By Ben Orcutt -- Daily Staff Writer

FRONT ROYAL — Some of the world's most endangered species can be observed this weekend at the National Zoo's Conservation and Research Center.

The CRC will host its 12th annual Autumn Conservation Festival on Saturday and Sunday, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., at the 3,200-acre facility just south of Front Royal on U.S. 522.

"We've started a new slogan," said Jennifer Buff, CRC education program manager. "It's kind of like going to a county fair, only you'll leave smarter."

In addition to the games, exhibits and concessions that one would expect at a county fair, festival guests also will be able to meet the scientists who are working diligently to help preserve endangered species and reintroduce them to their native habitats worldwide.

"All of our scientists are going to be on hand," Buff said. "These are the people that our children are watching on the Discovery Channel, and they're real excited to share the work that they do and the passion that they have. These are your neighbors. These are people that live here. We open our gates once a year so that our neighbors can learn about this world-class conservation facility right here in our backyard."

About a third of the 30 endangered species can be seen this weekend, including the American bison, Przewalski's horse, white-naped cranes, the red panda and South Pacific birds, Buff said. The CRC's veterinary staff also will be putting on darting demonstrations.

With the help of the Warren Heritage Society, there will be an exhibit of the old Remount Calvary station. During World War I and World War II, the CRC was the site of the U.S. Army Quartermaster Remount Depot, where horses were bred and trained.

"We've got one of the old cavalry horse barns that will be open," Buff said. "We have great food and music both days."

The Songwriters Association of Washington will host a music tent, with one of the featured groups, Loose Strings, made up of local musicians. Visitors can opt to bring a picnic lunch if they choose, Buff said, adding that guests should wear comfortable shoes.

"You'll park your car and get out and walk around," she said. "Come prepared to walk."

On Sunday, the Friends of the National Zoo's eco explorer youth team that traveled to Panama will share information about their trip, Buff said. The CRC team that went to Antarctica to study the Weddle seal will be on hand both days, she said.

The festival is slated to go on, rain or shine, Buff said, adding that two years ago with heavy rains on a Saturday, there were still record-breaking numbers of visitors. Last year's event drew more than 6,000 guests, Buff said.

"Every year this event gets a little bit bigger an a little bit bolder," she said. "We are recommending that people get tickets in advance."

Tickets are $30 for a carload of six and may be purchased at the Front Royal-Warren County Visitors Center at 414 E. Main St. or online at the National Zoo's Web site at www.nationalzoo.si.edu by clicking on activities and events, then celebrations. For more information, call 635-5788.

* Contact Ben Orcutt at borcutt@nvdaily.com