Klamath Bird Observatory and Field Journaling

Founded in 2000, Klamath Bird Observatory (KBO) is a non-profit research organization dedicated to advancing bird and habitat conservation through excellence in science, education, and partnerships.  Working with educators, private landowners, and land managers, KBO informs conservation at local, national, and international levels.  KBO conducts scientific studies to monitor and inventory bird populations, contributing towards the Partners In Flight International Bird Conservation Program's efforts to keep common birds common.

Klamath Bird Observatory’s Education and Outreach Program works to increase awareness of bird and habitat conservation in the Klamath-Siskiyou Bioregion through hands-on interactive educational programs for the public of all ages.  One activity that KBO educators focused on this spring with many schools was a field journaling activity to introduce students to one tool ornithologists and other biologists use when conducting field observations and/or field experiments.

Field journals are an essential scientific tool most field biologists can not live without. During field studies, biologists use journals to collect and document field data including animal observations, vegetation characteristics, weather, location, time, and other interesting facts about the day.  Journals can also include more than a record of scientific facts. They can include field sketches, plant presses, as well as feelings and thoughts about nature/science experiences. 

Field journaling is a great activity for not only children but adults as well.  It can act as a way to help connect people with the natural world and get them outdoors.  Everyone lives in a watershed.  So the next time you are outside enjoying your watershed and its components, think about taking along a notepad and pencil.  Then when you find a new secret swimming hole, you can write down directions and a map so you can remember for the future.

For more information about field journaling, visit http://www.klamathbird.org/Education/BRBT
and http://www.klamathbirdingtrails.com/
BSCreatingaFieldJournal.pdf

Written by Emily Molter

Student field journaling sample from Klamath Basin
Birding Trail spring 2007 education program.