Old Mill District, Audubon team up for birding walks
The Old Mill District and the East Cascades Audubon Society are offering free weekly bird walks to the public on select Friday mornings starting on March 14 .
These free walks are guided by an expert from the Society and wind around the trails of the Old Mill District that run along the Deschutes River.
The area is a vital migratory corridor and attracts a whole host of incredible birds either passing through or as cherished residents. This habitat includes many resident ducks, raptors and song birds, as well as Oregon spotted frogs, beavers, muskrats and otters. Spring is an excellent time to see all the action with warming weather, nesting and migration.
Sheryl Pierce, Past President of the East Cascades Audubon Society, said, “When we began doing these guided walks last year, we hosted participants from all walks of life – parents spending time with teenage children, visitors from out of town and people of all ages. It was such a success that we are looking forward to sharing the love of birding with even more people this year.”
The bi-weekly, approximately two-hour walks are appropriate for all ages and interested parties, from novices to experienced avian experts. Groups will meet at 10am at the Ticket Mill in the core of the Old Mill District, where binoculars are available for check out. Participants can also pick up a specially designed birding list to help identify birds and some common animals seen along the walk.
The Old Mill District supports both a strong retail environment existing communally with a rich and abundant wildlife environment. The Old Mill District was honored with a conservation award in 2013 from ECAS for its efforts to protect and restore this habitat.
Tour dates are March 14 and 21; April 4 and 18; May 2 , 16 and 30.
About East Cascades Audubon Society
The East Cascades Audubon Society (ECAS) is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization committed to the promotion and appreciation of the bird world. ECAS specializes in Central Oregon ornithology and is committed to bird conservation in the region. Besides outreach to the community in the form of field trips and events to observe and study birds, ECAS actively participates in data collection and other conservation projects that will help protect local bird populations. Join ECAS and help preserve the birds in the Central Oregon region at www.ecaudubon.org
About the Old Mill District
One of the Pacific Northwest’s most distinctive and dynamic mixed-use developments, the Old Mill District is located on 270 acres that formerly housed one of the largest sawmill operations in the world. The rich history of the land is coupled with spectacular mountain views, scenic river vistas and an extensive trail system to enjoy the outdoors. More than 55 local, regional and national retail stores and restaurants call the Old Mill District home, as does the park-like Les Schwab Amphitheater which can accommodate up to 8,000 patrons for concerts and other events. The Old Mill District – Bend’s most unique shopping, dining, living, and entertainment experience. The Old Mill District is open Monday – Saturday , 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.; Sunday 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Many stores, including Regal Cinemas and restaurants, have extended hours. For complete information on the Old Mill District, visit www.theoldmill.com .
