Join Mark Welter for a trip to Goose Pond FWA in search of waterfowl. Located in Greene County just south of the town of Linton, Goose Pond’s 8000+ acres represent Indiana’s largest and most successful habitat restoration project. Since its completion in 2008, Goose Pond has been a magnet for migrating waterfowl, waders, shorebirds and songbirds. Late March can be expected to produce an interesting mix of lingering winter birds and early Spring arrivals. Our primary focus will be on dabbling and diving ducks. Additionally geese, cranes, American White Pelicans and shorebird species may be possible.

We will primarily be birding from the roads and parking areas, and may take brief hikes along the levees if the situation warrants. Good water-resistant boots are advisable for this. Due to the distances that can be involved in surveying this property, bring a spotting scope if you have one. If you don’t, there will be scopes to share. Additionally, small two-way radios to facilitate communication among vehicles while traveling would also be beneficial.

If time allows and there is interest, we may also visit the Beehunter Marsh units adjacent to Goose Pond, as well as the Dugger Unit of the Greene-Sullivan State Forest, located a few miles to the northwest. We will meet at 7 a.m. in the Target parking lot at 10209 E. US 36 (Rockville Road) in Avon, just west of the Ronald Reagan Parkway. Participants should bring snacks and drinks if desired, as we will not be going into town for lunch. We can expect to be back around 3 p.m. Contact Mark at mwelter521@yahoo.com if you have any questions.