Train to be an eagle-watching volunteer

The Delaware Highlands Conservancy will hold its winter Eagle Watch Volunteer Training Days on two Saturdays in December.

Take advantage of a wonderful opportunity to learn more about our magnificent national bird, help protect eagles in their habitat, and assist in educating the public about sharing our region with eagles.

New and returning volunteers are invited to attend a virtual training by Zoom on Saturday, Dec. 4, from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

New volunteers are also invited to attend the following Saturday, Dec. 11 from 10 a.m. to noon at the Conservancy’s Van Scott Nature Reserve in Beach Lake for an in-person training and opportunity to pick up training manuals and other materials for the winter season.

Following the gathering, volunteers are invited to visit the Eagle observation areas.

Volunteers are trained to monitor and collect data about the large population of eagles that migrate to this region every winter. Volunteers also learn how to help the thousands of people who want to view the eagles in the safest and least intrusive manner, and share “Eagle Etiquette” tips.

Binoculars, spotting scopes, training manuals, data forms, and hand warmers are provided by the Conservancy. The winter Eagle Watch program runs through January and February, weekends only. Volunteers may cover morning or afternoon shifts. The main monitoring areas are the Mongaup Reservoir and the Delaware River at Minisink Falls and the Zane Grey boat launch at Lackawaxen.

Trained eagle volunteers are also needed throughout the year to help staff booths, participate in workshops, and be a part of other eagle-related Conservancy events.

Advance registration for the training is required. Register online at DelawareHighlands.org/events, send an email to sara@delawarehighlands.org, or call 570-226-3164 ext. 8 or 845-583-1010 ext. 8.

For more information on this training day and other upcoming eagle events, visit DelawareHighlands.org. If you cannot attend but are interested in volunteering, contact the Conservancy to make alternate arrangements.

Volunteers should be able to withstand cold temperatures and enjoy interacting with the public.

The Delaware Highlands Conservancy works in partnership with landowners and communities to protect the natural heritage and quality of life of the Upper Delaware River region. For more information, visit DelawareHighlands.org.