Othello
Sandhill Crane Festival
Event
Descriptions
March 28, 29, 30, 2008
**Buses will
normally be available 10-15 minutes before the scheduled time to leave but
please board your bus no later than 5 minutes prior to departure time.**
As always, please check our website for updates and availability of tours.
Friday - March 28, 2008
All Friday
events are held at the Columbia National Wildlife Refuge Headquarters
735 E Main Street (Unless otherwise noted)
Potholes
Reservoir Boat Birding Trip
Space is limited to 8 participants, so register early! Come
join the adventure of the Festival. This boat trip explores birdlife in early
spring on Potholes Reservoir. This is a treasure hunt because we don’t know
what wildlife might be found. Trip is on Friday and Sunday of the Festival,
departing from MarDon Resort. Map to Resort will be supplied with your
registration confirmation.
Columbia
National Wildlife Refuge
(NWR)/Potholes Area Birding Tour
This introductory tour will explore areas of the Columbia NWR and nearby
wetlands and uplands to view birds and other wildlife, the diversity of habitats
and unique geologic features. Cranes
are likely but not guaranteed. The
tour will end with a beautiful sunset (weather dependent) and possibly views of
owls.
Birding
Lower Crab Creek
This tour will depart from Othello heading west along the north side of
Sandhill
Crane Biking for Cranes
Through this tour, you will take yourself, by bicycle, through some of the best
wildlife viewing areas near Othello. The
ride will be approximately 20-25 miles roundtrip and consists of flat to rolling
terrain. Helmets are required and
bring plenty of water. Bikes should
be in good working condition and the physical requirements are completing the
ride at 10-12 mph. Road bikes are
recommended. Support vehicle will be
provided for repairs and safety. The
fee helps defray the cost of insurance; pre-registration is strongly suggested.
Crane
Viewing Tours
These guided tours will go directly to the best Sandhill Crane feeding areas
where and when they can be their noisiest. The evening feeding period toward
sunset can be spectacular as cranes come and go. An experienced wildlife guide
and a local agricultural expert narrate each tour and answer any questions you
may have.
Flight
of the Cranes:
Conservation and
Celebration of the Black-necked Crane in Bhutan
Join Chuck Gibilisco for a short
documentary about
Bhutan’s fascinating cultural and natural
setting and RSPN’s ground-breaking research, along with a glimpse of how
Saturday - March 29, 2008
(Unless otherwise noted)
Crane
Viewing Tours
7:00 AM to 8:45 AM and 7:30
AM to 9:15 AM and 8:00 AM to 9:45 AM
and 8:30 AM to 10:15 AM and
9:00 AM to 10:45 AM 1 Ticket Available- $10 for Adults, $5 for Senior and Children
This tour will take you through some of the best wildlife viewing areas near
Othello, with local guides describing native vegetation, water, farming and the
interactions that have created conditions the Sandhill Cranes and other wildlife
thrive on. Cranes may be seen feeding in fields and leaving for roosts. An
experienced wildlife guide and a local agricultural expert narrate each tour.
Sandhill
Crane Bike Tour
Pre-Registration suggested. Check-in
Coordinated by Pete Perez and Shawn Urban. Through this tour, you will take
yourself, by bicycle, through some of the best wildlife viewing areas near
Othello. The ride will be
approximately 20-25 miles roundtrip and consists of flat to rolling terrain.
Helmets are required and bring plenty of water.
Bikes should be in good working condition and the physical requirements
are completing the ride at 10-12 mph. Road
bikes are recommended. Support
vehicle will be provided for repairs and safety.
The fee helps defray the cost of insurance; pre-registration is
suggested.
Burrowing
Owl Tour
So cute and cuddly! Burrowing Owls
are a declining species across the west, but croplands near Othello are blessed
with many of these photogenic little diurnal owls.
Local biologists will lead a short field trip to visit a Burrowing Owl
nesting area north or east of town. Please,
do not follow the buses to the locations of the owls or cranes.
This will allow all to enjoy the wildlife resources of the area while
maintaining personal safety and the welfare of the birds as the highest
priorities.
