AHS Class 0f 73
Fifty-Year Class Reunion Bird Walk
Saturday, August 5
8:30 AM. Coffee—9:00 AM. Bird Walk
Tedesco Environmental Learning Corridor
Whether you’re an avid birder who maintains an avian life list, a homeowner who has a couple of feeders hanging in your back-yard, or someone who appreciates the sweet sound of birdsong while walking through a neighborhood park, you’re bound to have fun looking for birds while exploring Ames’ newest city park -- the Tedesco Environmental Learning Corridor -- on Saturday, Aug. 5.
The guided walk by staff from Wild Birds Unlimited will begin at 9 a.m. but feel free to come as early as 8:30 to mingle with your classmates while enjoying coffee from Burgie’s. Participants should meet at the kiosk near the parking lot on Collaboration Place off University Blvd., just south of the ISU Research Park.
The 37-acre park opened in 2019 and has the name of longtime Ames businessman and former mayor Ted Tedesco. The $4.5 million project was a joint effort of the City of Ames, Iowa State University, the ISU Research Park, and Story County Conservation with a focus on showcasing “conservation techniques, sustainable technologies, environmental education, water quality awareness, and trail connectivity.”
The park is a prairie restoration with several wetlands, a stream, and woods that attract a wide variety of songbirds, including Eastern bluebirds, Baltimore orioles, indigo buntings, ruby-throated hummingbirds and purple martins, among numerous other species of shorebirds, waterfowl, and raptors.
A spotting scope and a limited number of binoculars will be available for use, but those who have their own binoculars are asked to bring them. This is considered an easy hike on paved trails that are accessible for people with disabilities. Bring a jacket, snacks, and water if you like.
