7th Annual Snow Goose Festival, Jan. 27-29, 2006:
Saturday, Jan. 28th, Workshops

They are one of the most beneficial, yet most misunderstood animals in the world. Learn more about the habits, habitats and species of bats that reside within the unique ecosystems of California’s valleys and forests. (You may wish to then build a bat box at the Bat Box Building workshop immediately following this presentation, see below)

Presenter: Linda Angerer

In this workshop we'll explore the amazing phenomenon of animal migration. We'll begin by reviewing some of the most spectacular migrations in the animal kingdom. Then we’ll deal with some of the hows and whys of migration, such as: Why do some, but not all, species migrate? What are the costs vs. the benefits of migration? What distances do animals migrate? How do migrating animals find their way to their destination? Attend this session to learn more about one of nature's most fascinating topics!

Presenter: David Vanicek

After learning all about bats (at this morning’s earlier workshop) join Bob as he helps you construct your very own bat box to take home, put up, and start attracting these amazing creatures to your property. Learn the best location to place your box as well as interesting facts on the benefits of providing these roosting spots. ($5 for materials.)

Presenter: Bob Guzman

Kids! This exciting program will begin at the Chico Creek Nature Center's (CCNC) non-releasable living animal museum, located in Bidwell Park. Learn exactly what a raptor is and other fun facts about raptors that are residing at the Nature Center and Bidwell Park. The program will include a short hike into the Park where we will look for evidence of raptor activity. Kids will also build and paint a wooden birdhouse (snap-together kit) that they can take home! Small children under 7 must be accompanied by an adult.

Presenter: CCNC Staff

Northern California's unique climate allows the creation of wonderful foods that, far too often, are overlooked. A group of local farmers and ranchers have formed a Slow Food Group to celebrate and promote the unique and wonderful food that our area produces. Three speakers from the Slow Food Group will discuss how their individual operations evoke the uniqueness of our climate into their products. They understand that the health of the landscape directly affects the health of wildlife and humans. Big Bluff Ranch in Red Bluff produces grass-fed beef and lamb. Pacific Sun Olive Oil in Gerber produces a distinct northern California olive oil. Pedrozo Dairy in Orland produces cheese that is hand-crafted from grass-fed animals.

Presenters: Tyler Dawley and Dan Flynn

Situated on the west side of the upper Sacramento Valley in an oak woodland savannah, Black Butte Lake is surrounded by beautiful dark volcanic buttes. Relax and take in a slide show of the lake’s 40 miles of shoreline, 3 nature trails and striking landscape. See and touch natural artifacts and evidence of the area’s wildlife including snake skins, bobcat and mountain lion skulls, and beaver and otter pelts.

Presenter: Mary Ann Deeming

Did you know that you can increase the winged population right outside your door with a garden habitat as small as 100 square feet? Discover the “wildlife approach” to garden design with creative and fundamental principles for “naturescaping” your yard, along with essentials and added perks that attract winged wildlife. This fun seminar is filled with down-to-earth basics, including a slide presentation beautifully photographed by photographer Rick Wetherbee, and a hands-on project to create your own butterfly window box garden!

(The $10 workshop cost includes a materials fee for a window box planter and native plants.)

Presenter: Kris Wetherbee

Here (California) and There (Alaska)

HERE – a visual celebration of migration! The Delta, Butte Sink, Lower Klamath Basin, Bosque Del Apache are all places of Winter Wild. Ron gives us a peak into the wonder of it all. It is special because it is here and it is now.

THERE – a change of pace and place puts us in southeastern Alaska. “The Alaska You Might Have Missed” gives us a comfortable alternative to something between a cruise ship and a kayak exploration of Alaska. With a thousand islands and ten thousand miles of edge this is truly the last ‘best wild place’ remaining on earth. Hundreds of whales, thousands of bear (and even more eagles) make this an incredible journey you don’t want to miss!

Presenters: Ron Sanford and Ronn Patterson

This workshop is an introduction to nature and wildlife photography, particularly bird photography. Topics include equipment recommendations including 35 mm film and digital cameras, lenses and associated accessories, in addition to discussions on exposure, lighting, composition techniques, the use of photography blinds and the ethics of nature photography. Recommended photography locations will also be presented during a slide show. A myriad of equipment will be on display including film and digital cameras, photography blinds, camera support devices, flash projection setups and remote control units. This workshop compliments Steve’s Photography Field Trip on Sunday at the Sacramento NWR.

Presenter: Steve Emmons