Outdoor notes

FREE NATURE WALKS

The Wild Bird Center has two free nature/bird walks scheduled.

Those attending will leave from the center.

The walks are designed for birders at all levels, especially families. Those attending need to dress for the weather and bring binoculars.

The East Canyon Sage Grouse Lek walk will leave at 5:30 a.m. on Saturday. The walk to Beus Pond will leave the store at 10 a.m. on April 14.

The center is located in the Layton Market Mall, 1860 N. 1000 West, Layton, Exit 335, Antelope Drive off I-15. Call 801-525-8400 for information or visit the Web site at www.wildbird.com/layton.

PARK DISCOUNTS AVAILABLE

It will now cost less to fish at Utah's state boating parks with a valid 365-day Utah fishing or combination license.

License holders save up to half off the regular day-use fee Tuesday through Thursday at participating parks. Utah residents 62 years and older receive up to half off the senior day-use fee. Day-use fee covers up to eight people in the same private vehicle. Offer continues throughout the year, but is not valid on holidays.

Present the valid fishing or combination license when entering the park to receive the discount. Only one valid license is required to receive the discount.

Fishing and combination licenses are available at www.wildlife.utah.gov and from license agents and DWR offices.

ANNUAL PARK PASS

The Utah State Annual Pass is now on sale.

The $70 Annual Pass waives day-use fees into most state parks. Passes do not discount overnight camping or special use fees, such as golf.

Utah seniors, 62 and over, may purchase a Senior Adventure Pass for $35. The Adventure Pass offers the same benefits as the Annual Pass.

Also available are the free Utah Field Guide. This brochure offers vacation ideas, descriptions, photographs, and facilities at Utah's 42 state parks.

Passes may be purchased at any state park, region office or the Salt Lake office, 1594 W. North Temple. For more information, 801-538-7220 or toll free 877-UTPARKS.

SPRING BOATING WARNING

Utah State Parks boating officials remind boaters to be aware of the dangers of sudden spring storms and cold water temperatures.

Dave Harris, boating coordinator, pointed out that life jackets not only keep people afloat, but provide an extra layer of warmth, which could mean the difference between life and death.

He reported that if someone fell into 40-degree water, they could survive perhaps five to 10 minutes before succumbing to hypothermia.

Statistics show that three of four people who drowned in boating accidents would not have died had they worn a life jacket.