Missoula Floods and the Channeled
Scablands Lecture and Tour
Brent Cunderla, a
geologist with the Bureau of Land Management in
Shrub-Steppe: Another
Weird Name for Habitat Lecture
Participants in this hands-on, children-oriented program will have the
opportunity to explore the unique adaptations of the plants and animals that
live in the shrub-steppe habitat type. Andrea
Mann has tailored this talk for all ages. She holds a degree in natural
resources, wildlife and range management from the University of
Nebraska-Lincoln. Andrea has worked for the USDA-NRCS for over 25 years. Her
areas of interest include wetlands, wildlife habitat, habitat restoration,
livestock management, watershed planning and vegetative monitoring.
Taking Wing: New
Frontiers in the Study of Migration Lecture
Each year, millions of birds fly from the breeding grounds at high latitudes to
wintering grounds in the tropics, only to return again a few months later. These
massive movements have long fascinated scientists, but the ability to study them
has long been hampered by the sheer distances involved. However, today’s
technologies are shedding new insights on the secrets of migration. Dr.
Mike Webster, associate professor of biology at
Crane-ology 101;
Introduction to the Species of Cranes and their Biology and Behavior Lecture
Of the 15 species of cranes found across the globe, 11 of those species are
struggling for survival. Steve Bouffard,
a retired refuge manager and wildlife biologist at the SE Idaho NWR Complex will
introduce all 15 crane species, their status, where they live and what habitats
they use. He will then discuss evolution, biology and behavior of these unique
and fascinating birds.
Crane Festival
Photography Workshop
This is a session designed to familiarize budding photographers with
photographing wildlife in the landscape, including best times of day and
seasons, composition and metering using 35mm digital (or film) cameras. Teri
Pieper will demonstrate equipment and show images. This is for people with
35mm SLR digital or film cameras that can be used in manual modes.
The Sunday field workshop begins early to utilize optimal lighting
conditions.
Burrowing Owls of
Mike Livingston received his
master’s degree in wildlife science from
Bats Life in the Dark
Lecture
Neal Hedges, a wildlife biologist with
the Bureau of Land Management for 28 years, has lived in
Getting a Buzz Going
About Biodiversity Lecture
Nancy Warner will share the process
used to develop the DVD “The Nature of North Central Washington” and discuss
ways the approach might be replicated to build a sense of place in other
regions.
The
Long-billed Curlew: A Curious Shorebird of the Desert Lecture
The long-billed curlew is a migratory shorebird that breeds throughout the
Columbia Basin of Washington and
Forgotten
Trails Lecture and Tour
Ron Anglin, former manager at the
Columbia National Wildlife Refuge, will discuss the history that surrounds the
Big Bend Country, its people, their activities, as well as why and what they
were doing here in pioneer days. Both
the Caribou Trail and the White Bluffs Trail will be discussed.
A signing of the book Forgotten
Trails will follow the presentation. A
field trip (please pre-register) to hike along a primitive trail is scheduled on
Sunday at
11:15 AM to 1:45 PM
- $10 Per Person FULL
Led by Brent Cunderla after his 10:00 AM
lecture, this tour takes you through
the Drumheller Channels National Natural Landmark pointing out the rich geologic
features to be seen. There will be no facilities or lunch on this trip, so
please plan accordingly. Pre-registration
is required.
Authors’
Forum
Book signings by Gordon Orians, Andy Stepniewski, Mark Amara, Brian Bell, Mike
Denny and others. There will be a
list of times when authors will be available at the signing table next to The
Old Hotel booth near the gym entry. A
few authors may also have books available immediately following their lectures.
Burrowing
Owl Tour
So cute and cuddly! Burrowing Owls
are a declining species across the west, but croplands near Othello are blessed
with many of these photogenic little diurnal owls.
Local biologists will lead a short field trip to visit a Burrowing Owl
nesting area north or east of town. Please, do not follow the buses to the locations of the owls or cranes.
This will allow all to enjoy the wildlife resources of the area while
maintaining personal safety and the welfare of the birds as the highest
priorities.
