MUNCIE, Ind. – Area K-5 students will be able to dig in the dirt, soar through a nocturnal forest and race American roaches Oct. 28 at Ball State University.

"Bugfest: The Underground Adventure" features exhibits about dirt-dwelling insects from various organizations and universities. The program is sponsored by the Indiana Academy for Science, Mathematics and Humanities, the state’s only residential public high school for academically gifted juniors and seniors.

The exhibits include:

• A 30-minute program from the Chicago Field Museum’s Soil Adventure Mobile allows students to become soil scientists attempting to prevent erosion.
• "In the Dark," sponsored by Minnetristra Cultural Center and Oakhurst Gardens, uses computer games, mechanical displays and interactive programs for students to experience new sights, smells and sensations.
• "Roach Hill Downs" and a insect petting zoo provide up close views of insects from the Purdue University Department of Entomology.

Bugfest is from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. on the grounds of Burris Laboratory School, 2000 W. University Ave. In case of inclement weather, the event will be held on the University Arena concourse.

Cost is $10 per student and includes a t-shirt and lunch.

Educators may register their students by contacting Cathy Long, the Indiana Academy’s outreach coordinator, at clong@bsu.edu or by phone at (765) 285-5352.

By Marc Ransford, Communications Manager