In June we will journey northward to explore Sioux County, IA with our primary destination being Oak Grove State Park/Big Sioux County Park, where a combined 433 acres include riparian woodland, forested river bluffs and prairie ridges. Though not distant, being located just north of Hawarden, IA, this park offers increased chances of locating nesting Least Flycatchers, Yellow-bellied Sapsuckers and Broad-winged Hawks. Late migrating Veery, flycatcher or warbler species may also be found.

These parks offer many park amenities, including a Nature Center, picnic shelters, campground and restrooms. Our plan calls for auto caravanning to the parks, birding each of the park’s habitats and convening a species compilation and picnic lunch in the riverside shelter.

Participants should meet at the Missouri River boat launch in Sioux City’s Chris Larsen Park at 7am to carpool or caravan to the site via Iowa Hwy 12. This route of 42 miles currently has a short detour between Akron and Hawarden, which can be shortened considerably by taking 2 miles of gravel. Remember to pack a picnic lunch and beverages to fully experience the area with the group. A stop at the Big Sioux Recreation Area, a series of gravel pits, on our way home will complete the day with a few species of water birds.

For more information, contact Bill Huser at 712-574-3107 or billfhuser@gmail.com.