One of the many programs threatened by cuts is the federal Bird Banding Lab, which runs the entire U.S. bird banding program, along with the rest of the vital Ecosystems Mission Area at USGS. The U.S. Geological Survey Ecosystems Mission Area is responsible for many of the programs that serve millions of birders, hunters, anglers, gardeners, biologists, ecologists, and wildlife enthusiasts around the country–and importantly, the wildlife we treasure. Attend the rally, contact your legislators! (fb)

Do you like to explore? Walk through streams? Care about water quality? If your answer is yes, then this community science project, to explore water quality and stream health, is perfect for you. Maine Audubon is partnering with the Maine Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) on the Stream and Marsh Explorers program, to recruit, train, and support volunteers interested in searching streams and freshwater wetlands for large aquatic insects (macroinvertebrates) that are indicators of water quality. Two training sessions are planned, where you can learn from DEP experts on how to survey for and identify macroinvertebrates and practice doing it yourself. This is a great activity for educators who can do the project with students, for families, or anyone looking to contribute to community science. Wednesday, May 28, 9-11:30 am: Holt Pond Preserve, Bridgton More info: https://maineaudubon.org/events/marsh-and-stream-explorers-field-day-at-holt-pond/ Saturday, June 7, 9-11:30 am: Jamies Pond, Hallowell More info: https://maineaudubon.org/events/marsh-and-stream-explorers-field-day-at-jamies-pond/ (fb)