Eighth Annual Purple Martin Workshop/Seminar March 9
Posted: 03/05/2013

KALONA, Iowa – A workshop/seminar on attracting purple martins will be held March 9, at 9:10 a.m., at the CAM Iowa Clothing Center (1005 Nutmeg Ave.) 1.8 miles north of Kalona, and one mile east of Hwy. 1.

Morning speakers include Jim Sheib, Iowa City Bird Club, on “Backyard and Feeder Birds of Iowa,” Patty Petersen, Trees Forever, on “Selection, Planting, and Care of Trees for Yards and Acreages,” and Jim Walters, Songbird Project, on “Build a Better Birdhouse.”

The afternoon martin program will feature Kelly Applegate, a wildlife biologist for the Mille Lacs Band of Ojibwe, and a founding member and director of the Minnesota Purple Martin Working Group. His work focuses heavily on conservation of habitats and species through partnership building, education, and active restoration of ecosystems. Special projects include purple martins, common terns, chimney swifts, and red-headed woodpeckers.

Applegate is considered the premiere authority on martins in Minnesota. His talk “Purple Martins: Bringing Them Back” will provide information to help conserve this species.

A panel of experts will then answer questions, followed by door prizes and auction.

A well-maintained martin colony brings joy to any neighborhood. Establishing a new colony is now a realistic possibility for many people. Anyone wanting to start or re-establish a purple martin colony, or in need of assistance in maintaining a colony, will benefit from attending this program.

There will be a $2 registration fee and attendees age 10 and younger are free. Lunch will be available at the site. Vendors are being encouraged to set up displays of interest to program attendees.

Note: This year’s auction will feature a fully-reconditioned T-14 martin house with Troyer Tunnel entrances, nest trays, and new Troyer horizontal gourds attached – everything you need but the pole and winch.