The John Heinz National Wildlife Refuge at Tinicum held its first annual Cradle of Birding Wildlife and Conservation Festival on September 18. Over 400 folks braved rain and wind to join in and had one heck of a really great time. The refuge's Cusano Environmental Education Center provided protection from the elements. Despite the harsh weather, a National Public Lands Day service project went on, with volunteers planting native species around the front parking area. An Earth Force ?clean-up? also took place, and in addition, several tram tours with volunteer naturalist Doris McGovern went out to the double deck observation platform.

Inside the dry confines of the education center, visitors were treated to the one man band sounds of Junior Wilson from Delaware and a group calling themselves the RSVP Band, who had folks doing the Mummer's Strut. The festival provided an opportunity for nature lovers of all ages to learn about everything from fly tying to buying new optics and to see all sorts of animals brought in by several of the exhibitors. Local woodcarvers showed off their skills, and history was brought to life thanks to folks from Fort Mifflin.

The featured speaker, Pete Dunne, packed the auditorium, telling a tongue-in-cheek story of the rivalries of ornithological giants, James John Audubon and Alexander Wilson, and his own personal experiences in the wilds of the New Jersey woods. Dunne, a prolific writer, has penned many books on birding and is director of the Cape May Bird Observatory. After his presentation, he signed copies of his books and talked with many fellow birders and admirers at the center's Tinicum Treasures Gift Shop.

Refuge Deputy Manager Dr. Gary M. Stolz, who coordinated the event, said he was absolutely delighted with the turnout and the event overall. He acknowledged all the work by the entire staff, volunteers and guest exhibitors and offered thanks to all who came out.

Friends of Heinz Refuge donated $1000 for refreshments. Volunteers contributed work time valued at $400.

NORTHEAST REGION, U.S. FISH AND WILDLIFE SERVICE -- Conserving the Nature of the Northeast