Audubon Holiday Tree at the Museum

NCAS' first Audubon Holiday Tree is now a bird haven at the Whatcom Museum, thanks to tree decorators! From November 24 to December 31, visitors to the Old City Hall building can see all the community Holiday trees AND the John M. Edson Hall of Birds for a donation rather than the regular admission fee, hours are Wed-Sun, noon to 5.Don’t forget Audubon at the Museum November 26, 1:30 to 3:30

November and December Events are Online!

Support Your Local Chapter

     Make a donation to North Cascades Audubon Society this holiday season. We are a chapter run by volunteers, and your support allows us to continue upholding our mission. Donations can be sent to the address below, or you can donate online through our membership application:

Click here to donate online.North Cascades Audubon SocietyPO Box 5805Bellingham, WA 98225 

Nov/Dec 2017 Newsletter is Online

     Go to www.northcascadesaudubon.org to download the PDF. (Click "Newsletter" in the menu.)

 

Nov/Dec Events and Field Trips Are Online

    Visit our website to see what's coming up this month. Save the dates for special seasonal events such as:

- NCAS Holiday Potluck, December 11- San Juan Ferry Christmas Bird Count, December 16- Whatcom County Christmas Bird Count, December 17- New Family Holiday Bird Count, December 30 

General Membership Meeting with Dr. Evelyn Brown

     This month's exciting membership meeting! 

Stuck in the Middle: The Ecology, Knowledge Gaps or Misunderstandings, and Issues Surrounding Forage Fish. Forage fish occur in the middle of the marine or freshwater food chain, generally feeding on plankton in open waters. They are important prey for larger fish predators, seabirds, marine mammals, and humans. In the North Pacific, many of these species became economically important to non-indigenous humans in the 1800s. Stories of epic-sized sardine, anchovy, and herring fisheries are familiar to many. In recent times, forage fish have been caught in the crossfire of ecological conservation versus fisheries. Locally, the focus of interest has been on the schooling forage fish that utilize the nearshore for spawning and/or rearing.  Dr. Brown will focus on these species, presenting basics about forage fish marine ecology and population dynamics as well as challenges for research and monitoring.  Her presentation should provide a holistic understanding of the political and ecological controversies that are fueling heated discussions, litigation, and legislation.  She will describe an approach to help solve these controversies, calm the debate, and provide for increased research and monitoring. Finally, she will discuss the critical role organizations play in citizen science efforts that fill the gaps in our understanding of forage fish. Partnerships among citizen’s groups, agencies, organizations, and industry involved in scientific monitoring need to be increased not only because it is cost-effective, but because public engagement increases the awareness that ultimately leads to better policy decisions.Dr. Evelyn Brown got her B.S. in chemistry and zoology at the University of Utah, and her M.S and Ph.D. in fisheries oceanography from the University of Alaska Fairbanks. She has worked as a fisheries scientist and biologist, a marine mammal observer, and a commercial fisher. In 1989, with the Exxon Valdez Oil Spill, she was assigned Principal Investigator for herring damage assessment.  In 2005 she moved to Washington State to do research as a consultant and contractor. This continued until 2014 when she accepted her current position at Lummi Natural Resources as their fisheries analyst. Her current focus is on salmon, crab and clams but her research extends to other topics in marine ecology, new forage fish monitoring programs, marine survival, climate change, and resource protection.  In 2015, she was selected to serve on the Statistical and Scientific Committee (SSC) for the Pacific Fisheries Management Commission.

Always on the 4th Tuesday of the month:November 28th, 7pm at the Whatcom Museum,** free & open to the public!

October Board Minutes

North Cascades Audubon SocietyBoard of Directors Meeting AgendaOctober 2, 2017, 7:00 PMBoard Members Present: Pam Borso, Paul Woodcock, Steven Harper, Sue Parrott, Ken Salzman, Rae Edwards, Owen Bamford, Nicole Huson, Jamie Huson, Chris Brewer, Judy Krieger and Kelley Palmer-McGee1. Additions to Agenda – No additions2. Approval of September Minutes - Approved3. Treasurer’s Report – Sue discussed the treasurer’s report.  She asked Pam when the annual report to National Audubon will be submitted, as we will not receive our dues from National until the report is filed.  She noted that membership dues are lower than budgeted.  The board discussed some of the problems/weaknesses with the current membership database.  Owen stated that he does not contact individuals who do not pay dues in response to their annual reminder as the database does not make it easy to do this.  However, he stated he could go back one year and find out which members are overdue and send them a reminder.  The board agreed this was worth doing.  The board discussed the logistics of our membership reminders and how we could expand our efforts.  Kelley will add some information to the newsletter to encourage people to donate and we will also begin reminding people of the importance of memberships at the monthly meetings.  Sue and Kelley will work on getting advertising income for the 2018 newsletters.  4. Committee Reports as needed:     Education Update – Background checks all came back negative so everyone is cleared to work with children.     - The committee is investigating doing a bald eagle program in late fall or early winter of 2018.  People interested in helping and with ideas should contact the committee.          - Nicole suggested sending out a survey to our membership to see if they are interested in volunteering and what their interests might be.  These people could then be assigned to different projects. Another option would be placing surveys on chairs at the membership meetings and gathering information. This effort could give us an idea of what our capacity as an organization may be. We can possibly recruit additional people for the board as well.  Nicole has access to an on-line survey used by another Audubon chapter and will make some changes to it to better reflect our organization’s needs.  The board thought it would be good to get the survey out this fall.     Scholarship Committee – The committee is meeting Wed., Oct. 4 at 5 pm to begin developing criteria for our student scholarships.     Website Update - No update but Jamie will work on this for next meeting.5.  Communications & Input       Audubon National Convention Report          - Jamie gave a report on the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge and the threat of exploratory oil drilling.  The Trump Administration is trying to open up the Refuge by using the budget process. Jamie and Nicole believe NCAS should make an effort to get members to take action to protect this area.  Board agreed. The board also discussed other actions that members could participate in including actions protesting the potential mining near Mt. St. Helens.  Jamie will contact National Audubon to find out when the best timing would be to ask NCAS members to take action on the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge.          - Jamie discussed actions National Audubon is taking to fully fund the Land and Water Conservation Fund and to pass an extension of the expiration date for this fund.      WOS meeting update: Pam, Ken, Chris and Paul reported that the field trips went well, that the meeting was well organized and everyone was really friendly.      Newsletter input due by October 15 for the November newsletter.      Fall Migration with John Bower – Hopefully this can be arranged for next year.  Chris will try to contact John.6. Old Business      Swan Donation – No update.     CBC Update – Paul will again contact the Squalicum Yacht Club and make reservations for the after-count potluck. We will ask for donations to support the cost.  Doug Brown and Steven Harper will be in charge of the CBC as Paul will be out of the country.      Holiday Party – The event will be at the YWCA. Pam and Nicole will check out the space, size and shape of tables, etc. Pam will ask Ann, our hospitality person, if she would like to help out. Doug Brown will be doing the program and Pam Borso and friends will be providing music.      Audubon Council of Washington meeting – Pam, Paul, Chris, Nicole and Jamie will be attending. It will be in Sequim on October 14.      Update on Duck Feeding Signs – No update.8. Programs & Events    Audubon at the Museum - October 22 and November 26, 1:30 – 3:30                                                           October 24       Ed Deal Seattle’s Adaptable Urban Cooper’s Hawks                          November 28   Evelyn Brown Stuck in the Middle: The Ecology, Knowledge Gaps or Misunderstandings, and Issues Surrounding Forage Fish    December 11 Holiday Party at YWCA     Whatcom Museum - Audubon presence January 18, 2018 (presentation for Museum Advocates group)     January 24      James Walker Dragonflies and Damselflies     February 27    Dick McNeely     Unusual Bird Videos     April                 Dan Streiffert Arctic National Wildlife Refuge PresentationAdjourn - Next Meeting, November 6, 2017.  Improv Playworks: 1011 Girard St, Bellingham, WA 98225

