Newsletter of the Northern Arizona Audubon Society ™ Volume XLV • Number 5 • May-Summer 2016

ATTENTION!!!MEETING TIMES CHANGED TO 7:00 PM!!

Yellow-eyed Penguin is one of several pen-guin species that calls New Zealand home. (J. Wilder)

Many Great-blue Herons can be seen at the Wetlands

May Meetings

Land and Seabirds of New Zealand

New Zealand is home to some of the most unusual birds on earth. With no native terrestrial mammals, bird life in New Zealand evolved in unusual directions, resulting in oddities that include the iconic kiwis, flightless nocturnal parrots, the now-extinct giant moas, and many other strange and wonderful creatures. Surrounded by ocean, New Zealand is also one of the best places in the world to appreciate seabirds, including penguins, albatrosses, petrels and shearwaters. Many of New Zealand’s endemic land and seabirds are critically endangered, and New Zealand is pioneering innovative conservation efforts to protect its native avifauna. From July 2014 to July 2015 Jason Wilder, of Flagstaff, spent a year living with his family in the city of Dunedin on the South Island of New Zealand. While there he was able to spend time observing and photographing New Zealand’s bird life. At the May 18 (Sedona), and May 19 (Flagstaff) Northern Arizona Audubon meetings he will describe some of what he saw and learned during this time. He has many photographs to share, including birds, amazing New Zealand scenery, and other wildlife. Jason Wilder is the Chair of the Department of Biological Sciences at Northern Arizona University, where he studies evolutionary genetics and cancer biology. He is an avid birder, and can usually be found on weekends staking out a forlorn stock tank somewhere north or east of Flagstaff waiting for the next vagrant to drop in.

NAAS is now on Facebook. Check out our page frequently because there is always

new information on it.

Bubbling Ponds Dedication We are pleased to announce the dedication of the Bubbling Ponds Preserve to be held at 10:00 am on Saturday, May 7, 2016. The dedication will be held at the Anita MacFarlane Ramada, located adjacent to the Bubbling Ponds native fish ponds on the west side of the Page Springs Fish Hatchery grounds. All members are invited to come and bring your friends and family. The event itself will consist of remarks from Audubon and Game and Fish representatives and the naming of the existing ramada after Anita MacFarlane. We will be serving refreshments. As most of our members know, Bubbling Ponds Preserve is a wildlife viewing and outdoor educational facility located on the grounds of the Page Springs Fish Hatchery, an approximately 100-acre facility that raises both native and sport fish for Arizona’s rivers and lakes. Bubbling Ponds Preserve consists of a recently upgraded 1.8-mile Black Hawk Nature Trail together with a large ramada, two wildlife-viewing decks, an outdoor educational area and conveniently located benches. All of this is enhanced by informative signage. The visitor experience commences immediately upon entering the parking area where a large colorful sign provides information on the Page Springs Hatchery, a map of the Black Hawk Trail and an explanation of the background of this nationally recognized Important Bird Area. A short stroll under Mulberry trees leads to the Anita MacFarlane Ramada. The ramada has permanent tables and benches and is ideal for school outings or picnics. At the ramada is a sign explaining Game & Fish’s fish hatchery program and their role in preserving our native fish species. Also displayed is an extensive bird list and information on the seasonal changes that visitors can expect as they walk about during different times of the year. Upon leaving the ramada, the Black Hawk Trail leads through a cool mesquite bosque forest home to seasonal songbirds such as Western Tanagers and Cedar Waxwings. Exiting the bosque leads to the Split Willow Educational area. An outdoor seating facility, it is situated under a grove of Gooding Willow trees and affords students an outstanding view of the surrounding area. Next on our tour, one reaches the Great Blue Heron Deck, named after those magnificent birds that nest on the Preserve. Sitting on the Deck one looks across the wetlands, a rare habitat in this arid part of the world. Continuing on, the visitor can follow the Willow Point Loop portion of the trail. Meandering along Oak Creek, this portion of the Preserve provides access to groves of magnificent old Fremont Cottonwoods. This riparian habitat is endangered throughout Arizona but is flourishing at the Preserve. Returning to the parking lot, the visitor passes by the Marsh Deck. This viewing deck overlooks a cattail marsh that is home to the endangered Mexican Garter Snake. This marsh is one of the few breeding areas in Arizona for the snake, a nonvenomous and reclusive part of the riparian community. The Bubbling Ponds Preserve is the largest single conservation undertaking that your Chapter has undertaken and is a testament to our commitment to habitat preservation. We look forward to seeing everyone at the dedication.

