Learn about birds and butterflies from experts on Saturday hikes

MUSHROOM LECTURE:
A mushroom lecture last month drew a crowd to Horsetown-Clear Creek Preserve. Several nature tours are scheduled this spring.

The line-up of Saturday morning tours of wildlife, rocks and fauna along Clear Creek was announced this month by the Horsetown-Clear Creek Preserve (HCCP). Each walk is led by experts in topics ranging from birds to butterflies to geology to plants and natural history.

The first nature walk on March 28 led by HCCP board member Frank Kosko is scheduled to cover a wide variety of topics about the preserve's 27 acres. Kosko said he planned a "relatively short hike" to discuss the early mining history of the area as well as the restoration work done by agencies to return the salmon run to the creek.

Children are welcome to all events. Unless otherwise noted, all events begin at the HCCP parking area on Clear Creek Road, about seven miles west of highway 273. The parking lot is immediately west of the Clear Creek Bridge on the south side of the road. For further information, call 241-2026.

Coming events at Horsetown-Clear Creek Preserve

March 28, 9 a.m. - Spring Natural History Walk

Enjoy a walk on the Preserve with Frank Kosko, Horsetown-Clear Creek Board member, whose areas of interest include natural history, native plants, and geology. Enjoy bird's eye views of the restoration along lower Clear Creek and a rich mix of nature facts served up with fresh air, natural beauty and a healthy dose of walking. Bring friends, walking shoes, and water for this fascinating moderate walk.

April 4, 10 a.m. - Finding Your Way, Navigating with GPS

GPS is the magic little instrument that contacts satellites in space to tell you exactly where you are walking or riding. The real magic is this rare opportunity to share a couple of hours with John Wilson, GPS consultant and teacher. This presentation will be understandable and fascinating, and should pique the curiosity of all - a rare chance to see how the GPS works.

April 25, 8 a.m. - Early Bird Watchers

Enjoy early morning bird watching with local expert Barbara Peck. Barbara has a Masters in Wildlife Biology and Ecology. She will point out birds and fascinate us with information about them. Bring your curiosity and (if possible) binoculars.

April 25, 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. - Whole Earth Festival and Watershed Festival

Join us at Redding City Hall & Sculpture Park for this annual event organized in part by our friends at the Western Shasta Resource Conservation District. For more information see www.seancplanet.org or contact Leslie Bryan at the WSRCD 365-7332 X 215 or leslie@westernshastarcd.org. It will be a fun and educational event. Music and food.

May 2, 10 a.m. - Native Plant Identification and Uses

Join native Wintu Ted Dawson on a spring walk while he locates, identifies, and explains medicinal and general uses of native plants. Ted has been a consultant and provided technical support at Turtle Bay Museum for Native American exhibits. Today's presentation will include making herbal remedies.

May 16, 10 a.m. - Geology

National Park Service geologist, Brian Rasmussen, will take us on an easy two-mile stroll along old roads and trails in

Horsetown-Clear Creek Preserve. Brian has a special interest in volcanology as well as general geology. Enjoy exercise and fresh air while you learn about the rocky history of the local area.

Directions: Meet at the yellow steel gate, on the south side of Clear Creek Road, about 6 miles west of highway 273.

May 30, 10 a.m. - Butterfly Bonanza

Join butterfly expert Chris Gray on a walk in search of local butterflies and the plants that sustain them. A great combination: a springtime stroll spiced up with intriguing facts and anecdotes about a beautiful creature.

June 14, 10 a.m. - Bugs on the Bottom: A Look at Stream-bottom Ecology in Clear Creek

Wade the stream with Shasta College instructor Morgan Hannaford, PhD - or watch from shore - as he gathers strange and fascinating insects from their underwater homes. Dr. Hannaford has a passion for teaching all ages, from kindergartners to retirees, and the topic is intriguing. Don't miss this family event. Bring sneakers if you want to wade.