Nature enthusiasts gather for festival

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Pedro Mota
  • 56th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
LUKE AIR FORCE BASE, Ariz. --  Ten Luke Air Force Base Airmen volunteered for the Tres Rios Nature and Earth Festival Oct. 26 at the convergence of the three rivers, Gila, Salt and Aqua Fria. The festival educated participants about the environment and wildlife surrounding the area.

Events included canoe excursions, a fishing clinic, bird walks and face and rock painting.

"It was a great atmosphere," said Barbara St. Bernard, 21st Fighter Squadron resource advisor. "The events were educational and enjoyed by all."

The canoe excursions taught canoeing and boating safety, while allowing participants to enjoy the rivers, birds, animals, weather, and surrounding nature.

Another event was the opportunity to get a "wet line." The Arizona Game and Fish Department fisheries staff set participants up with poles and allowed fishing in designated areas without a license.

The nature trail and beginning bird watching classes taught binocular usage and how to identify local birds. In addition to the classes, there were live exhibits including the Great Horned Owl and several types of falcons.

The festival is held biannually and is scheduled again on March 8 and 9, 2014, when Airmen will likely volunteer once more to help make it a success.

"Tres Rios Nature and Earth Festival is a great opportunity to show Luke's support, partnership, and outreach to the community," said Oscar Mabry, 56th Civil Engineering Squadron hazardous materials manager.