In Attendance: Claire W. Putala. Chair; Frank Byrne, Bill Goffe,, John Lalande. Andy Nelson, Marta Santiago, Matt Spindler, Guest Presenter: Mike Ameigh.

The major activity of this meeting was a video prepared and shared by Mike Ameigh recording the appearance of salmon at the entrance of the stream to Glimmergiass and of the bank of this outlet opposite Lanigan and Mahar, one of the sites of a proposed nature walkway. After a discussion of the appearance and fate of the salmon, Mike made note of many of the bird species which frequent the area (flycatchers, grebes. mergansers, thrushes, warblers etc.) especially during migration. The location of the catch basin was rued.

Several observations followed regarding this area with some suggesting that perhaps the shrubs and fallen trees could be cleared out to improve its appearance. Andy cautioned against too much clearing of the area as shrub were needed by some species. He went on to advocate the development of an interpretive nature system to help the campus community better appreciate the complexity and richness of this area of the campus. He suggested such a system might include a carefully designed blind as one part of such an interpretive system. As noted by both Andy and Mike: in season the area is like watching the bird-book go by. Thus, a thoughtfulness that took into account the history of the location as well as its ecology and biology would be needed.

A suggested (Earth Day?) spring cieanup would also have to take these factors into account with a management plan necessary to forestall too much brush removal, etc.

The conversation then turned to signage and trail designation which would also need to be part of the management plan for the proposed walkway. Discussion followed on the value of a proactive approach and critical trees.

Two questions were posed by John, the first regarding his perception of the scarcity of evergreens on campus and the sccond regarding the rather dramatic erosion along the shore line. Good discussion followed.

The meeting closed with an affirmation regarding the value of the ravine and for birds and the campus.

Respectfully submitted, C]aire W. Putala March 4, 2007