Groundbreaking research begun last summer on the state-endangered black-crowned night heron colony at Indian Ridge Marsh will continue this summer. Research is assessing the impact of recreational activity on these birds before the site opens to the public as part of the Calumet Open Space Reserve. The Southeast Environmental Task Force, Department of Environment (Chicago), California State University—Long Beach, and the USDA Forest Service (Evanston) are partners in this project. The project was recently honored with a $50,000 BP Amoco Foundation Leader Award in support of its efforts.

The research will determine the effects of hiking, dog walking and bike riding on nest building, breeding, sleeping and foraging. Data will be collected on how individual birds react to the presence, sound and movement of people, and will help land managers decide how much human activity should be allowed at this site in the future.

Volunteers

Volunteers should have an interest in bird observation, and the ability to participate in recreation events quietly and according to a schedule. A time commitment of 2.5 or 5 hours is required on the first and third Saturdays in June and July. An electrical/photovoltaic consultant is also needed

Fieldwork Internships

Paid internships with competitive hourly rates are also being offered. If you are a current high school or college student, or a graduating student who is going on to college or graduate school, you can get paid to work in this research project.

Starting in May 2005 and continuing through mid-August, you must be able to work a flexible 30-hour week. You should be in good health and physical condition, have reliable transportation, references, and be willing to work outdoors all summer and in marshy conditions (wet).

Natural resource, environmental science, or biology majors are preferred, but the right candidates will be trained.

For more information on either of these opportunities, or to apply or volunteer, contact Cherie LeBlanc, USDA Forest Service, by phone (847-866-9311, ext 12) or email (cleblanc@fs.fed.us).

Submitted by Gail Goldberger