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Shelley Osterloh ReportingYou may not know this, but the Bear River Migratory Bird Refuge is world renown for the large numbers of birds that stop there --- nearly 200 different species. This weekend is the grand opening of the new Wildlife Education center.
Right on the edge of the 74 acre Bear River Bird Refuge is the new James V. Hansen Wildlife Education Center. Nearly surrounded by water, it is designed to be the first stop and bridge to understanding the intricate balance of the wild wetlands and the millions of birds that visit here.
Al Trout, Bear River Bird Refuge Manager: "It's a wonderful world to go explore.nd with just a few minor tools, a little education about how to understand what you are about to see on the refuge, then it's an adventure."
Center exhibits explain how and where birds migrate, how they fly, why some have long beaks, how they make their nests and the mysteries of the egg. Dioramas illustrate the natural connections between the land, animals and birds. There is also a large room for children's activities and student classes, plus a high tech lab for researchers.
After learning about the birds and the wetlands, you can actually step outside into the wetlands and see the birds for yourself.
Al Trout: "You can also listen to the birds from here. This structure is designed to capture the sounds, and there's more than 35 species of birds that live right here."
There are walking paths and a 12 mile scenic loop you can walk, drive or bike through the refuge. This Friday and Saturday there will be lots of added attractions including guest lectures, sporting goods displays and kids activities.
Al Trout: "There will be some guided tours out there and there will also be the Box Elder tourism train that will be giving sight-seeing tours in some special areas."
The Bear River Migratory Bird Refuge is located near Brigham City. Again, the grand opening of the James V Hansen Wildlife Education Center is this Friday and Saturday.
