Scheduled at the height of spring migration and nesting in the Grande Ronde Valley, the annual Ladd Marsh Bird Festival celebrates World Migratory Bird Day with an uncrowded, non-competitive birding opportunity for the whole family.

Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife’s Ladd Marsh Wildlife Area is located about 7 miles south of La Grande, Oregon, and has one of the the most diverse bird populations in Union County. Over 200 species of birds either visit or live permanently at Ladd Marsh.

On Bird Fest weekend, birders can explore areas of the wildlife area generally closed to the public, providing increased opportunities to see abundant ducks, geese, raptors, passerines, and shore birds.

Schedule of Events:

4:45 am - Ladd Marsh Wildlife Area opens to public access with passport
6:00 am - Register at the Festival Information Trailer in the Tule Lake Public Access Area on Peach Road. Register for available spaces on field trips.
6:00 am – 12 Noon - Staffed Birding Stations open.
11:00 am – 1:00 pm - The Eastern Oregon University, GOSTEM trailer will be at the Tule Lake Public Access area with activities and information on birds and the environment.
12 Noon  - Registration closes.
8:45 pm  - Ladd Marsh Wildlife Area closes to public access.
Sunday