The population of many species of California songbirds is declining dramatically. Join us for a multimedia presentation by Kay Charter, founder and Executive Director of Saving Birds Thru Habitat, who will discuss what academic researchers believe to be the causes of this disturbing phenomenon. More importantly, she will outline in detail six simple, concrete actions we, as individuals and community members, can take to reverse this alarming trend. Though some of her call-to-action will be focused specifically on songbirds, many of her suggestions will benefit all our native creatures—all species of birds, of course, and butterflies, bees, moths, bats, and the animals we share our outdoor spaces with.
Leader
Kay Charter, Founder & Executive Director, Saving Birds Thru Habitat
In the fall of 1992, Charter realized that most of her favorite bird species were in decline. Migrating species like Baltimore orioles, scarlet tanagers, indigo buntings and warblers were (and still are) losing ground every year. Unwilling to stand by helplessly and watch the downward slide of these beautiful creatures, she and her husband sold their lakefront home in order to purchase a 47-acre tract of mixed habitat away from the water. There they established a safe haven for the feathered jewels they love. Nine years later, in the summer of 2001, Kay was the driving force behind the founding of Saving Birds Thru Habitat, an organization dedicated to teaching others about the challenges facing our migrating birds and the pollinators they depend on, and instructing them how to help resolve those issues.
Charter is also an award-winning author who has written for regional and national publications. As a popular speaker, she has presented programs for city governments, libraries, schools, colleges, Audubon clubs, service organizations and garden groups across the country.
Details
Kay Charter's presentation is designed to answer the question, "What can we do, where we live, to save our native birds from disappearing?" Her engaging PowerPoint programs address causes for these tragic losses, and demonstrate how every single person can make a positive difference right in their backyard. This presentation can help mitigate the effects of climate change. And it can give us a renewed feeling of hope, based on what really works. You will leave this event with the tools you need in order to take meaningful action—including a "gift bag" to inspire and inform you
Logistics
Kay's presentation will include both lecture and a short film, and we'll leave plenty of time afterward for Q&A. In closing, we'll pass out resources in the form of "gift bags" to each household in attendance, and have an opportunity to sign the newly unveiled SSU Sustainability Pledge.
This event is open to members of the SSU community and the public, and we encourage faculty in all university schools and departments to attend. No previous experience or knowledge is required to participate. This event is open to all ages.
This event takes place on the north side of the SSU campus near the lakes. We recommend parking in Lot G (LG on map, east of the lakes) or Lot M (across Copeland Creek). Click here then select "Sonoma State" to purchase a Daily Parking Permit in advance. Traveling by bicycle or public transportation is also encouraged. Please allow 5-10 minutes to walk to the building from the parking lot. Specific location will be sent to you upon registration.
COVID-19 Safety
At registration, you will be asked if you can provide proof of COVID-19 vaccination. All staff are vaccinated. Do not attend if you test positive for COVID-19 or if you have any symptoms that may be indicative of COVID-19, even if you are vaccinated. You are highly encouraged to properly wear a mask when indoors, even if you are vaccinated, and our staff would greatly appreciate it. Bandanas, gaiters or vented masks are not suitable. All SSU updated guidelines can be found here.
What to Bring
Please bring a suitable mask, and either your printed parking pass or money to purchase one on-site.
How to Sign Up
See registration link below. Each person should register separately and indicate if they are bringing children. This event is free of charge.
About the Center
Sonoma State University’s Center for Environmental Inquiry empowers university students to work with community members on the environmental challenges of the North Bay. Our mission is to create an engaged and environmentally ready society, one where all people have the skills to find solutions to the challenges facing our earth. SSU Preserves are open to everyone engaged in education or research. Reservations are required.