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Presentations and Events
Price
$1.50 from each ticket will be donated to
the Wild Voices for Kids educational programs and
an additional $1.50 from each ticket will be used to fund a Wings
Over the Rockies Scholarship. Ticket revenue covers 62% of Wings
Festival costs. The balance of the costs is covered by
fundraising, donations and advertising
Children: under 6 are FREE
Students: 6 – 18 half price for hikes and $5.00 for
presentations
Wings Week Events 2009
Digging
Water with the
2008 David Thompson Brigade
Ross MacDonald &
Eloise Meredith
For 9 weeks in 2008, Invermere residents Ross
MacDonald and Eloise Meredith paddled across four provinces, three
drainages and two centuries of history in a 3,300 kilometre trek of 8
metre replica North Canoes. By far the biggest event to date of the
sprawling David Thompson Bicentennial the 2008 Thompson Brigade
retraced the river highways from the Rocky Mountains to Lake Superior
in a salute to Thompson’s 1808 trip to announce his successful
establishment of the Columbia River fur trade. Through stories, photos,
video and original sketches Ross and Eloise will share how the brigade
brought together a diverse group of over 300 paddlers and 40
communities to rediscover how waterways shaped the natural and human
history and the culture we enjoy today in Canada. The brigade was a
follow up to 2007's Columbia River Brigade. Additional brigades are
planned for 2009 and 2010.
Mon May 4 at 7:00 pm
Pynelogs Cultural Centre
MAX # 90
Cost: $7.00 pm
Birds
and the Weather
Bill Thompson
Meteorological variables
influence the
flight behavior of birds. For example, some species fly at higher
altitudes than others. Also, within some soaring species the flight
altitude varies with the season and time of day. The presentation will
explain how flight behavior is influenced by temperature, humidity,
wind and sky cover. It will be illustrated with local applications. The
talk will end with a brief display of weather radar images from
elsewhere in North America that illustrate foraging and migratory
patterns. The presentation will be made from the point of view of a
meteorologist.
Tue May 5, starting at 7 pm
Pynelogs Cultural Centre
MAX # 90
Cost: $7.00 for the entire evening. Includes two presentations.
The Wetlands & Wildlife of the Creston Valley: A
Visual Delight
Carla Haegle
The Creston Valley Wildlife
Management
Area is a 17,000-acre wetland habitat set aside by provincial
legislation under the Creston Valley Wildlife Act in 1968. It is a
managed wetland with a system of dikes, control structures and pumps
creating a series of managed wetland compartments to manage flood and
drought cycles. The system is designed to enhance wildlife production
and to prevent the loss of wildlife use that would otherwise occur
because of changed management of the Kootenay River system for
hydroelectric power generation and flood control. The CVWMA is a rich
biologically diverse area. In 1994, it was designated as a wetland of
international importance (Ramsar site) and is also designated as an
internationally Important Bird Area and a nationally Important
Amphibian and Reptile Area. Over 286 species of birds, 57 species of
mammals and 29 species of fish, reptiles and amphibians call the area
home.
Through photos and interpretation, the wetland will be brought to life,
showcasing the wide range of wildlife that use the area, from migrating
waterfowl to American white pelicans and western grebes, as well as the
management practices used to keep the wetland functioning. The future
and new directions for the CVWMA will also be highlighted.
Tue May 5, starting at 8:15
Pynelogs Cultural Centre
MAX # 90
Cost: $7.00 included in the Birds and Weather presentation at 7pm.
Never
A Dull Moment with Robin
Robin Tapley
Driven by curiosity and a
passion for adventure, Robin Tapley seeks to explore the diversity of
the nature world and create unique ways to share this with others. An
expedition leader to Antarctica and the Galapagos Islands, Nature
Trails creator and driving force, Robin has tried to meld his
experiences with the many opportunities for adventure found right in
our backyard. Robin will offer a presentation on his adventures
around the world, including birding, hiking, exploring and discovering
some of the unique and distant places he has travelled to. His feature
destinations will include Antarctica, Galapagos Islands, Colombia,
Ecuador and Madagascar. Wrapped up in all this will be how he actually
got started in this business. During a
study in Northern Ontario while examining Bald Eagles he realized his
goal. It has
evolved into an opportunity that has taken him around the world in
pursuit of birds and adventure. This presentation includes birding in
the drug fields of Colombia (a great story, but no pictures allowed) to
riding 60 to 70 foot waves on the Drake Sea in search of the great sea
birds talked about by ancient explorers.
Wed May 6 at 7 pm
Pynelogs Cultural Centre
MAX # 90
Cost: $7.00
Western BBQ at Nipika Mountain
Resort
Steaks, baked potatoes,
salads, mixed veggies, and vegetarian options served at the authentic
Kicking Horse Barn. This party night will include a great western meal
with music, a presentation with Dave Quinn, & bonfire presentations
by the Nipika and Parks Canada Naturalists.
Thu May 7 at 6:30 pm
Nipika Mountain Resort
BBQ - 6:30 pm
Roadless & Priceless Presentation - 7:30pm
MAX # 100
Cost for the evening $30.00/person, includes BBQ & Presentation
with Dave Quinn
How to get to Nipika:
Nipika is located at 9200
Settlers Road (14 km off Hwy. 93 between Radium Hot Springs, B.C. (32
km) and Banff, Alberta (114 km). Follow the signs on Settlers Road.
Please note that on weekdays you will encounter truck traffic on
Settlers Road, so drive with caution!
Nipika Mountain Resort welcomes birders and wildlife enthusiasts to the
13th Annual Wings Over the Rockies Bird Festival. Stay three nights at
Nipika Mountain Resort at the regular seasonal price and get the fourth
night compliments of us! For rates and information and to check
availability & book directly online go to www.nipika.com or contact
us toll free at 1-877-647-4525.