Amazing albatrosses are a highlight of any birder’s trip to New Zealand. (J. Wilder)

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Outgoing President’s LetterBy Matthew Crozier

May / Summer 2016

As most of you probably know, my time as President of Northern Arizona Audubon has come to a close. These past two years have been transformative for me. I have learned a lot about myself (my lack of patience), about the process of working with others, the lesson of asking for help and about the region where I live. I’d like to be clear that I am not leaving the board, but just completing my term as president. I will continue to serve as Conservation Chair and Site Steward for Bubbling Ponds Bird Sanctuary. My participation with Audubon has made me a better person and I am grateful to all our members for the opportunity which you accorded me. If there was enough space in this column, I would acknowledge each individual who has inspired, offered enthusiasm, contributed valuable ideas, volunteered, performed tasks vital to the chapter, corrected me, informed me and gone above and beyond on behalf

of the chapter during these past two years. To me, it is an amazing thing for there to be such a remarkable organization within our community. I’d like to think that NAAS has been involved in some significant things during this time. In a large part that comes with the responsibility of being an Audubon chapter. I have been reminded over and again of the great respect which people have for Audubon as an organization. Audubon is recognized for its active commitment to conservation, developing its positions using science-based analysis, its public engagement and for connecting young people to the natural world. This reputation is both a challenge and a guide, and I can proudly say that NAAS has been true to the Audubon way.

Thanks for bearing with me these past two years and I look forward to seeing you all on the birding trails!

Sincerely,Matthew Crozier

NAAS’ BOARD MEMBER HIGHLIGHT

Jodi GriffithField Trip Chair Above the Rim

Jodi Griffith, Field Trip Chair ATR from 2002-2007, has returned to that position. An excellent birder, Jodi not only arranges leaders for field trips but also leads some herself. Jodi’s full time work is at the Museum of Northern Arizona where she does the hard work of Exhibit Preparator. She just celebrated her 25th anniversary in that position. You might find her there behind a screen with a paint brush or hammer in hand as she follows the instructions for the curator of the exhibit. At the Museum, she also makes sure that the seed and hummingbird feeders are full and has made a list of the birds that visit the grounds of the Museum. Inside the Museum is a notebook of photos and information that she created about these birds.

Jodi was interviewed for the AG&F Watchable Wildlife Program where her voice can be heard describing what birds can be seen around the Museum. In one excerpt she says, “The acorn woodpeckers are actually taking peanuts from the feeder and tucking it into the basalt walls of the Museum. The basalt is vesicular basalt so it has air pockets in it and they tap peanuts into those. Then of course the chipmunks come up and take the peanuts before the acorn woodpecker gets back to it. Actually there’s quite a lot of bickering back and forth between the peanut hoarders on the walls of the Museum of Northern Arizona.”

Newest Arizona Game and Fish wildlife camera showcases down-town Phoenix peregrine falcons

The Arizona Game and Fish Department has a wildlife live stream camera on a breeding pair of Peregrine Falcons. Now, anyone with a computer, smart phone or tablet can get a peek into the lives of these falcons living atop the Maricopa County Administration building in downtown Phoenix. www.azgfd.gov/livecams This February, a nest box previously installed by the department was renovated and state-of-the-art streaming video and audio equipment was installed in anticipation of the falcons using the nest box again this season. Since the renovation, the birds have been spending more time at the nest box indicating they intend to nest there again this year. Peregrine falcons tend to use the same nest sites season after season for many years. Peregrine falcons are one of the world’s most widespread raptors and are found on nearly every continent. The species nearly went extinct in North American from pesticide poisoning, but thanks to recovery efforts, the species was removed from the U.S.’s Endangered Species Act in 1999. This falcon feeds almost exclusively on medium-sized birds such as pigeons and doves, which are plentiful in urban areas.

Jodi Griffith hanging around with a stuffed California Condor in her workshop at the Museum of Northern Arizona.

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Northern Arizona Audubon Field Trips

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Northern Arizona Audubon Field Trips

Dead Horse Ranch State ParkFriday, March 20thLeader, Julie Wills

Meet at 8 a.m. at the COTTONWOOD Safeway parking lot that faces 89A. For people that can’t meet until 8:30, go into the park and meet us at the first lagoon. We will walk a stretch of the Verde River Greenway from 8 a.m. - 11:30 and spend time at the lagoons looking at wintering ducks. Bring binoculars, spotting scope, hat, water, snacks, and dress appropriately for the weather. Julie Wills, 928-300-9775

Garland Prairie Sunday, March 22ndLeader, Tom Linda

We will meet at 8 a.m. in the Wal-Mart (on the west side of Flagstaff) parking lot and car pool to Garland Prairie, near Parks. Raptors are the main draw, but we’ll look for everything. Dress warm and bring binoculars, scopes and snacks. Tom Linda, 928-864-9047.

