Friends of Edson Fichter Nature Area

Thank you for joining us at the BioBlitz!

Here are some photos from Saturday's May 17, 2025 Bioblitz which was organized by the Friends of the Edson Fichter Nature Area. The event included guided nature walks by local naturalists, demonstrations of the iNaturalist app, and information booths by a variety of organizations. 30 observers contributed 363 observations of 120 species. Sarah Jackson, Eric Rude, Maria Pacioretty, Jennifer Jackson, Don and Jane Streubel, and I have been planning this event since last fall. Thanks to the Idaho Department of Fish and Game and Idaho Master Naturalists for all of their help and to all of the event participants. - Chuck Peterson

Join us for a guided Adult Bird Walk at Edson Fichter Nature Area on June7, July 5, and August 2. Led by knowledgeable ornithologist. These early morning walks offer a great chance to spot local bird species and learn about their habitats. Meet at 6:30 at the amphitheater. Bring binoculars and a smartphone to identify and document sightings. Come and connect with nature and fellow bird enthusiasts. No sign up, just come promptly at 6:30.

Come with us on a guided family Bird Walk on June 21, July19, and August 15. The walk will be led by birder enthusiast. We hope to spot bird families such as the male and female mallard pictured. We will meet at 8:30 at the Edson Fichter Nature Area Amphitheater at 8:30. Bring your binoculars and smartphone to help identify and record your bird experience. No sign up but be prompt at 8:30. An adult must accompany the participant, and we will complete the bird walk in about one hour.

What is EFNA?

Edson Fichter Nature Area (EFNA) managed by Idaho Fish and Game in Pocatello hosts a 3-acre fishing pond, a sporting dog pond, Ardith Garden, Monarch Waystation, paved trails and plenty of wildlife watching opportunities.

Edson Fichter standing next to his illustrations. He devoted his life to natural wonders. Additionally, he was the professor of zoology at ISU from 1949-75, and curator of birds and mammals at the Idaho Museum of Natural History for 20 years.

"Let Nature Be Your Teacher"

-Edson Fichter

Who are the Friends?

The Mission of the Friends of the EFNA is to inspire life-long appreciation, respect and curiosity for the natural world of the EFNA.

The Friends of EFNA assist the Idaho Department of Fish and Game with education, development, and management of the nature area.

We are a group of local and regional supporters dedicated to serving the responsible use of this valuable resource.

Support

Appreciate

Respect

Inspire

Support Wildlife Habitat

This area hosts valuable and diverse habitat for many wildlife species. The riparian corridor along the river, community ponds, forested areas and open upland habitats provide a home for numerous wildlife species. Some animals occupy this area year round, while others use it as a seasonal stop over.

The Friends of EFNA assist Idaho Fish and Game with habitat enhancement projects to provide this critical home for wildlife.

Appreciate Nature

EFNA is a unique area to spot many different birds as well as local mammals from Mule deer to River otter! Friends of EFNA can support wildlife viewers by helping making this area a safe place for people to responsibly view these critters.

Respect Nature

EFNA offers diverse ways to commune with nature and recreate with community fishing ponds. Helping keep the area clean, enjoyable and ecologically healthy takes a LOT of work.

Friends of EFNA help clean up trash, maintain trails, gardens and wild spaces.

Inspire Generations to Come

As one of the most heavily used public spaces in Pocatello, EFNA has a huge potential to educate our future citizens.

Friends of EFNA provide education programs, community service projects and help acquire grants and other funding sources to protect and enhance this resource.