September Board Minutes

North Cascades Audubon Society Minutes (Draft)Board of Directors Meeting1011 Gerard St.September 18, 20177:00 PM Board Members Present: Pam Borso, Paul Woodcock, Steven Harper, Sue Parrott, Ken Salzman, Rae Edwards, Owen Bamford, Nicole Huson, Jamie Huson, Steve Irving, Chris Brewer 

  1. Additions to Agenda – No additions
  2. Approval of August Minutes - Approved
  3. Treasurer’s Report – Sue discussed the treasurer’s report and clarified how various expenses are directed to some of the line items in the report.
  4. Committee Reports as needed:

     Climate group update: Sue suggests that we discuss tabling at the market at the retreat to determine if want to continue next year and if we want to change any of our focus.     Education update – See below     Scholarship Committee - Jamie is looking for people to be on the scholarship committee to determine criteria and select candidates for the scholarships.  The scholarships for WCC will be announced at the membership meeting this time in lieu of being in the WCC catalog. Ken and Nicole will work together to get the announcement in the next WCC catalog.     Website update - No update but Jamie will work on this for next meeting.

  1. Communications & Input

      Audubon National Convention Report - Starting in October, Jamie and Nicole will give us reports on different topics that were of interest at the National Audubon Convention.  Jamie described a group that National Audubon is partnering with called iMatter.  The focus is on youth, being mentored by adults, that work on issues such as climate change, or lobbying local governing bodies, etc.  Jamie wondered if this is a program we might be interested in participating in.  Perhaps we could present something at one of our membership meetings.      WOS meeting update – The meeting and field trips will occur the weekend of Sept. 22-24. Several board members are leading field trips.      Holiday Potluck - Pam has confirmed that the gathering will be Monday, Dec. 11. Steven will talk to Doug regarding doing a short slide presentation as part of the program.      2018 Pearrygin Lake Campout - May 31-June 3 is a go and the group camp at Pearrygin Lake State Park has been reserved.      Newsletter input due by October 15 for the November newsletter.

  1. Old Business

       Paul will do some checking on what is happening with the swan at the Whatcom Museum.  Sue suggested that the Museum publicize the arrival of the swan.  Paul will check on the plaque and whether they will let us provide one for the swan or insist on generating their own.       Chris will contact John Bower to ask about scheduling an evening listening session at his house during the migration.

  1. New Business

     Rae brought up an idea for “Do Not Feed The Ducks” signs at Lake Padden, North Ridge Pond, Whatcom Falls Derby Pond and Bloedel Donovan with pictures and acknowledgement of NCAS to give more credibility.  Rae will look into how much it will cost to sponsor the sign and to provide photos for the signs.     2018 Officers – Pam noted that people need to begin thinking about who should be the new president and vice-president of NCAS as neither Pam nor Paul can continue next year. (per NCAS bylaws)     Christmas Bird Count – Paul will be gone during this time and needs assistance.  Dec. 17 is the CBC.  Paul will talk to Doug and then recruit other volunteers.      ACOW – In Sequim, Oct. 13-15. Let Pam know if you want to go.

  1. Programs & Events

    Audubon at the Museum - September 24, October 22, November 26 at 1:30 – 3:30.    September 26 Glen “Alex” Alexander        Diking the Skagit River Delta                                                          October 24       Ed Deal                               Seattle’s Adaptable Urban Cooper’s Hawks                          November 28  Evelyn Brown                      Stuck in the Middle: The Ecology, Knowledge Gaps or Misunderstandings, and Issues Surrounding Forage Fish     December 11 Holiday Party at YWCA     January 24      James Walker                     Dragonflies and Damselflies?     February 27    Dick McNeely                      Unusual Bird Videos?     April                 Dan Streiffert                    Arctic Wildlife Refuge Presentation     Whatcom Museum - Audubon presence January 18, 2018 Presentation for Museum Advocates group Adjourn - Next Meeting, October 2, 2017.  Improv Playworks 1011 Girard St, Bellingham, Wa 98225 Education Report: Sept 2017 Education Program updates for fall 2017 are shown below.Whatcom County Birds Library Presentation Dates:October 7, 2-3 at DemingOctober 21, 2-3 at FerndaleNovember 4, 2-3 at South Whatcom (Sudden Valley) People interested in presenting this program in the future—see Chris. Will have presenter’s notes in the PowerPoint by October 21st.  The notes are designed for potential presenters to study and use when presenting to other groups. The Board is invited as ‘ambassadors’ and to be at materials table—signup sheet provided at meeting for helping out.Audubon Plants for Birds: Pacific Flyway 2017 slide program is also available—well done, excellent notes!Developed by Audubon, sent by Tod Winston, Program Manager of Plants for Birds, this program could be easily used to make an excellent presentation to support local native planting for birds. I would suggest this be kept in mind as an offering when NCAS is contacted about providing a program. Let Chris know if you want it to be emailed to you.Family Holiday Bird Count - Wild Whatcom has confirmed co-sponsoring and will be advertising this. Chris is registering approximately 30 people for the event. Chris and Holly Rogers will put together some identification activities for the first section of the event. May be looking for people to take out family groups of 6-8 on the trail at Padden. We will start 4 groups at different areas--one at tennis courts (go counterclockwise up trail till meeting the clockwise group), one at tennis courts going to dog park, a third at the dog park taking the lake trail clockwise, last one at dog park going on the high trail (dog area). Waterfowl can be counted first at each end by combined groups of two –one starting at the tennis courts and the other at the dog park which can first check for waterfowls by the gazebo. Ken, Chris, Holly Rogers (Wild Whatcom) will each take a group birding but we could use a couple more people to help with birding/recording. Also use help preparing/setting out and cleaning up the food at the clubhouse. A signup sheet was distributed at the board meeting for those interested.Wild Whatcom may be engaging us in special activities in the future. Co-sponsoring the Family Bird Count. Birds and Brews - Nicole and Jamie will wait till spring to do another program. 2018 Activities / EventsEducation Committee will be working on confirming programs in October and may include:

  • Spring break family bird walk
  • Spring break birding activity—rented facility for class/birding: backyard birding/bird nesting
  • Summer birding camp—two to three days using museum curriculum
  • Backyard birding booth at March family festival?
  • Provide a list on the website of ‘in-the-can’ programs we are available to share? We currently could provide Whatcom County Birds and Plants for Birds.

