Three-year-old John Rollie holds a turtle during naturalist David Stoke’s presentation Saturday during the Jay C. Hormel Nature Center’s Ecoblitz, held in conjunction with Austin Fun Day. -- Herald file photo

Jay C. Hormel Nature Center workers know there is no better time to for outdoor fun than during the longest day of the year.

That’s why the nature center is holding its fifth annual Summer Solstice Ecoblitz this Saturday.

“The major focus is just to get families out and enjoying nature,” said Larry Dolphin, nature center director.

Events start at 9 a.m. and run through 3:15 p.m. and are free and open to the public. Participants will have the opportunity for as many as five of six events, which include canoe races, trail rides, “scoop the pond,” geocaching and two speeches by naturalists.

And organizers won’t stop for the weather, either.

“We’re going to run rain or shine,” Dolphin added.

If weather prevents outdoor activities, nature center personnel have plenty of back-up activities planned.

Participants will split into groups of 12 and rotate through the activities. Those who complete at least three of the six activities will receive prizes from the Izaak Walton League, including flower seeds, wildlife posters and an Ikes’ wildlife activity book.

Naturalist David Stokes and dragonfly expert Kurt Mead will lead the discussions, which Mead promises will be more than just speeches.

“I try to get the audience involved by answering their questions, which in my experience, will be many,” Mead said. “These programs will not be dry lectures. I try to have a good time.”

Mead will also speak at the nature center during three different sessions this Thursday.

Dolphin urges those who want to participate to sign up at the nature center, 21st Street NE in Austin.

Groups of 12 to 14 people will rotate through each activity in block intervals.

9 – 9:45 a.m.

10 – 10:45 a.m.

11 – 11:45 a.m.

Lunch break

1 – 1:45 p.m.

2 – 2:45 p.m.

Dragonfly expert Kurt Mead will present during Ecoblitz, and will also preview his show this Thursday: 9 a.m. senior special; 1:30 p.m. family/children program; 7 p.m. evening program.