Snow geese fans can learn about the birds’ Russian summer home at Stanwood festival

STANWOOD — A highlight of this year’s Port Susan Snow Goose and Birding Festival is a lecture by Vasily Baranyuk, a senior scientist with Russia’s Wrangel Island Nature Preserve. That’s where the local snow geese spend their summers.

Baranyuk has spent more than 20 years observing the snow geese that migrate between the preserve and the Skagit and Stillaguamish river basins. He plans to speak at 3 p.m. Saturday at the festival headquarters in the Floyd Norgaard Cultural Center, 27108 102nd Ave. NW in Stanwood.

;http://www.thegreatnwglassquest.com/

Also in Stanwood and on Camano are the final two days of this year’s Great Northwest Glass Quest. More information on the free treasure hunt is at “>“From Russia to the Stilly” is the title of Baranyuk’s presentation, which focuses on information about the current snow goose population, the birds’ local wintering grounds and their nesting habits on Wrangel Island.

Don Kraege, waterfowl section manager for the state Department of Fish and Wildlife, has designated the festival in Stanwood as the main venue for Baranyuk’s presentation, a lecture he’ll be giving throughout the region.

Kraege says the presentation includes stunning slides and video of Wrangel Island and its rich nesting grounds.

The festival includes art shows and demonstrations, musical entertainment, activities for kids, guided tours, speakers, vendors and food, including breakfasts and lunches to benefit the Stanwood Area Historical Society and the Safe Harbor Free Clinic.

Sno-Isle Libraries presents a “Puppet Play: Lessons From The Geese” with the Stanwood children’s librarian at 1 p.m. Sunday at the other festival center, the Four Springs House &Lake Preserve, 585 Lewis Lane, Camano Island.

The play features Snow Goose, Canada Goose and a surprise visitor or two. Stick around to fold an origami flapping bird.

Gale Fiege: 425-339-3427www.thegreatnwglassquest.com.;http://www.thegreatnwglassquest.com/[URL][/URL]

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