In the Klamath Basin, the strong community spirit of its rural towns shines through. Residents, many of whom rely on the land for their livelihoods, often align closely with the goals of environmental education: nurturing stewardship of our natural and cultural heritage to ensure future generations can enjoy these treasures too.
For the past 25 years, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, the City of Klamath Falls, and community partners have come together to celebrate Klamath Falls Migratory Bird Day at Veterans Park. This year's 25th annual event, scheduled for Saturday, May 17th, from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM, aims to connect the communities of the Klamath Basin to the natural wonders surrounding them, highlighting the critical need to conserve migratory birds and their habitats.
The History of International Migratory Bird Day
The concept of International Migratory Bird Day (IMBD) was initiated in 1993 by the Smithsonian Migratory Bird Center and is now celebrated by many communities worldwide. This educational campaign engages people in bird conservation and emphasizes the interconnectedness of ecosystems.
Volunteers Make It Happen
The success of such programs relies heavily on the invaluable support from volunteers, land management employees, and community partners. These contributors are essential in providing hands-on educational activities, live music, and other enriching experiences.
If you are interested in volunteering, please contact the Tule Lake National Wildlife Refuge Complex. Whether your interest is hands-on with younger visitors at activity tables, helping with setup and tear-down, or providing expertise on birds and habitats — there's a way to be part of this anniversary milestone.
Why It Matters
The Klamath Basin sits along the Pacific Flyway — one of the most important migratory corridors in North America. Each spring, millions of birds pass through the wetlands here on their journey north, and many stop to nest in the basin's complex of refuges. Bird Day is the moment each year when the community gets to celebrate that fact, learn what's happening on the refuges, and reconnect with the land that makes the Klamath Basin extraordinary.