On a perfect Sunday morning we welcomed the Wolf den of Cub Scout Pack 380, their parents, and their Scout leaders to the trail at Mile 11 of the American River—the stretch where the Waterbird Habitat Project began.
The Scouts learned how left-behind gear becomes dangerous where waterbirds feed and nest, and how we work with anglers and the community to keep the river safe. Along the shores of the three ponds the Scouts kept their eyes sharp. They called out “Fishing gear!” whenever they spotted line or a lure, and our stewards moved in to bag it. The gear bag filled with line, lures, and other leftover tackle.
We took a break on a felled tree overlooking the turtles and geese, sharing apples and waterbird cookies. We learned the difference between beavers and otters as the young Wolves shared their tales of the wildlife. Crawdads scuttled in the shallows. The egrets stayed farther out in the pond. A hawk perched on a post unflinching for a close look on the way out!
A most memorable day at Mile 11! I will forever hear the sound of Pack 380 calling out “fishing gear!” while on Mile 11! These Junior Waterbird Stewards left with gear bags for their future trips and a clearer picture of how a small group can help the waterbirds and wildlife that live on this water.
Thank you, Pack 380! The river is safer because you came.
