Refuge Updates

Volunteers Needed: Our next (and final for the year) Project COMPASS fishing event will be on Wednesday, September 7 at the Huff Street fishing dock (by the Winona Visitor Center). The event takes place from 5:00 – 6:15 p.m., please arrive around 4:30 to help with setup. This is a fishing-only event, no food is served and please wear your volunteer or Friends hats/shirts if you have them.

Friends news: The bike rack has been installed along the Flyway trail near the entrance sign to Aghaming Park. The Friends and Refuge shared the cost of the rack, and the Refuge Youth Conservation Corps Crew and staff completed the installation of the concrete base and actual rack. See photo below of Friends members Polly, John, and President Wendy Schneider.

Thank you to everyone who came out for the Island City Brewing Co Jazz Jam on Sunday, August 21. The “tip jar” had $490 which was tripled by Island City and H3O (Eric Heukeshoven) for a grand total donation to the Friends of $1,470! This tied the all time record donation since the Jazz Jam donation program began in April 2021. See photo below of Eric Heukeshoven presenting the check to Friends Treasurer Meg Hurkman.

Reminder: If you spend time on the river be aware that waterfowl hunters will be out beginning Thursday, September 1 for the Wisconsin early teal and goose seasons. Minnesota will begin hunting on Saturday, September 3. Remember to dress in bright easy-to-see colors and if you are a paddler it is a good idea to attach a bicycle flag to your canoe/kayak so you can be seen. Also remember to give waterfowl hunters plenty of room and steer clear of decoy spreads.