Roadless
and Priceless: The Last Wilderness Areas in the Southern Rocky and
Columbia Mountains
Dave Quinn
Join presenter Dave Quinn for
a visual exploration of some of the last truly wild landscapes of the
southern Rocky and Columbia Mountains. The David Thompson Heritage
Lands in the Upper Wood River, the Upper Incommapleux River, the West
Arm region, Mallandaine Creek, and Stockdale Creek are some of the last
unroaded, undeveloped landscapes in the region, outside of our
parks. This presentation will celebrate these last wild lands,
and begin a discussion around the value of unroaded wilderness areas
to wildlife and society.
Thu May 7 at 6:30 pm
Nipika Mountain Resort
BBQ - 6:30 pm
Roadless & Priceless Presentation - 7:30pm
MAX # 100
Cost for the evening $30.00/person, includes BBQ & Presentation
with Dave Quinn
The Bald Eagle Success Story:
From Vermin to Treasured Icon
David Hancock
David Hancock, biologist,
filmmaker and author, has followed the bald eagle's plight and success
from the mid 1950s to today and has plotted this bird’s
incredible success. In the early 1960s only 3 pairs nested in
the Greater Vancouver area -- today he has located over 250 nests and
another 100 probably exist. From the species being bountied -
$2.00 was paid in Alaska on over 111,000 pairs of feet - to today
where even the natives need a permit to possess an eagle, the bird has
become an icon of the success of our environments.
The power point presentation will take viewers on a review of this
bird’s magnificent biology to how today’s eagles, bears and
orcas, the great apex predators of the world, have become the flagship
of Ecotourism.
Fri, May 8 at 7:00 pm
Pynelogs Cultural Centre
MAX # 90
Cost: $7.00
Bird House Art Show - Viewers
Choice Awards Celebration
Build
A House for Community Birds Workshop end result will be a
visual village of birdhouses featured at Pynelogs Cultural Centre.
Join us to present the Viewers Choice Awards for the best
decorated birdhouses in two categories:
1. 100% recycled material used to decorate.
2. Theme is natural landscapes, including design, and/or colour
and/or materials
After the Festival, all birdhouses will be donated for distribution
around the community, such as the Community Greenhouse and the
Botanical Gardens at Kinsmen Beach.
Fri, May 8 at
9:00 pm
Pynelogs Cultural Centre
13th
Anniversary Gala Banquet & Keynote
A gala complete with fabulous food, live and silent auction, keynote
presentation and a beak full of fun!!
The World Needs More Birders
Dick Cannings
Birds are the ideal window on the health of our
world. There are hundreds of kinds, each adapted to a different
set of environmental factors. And we can count them--they are
active during the day, are brightly coloured, each species different,
and they have distinctive calls and songs. We not only can count
them, we do count them--thousands of birders across the country, tens
of thousands across the continent are out every day watching their
favourite subjects. With all this talent and enthusiasm it makes
sense that conservation biologists around the world are turning to
birders for the answers. How many robins are there? Are
there more bluebirds around now than there were 30 years ago? How
many swallows have disappeared in the last decade? There are so
many ways birders can get involved in finding these answers--Christmas
Bird Counts, Breeding Bird Surveys, eBird, and now the British Columbia
Breeding Bird Atlas.
Saturday May 9th
6:00 pm – Refreshments
6:45 pm – Dinner
7:45 pm – Moose-terpiece Theatre by Parks Canada's Mountain W.I.T.
8:00 pm - Silent Auction
8:15 pm – Live Auction
9:00 pm – Keynote by Dick Cannings
Eagle Ranch Golf Clubhouse
MAX # 130
Cost: $70.00. A tax receipt is issued for a portion of the ticket.
Hikes & Field Trips:
Each hike
is rated as follows:
U – Undemanding, I = Intermediate, C = Challenging
Wings Group Sizes - We want just small flocks! We restrict many of our
hikes numbers to
15 - 20 to limit the impact and protect the environment; this ensures
that you have a safe and quality experience.
Children: under 6 are FREE
Students: 6-18 half price for hikes and
$5.00 for presentations
Dawn Chorus - Randy Hopkins (U)
Rise and Shine and greet the day with the BIRDS around Pynelogs
Cultural Centre and Dorothy Lake, near the shore of Lake Windermere,
and perhaps pick up a new bird call or two. Wear warm
clothing. One Hour.
Mon May 4, Thu May 7 &
Fri May 8 from 6 to 7 am
MEET: Pynelogs Cultural
Centre
MAX: 16
Cost: $5.00
Wetlands Discovery (U)
Join local enthusiasts and birders for a morning exploring the Columbia
Wetlands, the internationally-recognized wetland with Ramsar
designation. The event includes a short nature walk to the Columbia
River, bird-viewing stations and a scenic Columbia Valley Wetlands
overlook.
Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu
& Fri from 7:30am – 10:30am
MEET: Radium Esso
MAX # 16
Cost $10.00
Moberly
Marsh Meander
– Ellen Zimmerman (I)
Enjoy an early morning walk across the dikes that criss-cross Moberley
Marsh
just south of Golden, within Burges and James Gadsden Provincial
Park. Bird lover Ellen Zimmerman will share with you one of her
favourite places and the many birds, and if lucky, wildlife visitors
and
residents.
Mon. May 4 from 7:30 am -
11 am
MEET: College of the
Rockies Parking Lot, Golden (to carpool)
MAX # 16
Cost $10.00
Dabbling With Ducks - Shelagh
Wrazej (I)
For over 10 years biologist Shelagh Wrazej has been conducting Breeding
Waterfowl Surveys in the Columbia Valley as part of an international
study on waterfowl breeding patterns and routes for the Canadian
Wildlife Service. Join Shelagh and become duck ID specialists as well
as get insight into their love life. After, you will be able to weed
out the residents from the 'tourists' (ducks that is… ).
Mon May 4 from 7:30am -
9:30am
MEET: Kinsmen Beach
parking lot, next to Pynelogs Cultural Centre, to car pool.