Living with Rattlesnakes:
Replacing Fear with Respect Lecture
Ecologist and herpetologist Dr. Daniel Beck will discuss the biology of rattlesnakes, share
insights from his research and tell the story of “Old Man Rattlesnake.” Dr.
Beck is an instructor at Central
Wetland Functions: More than Mosquito Breeding Grounds Lecture
Noon- Free of Charge
This hands-on, children-oriented program, tailored for all ages, introduces the
concept of wetland functions and benefits to insects, wildlife and people. Andrea
Mann holds a degree in natural resources, wildlife and range management from
the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. She has worked for the USDA-NRCS for over 25
years. Her areas of interest include wetlands, wildlife habitat, habitat
restoration, livestock management, watershed planning and vegetative monitoring.
Expect to experience a lot while getting your hands dirty!
Blackbirds of the
Potholes Lecture
Several species of blackbirds are among the most conspicuous breeding birds of
the Potholes. They have served as excellent subjects to explore several aspects
of behavioral ecology, particularly habitat selection, mate selection and
foraging behavior. Dr. Gordon Orians,
an ecologist and conservation biologist as well as emeritus professor at the
The Sandhill Cranes of Washington
State
(with a focus on breeding population) Lecture
Despite being the world's most abundant crane species, the sandhill crane is
endangered in our state. Find out how many cranes are in the state, where they
breed (and migrate) and what conservation efforts are in place to encourage
their success. Jessica Stocking has worked with all 15 species of crane, under the
guidance of the International Crane Foundation in Wisconsin. Sandhill crane studies brought her
across the country (by way of
Mosses and Liverworts:
The Overlooked Arid Land Plants Lecture
Bryophytes (mosses, liverworts and hornworts) are a significant part of the soil
crust community, playing an important role in the microbiotic soil crusts of
eastern Washington
by stabilizing soils, increasing infiltration of
rainwater and when combined with algae, they assist with nitrogen fixation. Judy
Harpel, a former bryologist for the U.S. Forest Service, will discuss the
unique distribution patterns of mosses and liverworts. Judy holds a PhD from the
University
of
Authors’ Forum Continues…
Heavenly Birds: The Black-necked Cranes of
The
Himalayan
Kingdom of
Bhutan
is a winter haven for the
black-necked crane (Grus Nigricollis), one of the least-known cranes in the
world. Meet these “heavenly birds” and learn about their unique relationship
to the people and culture of
Beginning Birding or What
Bird is That? Lecture
This will be a brief overview of how to go about learning to identify all those
interesting birds. Brian H. Bell will
cover basic identification, references to help you and where to go. Brian, past
president of the Washington Ornithological Society, teaches birding classes and
leads field trips. He is the co-author of the book “Birds of Washington
State” and will be part of the book signing.
Birds, Bats and Blades
Lecture
Mike Denny, a Walla Walla
area naturalist, has been involved with wind
energy issues since 1998. He currently represents Blue Mountain Audubon on
Technical Advisory Councils for the four largest wind energy farms in eastern Washington
and Oregon. He will explore the wildlife issues surrounding
the growing wind energy industry and its impacts to native state and federally
protected birds and bats here in eastern
Grouse and Spouse Lecture
Grouse have a variety of mating systems, ranging from monogamy in ptarmigan to
extreme polygamy in sage-grouse. This talk will explore some of the fascinating
aspects of their breeding behavior. Mike Schroeder (aka grouse) has a doctorate degree in wildlife
biology and is the upland bird research scientist for the Washington Department
of Fish and Wildlife. He has conducted research on several species of grouse in
What Do We Know About Washington
Ground Squirrels? Lecture and Tour
Dr. Paul Sherman is a world-renowned behavioral ecologist from
Cornell
University. He has spent much of his career studying ground
squirrel ecology in the western United States, trying to determine the reasons for decline in
the populations of several species. His current research has brought him to the Columbia
Basin
to study the social behavior of the Washington
ground squirrel, a candidate for listing under
the Endangered Species Act. Paul and his wife Janet will give a brief overview
of this species, then immediately board vans to lead a short tour to a colony of
squirrels near Othello to continue the lecture. Pre-registration
is required.
