Join us for a fun time at Pearrygin Lake State Park May 31-June 3, 2018. Pearrygin Lake Campoutand Field TripsThursday afternoon – Sunday morning, May 31-June 3, 2018Our eleventh annual NCAS Campout will be held at PearryginLake State Park group camp with great people, greatweather and of course great birding. There is lots of roomfor people with tents. Vans or pickup toppers are allowedin the parking area. RVs and trailers are not allowed. Picnictables and grates are available for cooking (bring yourown food) and water and a toilet are on site. A swimmingarea is also on site to enjoy after a warm day of birding.Showers and full service bathrooms can be accessed 1½miles away in the main campground. Anyone not enamoredwith or unable to stay in the group camp site canmake reservations in the main campground or stay at amotel in the Winthrop area.Of course the primary focus of the campout is birds.Field trips, led by leaders familiar with the area, will bescheduled for Saturday and Sunday. Campers are free toroam on their own on Thursday and Friday. There will beplenty of time for lounging and enjoying the sunny andclear weather and for visiting. In past years a number ofpeople have brought their musical instruments and wehave had a sing-along each evening. Cost is $10/night for each party.Reservations are required. If you want to make areservation or if you have any questions pleaseemail or call Steven Harper atstevenharper2@msn.com and 360-650-9065.
February Newsletter and Events Are Online
February 2018 Newsletter is Online
Go to www.northcascadesaudubon.org to download the PDF. (Click "Newsletter" in the menu.)
February Events and Field Trips Are Online
Visit our website to see what's coming up this month.
General Membership Meeting with Dick McNeely
This month's exciting membership meeting!
Birding Adventures with Videos. Join Dick McNeely for a wonderful and insightful program on how video observations can give us insight into the complex world of birds. Habitats, competition between birds, migration, survival in adverse conditions and attracting birds to feeders are areas explored in videos taken during countless hours observing the bird life of Whatcom and Skagit Counties. Dick will place special emphasis on the importance of involving youth in different types of learning experiences; something he has learned during his 30 years as an Educator for the Burlington-Edison School District.Dick’s background includes a B.A. Ed. from Western Washington University and a M.A. Ed. (Creative Learning) from Lesley University. Dick taught for 17 years in the ACTS PROGRAM (Active, Creative, Talented Students) during his time with the Burlington-Edison School District. Classes were held after school and included weekend field trips throughout Skagit County, Whatcom County, and British Columbia. Students learned about bird identification, habitats, survival, daily observations, storytelling, art and presentation skills. They developed their own individual projects to use across the curriculum and to share with parents and community members at a special ACTS Program Presentations Event.Dick’s birding experience began in Pennsylvania at age 9. Observing and photographing birds has been a major part of his life ever since. Being able to share this rewarding experience with others is a special joy. He has been involved with Audubon as a volunteer and CBC leader for over 40 years and has participated in Breeding Bird Surveys. Dick has also led tours for ELDERHOSTEL, Wings Over Water, and whale boat tours and has been active in efforts to preserve salmon. His photos of birds have been used in bird guides and on a book cover.
Always on the 4th Tuesday of the month:February 27th, 7pm at the Whatcom Museum,** free & open to the public!
January Board Minutes
North Cascades Audubon SocietyBoard of Directors Meeting and Retreat Agenda1011 Girard St.January 8, 2018 5:00 PM
- Additions to Agenda – added as needed.
- Approval of December Minutes- Approved by board with no amendments.
- Treasurer’s Report – Sue went over the report for December and explained expenses and revenue items of interest. She noted that our expenses for the year were quite a bit more than our revenue, but that we have adequate reserves to cover the gap between expenditures and revenue. We will need to address this issue in the future if this trend continues. Sue will provide a short article on how money was spent in 2017 and there is a pie chart that will accompany the article that illustrates the different areas of expenditures and revenue sources.
