I am writing to you all from the small town of Rawlins, Wyoming. When I was offered the position in Wyoming I was excited and could not wait to get here. I had no clue what to expect of Wyoming, just images in my head of what it would be like. I have to say that it has surprised me and far exceeded my expectations. One of the first things I was told when I arrived is that Wyoming has two seasons, winter and construction. Don’t laugh, this is true. I arrived in May and wouldn’t you know, it has snowed several times since i have been here. As for construction, the highway that runs through town has been under construction since I arrived.  I must say even with the cold weather and constant rain at the start of my internship, it has turned out to be a great field season.

I am working on a project that deals with bird and bat mortality at met towers.  These towers go up before wind farms are put in place and they have supporting guy wires. The guy wires seem to be a problem for birds and they end up flying into them. After rainy days and training, my partner and I were finally able to get in the field on a regular basis and start our surveys. I will also get to measure the visual impact of towers, some with bird diverters and others without. I am lucky to be on such an important project and to have such a great mentor and support group at the BLM. Everyone has been extremely nice and helpful, I couldn’t ask for a better place to work. Before I go I must let everyone know how great the other CBG interns are. They have welcomed me with open arms and have been so kind. 

Anna

Rawlins, Wyoming

BLM