 

October Events and Newsletter Are Online!

October 2017 Newsletter is Online

     Go to www.northcascadesaudubon.org to download the PDF. (Click "Newsletter" in the menu.)

October Events and Field Trips Are Online

    Visit our website to see what's coming up this month. Save the dates for special seasonal events such as:

- Winter Birds of Whatcom County: October 7, October 21, and November 4 at several local libraries (see this newsletter issue for location and more information)- Annual Holiday Potluck, December 11- Annual Christmas Bird Count, December 17- New Family Holiday Bird Count, December 30 

General Membership Meeting with Ed Deal

     This month's exciting membership meeting! 

Seattle's Adaptable Urban Cooper's Hawks. 25 years ago, Cooper’s hawks began colonizing urban and suburban landscapes throughout the United States, developing a tolerance for living in proximity to humans. Ed Deal, from the Seattle Cooper’s Hawk Project (SCHP), will provide insights into these common but elusive raptors through photos and videos taken during the breeding season. The SCHP study, one of several in large U.S. cities (e.g., Tucson, Milwaukee and Albuquerque), is monitoring the Seattle population’s nesting density and annual productivity. In addition, a banding program looks at fledgling dispersal, longevity, and adult breeding and winter site fidelity. The results show annual increases in productivity, little evidence of migration, strong site fidelity, and (mostly) short dispersal distances by offspring.You would think someone born in Cooper Hospital and raised in Audubon, New Jersey would be a child prodigy birder. But Ed’s mid-life conversion resulted from taking Bud Anderson’s Hawk identification class in 1991. He went on to volunteer on fall migration hawk banding projects in Nevada, the Florida Keys, Cape May, Diamond Head, and Chelan and Entiat Ridges in Washington. He also volunteered with the Falcon Research Group’s 17-year study of nesting peregrine falcons in the San Juan Islands and just completed his 24th year monitoring nesting peregrines in the Seattle area. For the last six years he has worked with a group of volunteers studying the expanding urban population of Cooper’s hawks in Seattle. He holds a Federal Master Raptor Banding Permit, is a graduate of the Seattle Audubon Master Birder Program, and is a recovering lister.

Always on the 4th Tuesday of the month:October 24th, 7pm at the Whatcom Museum,** free & open to the public!

Chelan Ridge Hawk Migration Festival!! Pateros September 16

Visit with Raptors: September 16, 2017Eighth Annual Chelan Ridge Hawk Migration Festival Join the Chelan/Entiat Ranger District, North Central Washington Audubon Society and HawkWatchInternational this fall for the eighth annual Chelan Ridge Hawk Migration Festival! This free family eventcombines educational activities in Pateros with a field trips to the Wells Wildlife Area and Chelan Ridge HawkWatch site. On Friday the 15th, there is a raptor ID and migration workshop at the local Fire Hall with Dr. Dave Oleyar from HawkWatch International. This all happens in Pateros, Washington on the weekend of September 16th. Register in advance for the field trips and workshop at ncwaudubon.org., or visit the exhibits at Pateros any time during that Saturday. This festival is scheduled to coincide with the peak of southbound migration of raptors at Chelan Ridge — the best place in Washington to view fall migrating raptors. Past festivals have brought several hundred people to see hawks up close, enjoy Memorial Park, and spend the day learning all about raptors. So please join us for the 2017 festival! To sign up for any of the activities or to learn more about the festival please visit our website: ncwaudubon.org.    

Come Visit North Cascades Audubon at the Bellingham Farmer's Market

Come Visit North Cascades Audubon at the Bellingham Farmer's MarketNCAS wants to increase the public’s awareness that global warming and climate change put birds at risk. Our Bird and Climate Change Action Group has organized a display for tabling at the Bellingham Farmer’s Market on the third Saturday of the month in May, June, and July, and possibly through September.  Come visit us!  For more information visit our website, or contact Sue Parrott at 650-9065 or parrottdv@yahoo.com, or Pam Borso at 319-9004 or borsope@aol.com.

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Whatcom Land Trust Bird Survey Summary: 2017

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Whatcom Land Trust Bird Survey Summary for 2015 and 2016Project DescriptionBird surveys were initiated in 2015 on twelve Whatcom Land Trust (WLT) properties and three Whatcom County Parks & Recreation (WCPR) properties with conservation easements held by WLT.  The WLT properties included Bottiger’s Pond, California Creek, Catalyst, Edfro Creek Preserve, Ladies of the Lake, Maple Creek Reach, North Fork Eagle, Port Blakely, Riverstead, Samish River Headwaters, Fenton Tract, and Kelsey. The WCPR properties included Squires Lake Park, Lily Point Marine Park, and Point Whitehorn Marine Reserve. North Cascades Audubon Society (NCAS) recruited 20 birders to work in pairs, surveying their assigned properties three times a year: during spring migration (early May), breeding season (June), and fall migration (September). Surveys were continued in 2016 and will likely continue in 2017 and into the foreseeable future. These surveys will give WLT and NCAS baseline data on bird species and numbers, enabling us to track changes over time and to identify properties with species of significant concern or importance.  The data may also support future grant requests and guide decisions about habitat enhancement, especially if critical species are found.ResultsIn 2015 a total of 116 species of birds were observed on the properties surveyed, with 128 species in 2016. 104 species were observed in both 2015 and 2016, 12 species were observed only in 2015, and 16 species only in 2016. The largest number of species and greatest diversity were found at Ladies of the Lake, Riverstead, Samish River Headwaters, Catalyst, Lily Point, and California Creek (see accompanying table).  All of these properties have a number of features favorable to birds, including wetlands, expanses of water, flowing water, forests, and openings such as fields. Given that the survey is only two years old, it’s difficult to describe any trends or to point to specific species or properties that deserve special attention.  However, a good start would be to look more closely at those properties with the largest number of species and greatest diversity.  Another year’s results should allow WLT and NCAS to better understand the data.

