BIRD WATCHING

Christmas bird count at Bruneau

The Golden Eagle Audubon Society will host a field trip Saturday, Dec. 29, at 7 a.m. to C.J. Strike Reservoir and the Snake River from below the dam to Bruneau Dunes State Park. Dress for cold, windy weather. The all-day trip will end at the Y Bar Cafe in Grand View. Cost for dinner will be $8 to $10. For details call Larry Ridenhour at 863-5596 or email ridenhour.larry@gmail.com.

BOATING

Bernard boat landing improved

Renovation work at Idaho Fish and Game’s Bernard Landing Access Area on the Snake River, six miles downstream from Walters Ferry, is nearly complete. Crews have graded the parking area and poured concrete sidewalks to connect a new restroom and boat ramp with the parking area. Renovations should be wrapped up just after the new year, Fish and Game officials said.

Work began in July with the installation of an ADA-approved pit-vault toilet. A fully accessible steel dock and gangway system also were installed. Once graded, the parking area will have painted parking spaces to make better use of the available lot and allow easier access to the area’s boat ramp, officials said. The launch provides year-round access to the Snake River for hunters, anglers and floaters.