Burrowing
Owl Tour
So cute and cuddly! Burrowing Owls
are a declining species across the west, but croplands near Othello are blessed
with many of these photogenic little diurnal owls.
Local biologists will lead a short field trip to visit a Burrowing Owl
nesting area north or east of town. Please,
do not follow the buses to the locations of the owls or cranes.
Authors’ Forum Continues…
How to Choose and Use the
Right Optics for You Lecture
Jim Danzenbaker, sales manager at Kowa
Sporting Optics, will discuss the world of optics, including questions to ask
yourself about your own optics use, technical terms and definitions and how to
test optics before purchasing. Jim has helped people through the optics purchase
decision at different nature festivals and events all across the country. He is
also an optics user himself, leading nature tours in the U.S.and many foreign destinations. Bring your
binoculars and your questions!
Insects for Kids Lecture
Sally Hubbs has worked for the WSU
Cooperative Extension in Ephrata as a resource conservationist. She has worked
with insects and biological controls and enjoys showing off her pet
“critters.” This presentation
targets the younger audience but will be an experience for all who attend.
WARNING: Live creepy crawlers!
Burrowing Owls Use
Burrows Lecture
With burrowing owls on the decline due to habitat loss, in part from a lack of
nest holes, what can we do? Follow the lead of Charlotte
Reep, president of Lower Columbia Basin Audubon Society and a burrowing owl
advocate for several years. From a beginning at UW as a vocal performance major
to retirement from Hanford in the late
1990s,
Travels with
Cranes
Steve Bouffard, a retired
Refuge Manager and Wildlife Biologist at the SE Idaho NWR Complex, has studied
many of the world’s crane species while working with the International Crane
Foundation. This talk will review Steve’s travels in eastern
Penguins as Global
Sentinels Lecture
Penguins breed from the equator to the ice caps of
Authors’ Forum Continues…
Burrowing
Owl Tour
So cute and cuddly! Burrowing Owls
are a declining species across the west, but croplands near Othello are blessed
with many of these photogenic little diurnal owls.
Local biologists will lead a short field trip to visit a Burrowing Owl
nesting area north or east of town. Please,
do not follow the buses to the locations of the owls or cranes.
This will allow all to enjoy the wildlife resources of the area while
maintaining personal safety and the welfare of the birds as the highest
priorities.
Raptors
of the
Back by popular demand! Take a close-up look at some owls, hawks and falcons
found in Washington, while discussing their habits, habitats and
ways to identify them. Presented by the WSU
Raptor Club, an organization of student and community volunteers committed
to caring for and educating the public about these birds, and Program
Coordinator Alicia Pike.
Are Gray
Whales Ecosystem Sentinels? Lecture
Gray whales undertake one of the longest and best studies migrations of any
mammal, between feeding areas offshore
Alaska
and breeding areas offshore
Mexico. During the past decade of climate
change, gray whales have altered their migration timing and explored new feeding
areas, including Arctic waters over winter and coastal areas of the Pacific Northwest
during summer. Sue Moore, affiliate professor of biology at the University
of
Grouse and Spouse Lecture
Grouse have a variety of mating systems, ranging from monogamy in ptarmigan to
extreme polygamy in sage-grouse. This talk will explore some of the fascinating
aspects of their breeding behavior. Mike Schroeder (aka grouse) has a PhD in wildlife biology and is the
upland bird research scientist for the Washington Department of Fish and
Wildlife. He has conducted research on several species of grouse in
Shrub-steppe Birds and
their Habitats Lecture
To the casual observer, eastern Washington's shrub-steppe might be a featureless and
uninteresting region. These areas actually host a surprising number of unique
birds and other creatures, many closely tied to high quality plant communities.