Page Springs PreserveSaturday, March 28

Leader, Rich Armstrong

Meet at Bubbling Pond’s parking area on Page Springs Road at 7 a.m. We will bird the ponds, the Black-hawk Nature Trail and look for the Osprey and Black-hawk nesting along Lower Oak Creek. Bring binoculars and water. Rich Armstrong, 928-282-3675.

Hassayampa River PreserveSunday, March 29th

Leader, Dena Greenwood

Meet at the MacDonalds (near Camp Verde) parking lot corner of Hwy. 260 and I-17. The walk will be from 8 a.m. - 4 p.m. We will spend the day at the Hassayampa Nature Preserve with a detour at the rest stop along the Hassayampa River. Bring water shoes. If it’s nice weather we will walk the creek looking for the Grey Hawk. Bring binoculars, a sack lunch, water, and hat. Dena Greenwood, 928-567-3007.

Kachina Wetlands Sunday, April 19

Tom Linda, Leader

We’ll meet at 8 a.m. at Raymond County Park (take the Kachina exit of I-17, turn right at the exit and then a hard right onto the service road - the park is a short distance, on the left). We will look for arriving migrants drawn to wetlands. This should be a fun day. Dress warm and bring binoculars, scopes and snacks. Tom Linda, 928-864-9047.

Picture Canyon Sunday, May 10th

Tom Linda, Leader

We’ll meet at 7 a.m. at the Flagstaff Burger King parking lot on Santa Fe (Rt. 66) at Fanning. We will drive to the Wild Cat entrance of Picture Canyon and bird all the way to the Townsend Road Parking lot, so plan on about 2miles of walking. Dress warm. I’ll bring my scope. Tom Linda, 928-864-9047.

Northern Arizona Audubon Societywill lead a trip at the

SeDoNA WeTlANDS PReSeRveeveRy SuNDAy, JANuARy - APRil.

Meet at the parking lot at the Wetlands. The new viewing deck should be completed sometime during this period. We will bird from 8 - 11:30 am. Bring binoculars and a spotting scope if you have one. Also bring a hat, water, and snacks.

Check out our wonderful website at ...northernarizonaaudubon.org

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Watch for new trips in your monthly email updates. Read trip details and past

trip reports in our website calendar, northernarizonaaudubon.org.

Photo of the viewing deck being constructed

at the Sedona Wetlands Preserve

Kachina WetlandsLeader: Tom Linda

Saturday, May 7, 2016Time - TBA

We will meet at 8:00 a.m. at Raymond County Park. Kachina Wetlands in May will be outstanding. We will search for remaining waterfowl, plus rails, shorebirds, raptors and all land birds. Weather is unpredictable so bring warm clothing to be on the safe side. We will bird until about 11:00, but if we are having a great time, we’ll extend that. Bring binoculars, snacks and scopes if you have them. Take I17 south to the Kachina/Mountainaire exit (#333). Take a right turn and then a hard right onto the frontage road. You will see Raymond County Park very soon on your left. Call Tom for more details at 928 864 9047.

Big Springs Trail, ClarkdaleLeaders: Rita Faruki and Kristen Rothrock

Sunday, May 8, 8:30 am - 10:30 am Meet at 8:15 AM at Old Town Cottonwood’s Gateway to the Verde River parking lot. From there we’ll carpool to the Big Springs Trail. We will park on the left just above the Tuzigoot Bridge. No bathrooms. Bring water, good shoes, sun hat, binoculars, and a stick to navigate boulders in a wash. Rita Faruki 307-335-3555 and Kristen Rothrock 928-634-3633

Mingus MountainLeader: Rich Armstrong

Monday, May 9, 6 am – 12 pmTuesday, May 17, 6 am – 12 pm

Meet at the Sedona Wetlands parking lot at 6:00 AM or at the Sizzler parking lot in Cottonwood at 6:15 AM. I expect to be back to Sedona by noon. It can be cool on Mingus Mountain so bring a jacket, snacks and water. We hope to see six or more warbler species, Plumbeous Vireo, Cordilleran Flycatcher, Western Wood-pewee, House Wren, Acorn Woodpecker, and possibly Band-tailed Pigeon, Steller’s Jay, Broad-tailed Hummingbird, and more. Rich Armstrong 928-282-3675