Prioritize infrastructure for 2018NCAS Ongoing Programs and Events (including who is responsible for each)
- Membership Programs and Presentations – Steven Harper – The current mix of 9 programs is good. There was a discussion of changing the format of the meeting to encourage more engagement (social interaction) and a more welcoming environment for new members. One possibility is starting at 6:45 pm and not starting the actual program until 7:15 pm. This will be investigated in the near future.
- Annual Campout – Steven Harper – The site has been reserved again for this spring and we will continue with a similar format as in past years.
- Backyard Habitat and Native Flora Fair – Pam Borso– We will continue doing this event.
- CBC – Doug Brown – We will investigate holding the potluck at the YWCA or the Community Food Coop Community Room. We will not be using the Squalicum Yacht Club in the future. We need to figure out how to generate more interest in the potluck.
- Cherry Point Bird Surveys – Lyle Anderson – We will continue to be an active partner.
- Farmer's Market Tabling – Although everyone believes that there is value, we did not make a decision on whether to continue the event. No one stepped forward to coordinate all the logistics and we do not know if we have the volunteer capacity to staff a monthly booth. We will continue to discuss this opportunity at the February Board Meeting.
- Field Trips – Ken Salzman – Continue with field trips as in the past.
- Holiday Potluck – Hospitality Committee - Dec. 10 at YWCA is proposed for 2018. Pam will check this out and make the reservation if it is available.
- Hospitality Chair/Alternate – We need a new hospitality chair and alternate for our events. Pam will actively attempt to recruit these persons.
- Membership – Owen Bamford – The board decided that we need to increase memberships (engagement) as well as encourage people to give more money as donations to cover NCAS expenses. A membership committee will be formed to explore different ways that we will accomplish this.
- Museum Presence: We agreed to continue to have Audubon members present on the 4th Sunday of each month in the Edson Bird Gallery. The next scheduled Sundays are January 28, February 25, March 25, April 22, and May 27. Steven Harper has volunteered for January 28.
- Nest Box Construction and Dispersal – Ken Salzman– Will continue to build boxes as needed and currently has plenty of wood procured.
- Newsletters - Kelley Palmer McGee – Newsletter deadline continues to be the 15th of the month before publication. November and December are a combined newsletter and no newsletters are published for June – August. The next newsletter will include the articles on the swan’s installation in the Whatcom Museum exhibit and the availability of scholarships for the WCC Community Education class “Birding in the Pacific Northwest”.
- Plants and Birds Presentations – Pam Borso and Chris Brewer– The National Audubon Plants and Birds program has been adapted to fit Northwest birds and plants. There are also pamphlets and a laminated resource guide being developed for tabling and for use at local nurseries. This is being co-sponsored by the Native Plant Society. Pam and Chris have scheduled a number of events using the presentation. Pam has submitted a grant application to National Audubon to help fund the costs for this project.
- PR/Marketing -Jamie Huson(temporary) until we find a new person. Pam is working on finding a new person to take over this function. Jamie will continue to be responsible for Facebook and social media postings as well.
- Scholarships – Nicole Huson – She has a meeting with Don Burgess in the next couple of weeks to coordinate publicity for the research scholarships at WWU.
- Membership Software, Google Docs, Website– Jamie Huson – He is working on the new web page which should be ready for switch over in about 2 months. He gave a brief demonstration of the new website which is supported by Square Space. The board was impressed and we will move ahead with conversion from our present format. The new website will also support a payment link. Jamie is also continuing to work on possibilities for membership software and getting people set up for Google Docs.
- Whatcom Land Trust Surveys – Steven Harper– WLT, along with NCAS, will explore submitting a grant proposal to Cornell Bird Lab for money to provide support for the bird surveys and habitat restoration and management. The board agreed to provide some matching funding for a proposal. Steven will bring this back to the board in February for discussion. We will also continue to conduct field trips on WLT lands.
- Wings Over Water Festival– Paul Woodcock– NCAS is participating again but there is no update until Paul returns from his overseas travels.
