Field reports: New website details potential wildlife lands

PUBLIC LAND – The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife unveiled a website, wdfw.wa.gov/lands/acquisitions, this week detailing a wish list of properties the state may buy for fish and wildlife habitat.

The site includes maps and details on 22 proposed land projects that could take years to complete.

One proposal seeks $1.85 million to purchase 920 acres on Mica Peak to prevent subdivisions that would fragment wildlife habitat.

Some proposals cover more than 10,000 acres at costs of more than $8 million.

The agency relies on state and federal grants and help from nonprofit groups for most acquisitions.

Top grant sources are the Washington Wildlife and Recreation Program and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.

Biologist talks on birds of East Asia

NATURE – Howard Ferguson, a Washington Fish and Wildlife Department wildlife biologist, will present a free program on his experiences with birds and culture in East Asia, 7 p.m., Wednesday at the Riverview Retirement Community, Village Community Building, 2117 E. North Crescent Ave., sponsored by Spokane Audubon.

On sabbatical, Ferguson traveled for several months working and exploring Saipan, Japan, Bali, Borneo, Thailand and Vietnam.

CdA angler details fishing in Russia

FISHING – Coeur d’Alene attorney Denny Davis will share photos and stories from his trip to Russia, 7 p.m., May 16 at Coeur d’Alene Public Library, 702 E. Front Ave.

Davis’ free presentation, “Moscow and Fishing in the Russian Far East,” is one in a series of Novel Destinations programs sponsored by the Library Foundation.

Boat ramp restricted at Newman Lake

BOATS –The public access on Newman Lake’s northeast shore will be closed Wednesday and Thursday for paving.

Washington Fish and Wildlife officials say the boat launch also will be closed May 16 for installation of a new dock.

Meanwhile, boats can be launched at private resorts.

State Parks seeks campground hosts

Volunteer hosts are being sought for some Washington State Parks, officials say.

The hosts greet visitors, assist park staff and perform a variety of duties in return for free camping and hookups.

Host assignments range from 30-90 days.

Details and host openings at www.parks.wa.gov/volunteers.

Info: (360) 902-8612.