Bear River bird refuge cancels Swan Day amid cuts

BOX ELDER COUNTY – Federal budget cuts are claiming another casualty in the form of a Utah wildlife refuge’s annual Swan Day.

Bear River Migratory Bird Refuge Manager Bob Barrett says cancelling the activities planned for Saturday was a decision made out of the Washington office. He tells The Salt Lake Tribune he may get more information later that could change the situation.

Swan Day marks the annual migration of tundra swans through Utah. An average of 40,000 of the birds fly north back to the Artic tundra in March.

The refuge typically provides a swan biology clinic, arts and crafts, and Junior Ranger activities for Swan Day.

Fish and Wildlife staff members are also on hand to point out swans to visitors.

Barrett says about 300 people attended the festivities last year.

Free News Delivery by Email

Would you like to have the day's news stories delivered right to your inbox every evening? Enter your email below to start!