Children’s Walk at Bubbling PondsLeader: Dena Greenwood

Saturday, May 21, 8 - 10 am

This trip is for young birding enthusiasts. We’ll go slowly, and really work with those kids who are interested in birds, who want to learn to use binoculars and the names and calls of birds. If you know a young birder and want to encourage their interest, please bring them to this beginning and fun birding outing! Loaner binoculars are available. Please call to reserve space or

to borrow binoculars. Come prepared for hot weather. Bring hat, water, and snacks to keep kids going for the morning. Dena GReenwood 928-567-3007

Page Springs Fish HatcheryLeader: Lisa Grubbs

Saturday, May 21, 8-11 am

Meet at the Fish Hatchery parking lot off Page Springs Road. We’ll walk approximately one mile on a flat trail, checking out the show pond and Oak Creek riparian area. We’ll walk among gorgeous sycamore and cottonwood trees, mesquite bosque and grasslands. We hope to enjoy lots of summer migrants, including the Common Black-hawk, as well as our resident birds. The trails are complete with a viewing platform and benches. Restrooms are available. Bring binoculars, spotting scope (if you have one), field guide, lots of water, and snacks. Call Lisa Grubbs for questions, or to reserve your spot on the trip, 928-592-3684

Page Springs Bubbling Ponds PreserveLeader: Lisa Grubbs

Saturday, May 28, 7-10 amSaturday, June 4, 7-10 am

Meet at the Bubbling Ponds IBA parking lot off Page Springs Road. We’ll walk approximately 1.8 miles (mostly flat) on the Black Hawk Trail (maybe Willow Point Loop if time), along the Oak Creek riparian area, and will finish up at the ponds. We hope to enjoy lots of summer migrants and resident birds. The trails are complete with signage, viewing platforms and benches. No restrooms. Bring binoculars, spotting scope (if you have one), field guide, lots of water, and snacks. Call Lisa Grubbs for questions and to reserve a place on the walk, 928-592-3684

Montezuma WellLeader: Jeff Tanner

Saturday, July 2, 8 am First we’ll bird the Picnic Area where we might find the Yellow-billed Cuckoo, Abert’s and Spotted Towhees, Summer Tanager, and Blue Grosbeak. Then we’ll drive up to the Well to see if anything is in there. The rocky hillsides near the Well might produce Rock and Canyon Wrens, and Black-throated Sparrows. Meet at 8:00 AM in the Picnic Area (take the first right after you enter through the gate). Bring binoculars, sun protection, water, and snacks. Dress for the weather (hot). Restrooms are available. We should be done by 11:00 AM. Jeff Tanner 602-677-4053

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Northern Arizona Audubon Society Mission StatementTo promote the understanding and appreciation of birds and other wildlife and

the conservation and restoration of their natural habitats.

Field Trip Reports:

Bubbling Ponds Preserve - March 12Lisa Grubbs On a chilly morning that seemed to keep the birds hunkered down, seven of us birded the Bubbling Ponds Preserve. Major work was being done around the ponds and this also affected our bird viewing. Most of the wintering ducks had left except for Ring-necked Ducks, Gadwalls and American Wigeons. The Mallards were magnificent in their vibrant colors, and other resident birds were singing and frolicking about. The area continues to be popular with Great Blue Herons. We saw at least seven active Verdin nests along the Black Hawk Trail. Afterward, at the Page Springs Fish Hatchery, we were rewarded with lots of colorful Yellow-rumped Warblers, singing Song Sparrows, Abert’s Towhees, and a stunning pair of Common Mergansers. We also had Orange-crowned Warbler, Bridled Titmice, Hermit Thrush, Brown Creepers, White-crowned Sparrows, Ruby-crowned Kinglets and Violet-green, and Northern Rough-winged Swallows; 36 species total. Page Springs Fish Hatchery - March 26Lisa GrubbsEleven folks joined me for a walk at Page Springs Fish Hatchery on a gorgeous day. Other than two female Ring-necked Ducks, our wintering ducks were gone. We had a Double-crested Cormorant, American Pipit, Northern Rough-winged Swallows, a flock of Meadowlarks (probably Western but too far away to tell), Turkey Vultures and Lucy’s Warblers. We also had looks at an Osprey (first of the year for some of us). Also appearing were Common Black-hawk, Bald Eagle, Ruby-crowned Kinglets and Yellow-rumped Warblers. The Black Hawk Trail is a great place to view Great Blue Herons; they especially like hanging out on the dirt mounds near the fish dump. The trail’s architect, Randy Miller, was completing work on the trail in time for the dedication on May 7th. Bubbling Ponds Preserve - April 2Lisa GrubbsOn April 2, five of us birded the Bubbling Ponds Preserve in perfect weather. We had 45 species! Right in the parking lot were a pair of Vermilion Flycatchers. It was also a good day for raptors: a pair of Bald Eagles, Common Black-hawk, American Kestrel, Red-tailed Hawk, and close looks at an Osprey. We watched in awe as a Verdin was building a nest, and got to compare the songs of Lucy’s and Yellow Warblers, which were singing near by. A pair of Common Mergansers gave us a show as well: while he stood guard, she fished and caught one so big she had to let it go. Other migrants seen were Bell’s Vireo, Northern Rough-winged, and Violet-green Swallows, and White-throated Swift. We also had a nice look at the secretive Marsh Wren, as well as some lovely Cinnamon Teals.