Board Building & Governance: Jamie and Nicole – We need to get new officers as Pam and Paul cannot be President and Vice-President (according to by-laws). Nicole will send out the descriptions of all of the officers and other committee chair positions to all of the board members for their information and consideration. Huxley Environmental Career and Internship Fair: scheduled for Thursday, Feb.8; 4:30 – 6:30 PM. We will possibly have representation at the Fair or consider having an internship later. This needs to be discussed and decided upon by the next meeting.Storing Education/Outreach Material: for consideration at later meetings.Education Committee 2018 Plan: Chris Brewer provided a summary of the goals for 2018 listed below.
- Expand Outreach to Whatcom County
--Whatcom County Library programs--Birds & Brews--Additional field trip locations if possible
- Develop Conservation Education
--Native Plants and Birds Program/Plants for Birds grants--Endangered species focus in conjunction with Whatcom Museum exhibit
- Explore Youth Birding Possibilities and Continue Family Programs
--Sponsorship of state Youth Field Trip in Whatcom County (WOW) – 2019 WOW --Continue developing collaboration with Wild Whatcom with Family Programs and offer family walks/programs as time permits --Consider additional collaborative programs for children/families
- Develop Bald Eagle Interpretive Programming
Recruiting and Incentivizing Volunteers: Nicole Huson provided a summary of the Volunteer Interest Questionnaire. She had 35 responses and approx. 20 people that indicated an interest in volunteering with NCAS. The board agreed that we need to understand exactly how we will be using the additional volunteers and then assign volunteers based on their interests indicated in the questionnaire results. Until then, board members will contact individuals and find out more specifically their interests in helping out NCAS. Nicole will collect the information and people should send her all of the results of the inquiries. Jamie Huson presented a proposal (outlined below) for incentivizing volunteers and for creating a Google doc, tracking hours and areas of interest.Incentives Proposal --Volunteer recognition at Holiday Potluck through brief acknowledgement --Summer picnic for volunteers --Gift Incentives based on hours of volunteering 2 hours Audubon patch 7 hours Wild Bird Chalet $10 gift certificate 15 hours Audubon nest box 25 hours Signed book --Create a Google doc of volunteer interests (from Outreach Survey and other sources) including volunteer tracking. Budget: Sue presented a draft 2018 budget based on anticipated NCAS activities and programs for 2018 and related expenses and revenue. The board reviewed the budget and some changes were made. Expenses will exceed revenue again in 2018. The board discussed that although there are very adequate reserves at this time, in the future a balanced budget will be necessary. Also, it is likely the actual expenses for 2018 will be less than projected. Projected revenue for 2018 is $11,295 and projected expenses are $19,885. Upcoming Programs & EventsJanuary 11 : Whatcom Museum- Audubon Presentation for Museum Advocates groupJanuary 23: James Walker: Dragonflies and DamselfliesFebruary 27: Dick McNeely: Birding Adventures with VideosMarch 27: Pam Borso and Rae Edwards: Plants and BirdsApril 24: Dan Streiffert: Arctic National Wildlife Refuge Next Meeting: February 5, 2018; 7 PM at Bellingham Unitarian Fellowship- 1207 Ellsworth St., Bellingham, WA 98225. Someone will lead meeting unless Paul is present. Steven will contact the person from BUF to find out which meeting room we will be using. Adjourn
December Board Minutes
North Cascades Audubon Society MinutesBoard of Directors Meeting1011 Gerard St.Dec. 4, 20177:00 PM Board Members Present: Pam Borso, Paul Woodcock, Steven Harper, Owen Bamford, Nicole Huson, Jamie Huson, Chris Brewer, Kelley Palmer-McGee, and Steve Irving
- Additions to Agenda – Additions added as needed below
- Approval of November Minutes – Approved by board as amended with date changed for January presentation
- Treasurer’s Report – Steven discussed the treasurer’s report and it was approved.
