Tuesday, May 24, 2011

Black Rock Rendezvous

Join Friends of Nevada Wilderness, Friends of Black Rock-High Rock, and Nevada Outdoor School for the seventh annual Black Rock Rendezvous, a family-friendly camping weekend in the Black Rock National Conservation Area from May 27-30!

Participants will have a variety of chances to explore the Black Rock Desert and also participate in restoration projects in the conservation area. There will be a self-guided geocaching tour, and guided tours to Fly Geyser, hot springs, and along the Emigrant Trail. Talks and workshops include “Using GIS & GPS,” “Map, Compass, and Ham radio skills,” and “Ghost Towns and Mining in the Black Rock” along with a discussion on Paiute culture.

Restoration projects include barrier extension, spring water monitoring, and road rehab.

The annual Dutch Oven Cook-Off is held on Saturday night, with prizes for first place and runner-up in entrée and dessert categories. Participants have approximately two hours to create their Dutch oven masterpiece before the 5-member judging panel evaluates their culinary creation.

Friends of Black Rock-High Rock will also be hosting a raffle on Saturday night – prizes include tickets to Burning Man, gear from Sportsman’s Warehouse, and other prizes from area retailers and supporters.

Black Rock Rendezvous Kids' Camp, held on Saturday and Sunday and hosted by Nevada Outdoor School, is an opportunity for children ages five through twelve to learn about the Black Rock Conservation Area by participating in fun activities such as hikes, crafts, games, and educational lessons while adults take part in service projects and workshops throughout the day. 

For admission pricing, schedule, prizes, and cook-off guidelines, please visit www.BlackRockRendezvous.com.

Tuesday, May 3, 2011

Spring Wings Birding Festival - Fallon, Nevada

Come join the migration celebration May 13-15 with Friends of the Stillwater Wildlife Refuge!

Stillwater Marsh by Philip DeManczuk
The Spring Wings Bird Festival introduces the connection between all aspects of the Lahontan Valley: habitat, wildlife, history, humans, and how the community works together to protect and preserve natural resources.

Guided tours and events galore, including a Friday night hawk presentation, a rehabilitated raptor release, songbird tour, and Wood duckling banding! Check out http://springwingsbirdfestival.blogspot.com/p/tour-descriptions.html for more details.