What to Expect at the Dean Hale Woodpecker Festival
Weather
Generally at this time of year, the daytime weather is warm and sunny and rain is unlikely (but can happen). Winds can pick up in the afternoon. Morning temperatures can be chilly due to the elevation and proximity to the Cascade Mountains. Please bring a variety of layers, including rain gear and sturdy footwear. Please review current NWS forecasts to help you prepare appropriately.
Mobility
Many trips could involve walking over rough terrain, which may include downed trees, rocks, and substantial slopes. Assume that field trips are not wheelchair accessible unless specifically mentioned in the field trip description.
Restroom Facilities
Restroom facilities differ for each field trip. Contact your field trip leader to learn more about what to expect for your field trip.
Capacity
We limit the number of participants on each field trip to ten people to limit disturbance to the birds and to make for a more enjoyable experience.
Field Trip Format
Field trips are scheduled with a variety of start and end times. Most trips will have a start time in the morning. End times are approximate and trips may conclude before the stated end time. Field trips that require greater travel (for example, to Summer Lake) may end later. Make sure to verify your field trip’s start time on the Festival website. Trips will comply with the American Birding Association’s Code of Birding Ethics.
Trip Leaders
Each field trip is guided by two experienced local birders who are volunteers of East Cascades Bird Alliance.
Field Trip Meeting Places & Carpooling
Each field trip will launch from a place specific to the field trip destination. Information about meeting places and times will be updated on the Festival website. All trips require carpooling to minimize impact on the bird habitats we visit and to avoid long convoys of vehicles. This requirement is specified by our U.S. Forest Service permit. Please be flexible and enjoy the companionship of your fellow birders. It is customary to offer a small token payment to share gas expenses.
What to Bring
- Packed lunch and snacks
- Water bottle (refillable)
- Binoculars/camera
- Hiking boots
- Layered clothes – It can be cold in the early morning and quite warm during the day
- Hat and/or sunscreen
- Insect repellent – It is still early, but some areas may have mosquitoes.
- Long pants (recommended) – Ticks and/or scratchy vegetation are always present, so long pants are recommended in addition to insect repellent.
Cost
Trips are free of charge in 2024. The photography workshops and banquet dinner on Saturday cost $70 each. All funds benefit the conservation and education projects of East Cascades Bird Alliance.
Field Trip Sign-ups
Everyone must register for field trips in advance. Many field trips fill up quickly, so it’s recommended to register as early as possible. Registration will be online through Eventbrite and will open at 8am on April 2, 2024.
Cancellation Policy
For trips, please cancel through Eventbrite as soon as you know that you will not be able to attend, so that another can use the ticket. Refunds for cancellations for the dinner and photography workshops will be accepted until May 10th. If ECBA cancels an event, all monies will be returned.
Additional Questions
If you have additional questions please contact deanhalewoodpeckerfestival@gmail.com.