Over the past 100 years, this landscape has undergone a huge transformation,
first by grazing cattle and sheep, then by irrigated agriculture. Today, only a
small percentage of pristine shrub-steppe remains. Many of the birds tied to
shrub-steppe have declined. Naturalist Andy
Stepniewski has explored the shrub-steppe for nearly 30 years. He surveyed
birds on the Wahluke Slope and the Yakima
Training
Center. In this illustrated talk, Andy will take you
into the shrub-steppe and explain its mosaic of
habitats. His publication, “The Birds of Yakima County,” will be available
for sale/signing during the Author's Forum.
Fish Stories from the
Tremendous efforts are being expended to protect and restore various fish
populations in the upper Columbia
system, from the Wenatchee
River to the
Okanogan. Ken
Bevis, who has worked in the natural resources field since 1981, will
highlight the life histories of a few important species, outline some of the
controversies and describe a few recovery projects in this great landscape. Ken
holds a bachelor’s degree in Forestry and Wildlife from VA Tech and a
master’s degree in biology from Central
Authors’ Forum Continues…
NEW:
Bryology Field Trip
4:00 - 6:00 PM - Free of Charge
Judy Harpel will lead this van-trip to appropriate areas near Royal Lake to
examine some of the mosses, "worts" and associated components of the
biotic crust discussed in her noon lecture. Expect some walking over
uneven ground but with cranes flying over as a distraction.
Pygmy
Rabbits: Not Just Another Small
Rabbit Lecture
Pygmy rabbits in Oregon and
Washington are a species of concern because of
declining populations and habitat loss occurring throughout their range.
This talk will explore their identifying characteristics, habitat
requirements, threats to their habitat and the reintroduction efforts being
conducted in Washington State. Jennifer
Meisel is a wildlife biologist at the Mid Columbia River Refuge Complex in Richland.
She studied pygmy rabbit habitat for her master’s degree from Oregon
State
Beneficial Insects of the
Shrub-steppe Lecture
Dr. Bob Gillespie is an entomologist and ecologist by vocation and avocation, with an
education that includes a doctorate degree in biology (with a specialty in
insect and plant ecology) from
Sex, Lies and
Videotape: the Secret Reproductive Strategies of Female Birds Lecture
Ornithologists have long been interested in the reproductive and mating
strategies of wild birds. Until recently, a good deal of that work has focused
on males, mainly because females didn't seem to do much beyond build the nest
and incubate eggs. Modern methods are now allowing scientists to look more
closely at the behavior of female birds and they have uncovered a number of
surprises. Dr. Mike Webster,
associate professor of biology in
Pullman, will discuss these fascinating
behaviors, highlighting research conducted at
The Sandhill Cranes of
Despite being the world's most abundant crane species, the sandhill crane is
endangered in our state. Find out how many cranes are in the state, where they
breed (and migrate) and what conservation efforts are in place to encourage
their success. Jessica
Stocking has worked with all 15 species of crane, under the guidance of the
International Crane Foundation in Wisconsin. Sandhill crane studies brought her
across the country (by way of
Audubon Washington’s
Important Bird Areas Program Lecture
Don McIvor, science coordinator for
Audubon Washington, will discuss the Important Bird Areas Program,
an international effort to conserve birds based on the landscapes critical to
their survival. Come hear about
Burrowing
Owl Tour
So cute and cuddly! Burrowing Owls
are a declining species across the west, but croplands near Othello are blessed
with many of these photogenic little diurnal owls.
Local biologists will lead a short field trip to visit a Burrowing Owl
nesting area north or east of town. Please,
do not follow the buses to the locations of the owls or cranes.
This will allow all to enjoy the wildlife resources of the area while
maintaining personal safety and the welfare of the birds as the highest
priorities.
Crane
Viewing Tours
These guided tours will go directly to the best Sandhill Crane feeding areas
where and when they can be their noisiest. The evening feeding period toward
sunset can be spectacular as cranes come and go. An experienced wildlife guide
and a local agricultural expert narrate each tour and answer any questions you
may have. Please be aware if you
plan on attending the banquet, the
“Arctic
Tale” (Held at Reichert’s Showhouse, 130 N Broadway Ave.
