Kristi Freese, a professional Level IV tracker, will present “A Wildlife Tracking Journey: Willapa and Beyond” in Ilwaco and Leadbetter Point in March.

Join the Friends of Willapa National Wildlife Refuge for two free educational and fun events celebrating nature on Friday, March 8, and Saturday, March 9.

The fun starts on March 8 at the Salt Hotel and Pub located at 147 Howerton Ave, Ilwaco. At 6:30 p.m. Kristi Freese, a professional Level IV tracker, will present “A Wildlife Tracking Journey: Willapa and Beyond.”

Freese’s journey as a tracker began locally on the shores of Willapa Bay and has led all the way to South Africa and back. Her presentation covers the basics of how to learn the skill of tracking, both individually and through a variety of mentors, courses, and other resources. She’ll share the international standards for tracker skill evaluation and its history beginning in southern Africa.

“Throughout the presentation, Freese will delight audiences with stories she’s gathered during her journey to become a Level IV wildlife tracker. She will also provide some basic information on track identification to prepare for the following day’s field trip,” organizers say.

There will be a cash bar and options for ordering appetizers or dinner at this event graciously hosted by the Salt Hotel and Pub. Plan to arrive early if you plan on ordering appetizers or dinner, doors open at 5:30 p.m.

On the ground

Get moving the next morning on March 9 at Willapa National Wildlife Refuge when Freese takes participants along the shoreline of Willapa Bay at Leadbetter Point to identify tracks of birds and mammals such as sanderlings, great blue herons, raccoons, deer, and more. Meet at 8 a.m. at Leadbetter Point in the northern-most parking lot on Stackpole Road. This trip will last about two hours. A Washington State Discover Pass is required for parking at the Leadbetter site. The walking is rated as easy. Terrain is sand and it may be uneven and wet. It’s an easy 2–3-mile hike on both wet and loose sand and a nature trail. Bring your favorite pair of binoculars as there will be birding opportunities along the way and dress for coastal weather conditions.

Space is limited, so register without delay at friendsofwillaparefuge.org. For more information, contact info@friendsofwillaparefuge.org. Coming from out of town? Check out lodging options at The Salt Hotel and Pub, hosts for the Friday evening event at www.salt-hotel.com. Other lodging, restaurants and activity options are available at the Pacific Count Tourism Bureau at www.visitlongbeachpeninsula.com.