Wonder of WarblersTwo months into stay-at-home orders because of the COVID-19 pandemic, scores of articles are attesting to the power of nature to help us through this difficult time. The fact that more people are getting outside and noticing what is around them is one of those silver linings among the many severe impacts of this pandemic. Nature will always have the power to calm and restore us, especially now.  With 50 million bird watchers already out there, this activity is growing in popularity. Recently, downloads of bird identification programs have increased by huge numbers compared to this time last year. Amid the spring migration there are plenty of birds to be looking out for here in the Cacapon watershed, especially warblers such as the Blackburian and Magnolia warblers (among my favorites).Thankfully, we also have landowners here helping to restore habitat for the Cerulean warbler. These landowners received assistance through Farm Bill programs to improve habitat on their properties to help protect these threatened birds. In fact, millions of dollars are available to landowners through the Farm Bill for technical assistance and financial incentives to manage habitat for birds and other wildlife.  In the Cacapon watershed, there are more than 50 species of greatest conservation need, including warblers, ruffed grouse, golden eagles, and the wood thrush. If you are a birder -- and lucky -- you might spot one of these species. If you are a landowner, let us know if you’re interested in protecting your land through a conservation easement and working to improve habitat for wildlife. That’s a win-win we would love to help you achieve.Just this past weekend, I was looking at a Blackburian warbler and a Black-throated green warbler on either side of the same tree branch. It was a magical moment that took me away from all the worries of the day. I hope you will have your own magical moments in the Cacapon watershed in the days ahead.  Stay safe!Jennifer Jones Executive Director
Photos: Blackburnian Warblers by Bill Blauvelt | We’re Hiring!This is an exciting time for the Cacapon and Lost Rivers Land Trust as we celebrate our 30th Anniversary and look ahead to expanding our land protection efforts in the Cacapon watershed. If you are a self-starter, people-person and eager to join the effort to protect a beautiful watershed please review the job description. Deadline for applicants is May 22, 2020.  WOW Photo Contest!Enter your digital photography of wildlife, plants, forests, farms and riverscapes in the Cacapon and Lost Rivers Wonders of Our Watershed photo contest! Our Work Inspires Us! We assist landowners and communities in the Cacapon and Lost Rivers Watershed with maintaining healthy rivers, protecting forests and farmland, and preserving rural heritage for the enjoyment and well being of present and future generations. Trust Accomplishments
Rare Native Plants Found!Calapogn tuberosus  Trifolium virginicum  | Your Generosity Motivates Us! Every donation inspires us to continue the important work to permanently protect land and conserve natural resources. With your support, this corner of West Virginia will continue to be a special place to live, work and visit. Please click on the DONATE button below and be as generous as you can. Thank you! With your support, this corner of West Virginia will continue to be a special place to live, work, and visit. Click on the Donate button to make a donation to Cacapon and Lost Rivers Land Trust.  Listening to the LandStories from the Cacapon & Lost River Valley  Connect with us on Facebook |
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Most of the photos used on this site are courtesy of Tom Cogill and are featured in Listening to the Land: Stories from the Cacapon.
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