a press release from the American Mosquito Control Association, standing water, bare skin and dark clothing all attract mosquitos.

AMCA recommends people follow the “three Ds” to keep mosquitoes away:

• Drain: Empty out water containers at least once per week.
• Dress: Wear long sleeves, long pants and light-colored, loose-fitting clothing.
• Defend: Properly apply an Environmental Protection Agency-registered repellent or oil of lemon-eucalyptus.

Mosquitos cause more illnesses in humans than any other animal. Being prepared to prevent mosquitos and use control measures can lead to a healthy — and mosquito free — summer.

For more information on National Mosquito Control Awareness Week, visit AMCA online at www.mosquito.org.

Next Level Conservation Trust

The Dept. of Natural Resources has announced the Next Level Conservation Trust — a program that will acquire property as part of the public trust to be protected for future generations.

“The Next Level Conservation Trust will continue the DNR’s legacy of preserving Indiana’s rich natural heritage,” said DNR Director Dan Bortner.

A total of $25 million will be invested in the program. The trust is an extension of the Bicentennial Nature Trust program with elements from the President Benjamin Harrison Conservation Trust. An additional 25% of funding will come through a private funding match program.

Property protected under the trust will be open to the public. Local ownership and management is allowed through a conservation easement.

For additional information, visit on.IN.gov/next-level-conservation-trust.

Migratory bird hunting seasons announced

The migratory bird hunting seasons for 2022 and early 2023 have been announced by the Indiana Department of Natural Resources.

Mourning dove: Sept. 1 to Oct. 16; Nov. 1 to 27; Dec. 17 to Jan. 2.

Woodcock: Oct. 15 to Nov. 28.

Snipe: Sept. 1 to Dec. 16.

Sora rail: Sept. 1 to Nov. 9.

Early teal: Sept. 10 to 25.

Ducks, coots and mergansers: Nov. 5 to 6; Nov. 26 to Jan. 22.

Geese (Canada, brant, white-fronted, snow, ross’s): Sept. 10 to 18; Nov. 5 to 20; Nov. 26 to Feb. 12.

Youth and veteran only hunting days: Oct. 29 to 30.

For information on daily limits, shooting hours and other regulations as well as dates for falconry visit in.gov/dnr/fish-and-wildlife/hunting-and-trapping/waterfowl-and-migratory-game-birds/.

Youth Marksmanship program scheduled

Hoosier Hills Rifle and Pistol Club sponsors a shooting sports program for boys and girls ages 13 to 21. The program teaches gun safety and marksmanship skills.

Skill awards can be earned by shooting paper targets at an outdoor range using .22 caliber rifles. The program is taught by certified instructors and coaches.

Training and practice sessions are held on Wednesday evenings.

For information and to apply, email [email protected] or visit hhrpyouth.org.