ELKO — The 2024 Elko County Sage-Grouse Experience is taking place in April, celebrating the 10th year of this event.
Sage-grouse always generate a lot of discussion. A local collaborative group is offering a chance to experience firsthand this iconic Western bird, the sage-grouse, and learn more about its ecology and conservation.
On Saturday, April 20, participants will travel by school bus to north Ruby Valley to watch male sage-grouse strut on a lek, or strutting ground. The birds strut early in the morning so the group leaves Elko at 4:30 a.m.
Nevada Department of Wildlife, Bureau of Land Management, and U.S. Forest Service biologists will be on hand to answer questions. Spotting scopes will be available, and participants are encouraged to bring binoculars. A porta-potty will be available.
Following the lek viewing, the group will return to Elko and have brunch. During the brunch, biologists will present information on sage-grouse biology, habitat and conservation. Participants will leave with an event souvenir. Everyone is welcome, including children 12 and older with an accompanying adult.
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This event is completely free and space is limited, so participants must register by April 17. To reserve a spot and receive more information, go to ndow.org/calendar and April 20. For questions, email nicole.stjohn@ndow.org or call 775-777-2391.
This event is hosted by the Nevada Department of Wildlife and sponsored by the Northeastern Nevada Stewardship Group, Bristlecone Audubon Chapter, Bureau of Land Management, U.S. Forest Service and Nevada Department of Forestry.