- Committee Reports:
Education Update – We have 3 new pairs of binoculars to try out at a total cost of about $300. We continue to look at projectors and the laptop and will probably purchase by the end of the year. The Whatcom Library System was really pleased with the programs presented by NCAS and we will present at the Skagit Bald Eagle Festival as well. Pam and Chris are working on the Native Plants and Birds educational program to be presented at least 3 times in March in time for the Whatcom Conversation District plant sale. Chris is working with Wild Whatcom on the Family CBC on Dec. 30, although they changed leadership and everything is delayed slightly. Chris discussed possible funding for youth birding, possibly sending some youth to the Wings Over Water festival. Nicole indicated that we have 28 -33 people that have responded to our volunteer survey and she will compile the data in time for the retreat in January. Scholarship Committee – Owen has updated information on the website. The next step is to reach out to Don Burgess in January. Owen e-mailed the persons receiving the scholarships last year to request a report on the research that the money was used for. Website Update – Jamie will demo the new website template at the retreat. No progress on Google Docs as our nonprofit status has not been acknowledged. Board Building and Governance Report – The committee met and it was very productive, looking at the position descriptions and how they relate to the by-laws. The committee will continue to meet and perhaps provide information for the retreat.
- Communications & Input
Museum holiday tree was decorated and looked great. Pam asked about continuing the Sunday Audubon at the Museum events and the board agreed to continue. We should make the quarter-sheet information handouts on our presentations, etc. available at the Museum on the Sundays when we are present. CBC – There was an update that everything is under control, all people placed so far, some new leaders, some people dropping out, and the Squalicum Yacht Club is arranged. Chris will see if we can get an article in the Herald regarding the 50th Anniversary of the CBC for Bellingham and the Family CBC. Jim Duemmel has written up a nice piece that can perhaps be used. Terry Wahl should be acknowledged for all his efforts in starting the CBC and the other contributions he has made as an amateur ornithologist in the State of Washington. Spiva Butte – Steven talked with Ferdi, the gentleman that purchased the property. Steven will write an article for the newsletter about this purchase and the protection efforts that are continuing for Spiva Butte. Newsletter input due by December 15 for the January newsletter. Holiday Party – Everything is all set. Pam has food covered, Nicole is working on decorations and a request has been made to Ken to make sure the projector is ready. Retreat is Jan. 8, 5-9 pm at the Improv Space. Nicole will bring pizza and salads. Committee chairs and members are asked to communicate with Pam regarding plans for the coming year and other items that should be discussed at the retreat. Starting in Feb. the meeting will be at Bellingham Unitarian Fellowship. Sue would appreciate it greatly if 2017 invoices are submitted at the holiday party. Of course any purchases after that can be submitted later.
- Old Business
Swan Donation – Victoria at the Museum has promised that the swan will be in the display by the end of the year. We will donate the remaining $60 to the Museum to defray costs. When the swan is finally in the display we will place an article in our newsletter regarding the donation and the new display. Advertising Update – All advertisers in the newsletter have committed. Valerie at the Wild Bird Chalet would like someone to discuss our relationship. Nicole and Jamie volunteered to stop by to talk with her. Presentation for the Museum Advocates Group – Paul would like to do this on January 18 even though he will be just back from Australia. He knows the most about the cooperation between NCAS and the Museum in putting the exhibit together and knows most about the history.
- New Business
Wings Over Water – It will be happening March 16-18. Paul will be attending but will be gone until Jan. 15, so someone else needs to put a call out for viewing station volunteers in the Feb. newsletter. Donation – The board decided to make the following donations for 2017: Whatcom Humane Society $300, VARC $300, Sardis $200, Wild Whatcom $200, and Northwest Swan Conservation $200. Huxley Environment Career and Internship Fair Thursday, 8 Feb 2018, 4:30-6:30 PM – Pam would like to consider whether it would be valuable for NCAS to have an intern. Everyone should think about what we could do with an intern and whether we have enough projects or enough leadership to be able to guide an intern. More discussion between now and the retreat.