  WLT Bird Survey-Summary of Observations by Property 2015 and 2016
         
  # of Species Observed  
Property 2015 2016 Most Prevalent Species Seen Unusual Species or Species of Concern
Bottiger's Pond WLT 34 43 Willow Flycatcher, Pacific-Slope Flycatcher, Tree Swallow, American Robin, Common Yellowthroat, Red-Winged blackbird Vaux's Swift, Red-Breasted Sapsucker, Willow Flycatcher, Pacific Wren, Varied thrush, MacG+E16illivray's Warbler, Black-Throated Gray Warbler, Evening Grosbeak
California Creek WLT 39 50 Wood Duck, Olive-Sided Flycatcher, Willow Flycatcher, American Crow, Swainson's Thrush, American Robin, Cedar Waxwing, Orange-Crowned Warbler, Common Yellowthroat, Yellow Warbler, Song Sparrow Black Swift, Rufous Hummingbird, Pileated Woodpecker, Olive-Sided Flycatcher, Western Wood-Pewee, Willow Flycatcher, Pacific-Slope Flycatcher, Red-Eyed Vireo
Catalyst WLT 52 55 Turkey Vulture, Willow Flycatcher, Red-Eyed Vireo, Northern rough-Winged Swallow, Barn Swallow, Swainson's Thrush, American Robin, Common Yellowthroat, Wilson's Warbler, White-Crowned Sparrow, Savannah Sparrow, Song Sparrow, Black-Headed Grosbeak, Red-Winged Blackbird, American Goldfinch Turkey Vulture, Rufous Hummingbird, Red-Breasted Sapsucker, American Kestrel, Willow Flycatcher, Red-Eyed Vireo, Savannah Sparrow, Evening Grosbeak, Lazuli Bunting
Edfro Creek Preserve WLT 28 24 Common Merganser, Red-Breasted Sapsucker, Pacific-Slope Flycatcher, Warbling Vireo, Pacific Wren, Swainson's Thrush, Wilson's Warbler, Spotted Towhee Red-Breasted Sapsucker, Pacific-Slope Flycatcher, Pacific Wren, Black-Throated Gray Warbler
Fenton Tract WLT 47 44 Wood Duck, Hooded merganser, Black-Capped Chickadee, Chestnut-Backed Chickadee, Pacific Wren, Swainson's Thrush, American Robin, Cedar Waxwing Hooded Merganser, Red-Breasted Sapsucker, Pileated Woodpecker, Olive-Sided Flycatcher, Willow Flycatcher, Pacific-Slope Flycatcher, Pacific Wren, Black-Throated Gray Warbler
Kelsey WLT   39 Western Wood Pewee, Black-Capped Chickadee, Swainson's Thrush, Cedar Waxwing, Yellow Warbler, Black-Headed Grosbeak Rufous Hummingbird, Willow Flycatcher, Red-Eyed Vireo, Pacific Wren, Yellow Warbler, Savannah Sparrow
Ladies of the Lake WLT 49 72 Band-Tailed Pigeon, Mourning Dove, Rufous Hummingbird, Red-Breasted Sapsucker, Hairy Woodpecker, Willow Flycatcher, Pacific-Slope Flycatcher, Steller's Jay, Violet-Green Swallow, Black-Capped Chickadee, Pacific Wren, Swainson's Thrush, American Robin, Cedar Waxwing, Orange-Crowned Warbler, Yellow Warbler, White-Crowned Sparrow, Golden-Crowned Sparrow, Song Sparrow, Western Tanager Ruffed grouse, Band-Tailed Pigeon, Vaux's Swift, Rufous Hummingbird, Red-Breasted Sapsucker, Pileated Woodpecker, Willow Flycatcher, Pacific-Slope Flycatcher, Pacific Wren, American Dipper, Orange-Crowned Warbler, Yellow Warbler, Macgillivray's Warbler, Yellow-Breasted Chat, Evening Grosbeak
Maple Creek Reach WLT 46 42 Canada Goose, Red-Breasted Sapsucker, Willow Flycatcher, American Crow, Northern rough-Winged Swallow, Barn Swallow, Swainson's Thrush, American Robin, Common Yellowthroat, Red-Winged Blackbird Ruffed Grouse, Turkey Vulture, Rufous Hummingbird, Red-Breasted Sapsucker, Willow Flycatcher, American Dipper, 
North Fork Eagle WLT 34 36 Pacific-Slope Flycatcher, Black-Capped Chickadee, Swainson's Thrush, American Robin, Wilson's Warbler, Black-Headed Grosbeak Ruffed Grouse, Pacific-Slope Flycatcher, Macgillivray's Warbler, Evening Grosbeak
Lily Point Marine Park 39 51 Harlequin Duck, Surf Scoter, Common Loon, Bald Eagle, Glaucous-Winged Gull, Pacific-Slope Flycatcher, American Crow, Black-Capped Chickadee, Chestnut-Backed Chickadee, Red-Breasted Nuthatch, Pacific Wren, Swainson's Thrush, American Robin, Orange-Crowned Warbler, Spotted Towhee, American Goldfinch Harlequin Duck, Common Loon, Pileated Woodpecker, Pacific-Slope Flycatcher, Pacific Wren, Hermit Thrush, Black-Throated Gray Warbler, 
Point Whitehorn Marine Reserve 33 34 Surf Scoter, Pelagic Cormorant, Black-Capped Chickadee, Chestnut-Backed Chickadee, Pacific Wren, Swainson's Thrush, American Robin, Song Sparrow, Spotted Towhee, Black-Headed Grosbeak Horned Grebe, Olive-Sided Flycatcher, Brown Creeper, Pacific Wren
Port Blakely WLT 8 17 Swainson's Thrush Black-Throated Gray Warbler
Riverstead WLT 63 66 Common Merganser, Turkey Vulture, Spotted Sandpiper, Rufous Hummingbird, Western Wood Pewee, Willow Flycatcher, Warbling Vireo, American Crow, Black-Capped Chickadee, Bushtit, Swainson's Thrush, American Robin, European Starling, Common Yellowthroat, Yellow-Rumped Warbler, Song Sparrow, Spotted Towhee, Black-Headed Grosbeak, American Goldfinch, Evening Grosbeak Common Merganser, Turkey Vulture, Spotted Sandpiper, Barn Owl, Rufous Hummingbird, Red-Breasted Sapsucker, Pileated Woodpecker, American Kestrel, Western Wood Pewee, Willow Flycatcher, Pacific-Slope Flycatcher, Warbling Vireo, Red-eyed Vireo, Gray Catbird, Common Yellowthroat,  Black-Throated Gray Warbler, Catbird, Bullock's Oriole, Evening Grosbeak
Samish River Headwaters WLT 64 61 Canada Goose, Mallard, Red-Breasted Sapsucker, Willow Flycatcher, Pacific-Slope Flycatcher, Warbling Vireo, Steller's Jay,  American Crow, Tree Swallow, Black-Capped Chickadee, Bushtit, Marsh Wren, Swainson's Thrush, American Robin, European Starling, Cedar Waxwing, Common Yellowthroat, Wilson's Warbler, Song Sparrow, Black-Headed Grosbeak, Red-Winged blackbird Wood Duck, Turkey Vulture, Band-Tailed Pigeon, Rufous Hummingbird, Red-Breasted Sapsucker, Pileated Woodpecker, Willow Flycatcher, Pacific-Slope Flycatcher, Warbling Vireo, Marsh Wren, Common Yellowthroat, Evening Grosbeak
Squires Lake Park 29 28 Wood Duck, Pacific-Slope Flycatcher, Pacific Wren, American Robin, Wilson's Warbler, Song Sparrow Wood Duck, Pileated Woodpecker, Pacific-Slope Flycatcher, Pacific Wren, Black-Throated Gray Warbler
* Species which may be affected by climate change or decrease in habitat in the future.
        Compiled 3/5/2017

April NCAS Board Minutes

North Cascades Audubon SocietyBoard of Directors Meeting Agenda619 E. HollyApril 3, 20177:00 PM Board Members Present: Pam Borso, Paul Woodcock, Kelley Palmer-McGee, Steve Irving, Judy Kreiger, Steven Harper, Sue Parrott, Jamie Huson, Nicole Huson, Chris Brewer, Twink Coffman, and Ken Salzman 

  1. Additions to Agenda- Added below.

 

  1. Approval of March Minutes – Approved by the board.

 

  1. Treasurer’s Report- Sue explained the report and it was accepted by the board. Benevity (the administrator for the companies that are matching donations for our members) made a pitch for Apple Pay and Jamie will investigate to see if it has value to NCAS for use as a payment option and whether it will work on our website.

