INDRELAND AUDUBON WETLAND PRESERVE – UPDATE: MAY 2024

New volunteer season! 

Welcome to the new and returning volunteers who joined us at the season’s kickoff early in April. The enthusiasm and interest of the group is inspiring.  

Join here: https://secure.lglforms.com/form_engine/s/-6829nVMo7S-Yh___JWmHQ

If you want to volunteer as an Interpretive Host at IAWP or volunteer for water monitoring and were unable to attend the trainings at the end of April, contact Emma at  wetlands@sacajaweaaudubon.org  Water monitoring will be done on Saturdays at 10 am May through September. 

May 5th:  IAWP trash cleanup 11:00 am -1:00 pm.  If you haven’t already signed up to help with this satisfying effort, go to https://secure.lglforms.com/form_engine/s/-6829nVMo7S-Yh___JWmHQ 

May 16th and 19th: Free Bird ID class for Busy Beavers only. Classroom on the 16th, field session at the  IAWP on the 19th.  Session is full.

July 19-21 : The third annual IAWP Bioblitz. Expert team leaders will aid in identifying birds, mammals, plants, invertebrates and aquatic life. All are welcome to join any team for an educational and enjoyable experience.  Details and schedule will be shared in the Busy Beaver Bulletin, SAS website at https://sacajaweaaudubon.org, and Facebook page @SacajaweaAudubonSociety. For questions contact wetlands@sacajaweaaudubon.org

June 7 –8: Join us during Birdathon at the IAWP for a “Bermathon”.  Busy Beavers are invited to join the Berm Bums team to count bird species at the IAWP.  We will start at 5 PM on June 7 and reconvene in the morning of June 8. Busy Beavers who are interested in participating during any portion of this 24 hour period please email wetlands@sacajaweaaudubon.org  See page 7 for Birdathon information.

IAWP Wetland Master Naturalist Course

This wetland-focused master naturalist course will cover aspects of wetland ecology and environmental science tailored to Montana’s unique landscapes and ecological characteristics. The course consists of 10 classes and three full-day field trips. The two-hour classes combine theoretical knowledge with practical, hands-on activities or field observations integrated with three full-day trips into the field. The curriculum focuses on a comprehensive understanding of the complex ecological interactions occurring within these ecosystems, emphasizing scientific observation, analysis, and interpretation. Topics explore the natural science aspects of wetlands through wetland ecology, hydrology, soils, plants, and wildlife, presented by experts from Montana State University, the Society of Wetland Scientists, and other professionals in their fields.

Tuesday, June 25 – Saturday, August 3, 2024 

(5 consecutive weeks)

Tuesday/Thursday classes: 5:30-7:30 PM (No class 7/4)

3 Full Day Saturday field trips: July 6, July 20, August 3

Certification requirements:

Attendance for 40 class hours

6 hours volunteer service

Research and presentation on wetland topic of your choice.

Cost:  $175 for Busy Beavers; $275 for SAS members; $375 for non-members. 

Class size is limited to 15 participants.

Register here: https://secure.lglforms.com/form_engine/s/jfzPnCTj-YIvvtxw0hkllA

Guided Bird Walks at the IAWP

Friday and Sunday mornings from 8:00 to 10:00 AM May 3 – June 30, 2024.

Meet at Café M at 8:00 AM, 777 East Main. After a brief talk about the IAWP and our vision for its future, we will take a short walk to the Preserve.  Bring your binocs!  All birding abilities welcome and no registration is needed.  

For more information email: wetlands@sacajaweaaudubon.org