Audubon Lake dedication at Reardan

Enjoy guided tours and the inside scoop on the birdwatching opportunities Oct. 14 at Reardan’s Audubon Lake during a dedication for the new conservation area.

The 278 acres of lakes, wetlands and associated habitat is just north of U.S. Highway 2 in Reardan, an easy-access wildlife viewing site that’s been a darling of area birdwatchers for decades.

The area is especially important for migrating waterfowl and shorebirds. Access is allowed only to certain points to avoid disturbing birds. Trails and blinds are still in the planning stage.

The Washington Fish and Wildlife Commission purchased the wetlands this spring to preserve the area for wildlife. The purchase included the fundraising efforts of several groups, including the Reardan Public Development Authority, Washington Audubon Society chapters, Washington Wildlife and Recreation Program and Inland Northwest Land Trust.

The Oct. 14 dedication starts at 1 p.m at the south entrance of the preserve off Central Street.

Info: Spokane Audubon Society (509) 838-5828 or info@spokaneaudubon.org or Vicki Sola, Inland Northwest Land Trust, (509) 462-1239.

Rich Landers

HUNTING

Boat safety critical for hunters

Gentle reminder in advance of the waterfowl seasons: Nationwide last year, 18 hunters died in boating accidents.

Washington already has had at least 26 boating fatalities in 2006, exceeding the 25-per-year average of the past five years, and the main waterfowl seasons haven’t yet opened. The record 38 boating deaths was recorded in the late 1980s.

Idaho has recorded waterfowling boat fatalities in recent years.

“Capsizing and falls overboard are the most common types of fatal boating accidents for hunters,” said Dave Dahms, Idaho Parks and Recreation boating program manager.

Following state laws and guidelines can save a hunter’s life, he said. Among them:

“Every boat should have a life jacket for everyone aboard.

“Wear properly fitted life jackets while on the water, especially in transit or when the weather turns bad.

“Navigation lights must be used between sunset and sunrise and in periods of restricted visibility.

“Do not overload vessels. Many duck boats are small and they can easily be overloaded with hunters, dogs and gear.

“Be prepared for weather changes with proper clothing and a “Plan B.”

“Learn about the dangers of hypothermia and how to safeguard all aboard.

Rich Landers

PREDATORS

Cougar hunter hired

Officials in Jackson County, Ore., are joining the U.S. Department of Agriculture to hire a part-time professional hunter to target cougars that have become more brazen around people and property.

“The whole emphasis is to provide a resource to people who are having difficulty with cougars,” said Hank Collins, Jackson County director of health and human services.

In another program, the state Department of Fish and Wildlife plans to kill up to 24 cougars over the next year to determine whether killing them may increase deer and elk herds.

Oregon voters banned hound hunting for cougars in 1994.

Associated Press