 

  1. Communications & Input

      Newsletter – Kelley asked everyone about items they intend to submit for the next newsletter. She reminded everyone that the info needs to be submitted by April 15.      Wings Over Water Event update- Because of the rain it seemed that attendance was lower than in the past at many of the events although Chris had lots of people at her presentation.  We will await more information.      Carol Roberts has resigned from the board and has appreciated all of the experience and interactions through the years on the board.  We appreciate all of her assistance as a host for the meetings and the holiday party as well as other contributions.      Mature trees letter to City of Bellingham update – Rae finished the letter and it was sent to all of the people at the City that were recommended by Rae and the rest of the board.      Museum update: Audubon will be at the Museum from 2-4pm on the 4th Sundays in May – August. Pam is looking for volunteers for May 28, June 25 (Paul), July 23(Sue and Steven), and Aug 27.      Washington Ornithological Society (WOS) annual conference update- Ken is still looking for a few field trip leaders for this event to be held at Semiahmoo, Sept 21-25.      Google Doc update – Jamie has submitted information to Google to see what they can offer for a cloud storage system for all of Audubon's documents. She is waiting to hear back.      April 29 - Backyard Habitat and Native Flora Fair at Village Green – Sue, Steven, Judy, Paul and Chris have volunteered to attend this event.      Climate Group update- Sue has found volunteers to be at the Farmer’s Market for every shift this spring (April 15 and May 20).  Stands, displays and materials have been developed for the tabling.      Background Checks Account Application – Pam is waiting to hear from the Washington State Patrol (WSP).      Waiver liability form – There were concerns by Ken about using these forms since he feels it is duplicating the intent of our liability insurance coverage and would be difficult to manage. After discussion, the board agreed to try using the forms to see how they work.       New meeting room needed for board meetings – WECU will be converting the Education Center into offices in April so we will be having meetings in the old Baskin Robbins building through June.  The board decided to use the Unitarian Fellowship Hall as our new meeting space beginning sometime after June.      The Audubon NW meeting is June 17. A lot of people would like to attend and Pam is looking into possibly having the date changed to accommodate higher attendance from our board.      We will be co-sponsoring a presentation, along with RE Sources, on May 25 at 6:30 pm at the Unitarian Fellowship Hall.  The presentation and reading is by Angela Day author of the book Redlight to Starboard: Recalling the Exxon Valdez Disaster.      Whatcom Land Trust survey update – Steven gave an update on the meeting he and Paul had last week with WLT’s Rich Bowers and Eric Carabba.  WLT is very pleased with the survey work to date. They  would like to expand coverage on some of the properties that are in areas where expanded purchases or conservation easement activity may occur.  We discussed prioritizing the areas depending on the ability to recruit surveyors and possible grant funding in the future (especially from the Cornell Lab of Ornithology) to facilitate our efforts.  

  1. Old Business

      Swan taxidermy update –  Paul has not talked to the taxidermist lately but noted that we will need a plaque to go along with the swan in the display.  Paul will coordinate this and wants everyone to think about what we should inscribe on the plaque.      Membership software – Jamie will keep investigating this but did not work on this during the past month.      Scholarship for WCC Community Ed Birding classes – Ken talked to WCC and they agreed to put the blurb regarding the scholarship in their catalog for the fall quarter. Nicole will develop the application form and bring it to the board. Nicole will be also be the lead person deciding on potential scholarships for the eligible class members.      City of Ferndale bird walk May 10 – Pam is looking for volunteers to help lead a bird walk.  Paul agreed to assist. Judy is a possibility as well. 

  1. New Business

       Go Solar – Pam described a contact with someone working on a campaign to pass a solar resolution at the Bellingham City Council.  She asked them to send us more information regarding the role we might play.       Summer board meetings – We will not be having a June board meeting and may skip July as well if we don’t have any urgent business to attend to. 

  1. Committee Reports as needed

       Education Committee             Birds and Brew – The Audubon sponsored event will be Saturday, May 20 with Jamie and Nicole coordinating. Others are  invited to participate. Board members were asked to help distribute the great posters that were designed and produced for the event.             Scudder Pond walk April 7 at 9:30 am – Everyone is welcome to help out. Chris has put a great deal of effort into planning the event. People coming to the walk will be divided up into groups depending on skill level and age.             The committee is looking at two autumn activities to be held in rural Whatcom County. Chris has contacted Wild Whatcom and the Whatcom County Library System regarding programs in the future.       Nominating Committee – Nicole will be the nomination committee. Nominations must be in the May newsletter. 

  1. Programs

    April 25-      Jonathan White:         Tides: Science and Spirit of the Ocean     May 23-       Kathleen Bander:        It’s a Bird, It’s a Plane, No It’s a Bat    May 25-       Angela Day:                 Red Light to Starboard    Oct. 24-       Ed Diehl:                      Coopers Hawk Study in Seattle 

  1. Adjourn - Next Meeting, May 1, 2017, Unitarian Fellowship Conference Hall, Bellingham, WA

 Follow-ups 

  • Pam is coordinating volunteers for the Sunday Audubon at the Museum events and WSP background check information along with Chris Brewer. She will also coordinate logistics for the move to Audubon’s new meeting space, the City of Ferndale bird walk, and follow-up with the Go Solar campaign.
  • Ken is continuing to look for WOS conference field trip leaders.
  • Jamie will continue to work on the Google docs idea and investigate a new membership database, and will coordinate the upcoming Birds and Brew event.
  • Sue will continue to look for volunteers for possible summer tabling at the Farmer’s Market.
  • Steven continues to coordinate the WLT survey and upcoming presentations.
  • Paul will coordinate the swan taxidermy and the plaque that goes along with the swan.
  • Nicole will develop the form for the WCC bird class scholarships, coordinate nominations for the 2017-2018 board officers and coordinate the Birds and Brew event.
  • Chris will continue to investigate upcoming education events.

