The Spring Issue of Audubon Magazine has a short article entitled, “Bird Sits Are Big Fun”. FOLM has been doing them for years and we know they are. The First Saturday Bird Walk for May is scheduled for the 3rd.

We will meet at 7:00 am at the LMWA HQ. And yes, it is the annual BIG SIT on the Ladd Marsh Wildlife Area off Peach Lane. Bring your binoculars and spotting scopes (we will provide a couple of scopes), your favorite camp/lawn chair/blanket, coffee mug, and be ready to share your best birding stories. We will walk a couple of hundred yards off Peach Lane and hunker down and let the birds come to us.

There is a good walking trail where we will be so it is possible to walk to some nearby ponds for those who get itchy feet. Donuts will be provided. Do not forget your ODFW parking permit. Permits are available for purchase online at Buy at Permit.

Registrations for the Ladd Marsh Bird Festival is open and there are still some slots available on several field trips. Check out the FOLM website at www.friendsofladdmarsh.org for details and registration.

Directions to Ladd Marsh HQ:

• From La Grande: Take the Union Highway (203) to Pierce Road (near B&K Auto Salvage). Turn right (south) on Pierce. Continue for approximately 1.25 miles to HQ on the right.
• From Union: Turn left on Pierce Road and continue for approximately 1.25 miles to HQ on the right.
• HQ can be reached from I-84: Take exit 268 (Foothill Road) then turn east. At the “T” with pierce Road, turn left (north). Continue about 1.5 miles to HQ on the left.