Project Ascent hosting fall bird migration program

Join Project Ascent for a unique fall outdoor educational program entitled “Autumn Wings, Woodpeckers, and Wildfire” Saturday, Oct. 5.

The group will meet at 8 a.m. at the Venture Inn at 1015 West 9th Street, U.S. Hwy. 2 in Libby.

Project Ascent is made up of a team of professionals who have an expansive collective knowledge of outdoor recreation, and a passion for improving the community and protecting surrounding areas for future generations.

The organization is based in Thompson Falls, Montana, and its purpose is to offer outdoor education and recreational opportunities to under-served youth and interested adults in Lincoln and Sanders counties, as well as surrounding areas.

This autumn outdoor educational class is timed for the general fall migration of many birds, and will focus on birds of prey, waterfowl, and songbirds, with a side emphasis on woodpeckers and their specialized relationship with recent forest fires.

“We will visit sites of relatively recent fires near Libby, as well as river, lake, and wetland locations,” Brian Baxter said. “Participants are asked to wear appropriate clothing for the day, and bring along an orange safety vest or similarly colored outdoor wear.

“We will have a few for folks to borrow if need be. Additionally, please bring binoculars, spotting scopes, bird book, water, lunch, proper footwear, cameras, full gas tanks, and a good attitude.”

There is no charge for this class, but slots are limited, so plan on attending if you sign up.

Baxter, who has degrees in both forestry and wildlife, and has been teaching outdoor educational programs for over 18 years, will be the instructor.

To sign up, contact Brian at Email: b_baxter53@yahoo.com, or call 406-291-2154.

This class will run from 8 a.m. to approximately 3:30 p.m.

See the website at: www.projectascent.org for more information on the group.