By Scout Nelson
Students from the Jamestown area explored North Dakota's prairie landscape during the annual Stutsman County Bird Bus Tour on May 29, 2026. The educational event gave young participants an opportunity to learn about birds, wetlands, and prairie conservation through hands-on outdoor activities at Arrowwood National Wildlife Refuge.
The second-year program was organized by the Stutsman County Soil Conservation District (SCD), the USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS), and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. Held on the first Friday after school dismissal, the event encourages more local students to participate in outdoor learning and conservation activities.
The Bird Bus Tour began as an idea from Braedon Honetschlager, district conservationist with the NRCS Jamestown Field Office. Working with Gina Olson of the Stutsman County SCD, organizers arranged transportation, binoculars, community partnerships, and registration support through The James River Valley Library System.
At Arrowwood National Wildlife Refuge, Refuge Manager Paul Halko introduced students to the Prairie Pothole Region. Participants learned how glacially formed wetlands provide valuable habitat for waterfowl and migratory birds while supporting healthy ecosystems. They also discovered how wetlands are protected through conservation easements and managed by adjusting water levels along the James River.
During the first field stop, students used binoculars and spotting scopes to observe waterfowl and grassland birds while learning about habitat management practices, including rotational grazing, prescribed fire, and invasive weed control.
“Bobolinks and meadowlarks are great indicators of well-maintained prairie,” Honetschlager told the group, noting that these species thrive where grazing, fire and weed control support a balanced ecosystem.
Students also explored how healthy rangelands depend on proper management. They learned about controlling invasive weeds such as leafy spurge with flea beetles, using rotational grazing, and applying prescribed burns to maintain strong prairie habitats.
At the conclusion of the tour, every student received an entry-level pair of binoculars and a cinch sack containing information about North Dakota birds to encourage continued outdoor exploration.
Support for this year's event came from Pheasants Forever, Vortex, NRCS, the Stutsman County Wildlife Club, Orriginals, The James River Valley Library System, Farmers Union Insurance, and Arrowwood National Wildlife Refuge.
Organizers hope the program continues inspiring the next generation of conservation leaders by connecting students directly with North Dakota's wildlife and natural landscapes.
Photo Credit: pexels-joal-zar
Categories: North Dakota, Education