Eagles and ag event rafting trip shows views of Valley wildlife

The annual raft/canoe trip in support of the Eagles and Agriculture Tour held in the Carson Valley is filling up fast, according to officials. The rafting voyage will demonstrate how agricultural stewardship programs benefit wildlife in Nevada, by connecting the public with their environment. People with a desire for adventure are invited to attend and celebrate nature's wonder by viewing several varieties of raptors and water bird species while rafting and canoeing along the Carson River.

Participants gather at the Carson Valley Inn and leave from the Fork's Ranch in Genoa. The trip is a guided tour, supported by the staff from Great Basin Adventures in Minden, and other experienced birders and conservationists. Dan Kaffer, Coordinator of Western Nevada Resource Conservation and Development USDA-NRCS, believes the raft/canoe event will not only allow birders and the public the opportunity to enjoy sighting various birds of prey, it will also be a chance for people to view flood damage resulting from the Jan. 1 flood. People are invited to tour and view restoration projects occurring in the Valley, and many of these projects were constructed on Washoe tribal lands. The Carson River float ends in the early afternoon by exiting Cradelbaugh Bridge at the north end of the Carson Valley.

Kaffer remembers last year's canoe/rafting float, that 40 people attended:

"The public saw bald eagles, sighted black crown night herons, great blue herons, and snowy egret rookeries. At one location along the bank of the Carson River, the group witnessed a great bald eagle atop a cottonwood tree. The rafting/canoe group was able to surround the tree and be right under the eagle."

The rafting and canoeing trip is held from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday, Feb. 25 and 26. Snacks and refreshments will be provided but attendees are encouraged to pack their own lunches, and to dress in layers. Public are invited to register for reservations by contacting Carson Valley Chamber of Commerce at 782-8144, the cost is $75 per person. For more rafting information contact Great Basin Adventures of Minden, 782-5657.