For the birds

The goal is to increase spring tourism in the western region of the province.

The second annual Feather and Folk Nature Festival takes place in the Bay St. George and Port aux Basques area beginning May 21, with opening ceremonies at the wetlands conservation area in Stephenville Crossing.

Speaking to Stephenville's Rotary Club about the festival last week, Holiday Inn Manager and Rotarian Roseann White said the festival, organized by the Southwest Coast Tourism Network and Western Destination Marketing Organization, has grown since its inception last year.

"The spring is a slow season [for tourism] so we hope to bring people in earlier," she told the Rotary club.

"This is our second year, and it's something that will take time to build."

The festival is just one part of a larger event called Springfest, which encompasses activities and festivals throughout the entire western region - from the iceberg festival in St. Anthony to the Norris Point Trails, Tales and Whales festival.

Ms. White said Feather and Folk will focus on nature-themed activities like a seashore walk along the Gravels Trail in Port au Port West, a kitchen party night at the St. George's RecPlex, birdwatching workshops in Stephenville Crossing and a nature walk through Piccadilly Park.

She says there are activities planned for the entire family and for tourists as well. Organizers are seeking the support of the public in making the event a success.

"This is a festival we hope will be around for a long time coming," said Ms. White.

"We're looking to the community for lots of support."

More information about the festival, including its schedule, can be found at www.featherandfolk.ca.

reporter@thegeorgian.ca