Join the Sulphur Ranger District's 12th Annual Christmas Bird Count

The U.S. Forest Service’s Sulphur Ranger District will host its 12th annual Christmas Bird Count in conjunction with the National Audubon Society on Saturday, Dec. 14, 2013. Join tens of thousands of bird lovers and volunteers across the Americas in a holiday tradition that has taken place for more than 100 years. Families, birders and scientists, armed with binoculars, bird guides and checklists help provide critical data on bird population trends from around the world. Audubon and other organizations use the data collected in this wildlife census to assess the health of bird populations.

Granby-area bird counters can choose to participate by motor vehicle, skis or snowshoes, and all birding skill levels are welcome. Other opportunities to contribute, for those who live within the count area, include: volunteering to count and report birds that visit home feeders on the day of the count; allowing access to private property for volunteers to count birds; or simply filling bird feeders that are visible from public roads on the day of the count.

Children and families can get involved by participating in the kids’ route. This short walking loop, ideal for children ages 2-10, follows the Fraser River in Granby’s Kaibab Park and includes a lesson in using binoculars (bring your own or use the ones provided) and clues to identifying birds, followed by warm drinks. The children’s bird count will begin at 10 a.m. Please dress warmly and wear snow clothes.

To participate or contribute in any of these events, please contact wildlife biologist Brock McCormick at 970-887-4108 or email bmccormick@fs.fed.us.

To learn more about the Christmas Bird Count, visit http://birds.audubon.org/christmas-bird-count.


Jeff
RockyMountainHikingTrails.com

Spring runoff damages roads across Sulphur Ranger District

With late snows and a large spring runoff, some U.S. Forest Service roads on the Sulphur Ranger District have experienced significant damage. The 442,000-acre district is located near Granby in Grand County, along the southwest corner of Rocky Mountain National Park.

The district’s travel management team works diligently each spring to convert as many roads as possible to summer use by June 15. Gates that are closed in the winter to protect resources and allow for snowmobile activity are swung open to allow motor vehicle traffic.

This year, the crew is running into sinkholes large enough to trap a car, landslides, slumps and culvert blow outs. A closed gate likely means the damage is impassable by standard vehicles. The district is working closely with the county to prioritize and complete repairs with limited funding. In other areas, roads are open and hazards are marked. Proceed with caution around these hazards.

The status of roads is frequently changing. The best way to get the most current status is to call Visitor Information at 970-887-4100 or check the district’s road status page.


Jeff
RockyMountainHikingTrails.com