   

March NCAS Board Minutes

North Cascades Audubon SocietyBoard of Directors Meeting AgendaWECU Ed Center on HollyMarch 6, 20177:00 PM Board Members Present: Carol Roberts, Pam Borso, Paul Woodcock, Kelley Palmer-McGee, Steve Irving, Judy Kreiger, Rae Edwards, Steven Harper, Sue Parrott, Jamie Huson, Nicole Huson, Chris Brewer, and Twink Coffman 

  1. Additions to Agenda- Added below

 

  1. Approval of February Minutes – Approved by the board

 

  1. Treasurer’s Report- Sue explained the report and it was accepted by the board.

 

  1. Communications & Input

      WOW update- Paul is still looking for volunteers for the viewing stations. Chris is volunteering in the art area, and Carol is working in the kid’s area. Paul and Steven are volunteering for the Riefel bus trip.  Pam is staffing the NCAS table on Saturday and Judy offered to help out.      Mature trees letter to City of Bellingham update – Rae read her current draft of the letter to the City.  She asked for comments and will submit the letter this week so needs comments by March 9.  The board was pleased with her draft.      Museum update: Pam asked for volunteers to be at the opening of the new 3rd floor Bird Exhibit.  Paul, Jamie, Nicole, Carol, Owen and possibly Rae will be at the opening on March 15. Audubon will be at the Museum on the 4th Sundays in May – August. Pam is looking for volunteers for these Sundays from 2-4pm at the Museum: May 28, June 25, July 23, and Aug 27.      WOS conference update – Ken is gone so there was no update.      Website update – Jamie talked about creating a digital file storage in Google Sites for NCAS documents.  All of us could be using this site for storing minutes, documents, financial reports, etc. and we wouldn’t need to be worried about back up. It would also allow easier access for everyone.  There is no cost for not for profits.  Sue will get Jamie a copy of the documentation for our 501 (c) (3) status.  Jamie will work on setting this up and report at the next meeting.      Climate Group update- No update because of February meeting cancellation due to weather.      Marine Bird Class update – 30 people came the first night and 20 came the second night. 15 were signed up for the field trip, but only three came because of bad weather.  There was some good feedback on how to improve the next class.      Bird Friendly Broadcast Tower article – The article will be in the next newsletter.      Background Checks Account Application – Sue stated that NCAS needs to select an administrator and user before submitting an application for the account at Washington State Patrol.  Pam will be the administrator and Chris will be a user, and Pam will complete and submit the application.      Waiver liability form – There were additional comments and it is now finalized.  Ken will need to coordinate using the form with field trip leaders, maintain a file of the forms and submit the names of any people providing emails to Kelley for informational purposes.  Chris will make the final changes and follow up with Ken.       New meeting room needed for board meetings – WECU will be converting the Education Center into offices in April so we will be having meetings in the old Baskin Robbins building through June.  Pam will be looking for a new meeting place.  The board provided some suggestions for meeting spaces.       Special meeting notices – Kelley is amenable to sending out meeting notices of special programs to the full membership but needs a few days notification because of her busy schedule. 

  1. Old Business

      Swan update – A check has been sent for half of the invoice and the taxidermist is currently working on the bird.      Membership software – Jamie will keep working on this but has no update.      Scholarship for WCC Community Ed Birding classes – The board agreed to provide scholarships for one half of the cost of tuition for the WCC Community Ed Birding Class to 3 participants each quarter.  Nicole will be the contact person and will work on putting together a scholarship request application form. The board decided that a scholarship recipient needs to complete the class and will need to pay for the tuition up front. Scholarships will be paid out at the end of the class.  We will advertise the scholarships in the NCAS newsletter and are hoping that the Community College is open to making note of the scholarships in the blurb for the class.  Sue will ask Ken to follow up with WCC on this last issue. 

  1. New Business

       National Park Service and U.S. Fish &Wildlife Service Grizzly Bear Reintroduction Plan – Paul requested the board sign-on for a letter supporting the reintroduction plan. Board agreed and decided to support option C.       Consider scholarships for high school seniors – Board decided we wanted to see how the WCC scholarships work out and take up the issue next year.       City of Ferndale bird walk May 10 – Pam is looking for volunteers to help lead a bird walk.  Paul agreed to help out and others may also help out. 

  1. Committee Reports as needed

     Education update         Birds and Brew – Gathering will be Saturday, May 20, and will be coordinated by Jamie and Nicole. We are hoping to be able to gather at Stones Throw Brewery.  Board members were asked to help distribute posters once they are ready.         Scudder Pond walk April 7 at 9:30 am – Everyone is welcome to help out. People coming to the walk will be divided up into groups depending on skill level and age.         The committee is looking at two activities for the autumn to be held in rural Whatcom County, at places such as Deming or Ferndale.  Other potential programs are a mini CBC for adults and young people.         Next meeting is March 23 at Woods Coffee. 

  1. Programs

    March 18:    Sergio Seipke-  Hawk Watching Around the World: Raptor Highlights of Six Continents    March 28:    Matt Christensen and Sarah Brookes-  Friends of Semiahmoo Bay: Stewardship North of the 49th                                   Parallel    April 25:      Jonathan White-  Tides: Science and Spirit of the Ocean     May 23:       Kathleen Bander-  It’s a Bird, It’s a Plane, No It’s a Bat    Oct. 24:       Ed Diehl-  Coopers Hawk study in Seattle Follow-ups:            Rae will submit mature trees letter to the City of Bellingham.            Pam will find volunteers for the Sunday Museum programs.            Jamie will continue to investigate and possibly set up a Google Sites digital storage site for NCAS.            Sue will send Jamie a copy of the NCAS 501 (c) (3) form.            Pam will complete the background check application and submit it to WSP.            Jamie will continue to investigate a new membership database.Chris will finish up the field trip waiver form and contact Ken to coordinate usage of the form.            Pam will find a new meeting space for the board meetings.            Nicole will develop an application for a scholarship to be used for the Community Ed Birding Class.            Ken will continue to follow-up with the Community College regarding scholarships.            Paul will follow-up on the letter regarding supporting the Grizzly Bear Reintroduction Plan.                      Adjourn - Next Meeting, April 3, 2016.  7-9 PM WECU           311 Holly St, Bellingham, WA                                                              

Birdwatching on the Nooksack – Centennial Riverwalk Park

Birdwatching on the Nooksack – Centennial Riverwalk Park – May 10th at 10amStrap on your walking shoes and discover some of the incredible birds and plants along the Nooksack River. The walking tour will be provided by the North Cascades Audubon Society, and will begin at the Centennial Riverwalk Park. The walk will cover under a mile, although participants are welcome to go as far as they feel comfortable. Bring your own binoculars.This is part of City of Ferndale’s “Summer of Fun”, a series of recreational activities in Ferndale Parks. For more information, check out www.cityofferndale.org/parks

Pearrygin Lake NCAS Campout: June 1-4

Pearrygin Lake Campout and Field Trips June 1-4Steven Harper, SecretaryOur tenth annual NCAS Campout will be held at Pearrygin Lake State Park group camp Thursday afternoon, June 1 – Sunday morning, June 4 with great people, great weather and of course great birding. There is lots of room for people with tents. Vans or pickup toppers are allowed in the parking area. RVs and trailers are not allowed. Picnic tables and grates are available for cooking (bring your own food) and water and a toilet are on site.  A swimming area is also on site to enjoy after a warm day of birding. Showers and full service bathrooms can be accessed 1 ½ miles away in the main campground. Anyone not enamored with or unable to stay in the group camp site can make reservations in the main campground or stay at a motel in the Winthrop area.Of course the primary focus of the campout is birds. Field trips, led by leaders familiar with the area, will be scheduled for Saturday and Sunday.  Campers are free to roam on their own on Thursday and Friday. There will be plenty of time for lounging and enjoying the sunny and clear weather and for visiting. In past years a number of people have brought their musical instruments and we have had a sing along each evening. Cost is $10/night for each party.Reservations are required.  If you want to make a reservation or if you have any questions please email or call Steven Harper at stevenharper2@msn.com and 360-650-9065. 

