Hungry Owl Project Vineyard Pest Management

- The Hungry Owl Project is thrilled to announce a Vineyard Pest Management event to be held at the Spring Mountain Vineyard in St. Helena. Ron Rosenbrand, Spring Mountain's Vineyard Manager, will describe the vineyard's success in using environmentally friendly solutions for pest management. Western Bluebirds are a big part of the vineyard's pest control team, and "bluebirds in vineyards" expert Julie Jedlicka will explain the role of the Western Bluebird in controlling insects in vineyards. Alex Godbe, Director of the Hungry Owl Project, will provide information about HOP's work in promoting the use of barn owl and bluebird nesting boxes in the control of rats, mice, gophers, moles and insects in the vineyard context. Gophers Limited's Thomas Wittman will share his extensive experience in controlling gophers and other rodents.
Join us for a fun and informative afternoon event featuring hors d'oeuvres, estate grown wine, and other beverages. Barn owl and bluebird boxes can be ordered from the Hungry Owl Project at the event. This event is a fundraiser to continue our work to reduce reliance on pesticides and rodenticides by the producers of agricultural products and encourage ecologically sound alternatives. Reservations are $30 per person.

The mission of the Hungry Owl Project is to reduce the need for harmful pesticides and rodenticides by encouraging natural predators, through conservation of habitat, erecting nest boxes when appropriate, through research and education, and providing a resource of help and information on alternative methods of sustainable pest management.

The Hungry Owl Project is a program of WildCare (http://www.wildcarebayarea.org). WildCare offers practical, respectful and humane solutions in a complete cycle of programs that illuminate the inherent value of wildlife and the importance of a diverse and healthy eco-system. These programs include a wildlife advice hotline, veterinary hospital for wild animals, wildlife solutions services for property owners and education programs for children and adults.