- Programs & Events
December 11 Doug Brown Birds of Belize January 18 Paul Woodcock Whatcom Museum - Audubon presence (presentation for Museum Advocates group) January 23 James Walker Dragonflies and Damselflies February 27 Dick McNeely Unusual Bird Videos April 24 Dan Streiffert Arctic Wildlife Refuge Presentation Adjourn - Next Meeting: January 8, 2018, 5-9 retreat. Improv Playworks 1011 Girard St, Bellingham, WA 98225
November Board Minutes
North Cascades Audubon SocietyBoard of Directors Meeting AgendaWECU Ed Center on HollyNovember 7, 20167:00 PM Board Members Present: Carol Roberts, Pam Borso, Kelley Palmer-McGee, Steve Irving, Judy Krieger; Ken Salzman, Owen Bamford, Rae Edwards, Steven Harper, Sue Parrott, Jamie Huson, Nicole Huson Guest: Jamie Donaldson presented a request for a letter of support from NCAS in favor of preventing loss of mature trees in the City of Bellingham.
- Additions to Agenda
- Approval of October Minutes- Approved
- Treasurer’s Report- Sue went over the latest report and explained some corrections she made to errors found in past reports. She discussed money that has been donated as part of an estate and whether we should put a thank you in the January newsletter. Board agreed to discuss the issue of asking for estate contributions and what we do with any money bequeathed at the annual retreat.
- Communications & Input
Climate Change Group and I-732 – Sue told us that the group is planning a booth at the Farmer’s market starting in April and staffed by members of the group or other people in Audubon assuming there are enough people to staff the booth. Cost is $20 per day. Facebook interface – The Facebook interface is being updated and will eventually be working correctly. Currently a work around is available so that Jamie and Twink can add events to the Facebook Page.CBC update – Board suggested that there be an article in the January newsletter recounting the history of the 50 years of CBC in Bellingham.Cherry Point Bird Surveys – NCAS board believes the surveys should be continued for continuity purposes and for the sake of citizen science. Pam and Lyle are planning on doing a workshop instead of training this year as well as training additional people that have already passed the test.ACOW – Pam reported that ACOW was a very good conference this year with lots of DNR and BLM people presenting. Pam and Paul also had a great experience at the banding site above Lake Chelan.
- Old Business
Garlick Memorial Award Report and Swan Update – We have raised the money needed. The state permit is in hand and the Federal permit is being worked on and when in hand we will move ahead. Owen will contact donors for approval to acknowledge their gifts in the January newsletter. Holiday Potluck update – Carol and Nicole are working on the Potluck and requested that people save cedar boughs if they have them available.Whatcom Land Trust Collaboration – Pam reported that she will be signing the MOU document in the coming week.AV Technical Support- Steven and Jamie will meet at the Museum to better understand the technical parameters of Museum AV equipment. This information will be sent to all program presenters to avoid future glitches at our monthly meetings. They will also determine the cords necessary for various computer connections.
- New Business
Board discussed the issue of saving mature trees in the City of Bellingham as presented by Jamie Donaldson. Rae will draft a letter supporting this position which will be submitted to the board before submission to the city.Birding on Lummi Property – Ken noted that it is possible to receive a yearly permit allowing birding on Lummi lands from the planning office at tribal headquarters. This can be applicable for as many as 3 persons.
