WHAT: Autumn Conservation Festival

WHEN: Saturday, Oct. 6 and Sunday, Oct. 7
10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

WHERE: Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute
1500 Remount Road, Front Royal, Va.
Just off of Route 522

It's that time of year again. In fact, the only time of year when the gates to the Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute in Front Royal, Va., are open to the public. At the Autumn Conservation Festival, visitors can tour the sprawling campus in the beautiful Shenandoah Valley, meet some of SCBI's world-renowned scientists and get a peek at some of the endangered animals that reside at SCBI.

New this year, guests will have the opportunity to learn about the partnership between the Zoo's Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute (SCBI) and George Mason University (GMU) which established the Smithsonian-Mason School of Conservation. Its mission is sustaining global biodiversity by advancing the theory and practice of conservation biology with transformative, transdisciplinary education.

There will also be more fall fun including: live music, children's activities and an exclusive behind-the-scenes look of the rare animals of SCBI. Food and beverages will be available for purchase.

Guests must have a car pass to attend the festival. SCBI Club members and donor-level members are entitled to a car pass. All other guests may purchase a car pass, which admits up to six guests, for $30. Additional passengers will be charged $5 each at the gate. Passes are available on the Zoo's website and at the Front Royal/Warren County Visitor's Center, located at 414 E. Main St. in Front Royal.

The Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute plays a key role in the Smithsonian's global efforts to understand and conserve species and train future generations of conservationists in ecology monitoring, animal reproduction, nutrition and genetic diversity. Headquartered in Front Royal, Va., SCBI facilitates and promotes research programs based at Front Royal, the National Zoo in Washington, D.C., and at field research stations and training sites worldwide.

MEDIA CAR PASSES for Sat., Oct. 6, may be obtained by contacting Office of Communications at 202-633-3055 or renickmayerl@si.edu. Media must RSVP by Thursday, Oct. 4.