Watch for birds and Wings signs.
MAX # 16
Cost $10.00
Harlequin Adventure
- Randy
Hopkins (U)
Join Randy on a drive up Toby Creek to spot the elusive Harlequin Duck.
Mon May 4 from 8am - 11am
MEET: Kinsmen Beach
parking lot, next to Pynelogs Cultural Centre, to car pool.
Watch for birds
and Wings signs.
MAX # 16
Cost $10.00
Columbia River
Paddle - Lyle Wilson (I)
Full-day guided wildlife viewing tours by kayak or canoe. Come and
explore the world-famous Columbia River and wetlands and improve your
kayak or canoe skills, while learning from our naturalists. No prior
canoe or kayaking experience is required. A delicious shore lunch is
provided and a moderate level of fitness is beneficial to fully enjoy
the experience. Kids must be six years old to join and an adult must
accompany children under 12.
Mon May 4 from 9 am
– 4 pm
MEET: Columbia River
Outfitters (south side of Athalmer Bridge)
MAX # 15
Cost $60.00/ person,
includes canoe/kayak, PFD & lunch
The Canal at Canal
Flats (I)
Hike along the old canal remains at the edge of town. See where the
riverboats (tried to) pass through and learn why Bailie Grohman’s
grand scheme failed.
Mon May 4 from 9 am - noon
MEET: Canal Flats
Municipal Office, 8853 Grainger Rd., Canal Flats
MAX # 20
Cost $10.00
Ktunaxa Trails - Lillian Rose (I)
Take a tour of the EXPANDED First Nations exhibit at the Visitor Centre
in Radium. Then venture further afield on an epic journey of the
Ktunaxa. You will carpool to the Fairmont area and explore the
East Columbia, while Lillian provides historical and archaeological
information along the way. The latter part is a
“destination oriented” hike where sturdy shoes are required.
Mon May 4 & Wed May 6
from 9:00 am – 2 pm
MEET: Radium Visitor
Centre
MAX # 16
Cost $10.00
Our Community Greenhouse Is Ready To Fly (U)
Lin Steedman
Join Lin Steedman, Community Greenhouse Educator and Coordinator for an
interactive tour and talk of our new leading-edge facility. Learn about
the low energy use, solar heated, water conserving 30 000 sq ft
educational building. The Community Greenhouse is operated by the
Columbia Valley Botanical Gardens and Center for Sustainable Living
(CVBG/CSL) at the David Thompson Secondary School. The Community
Greenhouse addresses issues of climate change, energy, water and
resource conservation, regional ecosystem and biodiversity
conservation, food security and the decline in agriculture in our
communities and region.
Lin will discuss the importance of the Community Greenhouse and
its role in educating our community on such an urgent topic as
our food supply. By
expanding knowledge and developing more farmers, our food system has
more capacity to foster food security and sustainability. Come out to
learn more about what the Community Greenhouse has to offer and how you
can benefit from it.
You will also get a lesson on seeding and will get the opportunity to
seed lettuce or a herb of your choice to take home with you at the end
of the session
May 4th from noon –
2 pm
Meet: Community
Greenhouse. Located on the southwest corner of DTSS, at the service
entrance below the running track.
MAX # 20
Cost $10.00
The Nature of the Natural Hot Springs (I)
Long before European explorers discovered the ‘Land of Smoking
Waters’ in the early 1800s, the property on which Fairmont Hot
Springs resides had been a very special place for local First Nations.
Presently, people still come to heal, meditate, relax and have their
bodies restored. But where does the water come from? Join Fairmont Hot
Springs Resort’s Eco-Adventures Team on an interpretive tour to
discover the natural and cultural history of Fairmont Hot
Springs. Bring bathing suit to soak in the hot pools after the
hike (additional $10 pool admission)
Mon May 4 & Sat May 9
from 2 pm to 4 pm
MEET: Fairmont Hot
Springs Resort Lodge (front lobby)
MAX: 12
Cost: $10.00
Wetlands Paddle
with Randy
Hopkins (I)
Experience the wetlands by canoe/kayak, guided by Randy Hopkins, local
birder and man of many talents. See the wetlands from a bird's
point of view, discover what they see, eat and feel, who their
predators are, where they nest, rest or play…
Basic paddling experience necessary.
Tue May 5 from 7:30 am
– 10:30 am
MEET: Columbia River
Outfitters (south side of Athalmer Bridge)
MAX # 20
Cost $25.00, includes
canoe/kayak & PFD
Windermere to
Canal Flats – Howard
Heffler (I)
Explore various hotspots. Go for the Vaux’s Swift and the Lewis
Woodpecker. Bird Canal Flats woods and water. Find the source of the
Columbia River. Afternoon session will begin with foot tour of historic
canal area followed by birding back to Windermere. (Those staying for
afternoon should bring outdoor lunch.)
Tuesday May 5 from 8 am -
noon & noon – 4:00 (afternoon optional)
MEET: Black Forest
Restaurant Parking Lot
MAX # 16
Cost $10.00
Driving
Tour to
Whiteswan
Join Fairmont Hot Springs Resort’s Eco-Adventure Team for a
scenic drive through Whiteswan Provincial Park and to the Lussier Hot
Springs. We provide the transportation so you are free to keep your
eyes on the beautiful scenery and wildlife. This is a wonderful
opportunity to spot many waterfowl, raptor, and songbird species.
