Adventure North Realty

Craig Thompson: Going the distance for the birds

The road to protecting Wisconsin's birds routes through Latin America.

Craig Thompson was on that road last month, a single lane of dirt with a sheer drop-off snaking through the Peruvian Andes.

When not "playing chicken with these big trucks," the bus ride on the Manu Road offers sweeping views of the cloud forests and its gaudy feathered residents.

"It was the greatest adventure we've had, nothing short of mind-boggling," Thompson said.

It also gave his group a look at where many of the birds now in the woods and fields back home spend the other half of the year.

More than half of Wisconsin's 230-some nesting species winter south of the U.S. borders, Thompson said.

Protecting habitat here might make little difference if these "neotropical" birds don't have those crucial wintering sites. Deforesta-tion in Peru due to farming and expanding human population is thought to be a factor in the decline of ceru-lean warblers in the state.

So Thompson leads these trips, part of the Wisconsin Bird Conservation Initiative, to let people see these critical areas for themselves.

Since 2006, he's taken groups to Costa Rica, Panama and Ecuador. The two weeks last month at the Wayqecha research station, hosted by the Amazon Conservation Association, was the first visit to Peru.

It's more than just a world-class birding opportunity: Each person must contribute $500 for habitat protection in the country they visit.

The groups also stay at field stations. "They get to see what their money is doing," Thompson said. "The birders become invested in that conservation; they're actually walking on their investment."

One Ecuador trip raised $14,000 that purchased 140 acres of forest home to several locally rare species as well as migrant North American birds, Thompson said.

Though not part of his job, the trips are a reflection of the 52-year-old La Crosse resident's work with the Department of Natural Resources.

Gem Mining in Western North Carolina – Planning Your Adventure ...

The first thing you need to do before setting off on your gem mining adventure is to decide where to go. There are many mines in the area to choose from (a short list is provided below). Some have native gems only while others have native and enriched buckets. A few mines let you dig your own dirt. Choose the mine that most closely matches the adventure you have in mind and make sure to get clear directions! While many mines are only a short drive away from your vacation cabin rental in the Bryson City or Cherokee NC area , relying solely on a GPS in the mountains has resulted in many a lost and frustrated tourist!  So, make sure to have written directions as well!

While it is possible to get through a bucket or two rather quickly, for most people, mining is an all-day affair. When planning your gem mining adventure, you will have a better time if you are adequately prepared.  Here are a few tips to help make your experience the best it can be!

Most mines are off the beaten path, so it is wise to pack a lunch and bring along plenty of water. Many have picnic areas for your convenience so you can leave your lunch in the car and just take a break when you are ready.  Gem mining is not a clean activity – you are going to get wet and muddy! The dirt is often a reddish color that can stain clothes, so it is best to wear old clothes and tennis shoes.  The ride back will be much more comfortable if you bring an extra set of clothes and shoes to change into before heading home. To protect the inside of your car from the mud, you may want to bring a plastic bag to put your wet shoes and clothes in. Although many mines feature covered flumes, it is wise to bring along a hat, sunglasses and sunscreen if it is sunny.  Some people choose to wear rubber gloves if it is particularly chilly (this is also a good idea if you are concerned about ruining your manicure!)  Sitting on narrow wooden benches for a long time can get a bit uncomfortable, so you might want to pack some old towels that can be folded up and used as a cushion.  While most mines provide plastic bags to for the gems you find, you may want to bring along your own zipper bag or plastic container. And of course, you will want to have a camera on hand to record that wonderful moment when you find your very own treasure!

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