Outdoor notes

DONATE TO WILDLIFE

A few days remain to help songbirds, river otters and other wildlife that people don't hunt or fish. You can help by giving a few dollars to Utah's Nongame Wildlife Fund before the income tax deadline on April 15. To donate, go to line 19 on the 2007 Utah state income tax form, enter code 01 and the amount you wish to donate.

If you've already filed your taxes, the DWR accepts donations throughout the year. Send donations to Division of Wildlife Resources, P.O. Box 146301, Salt Lake City, UT 84114-6301. Indicate on the check, or an attached note, that the money is for Utah's Nongame Wildlife Fund.

ALTA SPRING FESTIVAL The first weekend in April marks the second annual Alta Spring Festival, offering food, live music, children's activities, free ski demonstrations, a ski competition and artists' market.

The three-day festival begins on Friday and features a seafood barbecue at the Albion Grill and volleyball courts at the Rustler Lodge. On Saturday, at the base of Collins chairlift, ski manufacturers' reps will have 2008-2009 ski models available to try for participants who have a credit card for a deposit. A Kid's Fair tent will be set up and the Goldminer's Daughter will feature live music and outdoor grilling on the patio. The Alta Historical Society will feature a slide show that evening at Our Lady of the Snows chapel. Local artists will have items for sale at the Goldminer's Daughter Galley.

On Sunday, Alta Ski Area is hosting a ski competition on High Rustler from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. The Alta Lodge will have a barbecue on the deck for spectators.

In addition to activities, the community is hosting a charity event to raise funds for the Alta public school, Stand Strong Again and the Susan G. Komen Foundation for breast cancer research. Tickets will be available at Alta area lodges and Spring Festival venues at a cost of $2 per ticket or six for $10. Prizes include a pair of skis, overnight lodging, dining and more. Winners will announced on Sunday at the awards announcement at the base of Collins at 4 p.m.

For a complete schedule, visit the Alta Visitors Bureau at altaresortassociation.com

WEAR A LIFE JACKET

As ice melts on Utah's lakes and reservoirs, boaters are reminded about the dangers of cold-water exposure and encouraged to wear life jackets at all times. State law requires all children 12 and younger to wear a life jacket while a boat is in operation.

"You never know when you might end up in the water," said Chris Haller, state parks boating education specialist. "Not only do life jackets keep you afloat, they provide an extra

layer of warmth, which might be the difference between life and death."