During the tour we make many stops for pictures, short walks,
interpretive stories, and even a dip in the wilderness at Lussier Hot
Springs. Bring your bathing suit and a lunch for this one-of-a-kind
tour! Sponsored by KOWA Optic
Tues May 5 & Fri May 8
from 830 am – 12:30 pm
MEET: Fairmont Hot
Springs Resort Lodge (front lobby)
MAX: 12
Cost: $10.00
Wild
Wonders of
Windermere – Lake Windermere Project (I)
Tour some of the most special areas on the lake by Pontoon Boat, with
the Lake Windermere Project. Travel to the south end, and gain a new
perspective of the lake while viewing various waterfowl, wildlife and
other species that rely on Lake Windermere. Participants will learn how
water quality is monitored on the lake and factors that affect the
lake’s health. View examples of healthy shorelines that support
fish populations, and portions of Lake Windermere’s shoreline
that have recently been classified as conservation areas. Pfd’s
are provided. Bring water, a snack and dress for the weather.
Tue May 5
9:00am –
12:30pm OR
12:30pm – 4:00pm
MEET: Columbia River
Outfitters (south side of Athalmer Bridge)
MAX # 10
Cost $30.00, includes PFD
Edgewater
Stroll
- Gerry
Wilkie (U)
Join Gerry for approx. 2 hr. stroll through the pleasant Village of
Edgewater, and then venture along the river cliffs with panoramic views
of
the wetlands.
Tue. May 5 from 10am
– noon
MEET: Edgewater
Community Hall
MAX # 16
Cost $10.00
Optic Olympics - Randy Hopkins (U)
Come pit your optics against some of the best binoculars and spotting
scopes on the planet: KOWA Optics products, Canon 10 x 42 L IS, Nikon
10x42 SE, Bausch & Lomb 7x26 Custom, Pentax 10x42 DCF and 20x60
binoculars, and Pentax 65, 80, 100mm; and Tele Vue 60, 76 and 85mm
spotting scopes.
Tue, Thu and Fri from Noon
to 1 pm
MEET: Pynelogs
Cultural Centre
UNLIMITED
Free No Registration
Randy’s
Rambles
- Randy Hopkins (U)
Tour local wetlands, lake, and woodland habitat around Invermere and
Wilmer. Binoculars and spotting scopes provided.
Tue May 5 from 1:00 pm -
4:00 pm
MEET: Kinsmen Beach
parking lot, next to Pynelogs Cultural Centre, to car pool.
Watch for birds
and Wings signs.
MAX # 16
Cost $10.00
Fairmont Hot Springs
Hike (I)
While strolling through some of the unique habitats found on Fairmont
Hot Springs Resort property, let the resort’s Eco-Adventures Team
show you the many fascinating woodland and water species of birds and
other wildlife. On this interpretive hike you will have the chance to
visit beaver dams, decipher animal tracks, and walk along the Columbia
River. Learn about the ecology of the area and about the important role
that beavers and other species play in keeping the natural environment
healthy. Sponsored by KOWA Optics.
Tues May 5 & Wed May 6
from 3 pm to 6 pm
MEET: Fairmont Hot
Springs Resort Lodge (front lobby)
MAX: 12
Cost: $10.00
Tour of the Night Sky
Enjoy time
away from the city lights to discover the mysteries of the universe
with Fairmont Hot Springs Resort's Eco-Adventures Team. Relax and
take in the night's beauty as your guide describes the myths and
legends associated with the starry sky above as well as some the
interesting ways birds depend on the night sky for survival. This
tour is a perfect introduction for anyone curious about the stars,
planets, conservation and constellations. Sponsored by KOWA
Optics.
Tues
May 5 & Fri May 8
from 10:00 pm to 11:30 pm
MEET: Fairmont Hot
Springs Resort Lodge (front lobby)
MAX: 12
Cost:
$10.00
Avian Adventure for
the Avid- Randy Hopkins (I)
All day tour for the keen birder. Randy will visit lakeshores,
wetlands, benchlands, backyards, and even sewage lagoons. Bring lunch,
water, sturdy boots, and plenty of enthusiasm. High-end KOWA
binoculars, Pentax and Tele Vue spotting scopes available. Be
Wings Weather Wise.
Wed May 6 from 7:30 am -
4pm
MEET: Kinsmen Beach
parking lot, next to Pynelogs Cultural Centre, to car pool.
Watch for birds
and Wings signs.
MAX # 16
Cost $10.00
Wetlands Paddle
with Kalista Pruden (I)
Experience the wetlands by canoe/kayak, guided by Kalista, a recent
graduate in Renewable Resource Management. See the wetlands from
a bird's point of view, discover what they see, eat and feel, who their
predators are, where they nest, rest or play…
Basic paddling experience necessary.
Wed May 6 from 7:30 am
– 10:30 am
MEET: Columbia River
Outfitters (south side of Athalmer Bridge)
MAX # 20
Cost $25.00, includes
canoe/kayak & PFD
Source
of the
Columbia River – Colin
Cartwright (U)
Hike to the headwaters! Join local history buff Colin Cartwright
on a walk to explore the springs and canals at the south end of
Columbia Lake – the source of the mighty Columbia River –
rich in history and birds!
Wed May 6 from
9 am - noon
MEET: 4713 Burns Ave
Canal Flats - 4th house on the left from the North entrance to Canal
Flats. Watch for signs.
MAX # 16
Cost $10.00
A Year
in the Life of a
BIGHORN - Alan Dibb & Rick Kubian (C)
Alan and Rick, along with local bird expert, Michael Den Otter will
lead a 2 hour walk from the Village of Radium Hot Springs into the
Redstreak restoration area, a 200 ha site on the edge of Kootenay
National Park in which open forest and grassland habitat has been
restored to provide winter and transitional range for bighorn sheep and
habitat for a variety of red- and blue-listed plants and animals. Learn
about bighorn migration corridors, lambing ranges, mineral licks, and
other critical habitats. Following the steps of bighorn sheep can be
hard work; expect one or two vigorous 20 minute uphill sections on this
walk. Bring water, snack, and wear hiking footwear.
