Wildlife Area Gets Upgrade by Scouts Published April 24, 2008 By Jonathan Wald 92nd Civil Engineer Squadron FAIRCHILD AIR FORCE BASE, Wash. -- A few weeks ago on a cold winter day in March, a small group of scouts took some time to replace birdhouses in an area that gets heavy bird use each year. 1st Class Scout Kyle Wilkinson, Life Scout Karl Gunselman, 1st Class Scout Bryan Connally, 1st Class Scout Jacob Keith, Scout Ian Gardner and Star Scout Drew Castellaw cumulatively labored more than 24 hours carrying out this project. Their efforts to construct and replace 12 bird houses, just prior to the spring migration, will not go un-noticed. "The houses are already being put to good use by a few pairs of tree swallows," said Fairchild's natural resources manager. Although the houses are designed for wrens and chickadees, this area has traditionally been home to tree swallows, as most birds will take advantage of a nice, clean home. Scouts have accomplished many improvement projects in the Wildlife Area over the past few years to include the installation of benches, information kiosks, trail improvements, and just last fall, the rehabilitation of the wildlife-viewing stand which will receive some additional work in May. Be sure to get out there this spring and summer to enjoy what nature has to offer right here on Fairchild.