News Release No. 402

SCOUTS CAN EARN A UNIQUE PATCH AT
ONONDAGA CAVE STATE PARK OCT. 22-23

Volume 33-402

Contact: Sue Holst

(For immediate release)

573-751-6510

JEFFERSON CITY, MO, SEPT. 29, 2005 -- Onondaga Cave State Park near Leasburg is giving Scouts the opportunity to add to their collection of patches on Oct. 22-23 by completing the Scout Patch Program. Sponsored by the Missouri Department of Natural Resources, this two-day educational program will be held from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. on Saturday and 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Sunday.

This new program has been developed specifically with Scouts in mind and is geared for all ages. Participants will have the opportunity to learn about cave formations in Missouri, conservation of caves and the mission of the Missouri state park system. In order to earn a unique patch designed specifically for this program, Scouts must hike at least two of the park's trails; complete a three-hour service project (scheduled in advance); complete a "Get to Know Your Park" check list; tour either Onondaga or Cathedral cave (fee applies) and complete the "Cave Quiz;" and attend at least one evening nature program. The weekend of activities will begin at 9 a.m. on Saturday morning with an orientation meeting at the park's amphitheater.

Scout groups must register at least one week in advance by calling 573-245-6576. Camping reservations can be made by calling 1-877-ICampMo (1-877-422-6766) or online at www.mostateparks.com.

To reach Onondaga Cave State Park, take the Leasburg exit (#214) off of Interstate 44 and go seven miles south on Highway H. For more information about the program, contact the park at 573-245-6576 or the Department of Natural Resources toll free at 800-334-6946 (voice) or 800-379-2419 (Telecommunications Device for the Deaf). For more information about Missouri state parks, visit the Web at www.mostateparks.com.

For news releases on the Web, visit www.dnr.mo.gov/newsrel. For a complete listing of the department's upcoming meetings, hearings and events, visit the department's online calendar at www.dnr.mo.gov/calendar/parkssearch.do.

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