Birding Pioneer Park for Beginners and Families

Pioneer Park on Henderson Road in Tumwater is an under-appreciated birding site gem. Driving past it, one thinks the park consists solely of baseball and soccer fields. Less easily seen is the Deschutes River flowing through the park, the wide wetlands behind the baseball fields, and the mown paths that meander through riparian woods and meadows. The park provides habitat for a surprising diversity of birds and is certainly worth a first visit if you aren’t already familiar with it.  Meet in the parking lot at 8:30 a.m. Bring binoculars and dress for the weather. E-mail bwood2800@nullgmail.com if you have questions or need driving (or bicycling or walking) directions to Pioneer Park.