The U.S. Bureau of Land Management is sponsoring free activities this summer at the New River Area of Critical Environmental Concern south of Bandon.

Events begin Saturday with “It Ain’t Like it Used to Be” at 10 a.m. Participants will take a look at how life used to be for the families along New River, from homesteaders to the cranberry and recreation industries of today. People are encouraged to bring memories and photos of the area to share.

Additional events include:

Footprints Before the Settlers: 10 a.m., Saturday, Aug. 9. Don Ivy, the cultural resource coordinator for the Coquille Indian Tribe will lead a guided walk to explore the cultural history of the New River area.

n Through the Eyes of the Beholder: 10 a.m., Saturday, Aug. 16. New River is home to a variety of species that all have a different point of view on the place. Veterinarian Alicia Findora will compare the advantages and anatomies of wildlife vision.

n Like Sand Through the Hour Glass: 10 a.m., Saturday, Aug. 23. Through droughts, floods, big blows, a tsunami, and man’s influence, New River has experienced a lot in its brief existence. A BLM geologist will explain the forces at work that shape the coast.

The BLM asks visitors to make a reservation for the events they wish to attend due to limited space. To reserve a space, visitors can call 290-1862 with the name of the event they wish to attend, their name, and the number in their party.

To reach New River, travel south from Bandon on Highway 101 for approximately 8.6 miles. Turn right onto Croft Lake Lane and follow the signs to New River and Ellen Warring Learning Center. For more information about activities, call the Coos Bay BLM District Office at 756-0100.