)
Following the epic struggle of a tenacious young walrus and polar bear, this
saga of survival amid the rapidly changing Arctic wilderness comes from the
creators of “March of the Penguins” and “An Inconvenient Truth.” Queen
Latifah narrates the life journey of Seela the walrus and Nanu the polar bear,
from birth through maturity and parenthood, where the cycle begins anew and they
pass what they've learned to the next generation. This
special showing will allow you to relax after the field trips.
Banquet
and Silent Auction (Othello
7:30 PM to 9:30 PM
- $25 Per Person 8
Tickets Left
Mike Denny
is the featured Banquet speaker. Mike
will be talking about “Owls of Eastern Washington.”
Look under Featured Speakers to read all about Mike and his lecture.
Feast on Lance
Wells’ culinary delights. Also bid
at our Silent Auction. Look under
Other Festival Activities for more descriptions.
Sunday - March 30, 2008
All Sunday events depart from the
Crane
Festival Photography Tour
This is for people with 35mm SLR digital or film cameras that can be used in
manual modes. You will follow Teri
Pieper out to photograph the wildlife of the area, with an emphasis on lighting
and composition.
This tour led by Doug Schonewald and Jim Danzenbaker will depart from
Othello north to Grant County to visit a variety of dry and wet habitats.
This trip will stop at several birding areas along SR 17 and concentrates
on the
Potholes
and Beezley Hills Birding Tour
Led by Ron Friesz and Brian Bell, this expedition to the shrub-steppe and
wetlands of the Desert Wildlife Areas will target several sagebrush-dependent
species and lingering winter visitors as well as waterbirds and earlier spring
migrants. We expect several raptors,
possibly Long-eared Owl, Say’s Phoebe, and several species of sparrows.
This 7+-hour trip may visit lake areas if time permits, but with limited
facilities be sure to bring food, drink, and warm clothes.
Led by Columbia NWR’s Randy Hill this trip goes through wetland, shrubland,
cliff, lake and cropland for a great variety of habitats. In prior years, this
tour group has seen five owl species, Prairie Falcon, Canyon and Rock Wren,
Say’s Phoebe, 4 species of geese, 4 blackbirds, early migrants and Sandhill
Cranes. This tour is 6 hours in length, so bring food/drink.
Lower
Crab Creek Birding Tour
This tour, led by avid
Wahluke
Slope Birding Tour
Led by Andy and Ellen Stepniewski, this trip will visit the Wahluke Slope,
Hanford Reach National Monument/Saddle Mountain National Wildlife Refuge,
including portions of the closed area, concentrating on shrub-steppe areas, Saddle
Mountain
ridge and its wide-open vistas, and
including a spectacular view of the White Bluffs along the Columbia River.
Sage Sparrow, Loggerhead Shrike, Long-eared Owl and Chukar are good
possibilities. This is a 7 ½+-hour
trip, so don’t forget food and drink.
McNary
National Wildlife Refuge
Tour
Led by FWS Wildlife Biologist Howard Browers and Steve Bouffard, this new tour
will head south by Scooteney Reservoir toward Burbank and Wallula Gap.
The main areas to be visited include McNary headquarters at Burbank
Slough, Casey Pond, and the Walla Walla River Delta, with a loop around
Dodd Road if time permits.
This trip will be loaded with waterbirds, possibly rarer gulls, cranes
along the way going or coming, and a route that should provide a good
opportunity for Ferruginous Hawk and other raptors.
At 7+ hours be sure to bring food, water, and warm clothing in case the
wind picks up.
Crane
and Burrowing Owl Viewing Tour
This tour will take you through some of the best wildlife viewing areas near
Othello, with local guides describing native vegetation, water, farming and the
interactions that have created conditions the Sandhill Cranes and other wildlife
thrive on. Cranes may be seen
feeding in fields and leaving for roosts. It
will end with a search for Burrowing Owls near Othello.
An experienced wildlife guide and a local agricultural expert will
narrate the tour.
Forgotten
Trails Tour
Join Ron Anglin while he takes the group on a walk along an ancient trail and
points out sites of historical and geological interest.
This tour will involve a short hike along a primitive trail.
