Pygmy rabbit survey volunteers needed

The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) needs volunteers now for surveys of endangered pygmy rabbits in central Washington.

Surveys, which involve extensive walking, will be conducted daily September 28 through October 11 from 7:45 a.m. to 4 p.m. on the Sagebrush Flats area just west of Ephrata.

All volunteers must attend one training session prior to surveying. Training at WDFW's Ephrata regional office (1550 Alder St., S.W.) is scheduled for:

Thursday, September 26, 7:30 p.m.
Saturday, September 28, 7 a.m.
Thursday, October 3, 7:30 p.m.
Saturday, October 5, 7 a.m.

WDFW project leader and wildlife biologist Peggy Bartels needs at least three volunteers each weekday and more on weekends. Interested persons should contact the Ephrata WDFW office (509-754-4624) for more information or to volunteer.

Volunteers should be prepared to walk in a variety of possible weather conditions. They are advised to wear long-sleeved shirts, long pants, sturdy walking shoes or boots, a hat, and appropriate layers for cold to hot weather. They should bring sunscreen, insect repellent, sack lunch, drinking water, and a daypack.