State Forest State Park hosts 115th Annual Christmas Bird Count

State Forest State Park will once again welcome birders from across the country and the world to participate in 115th National Audubon Society Christmas Bird Count, Dec. 19.

The tradition began over 100 years ago when a small group of wildlife watchers proposed an alternative to a 'side hunt' in which teams competed to see who could shoot the most birds and mammals. Led by scientist and writer Frank Chapman, his team of 27 people began to identify, count and record a variety of birds.

Today, the Christmas Bird Count is recognized as one of the most important, citizen-based conservation efforts in the world with several thousand people participating across the Americas.

"We appreciate every participants efforts in helping catalogue the variety of birds in North Park and across the Western Hemisphere," said State Forest State Park Manager Joe Brand. "It should be a great time for everyone."

The CBC has become vital in monitoring the status of resident and migratory birds. The data collected by the volunteers has become a crucial part of the U. S. Government’s natural history monitoring database.

This year's count officially kicks-off on Dec. 14, running through Jan.15, 2015; however, to participate in the count at State Forest State Park, arrive at the Moose Visitor Center, Dec. 19 at 8 a.m., prepared with a good pair of binoculars, a good reference book and appropriate clothing.

After a light breakfast provided by the park, small groups will head out for a fun day of counting birds. A warm meal will be available at the end of the day.

Who: State Forest State Park and the National Audubon Society

What: Annual Christmas Bird Count

When: December 19, 2014, 8:00 am

Where: State Forest State Park Moose Visitor Center, 56750 Highway 14 (1 mile east of Gould)

Contact: Deb McLachlan 970-723-8366 Ext. 12, or by email.

For more information about State Forest State Park, click here.



Jeff
RockyMountainHikingTrails.com
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Full Moon Snowshoeing and Cross-country Skiing at State Forest State Park

Colorado Parks and Wildlife invites the public to the snow-covered winter woods at State Forest State Park for two 'Full Moon Open House' events on Saturday, January 18th and Saturday, February 15th.

Arrive at the park before dusk, and once the moon rises, enjoy a unique, nocturnal winter experience snowshoeing or cross-country skiing the six-mile Gould Loop that starts at the park's Moose Visitor Center. Everyone is encouraged to bring a snow buddy along for a fun evening.

"The route will be studded with glow sticks to guide skiers and snowshoers," said Park Manager Kent Minor. "Along with the 'glow-in-the-dark' jewelry that we provide, it creates a neat, almost mystical visual experience for participants."

State Forest State Park will provide hot chocolate and cookies along the trail at the Chocolate Cabin. In addition, visitors are invited to bring food for the potluck at the Moose Visitor Center after the evening's trek.

"The open house provides a break from cabin fever and an opportunity to discover the magic of moonlight on snow," added Minor. "You may even catch a glimpse of wildlife, including a moose or two."

Participants are reminded to bring all necessary equipment and dress for winter conditions.

State Forest State Park is located on Hwy 14, 75 miles west of Ft. Collins, or 25 miles east of Walden. For more information you can call 970-723-8366.



Jeff
RockyMountainHikingTrails.com

Take a First Day Hike

Start the year off on the right foot by taking a First Day Hike in a state park near you. All across the country state parks will be offering guided First Day Hikes on New Year’s Day 2013.

The idea for First Day Hikes originated over 20 years ago at the Blue Hills Reservation State Park in Milton, Massachusetts. The program was launched to promote both healthy lifestyles throughout the year, and year round recreation at state parks. Many other states have offered outdoor recreation programs on New Year’s Day, however, all 50 state park systems have now joined together to sponsor First Day Hikes.

An organization called America’s State Parks has compiled an online database of more than 600 hikes on their website. You can find a First Day Hike by clicking here.

There are several opportunities for a First Day Hike across Colorado, including a few in the Rocky Mountain National Park region. Among some of the state parks offering hikes are State Forest State Park, Lory State Park, St. Vrain State Park and Golden Gate Canyon State Park.


Countdown to Christmas! Last chance to save up to 85% on Camping Gear!



Jeff
RockyMountainHikingTrails.com