Durango Nature Studies will host back-to-back events Saturday: The “Birds of the Nature Center” workshop will be held from 8:30 to 10:30 a.m. at the Durango Nature Center, followed by a fly-fishing workshop from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
Aimee Way, wildlife biologist, expert birder and DNS board member, will teach the birding class. Participants will learn about songbirds and raptors that use Nature Center habitat. They will also learn how to identify the birds by song and sight and the types of habitat the birds prefer.
All levels of bird enthusiasts are welcome. Binoculars and a bird book are recommended. Entry-level binoculars will be available for loan if needed.
The fly-fishing workshop will be taught by Jake West, an avid fly fisherman and DNS board member. He will teach the basics of fly fishing and discuss bugs, fly-tying and fishing techniques and tips.
Casting lessons will be given in the meadow before fishing in the Florida River. The workshop is designed for people new to the sport and would be a good refresher for more experienced fly casters.
The cost of each workshop is $10 for non-members and free for members, and all participants receive free entry to the Nature Center for the day. To register, call 769-1800.
For directions to the Nature Center, visit www.durangonaturestudies.org.
The Columbine Ranger District of the San Juan National Forest is seeking public comment during the planning phase of the Vallecito-Piedra Integrated Vegetation Management Project.
The proposal is to use mechanical vegetation thinning and harvest treatments, prescribed fire and managed natural fire on 80,334 acres of national forest land. The project is expected to be implemented in phases over several years.
The goals of the project are: creating and maintaining vegetation conditions that support desirable fire behavior; improving ecosystem diversity and resilience; reducing risk to life, property and natural resources; reducing financial costs; providing timber products to support industry and local demands; increasing forage for livestock; and improving wildlife habitat and forage.
For more information or to submit a comment by Aug. 8, contact Jay Godson at 884-1425 or jsgodson@fs.fed.us, or contact Cam Hooley at 884-1414 or chooley@fs.fed.us.
Herald staff
