To Participate: Notify Russ Kastberg, Willapa Hills Audubon Society member, by
Ready your feather dusters – it’s time for a bird box cleaning on Saturday, November 8th from 10:00 am – 1:00 pm. Indian Jack Slough contains 17 wood duck boxes, 2 Purple Martin colonies, 2 Flickr boxes, and one Barn Owl box. You’re invited to join us as we ready these boxes for next year’s avian residents. Volunteer will work in teams of 3 or 4, venture to bird boxes scattered throughout the property, and sweep out the mysteries found inside.
About Indian Jack Slough: This 180-acre site sits directly adjacent to the 5,600-acre Julia Butler Hansen Wildlife Refuge for the Columbia White-tailed deer. Formerly a poplar plantation, Indian Jack Slough was purchased by Columbia Land Trust in 2006 to provide additional foraging, resting and breeding habitat for this federally listed endangered species. It’s a site that’s also home to bald eagles, songbirds, waterfowl, amphibians, beaver, river otter, and elk.
Safety Considerations: Be prepared to navigate uneven terrain, standing water, and a few spikey/thorny plants. Those who feel comfortable doing so should be prepared to climb up a 12 foot ladder to reach nest boxes.
What to Bring: Bring warm clothes, rain gear, and rubber boots. This wetland is a wet one! Bring hip or chest waders if you have them – we’ll also have some adult sized waders for loan. Bring a water bottle, snacks, and a lunch if you’re one to get hungry before 1pm.
Directions and Meeting Location: Take Highway 4 west to Cathlamet, WA. Proceed approximately one mile west, cross Elochoman River Bridge, turn right on Nelson Creek Rd., and proceed to the Red Barn at the intersection of Nelson Creek Road and Risk Road. Park along the roadside.