20th Annual Snow Goose Festival

Field Trip Leader Bios

Read all the biographies here.

A special note about Field Trips

Please arrive at the location indicated 30 minutes prior to your scheduled event. This will allow us time to check you in and ensure the trip leaves promptly. We ask that you follow your field trip leader from the meeting location to the final destination. Anyone arriving after the field trip leader has left may not be able to join the group. Most field trips will be limited to the first 20 reservations. Walk-in registration may be available for some events during the weekend of the Festival.

Weather may change a trip's itinerary, but most trips will be conducted rain or shine. The weather in the valley during January is variable. It is generally cold and sometimes rainy, with daytime highs ranging from 50F to 65F.

Be sure to bring the following on your field trips: rain gear, waterproof footwear, layered clothing, binoculars, camera, field identification guide, water and snack or lunch as needed. Please also check out the Tips & Etiquette below to help you enjoy your day to the fullest.

Tips & Etiquette for Bird Watchers

To make your trip more enjoyable for yourself and others, we ask you to please use these following etiquette tips:

Wear clothing suitable for the weather and area you'll be hiking in. It's practical to layer clothing to accommodate fluctuations in temperature. Wear comfortable shoes that have a good grip and are waterproof when necessary. You may want to take sunscreen, a hat or rain gear.
Bring binoculars or a scope for a better viewing experience.
Bring water on long outings to stay hydrated.
Bring a Field Guide if you are interested in learning more about the birds you see. If you are a beginning birder, look for a guide that specializes in birds of northern California.
Be courteous to other explorers. Stay with your group and pay attention to your trip leader. Walk quietly and slowly. Do not disrupt animals or damage their habitats (breaking branches, trampling vegetation). Turn off cell phones or other electronic devices. If you are taking children with you, explain to them proper etiquette before the trip. Always behave in a manner that will enhance the image of the birding communities in the eyes of the public.
Tune up your senses and listen carefully. Scan the horizon and tree canopies. Look to the ground for prints, feathers and other traces of wildlife. Please remove litter and leave natural items where they belong. This will keep it enjoyable for others when they visit.
No dogs or pets allowed on any Snow Goose Festival event, workshop, or program. Please leave Fido with friends or family and not in the car during a field trip.

Home :: Past Festivals :: 20th Annual Snow Goose Festival :: Field Trips :: Field Trip: Llano Seco Rancho -- Farms, Water, & Wildlife

Field Trip: Llano Seco Rancho -- Farms, Water, & Wildlife

$22 Adult; $10 Youth

Friday, Jan 25, 2019 8:00 am - 12:00 pm

Meet at Chico Masonic Family Center (Map)

Walking, could involve distance but largely flat

Description

Farming operations and managed wildlife areas at Llano Seco Rancho rely on a water delivery system that draws from the Sacramento River, Butte Creek, and the Feather River. On this tour you will see and learn about the ranch water delivery system that has been in use for over 100 years. Tour guides, John Hunt and Paul Kirk, are local ecologists who have been involved in wildlife studies, habitat restoration, and resource management at the ranch for over 15 years. You will walk along the valley oak woodlands, savannas, and freshwater marshes associated with Angel Slough and the water delivery system. Dress warmly and be sure to bring your binoculars, as these habitats will provide ample opportunity to see wintering waterfowl, including Sandhill Cranes and other migratory birds.

Field Trip Leaders

Paul Kirk

Paul Kirk is the Executive Director for the Northern California Regional Land Trust and has worked in natural resource management since receiving a Master’s Degree in Botany in 2003. Paul taught in public schools for 12 years prior to this and science education was a core part of his curriculum.

Paul Kirk's Events

Llano Seco Rancho -- Farms, Water, & Wildlife (1/25/2019)

John W. Hunt

John Hunt has worked as a natural resources professional and project manager for more than 16 years. He is a wildlife biologist and botanist with a Master's Degree in Biology and certificate in Geographic Information Systems (GIS). John is the Conservation Director of the Northern California Regional Land Trust.

John W. Hunt's Events

Llano Seco Rancho -- Farms, Water, & Wildlife (1/25/2019)