Celebrating Estuaries: Fall Migratory Birds

Join the MidCoast Watersheds Council for a place-based event that celebrates our scenic estuaries–locations where rivers meet the sea that are vital to supporting life in all of its forms–in observance of the 250th anniversary of the founding of the United States!

The event will begin with an interpretive walk along the beautiful Yaquina Estuary Trail. Participants will observe fall migratory shorebirds as well as learn about the importance of estuaries for fish, wildlife, and people from Cheryl Horton, Estuary Program Manager at MidCoast Watersheds Council, and Timothy Lawes, Wildlife Ecologist and Photographer.

After the walk, we will head to the Pacific Maritime Heritage Center to learn how to draw a shorebird from Nora Sherwood, a local Scientific Illustrator. View her website HERE.

No prior drawing experience is required, and all skill levels are welcome! Please bring binoculars- we will have limited extras and a couple scopes to share.

Schedule and logistics:

• We will meet at 8:00 am on Saturday, September 19th at the trailhead of the Yaquina Estuary Trail, which is at the Idaho Flat West Clam Access. This trailhead is at the east end of the parking lot of the Hatfield Marine Science Center. We'll spend approximately 45 minutes walking the estuary trail observing fall migratory shorebirds and learning about the Yaquina estuary.
• Then we’ll head to the Pacific Maritime Heritage Center on the historic Newport Bayfront to learn how to draw a shorebird.
• All materials for the shorebird drawing will be provided, and are included in the ticket price.
• Ages 13 and up are welcome (minors must be accompanied by an adult).
• Cost is $30/person, but please reach out to info@midcoastwc.org if cost is a barrier to learning - limited scholarships are available. Class size is limited to 20 participants.
• Note that the estuary trail is flat and graveled. This event will happen rain or shine, so please come prepared for whatever the skies throw at us! We recommend wearing clothes that you feel comfortable walking in.

Funding for this event is generously provided by the America 250 Commission in observance of the 250th anniversary of the founding of the United States!

Cover photo: Timothy Lawes Photography