[mou] Aitkin Trip Reminder

[Pastor Al Schirmacher]

Reminder for those attending the Aitkin MOU trip on Saturday at 7:30 AM 
(trip is full):

We will be meeting at Rice Lake Refuge and carpool from the parking lot. The 
refuge is on Highway 65 and is easy to find (keep heading north from the
cities until you're exhausted).  We will probably spend ~ two hours in the 
refuge, cover Aitkin 5 & 18, then hit some of the less well known areas in
the optional afternoon portion.

Birds of interest could include LeConte's Sparrow, Yellow-bellied 
Flycatcher, Connecticut Warbler, Boreal Chickadee, BB Magpie - perhaps even
a Great Gray Owl.  Yellow Rails and Sharp-tailed Sparrows are unlikely 
unless you decide to stay in the area overnight.

For those of you who have attended past trips with me, remember, hearing is 
as good as seeing:).  (Foliage is full - many nesters will be singing - but 
may be unresponsive to pishing.)

Please bring a lunch and any snacks you may need.  While there are a few 
restaurants in McGregor & Aitkin, we are not likely to be in the area of
either of them at lunch time.  (Follow up note - we will be in McGregor 
between 10:30-11:00, so could make a stop at Subway for lunch pickup and/or 
gas.)

Bring powerful bug spray and/or great patience.

There is no cost for this trip.  Gas assistance for those who drive is often 
appreciated.

For those who are birding Aitkin between now & then, please feel free to 
forward any sightings that might be of interest.

Good birding to all!

Al Schirmacher
Princeton, MN
Mille Lacs & Sherburne Counties