Wednesday, March 18, 2009

Michigan Audubon seeks volunteers to find Kirtland's Warblers in UP

The following message has just come across from Tom Funke, Michigan Audubon's Director of Conservation:

The Kirtland Warbler Management Group, comprised of various government agencies tasked to conserving the Kirtland Warbler, has asked Michigan Audubon for help.
We are seeking interested birders that would volunteer a day or two of their time to look for Kirtland Warblers in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula.
We are asking that you explore an area suspected of having Kirtland Warblers at least once during June 6 – 15th, 2009.
Skye Haas has graciously volunteered his time to coordinate volunteer birders in this endeavor. Kirtland’s are suspected throughout the UP, from the Baraga Plains all the way to Sault Ste. Marie. theowlranch@aol.com
If you are interested in participating, please send Skye and myself an email indicating your interest. Skye will be attending a training to get the details then be in email contact with you.
Having seen KW in habitat is beneficial, but not necessary.

Yours in conservation,
Thomas Funke
Director of Conservation
Michigan Audubon Society

Monday, March 16, 2009

Washtenaw Audubon Safe Passage article

Please see this direct link to an article detailing Washtenaw Audubon's effort to protect night-migrating passerines, written by Will Weber.

Friday, March 13, 2009

Detroit River cleanup date annouced

Early Riser Open House
On April 11th, 2009 Humbug Marsh will be open at 6 AM and close at 3 PM.
Whether you would like to take photos, an early walk, or just sit on the deck and enjoy the morning-the marsh will be open.
DETROIT RIVER CLEAN-UP
Sponsored by Friends of the Detroit River
SATURDAY,April 18th
9:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.
Many hands make light work- so instead of having a garlic mustard pull, we will be assisting the Friends of the Detroit River with their clean-up.

Who? Small craft boat owners, volunteers, families, & friends - Anyone interested in helping to cleanup litter along the waterfronts.
Why? A large-scale cleanup of the shores and small islands in the Lower Detroit River is being planned for this day. The goal is to pick up as much litter as possible that resides along the shores of the many dikes, islands, and bays in the lower river.
What is needed? Volunteers with/or without small outboard boats
Glove & boots - Dress for the weather and protection
Extra lifejackets (if you have them)
Where? Trenton Rotary Park - Foot of Harrison St., just off West Jefferson. Orientation meeting begins at 9:00 a.m. Trenton boat launch may be used for boats on trailers.
Boats will be launched after orientation. A picnic lunch will be provided for all who participate.
Anyone needing additional information or those who plan on bringing his/her boat to the event, please call 1-734-676-4626 after 4 PM. See our site at: www.detroitriver.org

Sincerely,
Kristi Thiel
Detroit River International Wildlife Refuge