ARIZONA STATE PARKS: For Immediate Release
Managing and conserving Arizona's natural, cultural and recreational resources for the benefit of the people, both in our Parks and through our Partnerships. FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT: Ellen Bilbrey at (602) 542-1996 or (602) 228-8518, or Monica Enriquez at (602) 542-6997. Contact by Email: pio(at)azstateparks.gov
(Phoenix, AZ - March 26, 2008) - The Verde Valley Birding and Nature Festival celebrates nature with workshops and field trips where expert guides take visitors to the area's birding hot spots. The 8th annual event, presented by Arizona State Parks and the Cottonwood Chamber of Commerce, will take place on Thursday, April 24 through Sunday, April 27 at Dead Horse Ranch State Park.
Birding is the fastest growing outdoor recreational hobby in the U.S. today. More than 70 field trips are being offered throughout the 4-day event, many led by nationally recognized and local experts. From the basics to the expert, there are classes and trips that will fit anyone's skills. There will also be geology trips, butterfly and plant walks, photography, an exhibit hall and an opportunity to shop a variety of vendors during the event.
The theme this year is "Cultivating Habitat" as trips feature local wineries and organic farms that practice healthy, alternative growing techniques that conserve natural resources. The keynote program Saturday night is open to the public and features Jeff Schalau from the University of Arizona Cooperative Extension Office speaking on "The Agriculture/Environment Connection: Producing Safe Food, Clean Water & Wildlife Habitat." The program will cost $15. You do not have to register for the festival to attend but it is suggested that you purchase your tickets ahead at the Cottonwood Chamber.
A highlight of the festival will be Nicole Perretta who will offer a special workshop on Friday at 4 p.m. Perretta imitates more than 400 bird calls and has been seen on the "Tonight Show" and the "Ellen Degeneres Show." Family Fun Day will be on Saturday. There will be lots of exciting crafts, activities and special programs just for kids and their families and a beginning bird walk for those who speak Spanish.
"Luxury" trips include the Condor Caper with lunch provided by the world class El Tovar restaurant or the first class train ride on the Verde Canyon Railroad to see the nesting bald eagles. Enjoy a Dutch oven meal after birding at twilight or ride a "Hummer" to Gap Creek.
The $10 registration fee includes park entrance for all four days as well as access to the Exhibit Hall and workshops. There is an additional charge for field trips, guided walks, and seminars. Registration is underway and trips fill quickly. For more information, visit the festival website at www.birdyverde.org where you can register online. Registration can also be made by stopping by the Cottonwood Chamber of Commerce office or by calling (928) 282-2202.
For more information about the event call Dead Horse Ranch State Park at (928) 634-5283. Dead Horse Ranch State Park is located in Cottonwood. With its cottonwood-willow habitat along the Verde Rive, Dead Horse Ranch State Park is the base camp for this event and offers camping facilities, fishing and other amenities for families during this event.
For more information about Arizona State Parks call (602) 542-4174 (outside of the Phoenix metro area call toll-free (800) 285-3703) or visit www.azstateparks.com.
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link to this page:
http://azstateparks.com/press/2008/PR_03-26-08.html
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