Field Trip Leader Bios
Read all the biographies here.
A special note about Field Trips
Please arrive at the location indicated 30 minutes prior to your scheduled event. This will allow us time to check you in and ensure the trip leaves promptly. We ask that you follow your field trip leader from the meeting location to the final destination. Anyone arriving after the field trip leader has left may not be able to join the group. Most field trips will be limited to the first 20 reservations. Walk-in registration may be available for some events during the weekend of the Festival.
Weather may change a trip's itinerary, but most trips will be conducted rain or shine. The weather in the valley during January is variable. It is generally cold and sometimes rainy, with daytime highs ranging from 50F to 65F.
Be sure to bring the following on your field trips: rain gear, waterproof footwear, layered clothing, binoculars, camera, field identification guide, water and snack or lunch as needed. Please also check out the Tips & Etiquette below to help you enjoy your day to the fullest.
Tips & Etiquette for Bird Watchers
To make your trip more enjoyable for yourself and others, we ask you to please use these following etiquette tips:
- Wear clothing suitable for the weather and area you'll be hiking in. It's practical to layer clothing to accommodate fluctuations in temperature. Wear comfortable shoes that have a good grip and are waterproof when necessary. You may want to take sunscreen, a hat or rain gear.
- Bring binoculars or a scope for a better viewing experience.
- Bring water on long outings to stay hydrated.
- Bring a Field Guide if you are interested in learning more about the birds you see. If you are a beginning birder, look for a guide that specializes in birds of northern California.
- Be courteous to other explorers. Stay with your group and pay attention to your trip leader. Walk quietly and slowly. Do not disrupt animals or their habitats. Turn off cell phones or other electronic devices. If you are taking children with you, explain to them proper etiquette before the trip.
- Tune up your senses and listen carefully. Scan the horizon and tree canopies. Look to the ground for prints, feathers and other traces of wildlife. Please remove litter and leave natural items where they belong. This will keep it enjoyable for others when they visit.
Field Trip: Family Hike at Verbena Fields
$12 Adult; $5 Youth
Saturday, Jan 30, 2016 10:00 am - 12:00 pm
Meet at Chico Masonic Family Center (Map)
Walking, could involve distance but largely flat
Description
In the heart of Chico, a wildflower meadow overlooks a creek meandering past willows and cottonwoods, while overhead a Red-shouldered Hawk surveys the ground for its next meal. If you are thinking Bidwell Park, think again. Lesser-known Verbena Fields is a 21-acre open space that is an active restoration site along Lindo Channel where native plants and animals are making a comeback. Join the Kids and Creeks staff for a lighthearted, activity-filled exploration of this urban gem.
Field Trip Leaders
Kurt Geiger
When Kurt Geiger is not on the trails with Kids and Creeks, he is studying and working towards his degree in Wildlife Biology. As a wildlife photographer and writer, Kurt has created native plant and animal field guides for Verbena Fields and the greater Chico area. Kurt is a proud father of two: Carter,11 and Madison, 10.
Kurt Geiger's Events
- Family Hike at Verbena Fields (1/30/2016)
Heidi Ortiz
Heidi Ortiz is local to Northern California. She moved to Chico for school and graduated in 2013 with a degree in Recreation Administration, with an option in Parks and Natural Resource Management. She has experience working with the Chico Park Division as their Volunteer Coordinator. She has worked as an outdoor education instructor with Kids and Creeks since 2011 and Rancho Esquon since 2013.
Heidi Ortiz's Events
- Rancho Esquon (1/28/2016)
- Family Hike at Verbena Fields (1/30/2016)