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BlackHawk watcH Page 5news & InformatIon ...From the Webmaster

A question for you: What is the purpose of NAAS – or any organization – having a website? That’s a scary question for any webmaster to ask and I tremble. If your answer is “The web site is a source of NAAS news that I can go to at my leisure”, then please read on. If your answer is anything else, please read on. The left hand column of our website is devoted to news articles and, therefore, it changes frequently. Your chapter has a great deal going on lately, and you can keep up with the major items through these articles. This leads to the next question: “What is going on in NAAS? Here is a partial list of what appears on the website from time to time:• Bubbling Ponds at Page Springs: Our partnership with

Arizona Fish and Game continues and, in fact deepens. We just held a trail maintenance work day and worked side-by-side with AG&F staffers. We will have a dedication ceremony with many AG&F and governmental officialsinvitedonMay7th.Thiswillofficiallymarkthecompletionof a nearly three-year project to turn the Bubbling Ponds Preserve into a world-class education and watchable wildlife facility.

• Sedona Wetlands: The old news is that the raised viewing platform overlooking the big pond is complete and is in use. The new news is that NAAS and the City of Sedona have been awarded a grant to build a grade-level deck extending out onto pond #1. This will be handicapped accessible and provide awesome viewing.

• Picture Canyon: Our partnership with the City of Flagstaff continues as the interpretive signage is complete and NAAS is featured on them. Also, we welcome Trevor Hinkley as the new Steward of Picture Canyon.

• Camp Verde IBA: The Town of Camp Verde, as part of their River Management program, has initiated an Important Bird Area process and NAAS has been asked to play a key role in the bird surveys part of that project. When complete and approved, there will be three IBAs in the Verde Valley.

• NAAS has begun a Student Outreach program under the directorship of Tina Whitley and we expect to see educational sessions in schools in the Verde Valley as well asfieldtripscenteredaroundbirding.Tripshavealreadybeen done in that project.

• Events: Your chapter elevates our presence in the community by participating in many local events such as Flagstaff Science in the Park (September), Sedona Hummingbird Festival (August), Verde Valley Birding and Nature Festival (April), SciTech Festival in Cottonwood (April), and the Sedona Celebration of Spring (March).

• Christmas Bird Count: NAAS has a long record of participation is this old national event.

• Visitor Center at Page Springs Fish Hatchery: NAAS has a great display at this facility which hosts visitors from all over the world. The facility itself is the process of being remodeled by AZ AG&F and, as this progresses, our display will also develop.

Whew! Breathe in; breathe out. All this and more is featured in articles posted on the NAAS website at www.northernarizonaaudubon.org. The best way to keep updated with no effort at all is to subscribe to article emails by using the blue Subscribe box on the lower right of the website home page. Currently there are 148 subscribers to this service. This is not a list for distribution. The only person who has access to this list is the Webmaster and I promise that nobody will ever have this email list; you will not be spammed. Whether you are a member or not, you will be pleased with our subscriber service.

Join the ‘Global Big Day’ in Arizona!

Hundreds of Arizona birders will be out in the field on Saturday, May 14th

counting birds for eBird’s ‘Global Big Day’

For the previous dozen years, AZFO (Arizona Field Ornithologists) has coordinated the North American Migration Count in Arizona, but that survey is no longer coordinated nationally. By joining eBird’s Global Big Day, we have a great opportunity to make our statewide count part of a broader, national, even international effort. This year’s Global Big Day will be held on Saturday May 14th. The purpose of the Global Big Day in Arizona, like the NAMC, is to obtain a “snapshot” of the progress and “shape” of spring migration, gather information on the abundance and distribution of each species, and to have fun! The effort is organized on a county basis. The final tallies will be posted on eBird.

