RIDGEFIELD NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE
HOLDS 11th ANNUAL BIRDFEST & BLUEGRASS FESTIVAL
Thousands of birders gather to celebrate the fall migration
WHAT:
Birders from around the country will be gathering at the Ridgefield National Wildlife Refuge for the annual BirdFest & Bluegrass Festival. Now in its eleventh year, the Festival celebrates the natural beauty and rich culture of the Refuge as well as the beginning of the fall migration and the return of the Sandhill cranes. The Refuge provides habitat to more than 200 species of birds and is an amazing showcase of birds in the Pacific Flyway. The mild winter climate and wetlands along the Columbia River create ideal resting and feeding areas for Canada Geese, Sandhill Cranes, Great Blue Herons, swans, shore and song birds, and a variety of waterfowl.
The two-day event offers activities for both avid and novice bird watchers. Scheduled organized activities include:
· Sandhill crane tours
· Raptor shows
· Audubon-guided family bird walks and bus tours
· Kayak and canoe tours
· Guided photography walks
In addition to the birding activities, there will be:
· Bluegrass bands providing entertainment
· A Birders’ Marketplace with great local food and bird related crafts and art
· Guided tours of the historic Cathlapotle village archaeological site
The annual festival is hosted by the Friends of Ridgefield National Wildlife Refuge, a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting the Refuge through the sponsorship of programs that connect people with nature and restore important wildlife habitat.
WHERE:
Ridgefield National Wildlife Refuge is located approximately 20 miles north of Vancouver, Wash. Visitors should take the Ridgefield exit off Interstate 5 and drive three miles west to Ridgefield, where there are signs directing you to the Refuge.
WHEN:
Saturday, October 9 and Sunday, October 10, 2010.
For more information and a schedule of activities, visit www.ridgefieldfriends.org
