The first entry into our series highlighting places where important conservation actions are making better habitat for birds. Come and get bird conservation literate! This series is not just for birders - all who have an interest in local conservation are welcome.

Techy Basin is owned by the Metropolitan Water Reclamation District and serves as an overflow basin during big rainstorms. Meadowlarks, savannah sparrows, red-winged blackbirds and spotted sandpipers find the grassy habitat perfect for nesting. However, the MWRD keeps the drains clear by mowing frequently - a disaster for helpless birds in the nest.

The MWRD is the second-largest landowner in Cook County. Once the water you use goes down the drain, it journeys through these lands. This field trip is a chance to learn about conservation on lands whose primary purpose is not providing habitat

Come explore the site, learn about the collaboration between birders and the MWRD, and be part of the problem-solving about how to save these birds. Also, learn about the best places to find birds at the site.

Park behind (west of) the Sheraton Hotel overlooking the Basin.

Accessibility and safety info: The trip will take place on wide, uneven mowed grass trails, and one narrow trial with a short incline. Protect yourself against the sun and ticks (tuck your pants legs into your soks or wear boots, tuck in your shirt and wear long sleeves). Bring water.

Baby sandpiper!

Trip Leaders: Jeff Bilsky, Judy Pollock and Amanda Ticachek

Limit 25 attendees.

Photos taken this week at Techny (spotted sandpiper at left and red-winged blackbirds, above): Jeff Bilsky