http://www.snakesofarkansas.com/inde...raea/index.php
SnakesofArkansas.com is pleased to announce the 2nd Annual Meeting of Reptile and Amphibian Enthusiasts of Arkansas! The meeting will take place on Saturday, April 17th, 2004, at Mount Magazine State Park. The meeting is open to the general public. The registration fee is $8.00 online / $10.00 at the door (children 12 and under free). Morning check-in will begin at 8:00AM with activities planned throughout the day. Online registration prior to the meeting is requested. We look forward to seeing you there!
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What to Bring
Although you may certainly "come as you are", the day will be more enjoyable if you bring the following items:
Weather-appropriate clothing. It is often cooler on the mountain than surrounding areas, especially at night!
Sack lunch. Lunch will NOT be provided at the meeting, but we encourage everyone to gather at the Pavilion to eat.
Hiking gear (if you are planning to participate in a hike). Most of the hikes will take place off-trail so long pants and hiking boots are suggested.
Camera. There should be numerous photo opportunities with both exotic and native reptiles and amphibians.
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Research / Professional-Level Talks
In the morning, a number of professional herpetologists will be giving presentations about their latest findings. A list of speakers and abstracts will be included in a packet of printed materials available at the meeting.
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Organizational Meeting for an AR Herp Society
Shortly before lunch, persons interested in establishing an AR Herp Society should attend this meeting. This society, if established, would be focused on conducting field survey work. Come with your ideas and be ready to share!
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Sack Lunch
We encourage everyone to join us for a picnic. Please bring your own sack lunch, as lunches will NOT be provided at the meeting. The lunch will take place at the Pavilion. The relaxed atmosphere will provide a perfect opportunity to meet others and to "talk shop".
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Live Animal Display
A display of exotic and native species of reptiles and amphibians will be in the Museum section of the Visitors Center. Some extremely rare "designer" animals will on display. We will also be showing a variety of Arkansas species, including several that are venomous.
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Beginner-Level Talks
After lunch, talks will cover the basics of reptiles and amphibians. Learn to identify the venomous snakes of Arkansas. Find out more about beginning and advanced husbandry. Come hear why people find these animals so fascinating!
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Show-and-Tell
In the afternoon, experienced keepers of reptiles and amphibians will be available to talk about and show off their animals. You will have plenty of opportunities to touch and even handle a number of different snakes and other reptiles and amphibians. This portion of the day should be very kid-friendly.
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Guided Hikes
In the late afternoon, guides familiar with the local species of reptiles and amphibians will take small groups out to look for specimens in their natural habitat. You will have the opportunity to choose the level of difficulty that best suits your physical abilities:
Easy: This level of hike will last approximately an hour and will take place on trails and/or relatively flat terrain.
Medium/Short: This level of hike will last approximately an hour and will take place off-trail.
Medium/Long: This level of hike will last approximately 2 - 2 1/2 hours and will take place off-trail.
Hard: This level of hike could last up to 3 hours and will take place on extremely rough terrain.
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Evening Social
An evening meal of brisket, vegetables, and all of the fixings will be catered by Grapevine Restaurant. A keg of beer will be on tap. The social will take place at the Pavilion. Additional cost: $12.00
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Location and Map
Mount Magazine State Park
Lodge Dr.
Paris, AR 72855
(479) 963-1080
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More Information
For camping reservations or questions regarding the location, please visit the Mount Magazine State Park website. Camping areas are limited, so you may want to make arrangements with other attendees to share a camping site together.
For other questions, please email Kory Roberts or call (479) 466-5578. You may also post questions to the Forums.