Let's Go PLIRDING! MOT

Plirding—picking up litter while birding—offers a meaningful way to enjoy birds while actively caring for their habitat. Inspired by Ray Brown’s Talkin’ Birds initiative, these ongoing walks blend observation, stewardship, and community connection. Each gathering reinforces how small, collective actions can create healthier parks for wildlife and people alike.

Tasha Messer

DeKalb County RPCA Park Naturalist

Talkin’ Birds Ambassador

This program will be held rain or shine unless conditions are deemed unsafe by DeKalb County Recreation, Parks & Cultural Affairs (RPCA).

Michelle Obama Trail (MOT)

Georgia State University: Perimeter College - Decatur Campus

2901 Clifton Springs Rd, Decatur, GA 30034

Please note that there are no restrooms available on site. Participants are encouraged to plan accordingly prior to arrival.

Time: 9:30 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.

Ongoing

Wear weather-appropriate clothing and sturdy footwear. Bring a refillable water bottle and items that support the activity, such as binoculars (if you own a pair) and gloves. Extra supplies and bird identification assistance will be available onsite.

This program is designed for adults and teens, though participants of all ages are welcome.

Participants will enjoy guided bird observation while removing litter commonly harmful to wildlife, including:

• Fishing line, which poses serious entanglement risks
• Lead tackle or bullets, toxic when ingested directly or indirectly
• Balloons, often mistaken for food by birds and turtles
• Plastic debris, persistent pollution found locally and globally

Together, we’ll model simple, effective stewardship practices while deepening our connection to place.

Moderate walking at a relaxed pace on mostly paved paths, with brief transitions to mixed terrain and frequent stops for observation.

DeKalb County Recreation, Parks & Cultural Affairs is committed to providing inclusive and accessible programs. Reasonable accommodations may be available upon request. To request an accommodation, please contact the program organizer at least 48 hours in advance of the event.

By registering for or attending this program, participants acknowledge that outdoor activities involve inherent risks, including but not limited to uneven terrain, weather conditions, physical exertion, and use of tools. Participation is voluntary, and attendees assume full responsibility for their own safety and well-being.

Participants agree to release, indemnify, and hold harmless DeKalb County Government, the Department of Recreation, Parks & Cultural Affairs (RPCA), its officers, employees, agents, volunteers, and affiliated partners from any claims, injuries, losses, or liabilities arising from participation, except in cases of gross negligence or willful misconduct.

Food or refreshments may occasionally be served or shared. Participants acknowledge that food may contain common allergens and choose to consume any food or beverages at their own risk.

By attending, participants grant permission for DeKalb County RPCA and Park Naturalist–led programs to photograph or record them for educational, promotional, reporting, and documentation purposes across print and digital platforms. Individual image requests cannot be accommodated.

Registration and attendance indicate agreement with the Park Naturalist Program – Volunteer Waiver, Food & Beverage Disclaimer, and Media Release on file with DeKalb County RPCA.

Let’s bird with purpose, care for the parks we love, and keep the joy of plirding growing—together.

~ Naturalist Tasha

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