Wings of Conservation - A Birding Experience for Avian Enthusiasts

Wings of Conservation - A Birding Experience for Avian Enthusiasts Join us for our first annual birding event that goes beyond the ordinary. At “Wings of Conservation,” we will delve into the heart of avian conservation and habitat preservation and share unique experiences with a wide array of bird species. Here, we will explore the vibrant world of woodland, aquatic, wetland and open habitat birds and their ecosystems–and the unique nature of Anaconda environments–with expert-led, hands-on field experiences and insightful educational sessions. Date: May 17th, 18th, 19th All Inclusive Weekend!

WHAT WILL WE DO?

Expert-Led Field Experiences: Led by avian experts, 3 field experiences promise an engaging encounter with a plethora of bird species and habitats. We’ll explore upland forests, picturesque wetlands, pristine meadows and vibrant riparian areas engaging in a robust avian ecosystem. Learn the art of successful identification, behavior insights and call recognition, all while experiencing the variety of regional avian species.

Lectures on Habitat Conservation and Current Regional Research: Gain a deeper understanding of critical issues affecting bird habitat with thought provoking lectures presented by conservation experts. Learn the regional successes of habitat remediation and restoration related to Anaconda’s efforts before, during and after Superfund. The regional habitat has been heavily damaged due to mining and smelter operations. Over decades of land remediation and habitat restoration, rehabilitation and replacement we see a gradual recovery of wetland, upland and conifer forest bird habitat and species. Learn about these impacts and successes directly from regional experts.

Expert Panel Q & A Session: Engage in interactive dialog with our panel of conservationists, biologists and avian researchers. Pose your questions, share insights, and gain valuable knowledge from those at the forefront of avian conservation.

WHO WILL BE THERE?

Mark Mariano - Montana Wetlands and Waterfowl Restoration Ecologist & Co-Founder Keynote Speaker, Field Experience Guide, Q&A Panelist Mark Mariano studied ecological restoration at the University of Montana and then followed his favorite natural system (water!) upstream to Butte for graduate school at Montana Tech. He is a passionate outdoorsman who is always looking to further his ecology background with intimate knowledge of the natural environment. Day-to-day, Mark is the self-proclaimed Waterfowl Protection Specialist for the Berkeley Pit Waterfowl Protection Program. He plays the critical role of incorporating waterfowl ecology into the program, among other things. Outside of work, Mark is an avid volunteer in the conservation community, serving on multiple boards and volunteering for multiple organizations including the George Grant Chapter of Trout Unlimited, Helena Chapter of Ducks Unlimited, and the Clark Fork River Technical Assistance Committee. Mark also recently co-founded a conservation group--Montana Wetlands and Waterfowl--which is a nonprofit dedicated to education, conservation, and a heightened awareness of Montana’s wetland inhabitants. When he’s not working or volunteering, he can be found outside, pursuing just about anything that swims or flies, usually on public land.

Nate Kohler - Bighorn Environmental Sciences & Clark Fork Coalition Retired Field Technician Field Experience Guide, Q&A Panelist Nate has been a Montana resident since 1970, living in the Upper Clark Fork since 1998. A recently retired field technician, he monitored birds along Silver Bow Creek and the Upper Clark Fork River, and conducted other bird monitoring projects in the area. Nate’s interest in birds began in the early 1990’s, and he has enjoyed sharing his knowledge with others in the field. For approximately 15 years Nate led a number of bird watching field trips, primarily for Montana Audubon Chapters during their annual bird festivals which have occurred at locations across Montana. He has been a member of the Montana Bird Records Committee since 2010 and a state reviewer for eBird since 2012. Nate has traveled extensively through the state supporting these endeavors, gaining considerable knowledge in the identification, occurrence and distribution of Montana’s birds. Nate’s knowledge of natural history is not only limited to birds, as he also has interest in many of Montana’s plants and animals.

Megan Fylling - University of Montana Bird Ecology Lab Research Director and Avian Ecologist Field Experience Guide, Lecture Presentation Bio and more information to come!

Bridger Creel - University of Montana Bird Ecology Lab PhD Student Field Experience Guide, Lecture Presentation Bio and more information to come!

Vanna Boccadori - Fish Wildlife and Parks Wildlife Biologist Lecture Presentation, Q&A Panelist Bio and more information to come!

Will McDowell - Clark Fork Coalition Retired Stream Restoration Director Lecture Presentation, Q&A Panelist Bio and more information to come!

WHAT’S INCLUDED?

Wings of Conservation Birding Experience:

• Two and a half days direct interaction with avian professionals
• A series of lectures and panel discussions
• Three different in-the-field birding experiences
• Two nights lodging in Pintler’s Portal hostel
• Two locally catered dinners
• Two locally catered breakfasts
• One lunch in the field
• Beverages from Smelter City Brewing and The Bighorn Bottle Shop and Wine Bar
• One afternoon to explore Anaconda
• Specials and discounts from local businesses
• An irresistibly robust swag bag
• Refreshing beverages during the field tours

WHAT’S A HOSTEL?

Voted the Best Hostel in Montana 2023, Pintler's Portal Hostel serves as a base camp to adventure and experience in the Anaconda area. Rooms are designed for sleeping and the extraordinary common areas are ideal for socializing, meetings, presentations and gatherings as well as cooking and dining.

During Wings of Conservation, rooms can be rented as private spaces or shared with one other Wings of Conservation guest. Rooms are equipped with twin bunk beds and sleep 1-4 people. Shower and bath suites are separate from the sleeping rooms and optimize privacy.

The lounge with its large flatscreen TV, fireplace, and comfortable seating provides a common area for connecting with guests and experts during meals, lectures, Q&A sessions and after hours.

Guests will have access to the full double kitchen, complimentary tea, coffee and other goodies, as well as a coin operated laundry. A private outside space is the perfect location to enjoy lunch, read a book or listen to the birds. For photos and more information about our award winning accommodations, please visit our website.

WHAT AM I RESPONSIBLE FOR?

• Getting here - Private or shared travel plans to Anaconda, MT are up to you.
• Local transportation - As a group we’ll be traveling to field experiences, and we can help coordinate ride sharing, but there will be no formally organized transportation. We’ll figure that out together.
• Lunch - On Saturday, take the opportunity to explore Anaconda’s local lunch spots! Included in your Welcome Packet you’ll find restaurant discounts and other perks. We’re always happy to help with suggestions.
• Equipment - Bring your bino’s, scope, hiking/walking supports, anything you need to ensure a successful and enjoyable experience. (Some bino’s and scopes will be available for group usage.)
• Inquiring minds - We’re so thrilled to have you all and can’t wait to build community and learn and experience alongside one another!

WHY SHOULD I ATTEND?

Attending the inaugural "Wings of Conservation" event is an unparalleled opportunity for birding enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. We’re thrilled to offer a unique blend of expert-led field experiences, informative lectures on habitat conservation, an interactive Q&A session with a panel of conservationists and biologists and the opportunity to connect with other avian enthusiasts and experts. Nestled in the award-winning Pintler's Portal Hostel, participants will enjoy not only comfortable lodging but also a chance to connect with like-minded individuals, fostering a sense of community. With locally catered meals, refreshing beverages, and a robust swag bag, "Wings of Conservation" ensures a memorable and educational weekend while forging lasting connections with the natural world and fellow enthusiasts. We can’t wait to experience it with you!

Availability is limited, so book now! Any questions or concerns regarding the Wings of Conservation event please call 406-563-4555 or email at alexis@pintlersportal.com