Date & Time: Saturday, Dec 6, 8:00am
Leader: Alex Busato, busatoalex67@gmail.com, 724-963-6612
Directions: Meet at Pleasant Valley Boat Ramp Parking Lot on Lake Arthur, Moraine State Park. From I-79 N, take exit 96 and turn right onto Rt. 488 E (E Portersville Rd) following signs for Moraine SP. In 1.5 mi, turn left onto Pleasant Valley Rd. and continue into the park straight past the main office. The boat launch lot is the first right past the maintenance building near the trailhead of the Sunken Garden Trail. Alternatively, from Delmont via Rt. 66, continue north onto Rt. 356 to the intersection of Rt 422 near Butler. Turn left onto Rt. 422 W and follow to the South Shore Exit for Moraine SP. Continue past the park office and turn right into the boat launch lot.
Description: Join us for a full day of winter waterfowl and raptors as we explore Butler and Lawrence Counties. We will begin the day at the fabulous Moraine State Park, a well-known stop for a wide variety of ducks, grebe, loons, gulls, and more during the winter months. This large lake has many viewing areas around its many coves that will provide us plenty to explore throughout the day. We can also walk trails like the Sunken Garden Trail or Butterfly Trail for a variety of habitats. We will enjoy a late group lunch at the nearby favorite, Brown’s Country Kitchen. Afterward, we can caravan a short distance north to explore the fields around the town of Volant in the afternoon. These fields are known for their Sandhill Crane flocks, Short-eared Owls, and semi-regular Rough-legged Hawks and Northern Shrike. From here, we will depart for home.
No RSVP necessary for this trip, but if you would like to arrange carpooling options feel free to contact Alex and he will attempt to organize transportation options. Given the unpredictable nature of winter weather, this trip is subject to sudden cancellation. Be sure to dress appropriately for the conditions. An article of blaze orange clothing is also highly recommended, as this is during Rifle Season and hunters do have access to parts of the park (though we will be remaining mainly in no hunting safety zones).