The Potomac Valley Audubon Society will sponsor a birding trip to the Altona Marsh in Jefferson County on Saturday, Dec, 12. The trip will begin at 8:30 a.m. and last a couple of hours.

The Marsh is a rare, 70-acre marl wetland protected by a Nature Conservancy easement. It is a good site for birding, not only because it harbors a rich variety of species but also because the terrain offers easy viewing. Species likely to be seen at this time will include waterfowl, winter visitors, and year-round birds.

The trip will be free and anyone with an interest is welcome to come along, regardless of their birding skills. However, participants must pre-register. To pre-register, and to get more information, go to the PVAS website at www.potomacaudubon.org.

In addition, at the beginning of the trip, participants will need to sign a waiver and release as the walk is through a protected site with access issues.

Those with mobility issues may find this walk to be very difficult, and should call the trip leader, Joette Borzik, at (240) 440-4221 to find out more details.

Children ages 12 and up will be welcome but they must be accompanied by an adult.

Participants should wear sturdy footwear, dress appropriately for the prevailing weather conditions, and bring along water. Binoculars will be available for anyone who needs them.

The trip may be canceled in the event of bad weather.