The Catskill Chronicle

Photos by Kathleen Aitken

LACKAWAXEN, PA (November 13, 2013) – The Delaware Highlands Conservancy, located in Sullivan County and Pennsylvania, announces an Eagle Watch Volunteer Training Day on December 7, from 9:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. at the Lackawaxen Inn in Lackawaxen, PA.  Join the Conservancy and become an eagle volunteer.

Take advantage of a wonderful opportunity to learn more about our magnificent national bird, to help protect eagles in their habitat, and to assist in educating the public about sharing our region with thriving eagles.

Volunteers will learn about the volunteer eagle monitoring program, how to interact with the eagle watching public, view our new exhibits at our Eagle Watch Winter Field Office, and join us for field visits to actual monitoring sites.

Volunteers are trained to monitor and collect data about the large population of eagles that migrate to this region every winter. Volunteers also learn how to help the thousands of people who want to view the eagles in the safest and least intrusive manner, and share “Eagle Etiquette” tips.

Binoculars, spotting scopes, training manuals, data forms, hand warmers and foot warmers are provided by the Conservancy.

The winter Eagle Watch program runs from January 1 to the beginning of March, weekends only, for 8-10 weeks. Volunteers may cover morning or afternoon shifts. The main monitoring areas are the Mongaup Reservoir and the Delaware River at Minisink Falls and the Zane Grey boat launch at Lackawaxen. An eagle nest monitoring program is also planned for 2013. Volunteers will be assigned to a specific nest during the spring breeding season to collect data.

Trained eagle volunteers are needed throughout the year to help staff booths, participate in workshops, and be a part of other eagle-related Conservancy events.

To register, send an email to volunteer@delawarehighlands.org, or call 570-226-3164 or 845-583-1010. For more information on this training day and other upcoming eagle events, visit www.DelawareHighlands.org.

All new volunteers must attend the orientation session in order to participate in the program. Please dress warmly – waterproof boots, hats and gloves – and bring a bagged lunch. Volunteers should be able to withstand cold temperatures and enjoy interacting with the public.