This Cache Has Been Placed At Heron Pond.
The Audubon Center at Riverlands has announced the opening of a new avian observatory on the south end of Heron Pond. The viewing blind is open to the public and provides outstanding opportunities to view the birds and other wildlife as they enjoy the Sanctuary.
This new structure was designed and constructed by students of the Washington University in St. Louis - School of Architecture as a class project. The purpose was to design, fabricate, and build an avian observatory at Riverlands in collaboration with the Audubon Center at Riverlands and the Rivers Project Office of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.
Heron Pond's water surface area is 42 acres and serves as a common rest area for many waterfowl during migration times and throughout the winter, as long as it isn't frozen. These marsh areas are critical for the successful migration of shorebirds along the Mississippi Flyway. These birds, as a group, may have the longest of all migrations on the planet-some from the Arctic Ocean shore to the southern coast of Argentina and many with single leg flights of 1,000 miles or more. That means stopover feeding sites like Heron Pond are essential to support the build-up of sufficient fat reserves for the next leg of their migration.
Beavers frequent the outlets of the pond and some times cause inconveniences for Rangers trying to drawdown the water for vegetation management. However, no action has been taken to remove the species from the sanctuary.
The Heron Wetland Loop Trail leads around the pond, allowing for a closer view of the wetland wildlife and vegetation, as well as the prairie.
The trails are closed from October 15th through April 15th. During this time the Riverlands Migratory Bird Sanctuary is closed to foot traffic due to the migration of various waterfowl and shorebirds.
This cache may be approached by vehicle from the West side access year around.
Permission has been obtained from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Rivers Project Office to place this cache. Thanks to Angie Smith for approval of this placement.
You are searching for a magnetic container with only a log sheet.
Bring a writing instrument to sign the log - this cache has a small log sheet so sign with date and name only.
Bugs, Insects, Critters, Snakes or Poisonous Plants could be present. Search accordingly.
Access to this cache is by gravel/dirt road. Use some discretion when leaving the main roadway if the ground is wet.
Congratulations To rjtoolman! For Being First To Find!