Joint volunteer effort helps wildlife

Friends Aiding Wildlife in Nature (FAWN) added more miles of obsolete fencing to their increasing odometer on Oct. 18 with the help of Gold Country Rotary members plus staff from the Auburn State Recreation Area (ASRA). A total of 16 volunteers (called "Re-Wilders) removed obsolete fencing that entangles, injures, isolates and separates wildlife. According to FAWN's Roger Smith, "Our hard-working volunteers removed almost two miles of old barbed wire and open-grid fencing. We so appreciate their vital assistance in helping FAWN accomplish its mission to improve the lives of wildlife. These old fences pose a big obstacle and danger to wild animals and are also a hazard to horses and riders who frequent this area." The Rotarians were led by Steve Owles and their new Chapter President, Ingrid Pierson. "Helping FAWN with the fencing removal is the kind of community service project Gold Country Rotarians are eager to help out with," Owles said. "A motto of Rotary is 'Service Above Self,' and being able to help Friends Aiding Wildlife in Nature (FAWN) with this very worthwhile project is consistent with Rotary's motto. It was a great day and we look forward to our continued involvement." ASRA Interpreter Joe Shanahan, along with other ASRA staff members, provided a dump truck for transporting the old fencing to the Recology Waste Station in Auburn for free disposal as a recyclable metal. After four hours of work, the truck was full. "There's so much more work to do to return our lands to Mother Nature and its native inhabitants," says Irene Smith of FAWN. "Our volunteers are the muscle that allows FAWN to pursue its mission." FAWN wants to expand its mission by continuing to make presentations and serve as a model for other areas to form their own version of FAWN. FAWN is always looking for more presentation opportunities, new volunteers and new fence removal candidates. Visit their website at www.fawn4wildlife.org.