Backyard Habitat and Native Flora Fair

April 29, 2017: 10am - 3pmFairhaven Village Green1207 10th St, Bellingham, Washington 98225Learn how to make your yard, school yard or business landscape wildlife friendly! Featuring:-Native Plant Sale with experts from the Washington Native Plant Society-1pm: Native Plant walk-Nesting boxes for cavity nesting birds-Children's activitiesAll are welcome! This event is free to attend with native plants available for purchase. Questions? Call the Parks Volunteer Coordinator at 778-7105Event sponsored by Koma Kulshan chapter of the Washington Native Plant Society, North Cascades Audubon Society and Bellingham Parks & Recreation.

Board Meeting Minutes: February 2017

North Cascades Audubon SocietyBoard of Directors Meeting AgendaRE Sources LibraryFebruary 13, 2017, 7:00 PMBoard Members Present: Ken Salzman, Rae Edwards, Steven Harper, Sue Parrott, Jamie Huson, Nicole Huson, Twink Coffman, Chris Brewer1. Additions to Agenda – Additions added below2. Approval of January Minutes - Approved3. Treasurer’s Report – Sue went over the Treasurer’s Report and the budget.  Everyone was ok with both.4.  Communications & Input      CBC update newsletter article – Hopefully, there will be an article in the April newsletter. Pam will follow up.      WOW update – Ken and Chris gave updates. Paul will be getting people to sign up for the viewing stations.  Pam will be in charge of the table and logistics surrounding that at the WOW.      Mature trees letter to city update – Rae suggested that a positive approach with suggestions be included as well as criticism regarding trees coming down in Fairhaven in any letter that will be written. Rae will continue to work on the letter.  It will be reviewed by the board and then approved at the next board meeting.      Museum update: no information yet on when the bird exhibits will be open.  Pam should follow up.      WOS meeting update – Sept. 21-25 at Semiahmoo. Ken is looking for field trip leaders.      Website update – No update as of yet.  Jamie is working on it.      Climate group update- They will meet at the end of Feb. and are still moving ahead on tabling at the Farmer’s Market.      Bird class: February 22 and 23 at ReSources – This has all been arranged and Canaan Cowles will teach the class.      Feb. 15 presentation by Melanie Driscoll – Steve gave an update. People are encouraged to come and help out at the resource table.      Update on WWU scholarships – Nicole created a new poster and it has been sent to Don and she already has received an inquiry from a student.      Legislative updates from Jennifer Syrowitz – Sue wondered if everyone is receiving these updates from Audubon Washington. Everyone is getting the updates except Chris.  Sue will send the info to Chris for sign up.5. Old Business      Swan update – The swan is at the taxidermist and the taxidermist needs a payment to start. Sue will send payment.      Waiver form – Chris presented three different field trip and activity liability waiver forms.  The board gave suggestions for changes to the waiver forms and the education committee will revise forms and bring them to the next board meeting. We also decided to use the individual liability forms for more “risky” events or with children.  Chris gave two examples (City of Bellingham and Wild Whatcom) and we need to adopt a version of one of these at the next board meeting. Chris also presented information on background checks.  Sue will move ahead with establishing an account for getting background checks with the Washington State Patrol.        Membership software- Jamie is still checking on a platform to use.         Suggestion box for membership meetings – Ken is waiting for Pam to return to get hold of a nesting box.       Scholarships for WCC classes – Ken will follow up.       Holiday party credit – We can use the credit for next winter’s holiday party.6. New Business       Consider scholarships for high school seniors – This item will be considered at the next meeting when we find out who placed it on the agenda.      Bird friendly broadcast towers – Sue was interested in having an article in the newsletter and having a person take on the challenge of chasing down towers that should have lights changed to flashing lights. We will continue to discuss this and Sue will possibly work on an article. 7. Committee Reports as needed      Education Committee update -      Museum programs and other events for May- August with March 1 deadline for Museum Calendar – Nobody at the meeting had any suggestions for events. Pam will need to follow up.      April Birds and Brew event and other activities – The education committee described their concept for their Birds and Brew outing. They also showed us the concept poster for the event and their ideas for this coming year such as a Scudder Pond Walk.  They passed out their write-up of concepts for this coming year.  See handout.  We agreed to wait until summer 2018 for children’s summer camps.Upcoming Programs:February 15: Melanie Driscoll, Deepwater Horizon: Effects of the Oil Spill on Local People and WildlifeFeb 28: Steve and Martha Ellis: Loons of the Salish SeaMarch 28: Matt Christensen and Sarah Brookes, Friends of Semiahmoo Bay: Stewardship North of 49th ParallelApril 25: Jonathan White: Tides: Science and Spirit of the Ocean  May 23: Kathleen Bander: Bats          Adjourn - Next Meeting, March 6, 2017.  7-9 PM WECU Ed Ctr            311 Holly St, Bellingham, WA

Gardening Green: FREE Sustainable Landscaping Class

April 24 – May 10Mondays and Wednesdays 9:00 AM – 2:00 PMMeets at WSU Extension: 1000 North Forest St., BellinghamClass size is limited. Pre-registration is required: sl-taylor@comcast.net 360-671-3891Landscapes are considered sustainable if they reduce water demand, filter and reduce storm water runoff, provide wildlife habitat, and increase outdoor recreation. Sustainable Sites Initiative Gardening Green provides practical information and simple yet powerful actions toprotect the environment. This is a relaxed, fun class that incorporates presentations,demonstrations, hands-on experiences, and tours of sustainable landscapes.Participants can have an on-site consultation to help plan their sustainable changes.Topics include: Water Wise Landscaping, Healthy Soil, Sustainable Design, Pick GreatPlants, Maintenance Strategies, Rainwater Harvesting and Wildlife Habitat.Participants are asked to pay for this FREE class with outreach to friends and neighborsabout sustainable landscaping for environmental and human health.