Wed May 6 from 1:00 pm to
3:00 pm
MEET: Village of Radium
Hot Springs Visitor Centre
Max# 18
Cost $10.00
Old
Coach Trail
Interpretive Walk - Ross MacDonald (C)
The Old Coach Greenway trail is located within the provincial Wildlife
Management Area, a component of one of the longest contiguous wetland
systems in North America. The trail offers outstanding views of the
Columbia National Wildlife Area. Natural hoodoos are also visible as
the trail passes through Christmas tree farms and the grasslands that
are habitat to Rocky Mountain Bighorn Sheep, numerous birds and rare
plants. For several years the Ministry of Environment with the Regional
District of East Kootenay has worked with the Columbia River Greenways
Alliance to establish this 9km non-motorized trail to connect the
communities of Dry Gulch and Radium Hot Springs. In the next phases of
work CRGA plans to extend this trail another 10 km, to connect
Invermere to Radium. Learn more about CRGA projects at www.greenways.ca
Wed May 6 from 1:00 pm
– 4:00 pm
MEET: at 12:30 at
Kinsmen Beach parking lot, next to Pynelogs Cultural Centre, to car
pool. Watch for
birds and Wings signs.
MAX # 20
Cost $10.00
Grasslands
‘Restoration in Progress’ - Phil Burk (I)
Join Phil Burk, for a grassland hike over rolling grasslands and
through open forest for a first-hand look at Ecosystem
restoration. Why do we need grassland restoration and methods to
achieve it? Also we may see some of the wildlife that depend on it.
Please dress for a light hike, something wind- and- waterproof.
Some good bird watching may occur, so bring your binoculars and
cameras. Bring snacks and water.
Wednesday May 6: 1pm
- 5pm
MEET: Kinsmen Beach
parking lot, next to Pynelogs Cultural Centre, to car pool.
Watch for birds
and Wings signs.
Max #: 30
Cost $10.00
Bird-a-thon
(U)
Here is a great opportunity to go out for some fun birding. Start
whenever you want and bird for as long as you want! Challenge
yourself to see as many species as you can – you set your target
for the day. This is a superb way to get out and enjoy some birding in
the valley. Prizes for beginner, intermediate, and advanced teams.
Teams of 2-4 people
Thu May 7 from 6:00 am to
3:00 pm, concluding at Nipika for the awards
MAX # Teams of 2-4 people:
NO LIMIT
Cost $10.00
Columbia
River
Paddle with Robin Tapley and
the Fairmont Hot Springs Resort’s Eco-Adventure Team (I)
Discover the gem of the Columbia Valley with Fairmont Hot Springs
Resort’s new Eco-Adventures Team. Enjoy the fantastic landscape
which includes panoramic views of snow-capped mountains, eagles,
ospreys, mule deer, and fish; all while learning about the importance
of wetlands for humans and wildlife. This is a great opportunity for
anyone (beginner to expert) to enjoy nature at its best. This is an
interpretive tour that involves basic instruction to kayaking.
Sponsored by KOWA Optics.
Thu May 7 from 7:30 am
– 10:30 am
MEET: Columbia River
Outfitters (south side of Athalmer Bridge)
MAX # 20
Cost $25.00, includes
canoe/kayak & PFD
Birding
Columbia Lake
- Tony Timmons
(I)
Bird the Columbia Lake and surrounding area. Meet at the Canal Flats
boat launch to view the wetlands near the railway tracks, then drive
north to view the Lewis's Woodpecker. Scope Columbia Lake from the Rest
Area along highway. Walk Crown Land (Columbia Lake Estates), lower road
to Coy's Golf Course, see the White-throated Swift’s location,
and then continue to East side of lake to try for the Black-chinned
Hummingbird. Bring binoculars, snack and water. Dress for
the weather. Carpooling is recommended.
Thursday May 7 from
7:30am to noon
MEET: at 6:45 at Kinsmen
Beach parking lot, next to Pynelogs Cultural Centre, to car
pool, or at Canal Flats Provincial Park
(Boat Launch) at 7:30 am.
Turn East off highway 93 at Canal Flats, proceed
into the main village and continue North for 2 km
MAX # 16
Cost $10.00
Wilmer Trip - Randy
Hopkins (I)
Come on a two to three hour walking trip to tour the Wilmer Wildlife
refuge. Habitats include forest, grasslands, marsh and
pond. Spectacular views of the Columbia River Wetlands with
eagle's nests and heron rookeries in the distance.
Thurs May 7 from 7:30 -
10:30 am
MEET: Kinsmen Beach
parking lot, next to Pynelogs Cultural Centre, to car pool.
Watch for birds
and Wings signs.
MAX: 15
Cost: $10
Birding in Kimberley
– Ruth Goodwin (I)
We'll visit three different habitats for birds, walking a total of four
hours. Hiking boots are appropriate as we will be gaining elevation and
walking on uneven surfaces. First we'll enjoy the woods of the
Kimberley Nature Park as we head into Eimer's Lake. Next, we'll walk
along part of the Trans Canada Trail as it follows a riparian zone
along Mark Creek. Finally, we'll visit the grasslands on Twin Butte, a
short drive out of town. This property is owned by The Land Conservancy
and offers panoramic views of the Rocky Mountain Trench. Bring your
lunch
Thu May 7 from 8:30 am
– 3:00 pm
Cost $10.00
MEET: Overwaitea
Parking Lot in Kimberley (1.75 hour drive from Invermere)
MAX # 12
Cost: $10
Palaeoecology
and
Archaeology of the Rocky Mountain Trench (I)
Join Wayne Choquette and Rob Neil as they focus on the evolution of the
landscape and ecology of this area. Past human adaptation to this
dynamic environment will be discussed.
