Not every Bald Eagles’ nest in the state of Iowa can be monitored via a webcam like the famous eagles of Decorah, but with the right equipment and training area volunteers can play a critical role in monitoring the birds. The Iowa DNR simply doesn’t have enough staff to adequately monitor the more than 800 species in the state, but through the Volunteer Wildlife Monitoring Program, Coordinator Stephanie Shephard says, everyday citizens are able to report their findings back to the DNR. It’s through these careful records that data was collected on over 160 Bald Eagle nests statewide last year. With proper training volunteers stay safe, don’t disturb the birds, and provided valuable information to DNR staff. However, gathering that data, Shepard adds, does require a lot of patience, some good optics, and time as the Eagle nesting sites do need to be visited at least three times between March and June.
Any adult who is interested in joining the program can learn more at a training workshop scheduled for Saturday, March 19, in Sac City. The Volunteer Wildlife Monitoring Program workshop will take place from 1:00 pm to 4:30 pm at the Sac County Conservation Center near Hagge Park. During that time Shephard will provide lessons in how to best observe, record, and submit their data. Pre-registration for the workshop is required and can be done via email at vwmp@dnr.iowa.gov or online. A $5 sign-up fee will cover the cost of training materials, a provided identification guide, and more.
