GALT, CA (MPG) - In celebration of World Migratory Bird Day, the Cosumnes River Preserve and the City of Galt will host a native plant installation event at Galt Community Park on Saturday, May 10, from 9 to 11 a.m., focused on supporting bird habitats and pollinator species.

The event, themed “Protecting Shared Spaces,” will include the planting of native pollinator-friendly plants such as milkweed, goldenrod, California sunflowers and buttonwillows. Trees like black walnut and white alder are also being considered, according to Amber Veselka, outreach coordinator for the Cosumnes River Preserve.

The preserve, a key stop along the Pacific Flyway, is a critical habitat for several bird species during both spring and fall migrations. Although fall sees the greatest influx of waterfowl – such as ducks, Canada geese and sandhill cranes – spring is an important time for migrating swallows and other smaller species. 

According to BirdCast, a migration forecasting tool, more than 1 million birds passed over Sacramento County just last night.

Veselka said the planting will help restore habitat and create food sources for birds and the insects they depend on.

“Hummingbirds, moths and other pollinators play a vital role in ecosystems,” Veselka said. “By planting native species, we’re supporting the entire food chain that migratory birds rely on.”

World Migratory Bird Day, first observed in 1993, has grown into a global event celebrated in more than 100 countries. The campaign raises awareness of the threats migratory birds face such as habitat loss, climate change and urban sprawl and promotes conservation actions that individuals and communities can take.

This year’s theme highlights the importance of integrating nature into urban environments. Veselka said the City of Galt was quick to partner when approached about finding a site for planting.

“We are planting plants that are native to this area and hopefully creating a partnership with the city to help them plant more native plants in their open spaces,” Veselka said.  

The Cosumnes River Preserve spans more than 50,000 acres and is managed by a coalition of public and nonprofit organizations, including The Nature Conservancy, the Bureau of Land Management and the California Department of Fish and Wildlife. It is the last free-flowing river system west of the Sierra Nevada and hosts hundreds of thousands of migratory birds each year.

Beyond the bird day event, the preserve offers guided nature walks, bird surveys and volunteer opportunities, including a naturalist training program. Veselka also encouraged residents to take conservation into their own hands.

“Planting a few native plants in your yard can create a small sanctuary for pollinators and birds,” she said. “It doesn’t take much to make a difference.”

Participants in the May 11 event are encouraged to sign up through Eventbrite via the Cosumnes River Preserve website. Attendees should wear closed-toed shoes and bring sunscreen, bug spray, water and snacks.