It is because of my experiences through Friends of Malheur-as a Volunteer, I have come to know and appreciate this unique and important part of our state, and also its significance in the greater ecosystem. I have had opportunities to get to know the people and community of Burns and the surrounding area. It is more important than ever to see and experience people whose lives are different from our own and find what we have in common.
As it turned out there was a bat survey in the works in August and a mussel salvage project also happening that month. As a retired bat and mussel biologist for the Department of Interior, these two projects couldn’t have been more suited to my skills and interest.
We have so many wonderful memories of our explorations. Perhaps best were the incredible sunrises and sunsets, easily viewable from our campground. I will always remember the two Great Horned Owls who hung out in a tree next to the campground serenading us with their hoots many evenings and mornings.
We arrived at the Refuge in July, usually considered a slow time, to find Marshall Pond full, and water everywhere it should be. This abundance of water also brought an overabundance of mosquitoes. When we set up camp at the volunteer RV pads, the skeeters enthusiastically welcomed us, although the sentiment was not mutual.
There is nothing more exciting than springtime at the Malheur National Wildlife Refuge. Driving from Portland during the first week of April, this year’s excitement started with icy roads on Mt. Hood and a dusting of powder that blew me into Burns as I drove my old RV, Maxine, east from Bend.
