6 TEHAMA - THE MAGAZINE, October 2014
careful management the Complex anticipates
being able to flood 85-90 percent of the
units. Part of that plan is hold off on flooding
parts of the Sacramento Auto Tour until after
November 1, making the most water available
when it is most needed by the migrating
waterfowl.
Normally there are ponds along the walking
trails at the Sacramento Visitor's Center. This
year they are scheduled to be dry this unless
enough water has been conserved from the
previous months. A portion of the Colusa
Auto Tour will also be dry.
The drought will also impact my favorite time
to photograph at the Complex, the Saturday
Photography Tours. For now, there are no
scheduled tours. With less water on the
Complex's refuges and the surrounding area,
it has become more important than ever that
the waterfowl in these areas not disturbed.
But, should rainfall be better than expected,
the tours may be resumed in November.
For the most up to date information on
drought conditions and events, make sure
to call the offices at the Sacramento NWR
Complex at 530 934-2801 and check
the website http://www.fws.gov/refuge/
Sacramento for events and tours.
Even with the drought's impact, the Complex
anticipates providing numerous recreational
opportunities to more than 165,000 visitors
this year.
When to go
The best time of year to visit for migratory
waterfowl is between late November and
mid-January. During this time the ducks and
