The Othello Sandhill Crane Festival began in 1998, initiated by the Greater Othello Chamber of Commerce and the Columbia National Wildlife Refuge. Since its beginning, the Festival has been financially supported by the City of Othello through tourism development funds (hotel/motel taxes) and logistically supported by the Othello School District and Othello Community Schools, reimbursed by Festival registration fees. The Grant Conservation District provides additional financial support and administrative staffing.

The Othello Sandhill Crane Festival Committee plans, organizes and conducts the Festival. The committee includes a cross section of Othello citizens, Grant Conservation District staff plus residents from the neighboring communities of Ephrata, Moses Lake and Royal City.

Board Members:

• Dixie Fultz, Festival Chair/Volunteer
• Marie Lotz, Festival Volunteer/Coordinator
• Dick Erickson, Festival Volunteer
• Bob Flores, Festival Volunteer
• John Robert Moody, Festival Volunteer
• Will Coats, Festival Volunteer
• Diane Bailey, Old Hotel Volunteer
• Jane Grant, Festival Volunteer
• Ivan Whitney, Festival Volunteer