In March 2002, leading bird conservation organizations in Wisconsin created a cooperative partnership called the Wisconsin Bird Conservation Initiative (WBCI), which is part of the National Bird Conservation Initiative. The goal of this coalition is to work in close coordination to deliver the full spectrum of bird conservation statewide, emphasizing voluntary stewardship.
To date, 167 organizations -- from the statewide Audubon Council to local bird clubs and bird-related businesses -- have endorsed WBCI's principles in support of bird conservation. These include:
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- Coordinate the efforts of private and public landowners and institutions, and all citizens who care for birds
- Focus on the full array of wild bird species
- Promote voluntary partnerships
- Promote conservation based on the best available scientific information
- Take an ecological landscape approach
- Share knowledge to encourage voluntary stewardship and bird-based recreation.
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The West Branch of the Fond du Lac River does not currently pass park land, but is bordered for a mile on the City’s west side—along both banks—by city land saved as open space and flood plain mitigation. This area is known by local birders looking for migrating passerines, particularly where Hickory St. crosses the river. Hundreds of mallard ducks have been found wintering in the small tributaries that feed this stretch of the river. In the summer Great Egrets and Great Blue Herons stand along its banks hunting for crayfish, frogs and minnows in the shallow waters. Belted Kingfishers patrol the area and find nesting areas in the protected habitat.
Access to the trail and area is in the back of the parking lot off of Pioneer road. Coordinates N 43 45.303 W 088 27.118
The cache is available in winter although depending on the weather it may not be winter friendly. Also, winter can change the terrain and difficulty. It is WI after all.
Congratulations to JimandLinda on FTF!