How to ParticipateSubmit Your Data to eBird on May 14

It’s that simple. If you submit your birds to eBird they count. Don’t worry — you don’t need to be a bird expert, or to go out all day long. Even a half hour checklist from your backyard will help. Of course, you are welcome to spend the entire day in the field, but know that it is not required! Please enter your data as soon as you can, preferably by Tuesday, May 17.

Interior Department Releases Report Underscoring Impacts of Climate Change on Western Water Resources

Putting the national spotlight on the importance of water sustainability, the Department of the Interior and the Bureau of Reclamation released a basin-by-basin report that characterizes the impacts of climate change and details adaptation strategies to better protect major river basins in the West that are fundamental to the health, economy, security and ecology of 17 Western states. The SECURE Water Act Report, produced by Interior’s Bureau of Reclamation and its state and local partners,wasreleasedthismonthfollowingthefirstWhiteHouseSummitonWaterin observance of World Water Day. “One of the greatest challenges we face is dealing with the impacts of climate change on our nation’s water, which is really the lifeblood of our economy,” said Interior’s Deputy Secretary Michael L. Connor. “We need to continue to develop collaborative strategies across each river basin to ensure that our nation’s water and power supplies, agricultural activities, ecosystems, and other resources all have sustainable paths forward.” The report identifies climate change as a growing risk to Western water management and cites warmer temperatures, changes to precipitation, snowpack andthetimingandqualityofstreamflowrunoffacrossmajorriverbasinsasthreatstowater sustainability. Water supply, quality and operations; hydropower; groundwater resources;floodcontrol;recreation;andfish,wildlifeandotherecologicalresourcesin the Western states remain at risk.The report, which responds to requirements under the SECURE Water Act of 2009, shows several increased risks to western United States water resources during the 21stcentury.Specificprojectionsinclude:

•Atemperatureincreaseof5-7degreesFahrenheitbytheendofthecentury;•Aprecipitationincreaseoverthenorthwesternandnorth-centralportionsof

the western United States and a decrease over the southwestern and south-central areas;

•AdecreaseforalmostalloftheApril1stsnowpack,astandardbenchmark measurement used to project river basin runoff; and•A7to27percentdecreaseinApriltoJulystreamflowinseveralriverbasins,includingtheColorado,theRioGrande,andtheSanJoaquin.

Theseprojectionswillhavespecificbasin-levelimpactsontheColorado River Basin: Reductions in spring and early summer runoff could translate into a drop in water supply for meeting irrigation demands and adversely impact hydropower operations at reservoirs. To read the full report, search SECURE Water Act Report.

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East Elden Field Trip Report - Tuesday, March 11, 2014

Arboretum Bird Walks Begin May 7

It’s that time of year again to see what birds are enjoying our beautiful Arboretum. Migrants will be coming in. Cordilleran

Flycatchers, House Wrens, Western Bluebirds, and many other species nest there. And there may be a surprise bird that you’ve never seen before. These walks are free and open to the public. They begin at 7:30 am on Saturdays at the Arboretum

at Flagstaff on Woody Mountain Rd. and end around 9:00 am. Walks will continue until the end of July. NAAS has provided

leaders for these walks for many years. If you would like to lead a walk, please let Celia Holm know at 774-6952 or

CRHolm@q.com.

Dennis Tomko, NAAS Vice President,presented the first

NAAS/Wilma Morrison Scholarshipto Jason Solt at the April meeting in Flagstaff.

Jason is ten and very interested in birds. With the Scholarship, he gets a free one year membership.

Ten-Year Enhancement Plan for the Kachina

Wetlandspromotes birds and native vegetation

The area used by Kachina Village for wastewater evaporation, affectionately known as the Kachina Wetlands, is an exciting hotspot for birding. Although the area is only 70 acres in size, the e-Bird database indicates that 203 species of birds have been recorded at this site since 2004. That is amazing diversity for such a small area! Of these species, 65 are wetland-associated species that would not be present without the ponds. The evaporation ponds were enhanced for water birds in 1994-95 through grants from Ducks Unlimited and the Arizona Game and Fish Heritage Fund. Over the years, however, the Kachina Wetlands have become over-run with invasive weeds, primarily diffuse knapweed. Many local groups, including NAAS, have sponsored weed-pulling events in an attempt to manage the invasive weed problem. However, the problem has become so severe that substantial funding and a multi-year effort is needed that includes not only weed eradication, but re-establishment of native species. With input and expertise from numerous individuals, Northern Arizona University developed a Ten-Year Enhancement Plan for the Kachina Wetlands to not only manage weeds, but provide opportunities for wildlife habitat enhancement and environmental education opportunities. This plan will serve as a foundation document when applying for grants from federal and state agencies. We encourage members of NAAS to take a look at the plan and become involved in its implementation. For further information about the plan, please contact Christina Vojta at christina.vojta@nau.edu. Christina will be discussing the Kachina Wetlands at our general meeting in November.