Participants should be in good physical condition, wear appropriate shoes
and bring along water and food.
Geology
Road Trip of the Drumheller Channels Tour
Led by Mark Amara, this version of the Saturday Missoula Floods and Scablands
tour takes you through the Drumheller Channels National Natural Landmark
pointing out the rich geologic features to be seen. There will be limited or no
facilities during this trip, so please plan accordingly.
Potholes
Reservoir Boat Birding Trip
Space is limited to 8 participants, so register early! Come
join the adventure of the Festival. This boat trip explores what birdlife occurs
in early spring on Potholes Reservoir. This is a treasure hunt because we
don’t know what wildlife might be found. Occurring on Friday and Sunday of the
Festival and departing from MarDon Resort. Map to Resort will be supplied with
your registration confirmation.
Other Festival Activities
Novelties
Don’t forget to purchase your commemorative 2008 Sandhill Crane Festival
items. Items being sold are
T-shirts, sweatshirts, hats, pins, patches, coffee mugs and blown-glass crane
earrings. Items will be sold
throughout the Festival.
Art
Contest – Saturday Only
All entries must feature nature and/or wildlife of the
Breakfast,
Lunch and Snacks – Saturday and Sunday (with pre-registration orders) Only
The Othello Music Boosters will provide food service at the High School. A
continental breakfast consisting of pastries, muffins, juice, coffee and hot
chocolate will be served early morning. German dogs, hot dogs, pizza pockets,
burritos, nachos and sandwiches will be served for lunch. Snacks, soft drinks
and bottled water will be available throughout the day. Proceeds will help
support grades 5-12 band and choir programs as well as the Othello High School
ASB. Box lunches will be available on Saturday and Sunday (pre-registration
required for Sunday) for $7.00. The box lunch will include a meat sandwich,
chips, dessert and juice or water. You may pre-order a box lunch on the
registration form. Boxed lunches are no longer
being accepted pre-paid. You may order the day of the Festival at the
Music Boosters.
Othello
Rotary Club Breakfast – Saturday Only
The Othello Rotary Club will be offering pancakes, scrambled eggs, sausage
links, coffee and juice for breakfast Saturday morning.
It will be held at the Othello
Exhibitors
and Vendors – Saturday Only
Festival attendees will have the opportunity to view wildlife and Columbia
Basin related informational exhibits and
commercial displays. Prospective
vendors and exhibitors should contact the Grant Conservation District at (509)
488-2802 for registration information.
Children’s
Programs – Saturday Only
Learning is fun and this year’s children’s programs at the Sandhill Crane
Festival are no exception. Children will enjoy origami, mask making, a variety
of crafts and creative painting projects, a cartoonist and much, much more!
These events are all free to children, with adult paid admission,
attending the Sandhill Crane Festival.
Banquet
and Silent Auction – Saturday Only –
The Othello Sandhill Crane Festival is proud to present Mike Denny “Owls of Eastern Washington.” Lance P. Wells with the
Othello Schools Dining Services is again the official caterer to the 2008
Sandhill Crane Festival. Their award winning staff and chefs will be preparing a
delicious buffet inside the famous ROUTE 66 Food Court. Guests will have an
opportunity to try many tempting taste offerings from Bison
Wellington with bearnaise sauce, Crispy Roast Duck with sweet cherry sauce to
Saku Ahi Tuna with ginger glaze.
Look on the website for the complete menu.
Also bid at our Silent Auction from
Pre
and Post Tours - Saturday -
March 15 DONE
and March 22 FULL
and April 5th
7:30
1 Ticket
All Pre and Post tours leave from the
Columbia National Wildlife Refuge Headquarters - 735 E Main Street
Crane
and Burrowing Owl Viewing Tour
This personal tour will take you through some of the best wildlife viewing areas
near Othello. Cranes may be seen
feeding in fields and leaving for roosts. The
morning tour will end with a search for Burrowing Owls north or east of Othello,
while the evening tour will start with a search for owls.
An experienced wildlife guide will narrate the tour.
*** As always,
please check our website for updates and availability of tours ***