School may be out for the summer but third, fourth and fifth graders from Lawrence County will have the opportunity to learn more about nature next week.

The Lawrence Soil and Water Conservation District and the Ohio State University Extension office will host the Conservation/4-H Field Day Tuesday at the Herrell Family Farm in Linnville. The first year event is designed to get

youth involved in nature related activities.

"Soil and Water have had field days in the past but some of the people hosting the events wanted to gear it more for kids," said Carrie Cheek, education coordinator. "They already have a 4-H camp for kindergartners, first and second graders, so we thought it would be nice to give something for the older kids."

Planned activities include nature hikes, fishing, crafts, educational wildlife displays and a hot dog roast. The students will learn conservation methods and how to treat particular animals such as snakes, Cheek said.

"The children can do a lot of different types of activities and still be a part of 4-H. We just want to get the kids involved in outdoor activities," she said. "It is educational, but fun at the same time. It is something fun to do after school is out."

Registration for the event begins at 9:30 a.m. at the Soil and Water office, 5459 State Route 217. Activities will begin at 10 a.m. and end at 2 p.m.

A $5 registration fee includes lunch, snacks and activity supplies. Parents can accompany their children for an additional $2.

Participants will take tractor and wagon rides from the Soil and Water Office to the farm and back.

Children are encouraged to dress appropriately for outdoor activities. Tennis shoes, boots, long pants, hats, insect repellent and sunscreen are recommended.

If the event is successful, the Soil and Water Office hopes to make it an annual event, Cheek said.

For more information, call Cheek at the Lawrence Soil and Water Conservation District at 867-4737.