COLUMN: Still hunting for a gift?

     Are you still hunting for a Christmas gift? If you’re like me, you are probably still struggling to complete all of your shopping before the holidays arrive. Sometimes it’s difficult to find unique and meaningful gifts. Over the years, I’ve compiled a list of nature related gift ideas that might be just right for someone on your list.

     For those who hunt or fish – rods, reels, gun cases, equipment, targets, clothing, books and items related to their sport are readily available at many local stores. Youngsters will cherish their very first bow or rod and reel combo kit. If you’re crafty you can even make some of these things yourself – like fishing flies or a sock style gun case.

     Emergency preparedness bags or survival kits are something everyone should have – one for your vehicle and one for your home, as well as small kits to take on hikes or when hunting. Like the goat in the cartoon movie “Hoodwinked,” it’s always good to be prepared.

     Trail cameras are fun for even the non-hunter who just wants to know “what or who is out there.” The advances in technology are truly amazing and can provide hours of interesting entertainment. In addition, these cameras give you insight into the quality of habitat your land provides – the more entertainment, the better the habitat.

     Camping gear, GPS units, camping passes and gift certificates, and outdoor cooking utensils will thrill most anyone who enjoys camping. Many youngsters love the new hammock style sleeping bags. In the past few years, many newly innovated camping products have become available for those interested in the newest technology.

     Hikers will enjoy walking sticks and field guides, in addition to quality socks, outdoor clothing, and gear. Gift certificates to restaurants near state parks or hiking destinations are another great choice.

     Trees, shrubs and flowers make wonderful gifts for those with a green thumb. Garden center and seed company gift certificates, books, and garden/yard tools are options when it’s too cold to give the actual plants.

     Bird lovers will be thrilled with a new pair of binoculars or a spotting scope. Bird field guides, bird and squirrel feeders, bird baths, bird bath heaters, boxes of suet cakes, and bags of bird seed all make great gifts.

     I also like giving nature themed or conservation magazine subscriptions. This works equally well for kids and adults. Another great and simple gift idea is the reusable shopping bag. It can even serve as a way to wrap other gifts. They come in many colors and fashionable designs.

     Gift certificates for weekend trips are always very popular. These can be for anything from weekend hunting at a private hunting preserve to a weekend riding bikes along a scenic trail and searching for Iowa’s state rock – the geode. The possibilities are endless!

     Youngsters would be thrilled with many of the aforementioned ideas, including just the opportunity to participate in these activities with their parents, grandparents, or siblings. In addition, kids love to have fun and learn with nature exploration kits – like making plaster animal tracks, growing their own garden, or building a bluebird box. Active gifts that get kids outside provide hours of irreplaceable learning opportunities.

     Gift giving can be fun and lets our loved ones know that we care. Often times the gift of time and the experiences in the out-of-doors outweigh the things that many of us may receive in a neatly wrapped present. I wish you the best in finding all of the gifts on your list and hope that you have a wonderful holiday season!