Star Journal report

Area birdwatchers are invited to help University of Wisconsin scientists learn more about local birds by signing up to attend the 30th annual Nicolet National Forest Bird Survey.

The survey, the longest running volunteer bird monitoring program in a national forest, takes place June 17-19, 2016. Volunteers work in teams to sample birds at permanent points representing the major habitat types within the eastern Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest.

History of the survey, schedules and registration information can be found on the Nicolet National Forest Bird Survey website: http://www.uwgb.edu/birds/nnf/.

The deadline for registering is June 10.

The university-sponsored survey will be headquartered at Trees for Tomorrow in Eagle River and volunteers will disperse to sites located throughout the northern half of the forest Saturday morning.

Observers can lodge in the dormitories and enjoy continental breakfasts Saturday and Sunday at Trees for Tomorrow before heading into the forest. Lunch will also be provided Saturday and Sunday and dinner will be served Saturday evening. There is no charge for the meals.

Novice birders are matched up with experts so anyone interested in birds and conservation can participate. Easy-access sites will be available for birders who are not able to walk long distances or through difficult terrain.

Led by UW-Green Bay researchers and students, scientists, foresters, and land conservation managers have been using the survey data to better plan and manage Wisconsin’s forests. Results have been cited in academic publications and graduate students’ thesis papers.