Affecting real change for preserving crucial water sources

LOCH SHELDRAKE, NY — On Thursday, April 25 at 6 p.m., Sullivan County Audubon will continue its celebration of Earth Day with a presentation on Delaware Watershed Conservation with PA Audubon’s field organizer, Emily Ferrin. The public is invited to come and learn simple ways that we can all affect real change for clean water sources. This presentation will take place at SUNY Sullivan in room B113; it is free, and sandwiches and salad will be served.

Ferrin has recruited individuals and industries along the Delaware and in our own county to stand and protect the watershed. The EPA’s proposed amendment to the definition of Waters of the United States as outlined in the 2015 Clean Water Rule will reduce protections for many important bodies of water that birds, fish and people need to thrive. Audubon chapters within the Delaware River Watershed have united to contest the proposed rule change and to protect the river as a clean water source for more than 13 million people and 400 bird species.

For more information, or to learn about upcoming events, visit www.sullivanaudubon.org.

Birding with SC Audubon

HURLEYVILLE, NY — On Tuesday, April 30 from 10 a.m. to 12 noon, (rain date May 2) Sullivan County Audubon invites the public for a walk on the Hurleyville Rail Trail to look for birds. Meet at the Hurleyville parking lot. Call Valerie Freer at 845/647 5496 for more information.

For more information or to learn about upcoming events, visit www.sullivanaudubon.org.

Herbs are for landscaping too

BETHANY, PA — Landscape designer and garden coach Michael Larkin will present “Not Your Ordinary Herb Garden,” on Saturday, April 27, from 3 to 5 p.m. at Bethany Public Library.

Larkin will talk about and show how herbs can be grown with ornamentals: herbs and flowers, herbs and succulents, herbs and perennials. He is the owner/operator of Michael Larkin Garden Design in Harrisburg, where he resides. As a landscape designer, garden coach and educator, he specializes in helping DIY gardeners achieve their landscape goals.

Larkin’s talk is hosted by The Greater Wayne Herb Guild, For more information about Larkin’s program and the herb guild, which meets monthly at Bethany Public Library, contact at 570/253-4349.

FUDR to host 12th annual One Bug river celebration

HANCOCK, NY — Friends of the Upper Delaware River (FUDR) is hosting its 12th annual One Bug river celebration on April 26, 27 and 28.

Two hundred fifty people are expected to attend the evening banquet on April 26, 6 p.m., at the Old Louisville Slugger Bat Factory. The evening will include keynote remarks from Congressman Antonio Delgado, and participants can bid on silent and live auction items. All members of the public are welcome to attend the banquet but must reserve a ticket in advance. Contact Sherri Resti Thomas at sherri@fudr.org or register online at www.FUDR.org.

On April 27 and 28, 30 two-person teams of anglers will participate in a fly-fishing competition on the East and West branches and the Main Stem of the Delaware River. In an effort to recognize the importance of river-related activities that benefit the local economy, people are encouraged to cheer the anglers on.