Eagles and Ag sign-ups starting

The Carson Valley agricultural and ranching community in conjunction with the Carson Valley Visitors Authority, Audubon Society, The Nature Conservancy and the Great Basin Birding Observatory announce the annual Eagles and Agriculture Event, Feb. 20, 22, 23 and 24.

The tours and workshops focus on the influx of bald eagles and other birds of prey that come to Carson Valley to feed on rodents and nutrient-rich afterbirth during the winter calving season.

On Feb. 20, participants will take a private group tour of area ranches. The kick-off tour is being offered for $35 per person and includes motor coach transportation along with guides on Carson Valley history and wildlife.

On Feb. 22, there will be a birds of prey lecture/cocktail reception featuring keynote speaker wildlife biologist Gary Herron, who will bring a falcon and speak on birds of prey. Lew Souder, general falconer, will give an informative presentation featuring two live North American Goshawks. The $35 per person entry fee includes hot and cold hors d'oeuvres and a no-host bar.

Feb. 23, motor coaches depart for a group tour of area ranches to observe the birds of prey feeding in the fields with calves and cattle. Following the tour, a buffet lunch will be served with a discussion on sightings. The cost is $60 per person.

On Saturday afternoon participants are invited on the Owl Prowl Tour. Led by a local naturalist, the Owl Prowl goes to area barns and owl habitat to observe the birds at night. The cost is $35 per person.

A two-day photography workshop will be offered on Saturday and Sunday with instruction and discussion on Saturday and a nature photo shoot on location at an area ranch on Sunday. The cost is $60 per two-day workshop.

Another way to observe the eagles, hawks and falcons occurs on Feb. 24, when a guided raft/canoe trip is offered. The cost is $75.

For application forms to attend Eagles and Agriculture events, special lodging rate offers, or more information use the Carson Valley Chamber of Commerce and Visitors Authority's toll-free hotline at 866-530-3551 or go to www.VisitCarsonValley.org.