The Potomac Valley Audubon Society is sponsoring a birding trip to the National Conservation Training Center outside Shepherdstown on Saturday, Oct. 1.

The trip will be led by veteran birder Jim Farley and begin at 7:30 a.m. It will be free and anyone with an interest is welcome to come along.

Children will be welcome.

However, because of security considerations at NCTC pre-registration is essential. Easy, on-line registration is available on the PVAS website at www.potomacaudubon. org. Please register before Sept. 26.

When arriving at NCTC, after checking in at the guard station, plan to meet Mr. Farley in the Blue parking lot.

For more information, contact Krista Hawley at adultprograms@potomac audubon.org or 703-303-1026.

The Center’s 538-acre campus is not normally open to the public, so this is a great opportunity to visit the campus and enjoy their trails while birding.

The campus contains a mix of fields and forest, providing good habitat for a rich variety of bird species.

The trip will last about three-and-a-half hours and involve walking about two miles over moderate terrain.

Participants should dress appropriately for the prevailing weather conditions; bring insect repellent, water, and sunscreen; and wear comfortable walking or hiking boots.

PVAS will provide binoculars for those who need them.

The trip may be cancelled if there is bad weather. To check on possible weather cancellation, watch the PVAS website or contact Ms. Hawley.