Yamhill County parks department slates Puzzle Quest again this year

The Yamhill County Parks department will renew its efforts to draw people outside and into nature by holding its annual Puzzle Quest activity again this year.

The program, which will run from May 25 through Sept. 2, invites participants to pick up a clue sheet that will guide them to a park’s sign, “and then information located on all signs will then need to be rearranged to answer a master question,” a release said.

Participants can then submit the completed clue sheets to the parks department to be eligible for random prize drawings set for the fall.

“Take a short walk, bring a picnic, sit by the river and enjoy your parks during our fun activity,” said Volunteer Parks Advisory Board member and Willamina resident Amanda Mehlhof, who has taken the lead on designing and promoting the activity.

Participating parks include Rogers Landing in Newberg, Stuart Grenfell Wayside Park near Sheridan, Menefee Park near Yamhill, Lafayette Locks Historical Park and Huber Park near McMinnville.

To access the clue sheet and garner additional details, visit the Yamhill County Parks website at yamhillcounty.gov/321/Parks-Quest . For more information, email ParksQuest@yamhillcounty.gov.

The goal of the Puzzle Quest activity is in line with the mission of the parks department, which “is to manage, preserve and restore our unique natural, cultural and historic places where people can enjoy outdoor recreation and educational activities.”

The department manages 17 parks and undeveloped properties located in rural settings throughout the county that host recreational activities ranging from picnicking to fishing, swimming and walking trails. Some also have boat launches, hold outdoor education events, have reservable shelters and off-leash dog areas.