One can download the Plan from the NAAS website, www.northernarizonaaudubon.org

Ten-Year Management Plan for Enhancement of the Kachina Wetlands

Prepared for Coconino County and the Kachina Village Improvement District

February, 2016

Christina D. Vojta, Ph.D. Landscape Conservation Initiative

Northern Arizona University

Kachina Wetlands – Photo credit: Tyanna Burton

Cordilleran Flycatchers usually can be heard and sometimes seen on the bird walks.

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Birders, Go to northernarizonaaudubon.org

and check for newField Trips on the calendar!

To see when your membership expires, look at the date next to your address on your newsletter.

Have a story you would like to share?

•TheBlackHawk Watch is published bi-monthly September through May.•Articlesarewelcome frommembersandnon-members.Sendproposedarticles by email to Debbie at weehawks@hotmail.com Deadline for copy is the15thofthemonth.

Purchase Northern Arizona Audubon Society birding guides on ourwebsite: www.northernarizonaaudubon.org.

Birding the Flagstaff Area (including the Grand Canyon South Rim, Navajo and Hopi Lands), or Birding Sedona and the Verde Valley

Only $14.95

Individual (Northern Flicker)Susanne BabcockJennyBlueGary BotelloDanae DeardenDonald HahnCelia HolmPam KochStephen KrasemannCarolynJ.LarsenBrad MacLellan

Michelle McCannLynda McEvoyJoyMosleyKarin SlaveyJasonSoltTimothy WeberJasonWilder

Family (Gambel’s Quail)Cathi Borthwick & Ken Walters

David DennyDenise & Rob GibbsKathryn HartHelen-Marie & Paul HolmgrenGerri & Sam HoughLois Neville & GotfredJacobsenDavid Myers & Anne Vaccaro Michael & Georganne Neubauer

BlackHawk watcH Page 7InformatIon ...

Birders, Go to northernarizonaaudubon.org

and check for newField Trips on the calendar!

To see when your membership expires, look at the date next to your address on your newsletter.

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• The BlackHawk Watch is published bi-monthly September through May.• Articles are welcome from members and non-members. Send proposed articles by email to Debbie at weehawks@hotmail.com Deadline for copy is the 15th of the month.

Purchase Northern Arizona Audubon Society birding guides on ourwebsite: www.northernarizonaaudubon.org.

Birding the Flagstaff Area (including the Grand Canyon South Rim, Navajo and Hopi Lands), or Birding Sedona and the Verde Valley

Only $14.95

NAAS Directory OfficersPresident Matthew Crozier matthew.crozier@ymail.com Secretary Sue Ordway sue.ordway@gmail.comTreasurer Julie Wills jwills282@hotmail.com

Directors At LargeBrent Bitz birdsedona@gmail.comJohn Hildebrand jehrbh@msn.comDennis Tomko dennis@foltom.comSuzy Clemenz clemenz.rdrck@gmail.com

Publicity ATR and Program ChairPhyllis Kegley kegleyphyllis@hotmail.com

Publicity BTR Kristine Follett kristine@foltom.com

Field Trip Committee Chair BTR – Dena Greenwood 2nesting@gmail.com ATR – Zack Zdinak wildlife@lifedraw.com

Education Committee Chair - Open

Conservation Committee Chair - Open

Publications Committee ChairDebbie Compton weehawks@hotmail.com

Membership Committee Chair BTR – Barbara Hirt ragalyi-hirt@esedona.net ATR – Helen-Marie and Paul Holmgren hmhpt7@gmail.com, prh222@gmail.comStanding Committees and ProjectsHospitality Committee ATR – Betty Kahrl bettyjkl@gmail.com BTR – Nanette Armstrong nancearmstrong@gmail.com

Book SalesBrent Bitz birdsedona@gmail.com

WebmasterDennis Tomko dennis@foltom.com

Page Springs SanctuaryMatthew Crozier, steward matthew.crozier@ymail.com

Picture Canyon SanctuaryTiffany Trunnell, steward tiffanytdog@gmail.com

Sedona Wetlands Preserve SanctuaryRich Armstrong, steward richarmstrong@q.com

Verde Valley Bird and Nature Festival RepresentativeNanette Armstrong nancearmstrong@gmail.com

