As the weather continues to improve, the Louisa County Conservation Office is offering a chance for families to take part in a modern day treasure hunt. Geocache Louisa County is a program being offered on Saturday, April 9, at the Port Louisa National Wildlife Refuge.

Roxy Gerard is a Naturalist with the Louisa County Conservation Office and says geocaching is a form of letter boxing, an activity over 160 years old where people tell stories about landmarks from an area where you would go and find treasures. Gerard said geocaching’s popularity soared when the GPS system became available to the general public in early 2000.

The program is a collaboration between the Louisa County Conservation Office and the Trails Council in an attempt to get people to explore the outdoor features around the county. Gerard says 11 caches are being placed in interesting spots around the county, and suggests those attending to bring sturdy boots and a GPS or smartphone with them. People will use their GPS to find the treasure boxes scattered across the wildlife area.

The event will run from 9 to 11 a.m. Saturday, April 9, at the Port Louisa National Wildlife Refuge Headquarters in Wapello.