Thu May 7 from 9 am
– noon
MEET: at 8:30 at Kinsmen
Beach parking lot, next to Pynelogs Cultural Centre, to car
pool, OR at The Hawke Road
intersection with the Westside Road at 9:00 am
MAX: 20
Cost: $10.00
A
Stream Through
Time: Sinclair Creek Greenway (I)
Nick Berzins and James
Baxter
Travel through time on this 1.5 km walk along the banks of Sinclair
Creek. The journey begins where the Ktunaxa and Shuswap people
harvested spawning salmon from the creek. It then continues through the
age of settlers with their dikes, flumes and sluice boxes used to work
the creek. Your voyage brings you to the present, where the
Columbia River Greenways Alliance and the Village of Radium Hot Springs
have partnered to restore the stream channel to benefit Kokanee
Salmon. Test your knowledge of rock weirs, embedded logs and
other stream restoration structures. This greenway will
eventually link to the 180 km long greenway that will link Canal Flats
to Donald. Additional details are available on this greenway:
www.greenways.ca
Thu May 7, 2:00 pm to 4
pm
MEET: Trailhead
located east of the Canfor Mill, log yard. Follow Forsters
Landing Road west from the Radium Village Centre and follow the green
Sinclair Creek signs.
MAX # 20
Cost: $10.00
Bird-a-thon
–
Award Presentation
Conclusion of the Bird-a-thon event at Nipika Mountain Resort
Thu May 7 at 3:00 pm
MEET: Nipika
Mountain Resort
How To Get There: Nipika
is located at 9200 Settlers Road (14 km off Hwy. 93 between Radium Hot
Springs, B.C. (32 km) and Banff, Alberta (114 km). Follow the signs
on Settlers Road. Please note that on weekdays you will encounter truck
traffic on Settlers Road, so drive with caution!
NO LIMIT
The Wild
Neighbours of Upper Kootenay
Valley (I)
Join Lyle Wilson, Dave Quinn and the Nipika Naturalists, explore the
Upper Kootenay Valley to discover what makes this valley so natural,
balanced and in harmony with nature. Look for animal tracks,
listen to the birds and watch for local wildlife. You will also visit
the Bill Yearling Interpretive Cabin, a historic trapper's cabin,
renovated in 2007 into a complete Nature Resource Center, housing a
comprehensive library, DVDs, telescope for stargazing, wildlife
exhibits and much much more.
Thu May 7th, from 4 pm
– 6 pm
MEET: Nipika
Mountain Resort
How to get there:
Nipika is located at 9200 Settlers Road (14
km off Hwy. 93 between
Radium Hot Springs, B.C. (32 km) and Banff, Alberta (114 km). Follow
the signs on Settlers Road. Please note that on weekdays you will
encounter truck traffic on Settlers Road, so drive with caution!
MAX # 30
Cost: $10.00
Birding
by Ear
– Identifying Birds by Sound -
Cam Gillies and Michael den Otter(C)
Would you like to make sense of the morning cacophony? Cam and Michael
will lead an excursion along the shores of the Columbia Lake, which
should be busy with singing birds. You will have a chance to identify
some of the local songsters, including birds that are seldom seen but
frequently heard.
Fri May 8 from 7 am to noon
MEET: at 6:45 at
Kinsmen Beach parking lot, next to Pynelogs Cultural Centre, to car
pool OR at 7 am at Spirits Reach
MAX # 20
Cost $10.00
A Stroll Through Nature's
Paradise
Nola Alt
Interpretive hike through the forest
to a plateau with spectacular views of the valley, stroll past
spring-fed ponds and explore thirty acres of wetland habitat.
Many species of birds and mammals make this their summer home.
Accessible to all fitness levels. Lunch included at noon.
Continue your birdwatching into the afternoon. Allow time
to view the Columbia River and wetlands on route to the site.
Fri May 8 from 10:00 am to 3 pm
MEET: North on
highway 95 to Brisco, left onto Brisco Road, past mill, through
wetlands, across river (3 bridges). Right at junction of Brisco
Road and Steamboat Mountain Road. Continue 2.3km to 2324 Brisco
Road (across road from Patty's Greenhouses). Allow 45 minutes to
1 hour driving time from Invermere, not including site-seeing stops.
MAX # 50
Cost $25.00 includes lunch
Wetlands Paddle
with David Hancock (I)
Experience the wetlands by canoe/kayak, guided by David Hancock,
biologist, filmmaker and author, who has followed the bald eagle's
plight and success from the mid 1950s. See the wetlands from a
bird's point of view, discover what they see, eat and feel, who their
predators are, where they nest, rest or play…
Basic paddling experience
necessary.
Fri May 8 from 7:30 am
– 10:30 am
MEET: Columbia River
Outfitters (south side of Athalmer Bridge)
MAX # 20
Cost $25.00, includes
canoe/kayak & PFD
Wasa Happening–
Dean Nicholson (U)
Wasa Lake and vicinity is one of the premier birding locations near
Cranbrook, and always yields some exciting finds during
migration. In this leisurely outing we will look for birds at
Wasa Lake, Wasa Sloughs and Bummers Flats. There will be large
numbers of waterfowl, raptors, early warblers and shorebirds.
Highlights will include Sandhill Cranes and Black-backed Woodpeckers.
Fri May 8 from 9:00 am
– 12:30 pm
MEET: Wasa Lake Park
Parking Lot at north end of Wasa Lake
MAX # 12
Cost: $10.00
The New Grasslands
of
the East Kootenay – Gary Tipper (I)
Join a team of resource professionals on Nature Conservancy Canada's
(NCC) Kootenay River Ranch to tour a grassland restoration project in
progress. Learn about the plant and animal communities NCC hopes to
restore, methods of monitoring them, the ecology of forest ingrowth and
encroachment and the treatments underway.
Friday, May 8 from 9:00 am
– 12:30 pm
MEET: Travel south
from Canal Flats , meet at second access road on
the right side (west) of the highway, a couple of kilometres south of
the Whiteswan Lake Provincial Park turnoff. Watch for Wings signs.
