Hi,

As spring migration gets underway and interest and awareness of birds and
birding in Ohio peaks I would like to remind the community of the
opportunities they have to improve, protect and preserve habitat here in
Ohio.

First and foremost the Friends of Magee Marsh have an effort underway to
rebuild the boardwalk.  That structure is more than 2 decades old.  Before
it was build even the small numbers of people trampled the area, and the
boardwalk has become crucial to protecting the 7 acres that concentrate
birds during migration.  With increased visits due to the growing
popularity of birding and festivals and tourism resulting in several
thousand people utilizing this small space, this is a vital project.  It
will cost several hundred thousand dollars to complete. Please consider
donating the cost of a nights lodging, or even the amount you spend on gas
to this project.  If every birder who utilizes the boardwalk would give $30
the project could be completed.  Unfortunately only a small percentage will
donate so the average contribution needs to be much higher.

Another opportunity is the restoration of Mentor Marsh being done by the
Cleveland Museum of Natural History. Lots of birders utilize the boardwalk
at Wake Robin and this has proven to be one of the best sites in Ohio for
some species.  CMNH is striving to return the marsh to its former greatness
by getting rid of the phragmites, increasing the water flow and open water
and restoring native plants.  Any contribution to the Mentor Marsh fund at
CMNH will go directly to this effort.

Lastly you can purchase an Ohio Wildlife Legacy Stamp offered by ODNR
Division of Wildlife. Many of the areas utilized by birders in Ohio have
been protected and preserved with funds generated via hunting and fishing
licences.  The wildlife legacy stamp provides a way for the birding
community to do their part in the protection and maintenance of the state
wildlife and game areas they utilize so extensively.

Happy Spring

Haans

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