Come celebrate wild blueberry season with the Friends of the Namekagon Barrens Wildlife Area on Saturday, July 16. This group is hosting its “Blue Berries on the Barrens” annual picnic for members, neighbors, and the public. Scouting for blueberries will start at 8:30 a.m. at the Namekagon Barrens picnic shelter and cabin (located in northeastern Burnett County at 33174 Gomulak Fire Lane, Danbury). Friends group members will be there to provide maps and directions to nearby wild berry patches.

There will also be a program starting at 11 a.m., followed by a free-will donation lunch of burgers, beans and beverages. The program includes presentations on wild edibles, the historic Namekagon Bridge, and management of the Namekagon Barrens Wildlife Area. There will also be displays, door prizes, and a silent action. Come for a fun time and a chance to see the beauty of the Barrens as many wildflowers are in bloom, and sightings of birds like sharp-tailed grouse, upland sandpipers, and dickcissels are being reported often this year. Current COVID protocols will be followed.