MAX # 20
Cost: $10.00
BC
Breeding Bird Atlas
Workshop with
Dick Cannings (I)
The British Columbia Breeding Bird Atlas is an exciting 5-year project
that will carry on through 2012. Hundreds of birders from around
the province are needed to comb the forests, fields, mountains and
marshes for breeding birds. The result will be an important
snapshot of the health of BC's bird population. In this workshop,
Dick Cannings will explain why we need the Atlas and how you can help.
Fri May 8 from 4:15 pm
– 6:00 pm
MEET: Pynelogs
Cultural Centre
MAX # 80
Cost: $10.00
Bird
Bath Saturday at the
Radium Hot Springs Pool
Bring the whole family and enjoy a dip in the natural Hot Springs
Pools. All child admissions will be free!
Sat May 9 – all day
BC Breeding
Bird Atlas
Field Trip with Dick
Cannings & Larry Halverson (I)
Join Dick Cannings and Larry Halverson in an exciting birding field
trip along the riparian forest of Horsethief Creek to demonstrate how
to take part in the new BC Breeding Bird Atlas project. We will
cover a local 10-kilometre square, trying to amass a long list of bird
species and gather breeding evidence from the open forest and wetlands
of the Columbia National Wildlife Management area at Wilmer.
Careful…this is addicting!
Sat May 9 from 7:00 am
– noon
MEET: Kinsmen Beach
parking lot, next to Pynelogs Cultural Centre, to car pool.
Watch for birds
and Wings signs.
MAX # 20
Cost: $10.00
Rambling
On…with Brad Hill (C)
Join award-winning nature photographer Brad Hill on this early morning
camera walk. We’ll chat about a variety of field techniques that
will help you capture great photos of wildlife with your digital SLR.
Bring your camera, bring your questions, and we'll do some serious
Rambling On about the how’s and why’s of nature photography
for a few hours!
Sat May 9 from 7:30 am to
noon
MEET: Kinsmen Beach
parking lot, next to Pynelogs Cultural Centre, to car pool.
Watch for birds
and Wings signs.
MAX # 12
Cost $10.00
Wetlands Paddle
with Randy Hopkins & Robin Tapley
(I)
Experience the wetlands by canoe/kayak, guided by Randy Hopkins &
Robin Tapley, two guys just crazy about birds!! See the wetlands
from a bird's point of view, discover what they see, eat and feel, who
their predators are, where they nest, rest or play…
Basic paddling experience necessary.
Sat May 9 from 7:30 am
– 10:30 am
MEET: Columbia River
Outfitters (south side of Athalmer Bridge)
MAX # 20
Cost $25.00, includes
canoe/kayak & PFD
The Nature Trust of
BC Tour of Hoodoos - Rob Neil, Bill
Ayrton and Trevor Kinley (I)
Join The Nature Trust Kootenay Conservation Land Manager Rob
Neil, geologist Bill Ayrton and wildlife biologist Trevor Kinley, to
explore the spectacular Hoodoos property. Learn about the natural
wonders of this ecological masterpiece, the geology of the Columbia
Valley and the Hoodoos, and the birds that are found in both the
wetlands and up on the cliffs of the Hoodoos.
Sat. May 9, from 10:00 am
– 2:00 pm
MEET: Hawke Road
intersection with the Westside Road
MAX # 50
Cost: $15.00
Animal Tracks &
Signs – Kalista
Pruden (I)
Join local naturalist Kalista for a walk along the banks of the mighty
Columbia River as it weaves through the phenomenal Columbia Wetlands.
Rich in wildlife, this area offers a unique opportunity to observe
copious animal signs, including signs of animals not often seen. In
addition to showing you how to identify animal tracks and signs of all
sorts, Kalista will also point out and talk about other natural wonders
you may encounter along the way, especially the many birds! An optional
activity on this trip is to make your own “Track and Sign
Identification Guide”. The required materials for this option is
a camera, notebook, small ruler and pencil. Please dress for the
weather; we will be trekking through some bush.
Sat May 9 from 10:00 am
– noon
MEET: At small
wetland just across the railway from the Radium Sawmill
MAX # 20
Cost: $10.00
BC
Breeding Bird
Atlas Field Trip with Dick Cannings & Cam Gillies (I)
Join Dick Cannings and Cam Gillies in an exciting birding field trip to
demonstrate how to take part in the new BC Breeding Bird Atlas
project. We will cover a local 10-kilometre square, trying to
amass a long list of bird species, looking and listening for breeding
birds and gather breeding evidence from the Old Pontoon Road at Wilmer,
then driving the Sandy Bend Road onto Toby Bench's open forest and
ponds. Careful…this is addicting!
Sun May 10 from 7:00 am
– noon
MEET: Kinsmen Beach
parking lot, next to Pynelogs Cultural Centre, to car pool.
Watch for birds
and Wings signs.
MAX # 20
Cost: $10.00
Cultural Events and Workshops:
Wings
Auction
Exhibit
Auction Items will be on display (and bid for Silent Auction items) at
the Pynelogs Cultural Centre the week of the Festival. Final
bidding opportunities will be at the 13th Anniversary Gala Banquet at
Eagle Ranch Golf Course on Saturday May 9th. Proceeds from the auction
assist Wings Over the Rockies continue to provide outstanding
programming.
Mon May 4 to Sat May 9
from 11:00 – 4:00 pm
Pynelogs Cultural Centre
Free. No registration
necessary.
Pynelogs
Café
featuring the Scottie Burger
Featuring a varied menu of flatbreads, quiche, salads, daily soups,
kid's menu, daily features and baked goods, using fresh and seasonal
ingredients.
Licensed Premises, Internet wireless connection – just bring your
own laptop
Serving lunch Wednesday to Sunday from 11:00 am to 4:00 pm \
Pynelogs Cultural Centre, (next to Kinsmen Beach)
Wings
Over The
Rockies Art Show
 Columbia Valley
Arts Council
CV Arts is pleased to present another Wings Over the Rockies Art Show.
The show will feature over 20 talented artists and artisans, who will
present painting, photography, sculpture, carving, and much more!