JANIE AGYAGOSRON & GLO AULERCATHI BORTHWICK & KEN WALTERSPETER CASPERM. AUSTIN & E. GARRISONBRENT BITZFRANK & LINDA BRANDTMATTHEW CROZIERGREG CUNNINGHAMCECILE DECHAMBREMELISSA & GRANT DUNSTANPETER FRIEDERICI & MICHELE JAMES

JED & ILA FULKERSONRICHARD HALLCELIA HOLMGERRI & SAM HOUGHDEAN & KATE JOHNSONJIM LOGAN KAREN MALIS-CLARKWHIT MANTERDR. VERA MARKGRAFLYNDA McEVOYLORETTA MOGANLINDA NICHOLAS

CECELIA OVERBYELLEN ROSHERMR. & MRS. DAVID SHERRYKARIN SLAVEYLINDA SOGGECARY THOMPSONZACK ZDINAK

David Winkel

Enhanced (Blackhawk)Richard & Nanette ArmstrongMarshaJ.AshurstJoanneKendrickTina Whitley

OfficersPresident Matt Crozier matthew.crozier@ymail.comVice-President Dennis Tomko dennis@foltom.comSecretary Sue Ordway sue.ordway@gmail.comTreasurer Julie Wills jwills282@hotmail.com Director at Large Brent Bitz brentwbitz@gmail.com Sue Clemenz clemenz.rdrck@gmail.com Jeff Tanner jefftanner@npgcable.com Conservation Empty Development Empty Education Tina Whitley whitleyt4@gmail.com Field Trips ATR Jodi Griffith jodigriff@gmail.com BTR Dena Greenwood dena@jaysbirdbarn.com

Hosptality ATR Betty Kahrl bettyjkl@gmail.com BTR Nanette Armstrong nancearmstrong@gmail.com

Membership Chair 1 Barbara Hirt ragalyi-hirt@esedona.net Chair 2 Kristine Follett kristine@foltom.com

Publications

Books Brent Bitz brentwbitz@gmail.com

Newsletter Debbie Compton weehawks@hotmail.com

Program/Publicity ATR Phyllis Kegley kegleyphyllis@hotmail.com

Publicity BTR Kristine Follett kristine@foltom.com Webmaster Dennis Tomko dennis@foltom.com

Facebook Nanette Armstrong nancearmstrong@gmail.com

VVBNF Nanette Armstrong nancearmstrong@gmail.com

Page Springs Steward Matt Crozier matthew.crozier@ymail.com

Sedona Wetlands Steward Rich Armstrong richarmstrong@q.com

Picture Canyon Steward Trevor Hinkley tch94@nau.eda NAAS Email Monitored by Dennis nazaudubon@northernarizonaaudubon.org

BLACKHAWK WATCH Northern Arizona Audubon SocietyPO Box 1496, Sedona, AZ 86339

• The BlackHawk Watch is published bi-monthly September through May, and is sent to members of the Northern Arizona Audubon Society as a membership benefit.• Articles are welcome from members and non-members. Send proposed articles by email to Debbie at weehawks@hotmail.com Deadline for copy is the 15th of the month.

MAY MeetiNgS

Guest Speaker Jason Wilder“Land and Seabirds of New Zealand”

Sedona -May 18 (Wed)Sedona Public Library • 3250 White Bear Road

Flagstaff - May 19 (Thurs)Shepherd of the Hills Lutheran Church

1601 N San Francisco St.

Meetings start at 6:45 pm with social time.Formal meeting begins at 7:00 pm.

Have you visited our web site? northernarizonaaudubon.org

Join Us!

northern ArizonA AUdUbon societyPlease enroll me/our household as a Chapter Member of Northern Arizona Audubon Society (NAAS). Name: __________________________________Address: ________________________________City, State, Zip____________________________Phone: __________________________________Email: __________________________________If you prefer to join or renew on line, please go to our website at http://www.northernarizonaaudubon.org/membershiptest/

Enclosed:____ Individual $25 (Northern Flicker)

____ Family $40 (Gambel’s Quail) ____ Supporting $100 (Blackhawk)

Please make checks payable to NAAS and mail to: Membership Chair, NAAS PO Box 1496, Sedona, AZ 86339 I am interested in Volunteer opportunities

Check here if this is a change of addressCheck here if this is a renewal

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Non-profitU.S. Postage

PAIDFlagstaff, AZ

Permit No. 163

NAAS is now on Facebook. Check out our page frequently because there is

always new information on it.