Sturgeon Spearing, Backyard Bird Count And More
Join The Great Backyard Bird Count! Plus, Sturgeon Spearing Season, Native Plants And More
The Great Backyard Bird Count happens this weekend: Feb. 12-15, 2021.
The annual birding event is a unique way for birders to celebrate their passion globally while providing scientists with a snapshot of late winter bird populations. During the 2020 count, bird watchers from over 194 countries reported a record 6,942 species: More than half the world's known bird species.
Never bird watched before? Participation is easy. To join the count, simply watch birds for 15 minutes or more, at least once between Feb. 12-15, record what species you see and submit your sightings online or via the Merlin Bird ID app.
Another bonus of bird watching is that it’s a great activity for social distancing. That said, birders can help keep the count safer during the COVID-19 public health emergency by birding solo or only with those in their household.
There’s never been a better time to find an adventure and give birding a try. Get some fresh air, have some fun and help make this year’s Great Backyard Bird Count reach new heights by joining in here.
Double Your Love For Nature This Valentine's Day
Double your love for nature this Valentine's Day by donating to the DNR's Endangered Resources Fund. All donations made through your Wisconsin income tax form are matched and go directly to conserve rare plants, animals and State Natural Areas.
Tax filing season is now open. Just in time for Valentine's Day, all donors can print a card to share with their valentine.
For tax year 2020, the Endangered Resources donation is found on Form 1, line 21a; for part-year/ non-residents filing Form 1NPR, it is on line 55a. Look for the donations section with your tax software, or let your tax preparer know you want to donate to the Endangered Resources Fund.
Learn more about how to donate and print off a Valentine’s Day card to acknowledge your gift on the DNR’s tax check off webpage.
Get A Head Start On Spring Planting With Native Plant SalesWhat does your yard do for you? Does it support pollinators, birds and other wildlife, minimize flooding during heavy rains and provide attractive views? Native plants can do all that. Options for buying native plants in 2021 include the growing number of Wisconsin Native Plant Nurseries and native plant sales put on by conservation organizations, nature centers and land and conservation departments.
Are we missing any Wisconsin native plant sales sponsored by nonprofit organizations or local governments? Email us and we'll get them added to our list.
|
Sturgeon Spearing Season Begins Saturday, Feb. 13Wisconsin's sturgeon spearing season is a unique cultural event that is rich in tradition. The social and traditional aspects of the sport keep people coming back year after year. There are two separate spearfishing opportunities for lake sturgeon on the Winnebago System, both of which require a spearing license to participate.
Learn more about sturgeon spearing, regulations and licenses here. |