Western Field Ornithologists Conference 2026

[Keeley Kirkendall]

I wanted to make sure everyone knows that there is a big ornithologists conference happening in Ashland on September 17th through the 20th, being hosted by KBO (Klamath Bird Observatory).  This will bring together some of the best birders and bird scientists in the west to both see/tour our area and present many of their scientific study papers where birds, ecology and science interact.  

There are many of our local bird experts participating, including Frank Lospalluto, Shannon Rio, Jamie Stephans, Ryan Terrill, Sarah Rockwell, Kevin Spencer, Pepper Trail, Amanda Alford, Harry Fuller, Elijah Hayes, Jim Livaudais and Kristi Mergenthaler, among others.

In addition, Jamie Stephens, from KBO, is giving the KeyNote Address at the Saturday Night Gala.  She will be speaking on "From detection to decision: The role of ornithology in conservation."  One of her key points is: "The future of field ornithology will not be defined solely by insight and discovery, but by how effectively our findings shape decisions that determine the fates of bird populations and the landscapes they depend on."  

Here is the link to more conference information:

https://westernfieldornithologists.org/conference

This should be an excellent educational experience and I wanted everyone to know it was happening in case they wanted to participate.

--

Keeley Kirkendall, KBO board member.

Cell: 541-646-8797

PhotosbyKeeley.com