The Feather River Land Trust invites the community to gather for a day on the Sierra Valley Preserve, both for birding by boat with Paul Hardy and for a plant and bird walk with Kristi Jamason. The event starts at 8 a.m. Saturday, April 26.
Wildlife biologist Paul Hardy will lead a kayaking excursion through Sierra Valley wetlands to bird the preserve. Two groups will be formed — the first will kayak with Hardy while the other group accompanies naturalist Kristi Jamason on a bird and plant walk, then the two groups will switch. Participants are invited to bring lunch for an outdoor picnic afterward.
Canoes/kayaks will be provided by FRLT. Participants must bring their own personal flotation devices. Everyone will meet for both the walk and the boat launch at the Sierra Valley Preserve’s west entrance.
Participants must be experienced kayakers and have reasonable endurance to be able to spend at least four to five hours on the preserve, both kayaking and walking.
Organizers point out that the date is subject to change or cancellation due to water levels and conditions.
Space is limited to 40 participants. Tickets cost $90 each and participants must be at least 18, or at least 16 with a paying adult guardian.
About Paul Hardy
Paul Hardy helped launch the Feather River Land Trust and served as its executive director for 17 years. His 30 years in conservation include working as a wildlife biologist on the Plumas National Forest, co-creating the Sierra-Cascade Land Trust Council and Northern Sierra Partnership, and serving on the California Council of Land Trusts and Plumas Audubon Society boards.
About Boating in Sierra Valley
The land trust acknowledges that boating in the Sierra Valley is a coveted recreation opportunity. However, the season when there is significant water in the valley coincides with sensitive bird migration and nesting periods. FRLT points out that it has a primary responsibility to protect this sensitive ecosystem and has developed a boating policy for the Sierra Valley Preserve. Boating at the Sierra Valley Preserve is regulated seasonally.
This birding by boat opportunity is only provided after thorough habitat inspection and consultation with wildlife biologists and experts, say organizers. If the water levels or conditions are not safe for wildlife, the event will change dates or be canceled.
About the Sierra Valley Preserve and Nature Center
Since 2003, the Feather River Land Trust, The Nature Conservancy and the Northern Sierra Partnership have worked together to create the Sierra Valley Preserve: 2,575 acres of protected land in California’s largest mountain valley. This biodiversity hotspot is at the headwaters of the Wild and Scenic Middle Fork Feather River and a key stop along the Pacific Flyway.
The Sierra Valley Preserve Nature Center was established as a hub for nature-based recreation and learning where visitors and locals alike can experience the wonders of Sierra Valley’s beauty, cultural richness and incredible biodiversity, says FRLT. The new nature center and facilities include interactive exhibits, new interpretive trails and picnic areas, and year-round educational programs and activities.