Everyone is welcome.
Open Daily from 11am to 4pm
Pynelogs Cultural Centre, (next to Kinsmen Beach)
Free. No registration necessary.
Build
a House for
Community Birds
Join us for a workshop at the Community Greenhouse, where we’ll
use recycled material to decorate birdhouses. The birdhouses will be
built by the high school construction class and then decorated during
the workshop, ‘Build a House for Community Birds’. This
event will take place prior to the Wings over the Rockies, as they are
going to be displayed during Wings at the Pynelogs Cultural Centre.
We welcome all creativity and all ages to decorate birdhouses. Please
keep in mind they need to be functional and will be used throughout the
community after decorating, so you will not be able to take your
creation home. Also if you have recycled material that you would like
to bring along or donate please do so.
There will be a people’s choice award and prizes will be given
for the best decorated birdhouses in two categories. 1. 100% recycled
material used to decorate. 2. Theme is natural landscapes, including
design, and/or colour and/or materials. All birdhouses will be donated
to the community for distribution around the community, such as the
Community Greenhouse and the Botanical Gardens at Kinsmen Beach.
Contact Lin Steedman for more information. linsteedman@gmail.com
250-342-0539
Sat April 18th from
10:00 am – 1:00 pm
Register by calling:
(250) 342-4423
MEET: Community
Greenhouse. We are located on the southwest corner of DTSS, at the
service entrance below the running track.
Max # 20
Cost: $12
Wings Festival ‘Roost Room’
Visit the Roost Room to browse through the Wings Festival merchandise,
view the Art display from the local ‘lil’ chicks’,
and soar through the information Displays from Wildsight, East Kootenay
Conservation Program, Nature Trust of BC, Land Conservancy of BC,
Nature Conservancy of Canada and the Creston Valley Wildlife Management
Area. Located in the upstairs Centre Gallery at Pynelogs Cultural
Centre
The Artym Gallery
Representing over 60 artists from across Canada: always new and fresh
works, knowledgeable and welcoming staff.
Mon to Sat, 10am –
5:30pm & Sun, 11 – 3 pm
The Artym Gallery, 934 -
7th Ave, Invermere
Free. No registration
necessary.
Brian Hoffos Wood
Design
Wood turning decorative mirrors and lamps. Artist Studio and
showroom.
Wed, Fri & Sat, 10 – 5 Demo at 1 pm Wed
Windermere Art Corner
Free. No registration necessary.
effusion Art Gallery
"An-unrestrained expression of emotion." The gallery is created on the
energy of contemporary art. We bring you a collaboration of established
and emerging artisans from coast to coast in our newly designed gallery
located on Main Street Invermere.
Tues to Sat, 11 –
5:30
Sun, 12 – 4 pm
Main Street,
Invermere
Glass- Blowing Demonstration – BAVIN
GLASSWORKS
Pat & Ryan Bavin
We are a working studio/gallery established in the Columbia Valley in
1988. Unique glass-blowing techniques. Watch local glass artists Pat
and Ryan Bavin create works of art at their studio and shop.
Don't forget to enter the draw for the piece being created. The same
building is home to our gallery where we sell our glass. In the gallery
we also represent over 35 other artists from around western Canada in
the mediums of Glass, Metal and Clay.
Gallery Hours: Mon to Sat
from 10 am – 6 pm
Bavin Glassworks,
Athalmer Hwy.
Free - no registration
necessary
Bird Bath Saturday at
the Radium Hot Springs Pool
Bring the whole family and enjoy a dip in the natural Hot Springs
Pools. All child admissions will be free!
Sat May 10 – all day
13th Anniversary Gala Banquet & Keynote
A gala complete with fabulous food, live and silent auction, keynote
presentation and a beak full of fun!!
The World Needs More Birders: Dick Cannings
Birds are the ideal window on the health
of our world. There are hundreds of kinds, each adapted to a
different set of environmental factors. And we can count
them--they are active during the day, are brightly coloured, each
species different, and they have distinctive calls and songs. We
not only can count them, we do count them--thousands of birders across
the country, tens of thousands across the continent are out every day
watching their favourite subjects. With all this talent and
enthusiasm it makes sense that conservation biologists around the world
are turning to birders for the answers. How many robins are
there? Are there more bluebirds around now than there were 30
years ago? How many swallows have disappeared in the last
decade? There are so many ways birders can get involved in
finding these answers--Christmas Bird Counts, Breeding Bird Surveys,
eBird, and now the British Columbia Breeding Bird Atlas.
Saturday May 9th
6:00 pm –
Refreshments
6:30 pm – Dinner
7:30 pm –
Moose-terpiece Theatre by Mountain W.I.T.
7:45 pm – Live
Auction
8:15 pm – Keynote by
Dick Cannings
Eagle Ranch Golf Clubhouse
MAX # 130
Cost: $70.00. A tax
receipt will be issued for a portion of the ticket.
Wings Over the Rockies Silent
Auction
Get a
complete list of items online click.
All items will be on display ( and for bid for silent auction
items) at the Pynelogs Cultural Centre the week of the festival.
Final bidding opportunities will be at the 13th
Anniversary Gala
Banquet at Eagle Ranch Golf Course on Saturday May 9th. Proceeds from the
auction assist Wings
Over the Rockies continue to provide outstanding programming.
Wild
Voices for Kids
Wings Over the Rockies is proud to be a founding partner
with the Rocky Mountain School District to deliver environmental
education to students. Throughout the year many of the students of
School District #6 receive Wild Voices for Kids environmental education
programs. During the Wings Festival, resource people from the Wild
Voices for Kids and Wings give presentations in the classroom as well
as take students out on field trips.
http://www.sd6.bc.ca/drc/WildVoices/index.htm
Highlights
for 2010 Festival!
We are already looking
forward to next year; it is going to be very exciting.
2010 will be the year..... Mark May 3 to 9, 2010 on your calendar.
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