Where eagles fare

Staff Reports

Eagles & Agriculture, the eighth annual celebration of birding and agriculture in Carson Valley on Feb. 19-21, includes a birds of prey lecture, chartered bus tours to working ranches, owl prowl and bird demonstrations, a two-day photography workshop, and a boat trip on the Carson River.

New this year is the Raptor Highway and Byway tour.

Observe operations of several Carson Valley ranches during the Ranch and Eagle tour on Feb. 20. Learn about ranching and conservation and have the opportunity to see birds of prey from vantage points not available to the general public.

The tour and luncheon is $60 per person and includes motor coach transportation along with guides on Carson Valley history and wildlife.

The kayak/raft trip on Feb. 21 with expert birders on the Carson River offers the opportunity to see eagles, hawks, owls, falcons and other birds of prey roosting in cottonwood trees on the riverbank during winter calving season.

The tour continues on Washoe Tribal lands where a tribal member shares the history, biology, and geology of the area. The boats float through a blue heron and egret rookery.

Great Basin Sports operates the tour with rafts, sit-on-tops, or inflatable kayaks depending on river flow. Optional outfitting, including neoprene socks, neoprene gloves, neoprene shoes and wetsuits, available for rental.

Cost is $75 per person. Sign up for tours by contacting the Carson Valley Arts Council at 782-8207.

Program dates, descriptions, pricing, and reservation information at www.visitcarsonvalley.org