Local Conservation Group Prepares to Host Annual Snowshoe Event
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The following is a press release from Watershed Guardians:
POCATELLO — Watershed Guardians will hold its fifth annual census of beavers in the Portneuf River watershed, BeaverCount 2016. BeaverCount is a free, winter exploration of our watershed where participants help count beavers and record beaver activity while learning winter exploration skills.
For beginners the experience begins on Jan. 30 at 10 a.m. at the Mink Creek Group site located in the Caribou-Targhee National Forest. There, participants will learn of the past, present and future of beavers in our region.
Participants at the event will also learn skills such how to dress for winter, primitive navigation, snowshoeing and how to spot active beaver colonies. Lunch will be provided at the event. Those who have attended training in the past do not need to attend this year’s training to participate in the census.
The following Saturday Feb. 6, trained participants will meet at the Bannock Guard Station to register, get zone assignments and head into the watershed. From there, teams will disperse into the watershed on roads, trails and off-trail in the Mink Creek in Pocatello, Jackson Creek in Inkom, or elsewhere within the Portneuf River watershed.
The event has hourly, staggered starts at 9, 10 and 11 a.m. depending on participants’ skill level.
Watershed Guardians will provide the snowshoes on both days so participants can explore the beautiful winter wonderlands that may have beaver. The information gathered will aid Watershed Guardians in understanding what is needed to conserve and appreciate the North American beaver.
Prizes will be given for best team name, best photo and best story about the count.
For more information on the event visit the Watershed Guardian website. To help with food, car-pooling, logistics or, to donate, contact Mike at (208) 232-0825, mike@watershedguardians.org.