Grimes Creek Headwaters - Bird Hike & Wildlife Camera Volunteer Opportunity

Registration is required to attend this event, as space is limited. Individuals on the waitlist will be contacted with instructions if a spot becomes available. Only those who have completed Eventbrite registration and received a confirmation email may attend.

Join Golden Eagle Audubon for a day of exploration and discovery in a stunning mountain habitat deep in the Boise National Forest above Grimes Creek, all above 6,000 feet elevation. This remote, biodiverse area sits at the center of an active conservation issue — a proposed exploratory open pit mine makes species documentation here especially timely and meaningful.

Rich Rusnak, who has already documented 48 bird species in the area, will lead a birding hike through coniferous forest and riparian habitat, sharing his knowledge of the wildlife and landscape along the way. Come learn about the ecology of this remarkable place, the birds that call it home, and what's at stake.

The trip is Saturday, June 6 — an all-day outing. For those who would like to do a little more, we also have a volunteer opportunity to help maintain trail cameras as part of our ongoing species documentation effort. It's a wonderful way to contribute meaningful field work in a place that truly needs it.

The ongoing commitment involves 1-2 visits per year (spring and fall) to collect memory cards, replace batteries, clear vegetation around cameras, and reposition them for optimal coverage. The goal is documenting rare and sensitive mammal and bird species in an area rich with migratory nesting passerines and more.

If you're interested in participating in this important conservation project, please sign up and you will be contacted to discuss further details.

Accessibility: Expect a moderate level of exertion hiking at altitude on varied mountain terrain. The day consists of two hikes — one on steep terrain of approximately one mile and 800 feet elevation gain, and another on uneven unpaved terrain of approximately three miles — with extended periods of walking and standing throughout. All hiking is above 6,000 feet elevation on old forest roads, totaling 5-6 miles. Participants should be confident, experienced hikers. Please note that certain tasks associated with this project, including the placement and setup of trail cameras, require the ability to visually assess surroundings and equipment in field conditions. Field Trip Leaders will help with bird identification and questions, but are not able to provide one-on-one physical or navigational assistance on our trips. This trip is not encouraged for those with limited mobility. Participants are always welcome to arrange any assistance they may need in the field.

Birding Skill Level: All levels of birders welcome, but you may enjoy your time more if you have some experience. Binoculars will be available to borrow if needed.

Age: Participants must be 18 and older.

Time: 8:00am - 5:00pm. Check-in is at 7:45 am. We will meet near Pioneerville and caravan further from there. Please arrive at check-in, as we will leave promptly at 8:00am.

: Please check your email for updates in case anything changes.

Space on this caravanning trip is limited, and attendees must be willing to commit to the ongoing camera work.

This trip is limited to 4 cars, and carpooling is required. High-clearance vehicles are required to reach the site. Passengers are expected to contribute toward gas as a courtesy to drivers.

What to Bring: Layers for Weather, sun protection, insect repellant, closed-toe shoes, binoculars, a scope if you have one, water, lunch, snacks as needed, and an auto with a full tank of gas. Long sleeves, work gloves, and good hiking boots are recommended for camera installation. No children or dogs please.

Restroom Availability: Restrooms will not be available.

Inclement Weather: If there is an unhealthy AQI, steady precipitation forecast, or the trails are not suitable for ethical passage, the trip may be cancelled.

Contact Information: Please contact Program and Volunteer Coordinator, Elizabeth, at [email protected].

Cancellation Policy: If your plans change, please cancel your ticket on Eventbrite or contact the field trip leader listed above. Participants who miss two trips without advance notice may be suspended from registering for three months. Donations made during registration are non-refundable. Thanks for your understanding!

Western Wood-pewee photo by Dondi Black

Leader Rich Rusnack

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