The PElican-- LAS Presence in Oxbow Nature

Tina Nappe

​In 2018, then Lahontan Audubon Society (LAS) Conservation Chair Don Molde asked whether, with a little assistance, the number of birds and bird species could be increased at Oxbow Nature Study Area. Oxbow is under coordinated management by the Nevada Department of Wildlife and Reno City Parks.  The decision was to build three plant boxes and fill them with flowers, preferably native ones, that were attractive to birds and bees. Since then, these plant boxes have been home to a variety of flowering plants including, yarrow, nepeta, penstemon, and California fuchsia. The primary caregiver has been Judith Lockwood, who regularly visited them to see if they were watered, removed weeds, and replanted when needed. LAS thanks her for the many years she has ensured the plants were thriving. LAS also thanks Reno City Parks for maintaining the irrigation system.


Judith has decided to step aside, but we will continue having a presence in Oxbow.  Recently, LAS, Reno City Parks, Nevada Department of Wildlife, and Keep Truckee Meadows Beautiful met to plan next year's "garden" in the Oxbow entrance triangle.  Growing plants, attractive to birds and bees remains the goal.  Trees and shrubs will be trimmed, a trail may be built, and more space for beneficial flowers, including those now in the boxes fostered. Thank you, Judith, for maintaining our LAS presence.


P.S. Don Molde, long term birder, field trip coordinator, and LAS speaker died in July 2025. LAS thanks him for his service to LAS and to Nevada's wildlife.