Deep Fork Audubon Society Meeting

October 6, 2010

Shawnee Public Library

Present: Barbara Shirley, Ruth Beasley, Becky Carlberg, Br. Damian Whalen, Donald Winslow, Betty Clarke, Deane Carlberg, Karen Bays

At a previous meeting, Donald had suggested that we think about our vision for this organization and what we would like it to be, ideally.

Barbara said that she is interested in birding opportunities and field trips. She would like to become a better birder.

Ruth would also like to become a better birder. She hosts a “Learning the Birds” radio show on High Plains Public Radio, which has been on the air for 10 years. She has a lot of in-depth knowledge about the habits and lives of certain bird species, but would like to learn to identify a broader range of birds.

Becky is writing a book on Greater Roadrunners of the Crosstimbers. She is interested in bird identification and field trips. She is also interested in environmental issues.

Br. Damian is currently learning more about birds. He started birding as a hobby and a way to de-stress. He learned a lot simply from feeding the birds. He especially wants to go on birding trips with others, and would like to learn more birding by ear. He would like for us to promote the concept of backyard birding to the community. Monks at St. Gregory’s Monastery have been successful in establishing a colony of bluebirds by building and maintaining houses.

Betty said that she is interested in birding and field trips.

Karen said that she is interested in environmental issues, but that realistically she won’t have much time to work on this sort of thing at this point in her life. So, she will be happy to go on field trips to enjoy nature and learn more about birds. She was also interested in Br. Damian’s idea of promoting backyard birding.

Donald said that he also has concern for environmental issues and in preserving habitat for birds and other creatures. He realizes that near future additions to his family may make it difficult for him to devote time to service work. He reflected that many people in group expressed interest in birding field trips, and this also sounds fun to him.

We discussed that we might not necessarily have to be super-organized if the group is mainly interested in birding trips, but discussed ways in which we could organize if we wish. Donald suggested that a 501c3 status would allow us to raise funds if needed. Br. Damian has experience in incorporating businesses and would be willing to investigate further if needed.

We discussed the last field trip to Sacred Heart in southern Pottawatomie County. Everyone had a great time!

On our next field trip, we will visit the Deep Fork Wildlife Refuge on Saturday, November 13^th. Meet at the Wal-Mart parking lot in Shawnee at 7:00 a.m.