WLT: Faith and Nature Dialogue

Faith & Nature Dialogue, Episode 5March 20, 20176:30pm - 8pmFairhaven Library1117 12th Street, BellinghamHow can faith inform a love for nature? This is the central question driving the year-long series, Faith & Nature, hosted by Whatcom Land Trust.Echoes Lutheran Minister Charis Weathers will facilitate this discussion with Elkah Katz, a seminary student working toward ordination as a Jewish chaplain, and Yisrael Bisman, a Spiritual Yogi who hosts a creative Podcast called Dharma Review.Space is limited. Please pre-register at www.whatcomlandtrust.org/eventsQuestions? info@whatcomlandtrust.org360.650.9470

Water in Whatcom County, and Why We Should be Concerned

Water in Whatcom County, and Why We Should be ConcernedPresentation by Eric HirstWednesday, March 15, 6:30 - 8:30 PMCarl Cozier Elementary School If you’ve ever thought that water, and having enough of it, was a “dry” subject, then you owe it to yourself to come out to this presentation by local water researcher Eric Hirst. If you think that it’s water, water everywhere in the Pacific Northwest, the fact is that even here in Whatcom County there isn’t always enough water for all the people, crops and fish that need it. And that problem will only get worse if we don’t understand how to manage our finite water supplies. Environmental researcher Eric Hirst is just the person to explain it all. He has a Ph.D. in engineering from Stanford University, spent 30 years analyzing energy policy at Oak Ridge National Laboratory in Tennessee, and retired to Bellingham 14 years ago where he continues his environmental analysis and activism. You may recognize his name from last year’s Whatcom County vs. Hirst, Futurewise, et al. decision by the Washington State Supreme Court. That case found that Whatcom County’s failure to comply with legal obligations to protect water resources required that it now coordinate its land-use planning with water availability. This presentation is sponsored by the Mt. Baker Group/Washington Chapter of the Sierra Club, and is free to all interested in understanding how water affects every aspect of our lives. Beverages and snacks will be served. Questions and answers will follow Mr. Hirst’s presentation. If you want to know more about water or other key environmental issues in this region check out the Mt. Baker Group’s website at http://www.sierraclub.org/washington/mount-baker-whatcom-skagitsanjuan. 

March Newsletter and Events Are Online

March 2017 Newsletter is Online

     Go to www.northcascadesaudubon.org to download the PDF. (Click "Newsletter" in the menu.) 

 

March Events and Field Trips Are Online

    Visit our website to see what's coming up this month. (Upcoming events are listed on the home page as well as on the Calendar.)

 

Hawk Watching Around the World:

Raptor Highlights of Six Continents

Saturday, March 18, 7 PM Bellingham Central Library, Lecture Room

Don't miss this exciting program mid-March! Join raptor expert and author Sergio Seipke as he showcases selected raptor species observed in recent years while traveling in Argentina, Australia, Brazil, Chile, Mexico, Nepal, Thailand, South Africa, Spain and the USA. His presentation will include photographs and descriptions of some of the most spectacular hawk watching sites around the world. Sergio has been studying raptors since 1993 and has authored and co-authored 16 articles dealing with raptor biology, migration, taxonomy, and field identification of neotropical raptors. He is currently writing Raptors of South America, a Princeton University Press field guide dealing exclusively with the identification of the 96 species of raptors occurring in South America. 

This special presentation is hosted by the Bellingham Public Library, Whatcom Land Trust, Falcon Research Group and North Cascades Audubon Society.

 

General Membership Meeting with Friends of Semiahmoo Bay Society

     This month's exciting membership meeting! Mark your calendar. See below for date, time, and location.

Stewardship North of the 49th Parallel. The Friends of Semiahmoo Bay Society (FOSBS) is a 100% volunteer-based stewardship group working to restore and raise knowledge of the watersheds and habitats associated with Boundary Bay. Boundary Bay is just across the US/Canada border and is located between White Rock and Point Roberts.  This presentation will show you why this area has international recognition for the significance of this habitat and its wildlife- expect some stunning pictures! FOSBS has three core components that make up the society: Environmental Education Programs, Citizen Science Projects and Habitat Enhancement Projects.  Matt Christensen, Vice President/Restoration Projects Coordinator and Sarah Brookes, Secretary/Education Programs Coordinator are proud to share a little bit about this special area in which they work, and about the accomplishments of FOSBS’s dedicated supporters and volunteers.

Always on the 4th Tuesday of the month:
March 28th, 7pm at the Whatcom Museum,** free & open to the public! 

**in the Rotunda Room of the Old City Hall building

Free Series "Marine Birds of the Salish Sea”

North Cascades Audubon Society offers free educational series “Marine Birds of the Salish Sea”Participants will learn about physical features, behaviors, and history of more than 30 bird species in the Salish SeaBELLINGHAM, WA — Marine bird experts will host a free educational series “Marine Birds of the Salish Sea” from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. on Wednesday and Thursday, February 22-23, at RE Sources for Sustainable Communities, 2309 Meridian St., Bellingham. The event is sponsored by North Cascades Audubon Society in collaboration with RE Sources for Sustainable Communities and the Cherry Point Aquatic Reserve Citizen Stewardship Committee.The two-part series — taught by Caanan Cowles, a biologist with more than a decade of experience researching seabirds in the Salish Sea, and Pam Borso, president of North Cascades Audubon Society — will teach participants about physical characteristics of more than 30 species, their behavior, and interesting facts about their histories. Participants are encouraged to attend both classes. Previous class participants are welcome to attend.After the classes, participants will have the opportunity to go on a birding tour led by North Cascades Audubon Society. The field trip time and date will be decided during the class.North Cascades Audubon Society has been conducting surveys of marine birds for several years at Cherry Point. The series is intended to increase awareness of marine birds and the reasons the North Cascades Audubon Society monitors them.North Cascades Audubon Society also hosts monthly guided birding tours from 9 a.m. to noon the first Saturday of the month at Semiahmoo Park, 9261 Semiahmoo Pkwy, Blaine.To register for the event, email Lyle Anderson at lyleand2@comcast.net or call 360-739-9249. For more information, visit northcascadesaudubon.org/calendar/.###Media Contacts:Lyle Anderson, North Cascades Audubon Society, lyleand2@comcast.net, 360-739-9249Virginia Cleaveland, RE Sources for Sustainable Communities, virginiac@re-sources.org, 360-733-8307Since 1970, the North Cascades Audubon Society has represented the interests and importance of wildlife, habitat and the environment in Whatcom County. Through scientific research, environmental education, stewardship and advocacy, NCAS provides a variety of services and opportunities for members and the public to engage with the natural world. northcascadesaudubon.orgRE Sources for Sustainable Communities is a local nonprofit organization dedicated to protecting the health of Northwest Washington’s people and ecosystems through the application of science, education, advocacy, and action. re-sources.orgThe Cherry Point Aquatic Reserve Citizen Stewardship Committee increases public awareness and enjoyment of the Reserve and assists the Department of Natural Resource’s Aquatic Reserve Program to successfully implement the Reserve’s management plan. aquaticreserves.org