- Upcoming Programs
November 22: Jim Watson - Raptors of Western WashingtonDecember 12: Holiday Potluck – Doug Brown SlidesJan 24: Belinda Rotton and Richard Kessler - Birding on the Skagit and Whatcom Wildlife RefugesFeb 28: Steve and Martha Ellis - Loons of the Salish SeaMarch 28: Matt Christensen and Sarah Brookes - Friends of Semiahmoo Bay Society – Stewardship North of the 49th ParallelApril 25: Jonathan White - Tides: The Science and Spirit of the OceanMay 23: Adjourn - Next Meeting; December 5, 2016 7 PM WECU Ed Ctr., 311 Holly St, Bellingham, WA
Swan Watch at Tennant Lake
The Friends of Tennant Lake and Hovander Park invite you to Tennant Lake, near Ferndale, at dawn Feb. 10 to see as many as 300 Trumpeter and Tundra Swans form into small groups, bob their heads simultaneously, then lift off the water for the day’s forage. On a clear day, swans will lift off promptly at sunrise, so plan to join us at 7 a.m.A guest speaker will be on site in the warm Interpretive Center after the swans fly. Refreshments and hot drinks will be served. As in years past, rehabilitated swans healthy enough to be returned to the wild might be released after the presentation.Dress for the weather. Binoculars will be useful. Bring your camera! This event is free, and all ages are welcome. The Friends are supported by the Whatcom Parks and Recreation Foundation and operate in partnership with the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife and Whatcom County Parks.Find us at 5236 Nielsen Ave. just outside Ferndale, Washington. Take the Ferndale exit (west) off of 1-5. Follow the signs to Hovander Park. Instead of a final right turn into Hovander Park, continue straight on Nielsen Road through the gate to Tennant Lake.
January 2018 Newsletter and Events Are Online
Happy New Year
Thank you to all our members for your participation with our chapter in 2017. Here's to many more shared experiences in the future!
January 2018 Newsletter is Online
Go to www.northcascadesaudubon.org to download the PDF. (Click "Newsletter" in the menu.)
January Events and Field Trips Are Online
Visit our website to see what's coming up this month.
General Membership Meeting with James Walker
This month's exciting membership meeting!
Discovering Dragonflies. Did you know that dragonflies and damselflies have excellent vision, but can’t hear; have six legs, but can’t walk; are fierce predators of other insects, but are harmless to humans? Retired Professor James Walker, “Dragonfly Whisperer,” is the author of Common Dragonflies and Damselflies of the Pacific Coast, a unique field guide that combines state-of-the-art features for identifying dragonflies—such as range maps, flight season charts, life-size and annotated photos for each species—as well as exciting new discoveries about their lives. An example of the latter is the splash-dunk/spin-dry behavior, in which a dragonfly plunges into the water multiple times to bathe, and then spins at 1,000 rpm in mid-flight to shed the water—the fastest known spinning motion of any animal! The guide also introduces the intriguing happy-face dragonfly—whose official name is the paddle-tailed darner—and provides tips on how to get a dragonfly to perch on your finger. Filled with beautiful photos and original illustrations, this field guide will help to get you on a “first name basis” with these wonderful, yet little-known, creatures. Dragonflies, and their close relative the damselflies, have been the focus of Professor Walker’s interest for the past ten years. He has led numerous dragonfly field trips, along with his wife Betsy Walker, and has given numerous presentations on dragonflies in both Washington and Arizona.James S. Walker is an Anacortes resident and retired professor of theoretical physics from Washington State University, where he was the Boeing Distinguished Professor of Science and Mathematics Education. He received his Ph. D. in theoretical physics from the University of Washington, and has also taught physics courses at Western Washington University. The author of several university-level textbooks on physics, Professor Walker and his wife Betsy divide their time between Washington and Arizona, and enjoy birding and dragonflying in both locations.Don’t miss Jim’s engaging presentation on the amazing and unusual behavior of dragonflies and damselflies of the Pacific Coast.
Always on the 4th Tuesday of the month:January 23rd, 7pm at the Whatcom Museum,** free & open to the public!
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
- Additions to Agenda – No additions
- Approval of August Minutes - Approved
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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!
Who’s that bird that just flew in?
Coming to your local library: Winter Birds of Whatcom County Deming Library: Saturday, October 7, 3 -4pm Ferndale Library: Saturday, October 21, 2-3:30 pm South Whatcom (Sudden Valley): Saturday, November 4, 2-3pm .
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.
Whatcom Land Trust Bird Survey Summary: 2017
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
- Additions to Agenda- Added below.
- Approval of March Minutes – Approved by the board.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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
- 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
- Additions to Agenda- Added below
- Approval of February Minutes – Approved by the board
- Treasurer’s Report- Sue explained the report and it was accepted by the board.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.