Mission Statement	The mission of the National Audubon Society (NAS) and Shenandoah Audubon (NSVAS) is to conserve and restore natural ecosystems, focusing on birds, other wildlife, and their habitats, for the benefit of humanity and the Earth's biological diversity.
About Shenandoah Audubon	The Northern Shenandoah Valley Audubon Society (NSVAS), or “Shenandoah Audubon”, is a chapter of the National Audubon Society and member of the Virginia Audubon Council and the Virginia Environmental Network. NSVAS is a non-profit organization which serves the City of Winchester and the Counties of Frederick, Clarke, Warren and Shenandoah plus portions of Loudoun, Fauquier and Rappahannock. Local Membership ($15 annual dues) is open to anyone with an interest in birds, in our environment and in conservation. Membership includes 4 issues of the chapter Oak Leaf newsletter, notices of special local events, participation in migratory bird counts, field trips and basic operating costs. Send dues, payable to NSVAS, to Philip Yount, NSVAS Treasurer, P.O. Box 515, Winchester, VA 22604.
Membership / Public Meetings	Membership meetings are held the 2nd Thursday of March, April, May, September, October and November (or as otherwise specified) and are open to the public at no charge. In cooperation with Blandy Farm, a special membership meeting is held every summer (June/ July) and is open to the public.
Membership Banquet	A Membership Banquet and Awards Ceremony is held in February.
Board Meetings	Board Meetings are held at such times as determined by the President and open to all members, .
NSVAS Arboretum	The NSVAS Arboretum has been established in Jim Barnett Park, Winchester, VA where donations from community businesses, organizations and individuals contribute to the planting of native Virginia trees, bushes and flower beds. This Arboretum, located in a 5-acre lot on the Pleasant Valley Ave. side of the park, affords birds, butterflies and other wildlife to live and forage for food. All donations are greatly appreciated. See our new sign kiosk in the Park near the War Memorial Building. For further information, contact Jim Smith (662-5033), or Scott Kenny (722-9551).
Bird Counts	A Christmas Bird Count is held annually, in specified locations, with data sent to Cornell University for tabulation of migratory and resident bird species in the Northern Shenandoah Valley and compilation with world wide bird counts. Contact Rob Simpson at LFCC (540-869-2051).
Bird-A-Thon	Held in the spring, the Bird-A-Thon fundraiser allows bird lovers to count and record the birds found in their own backyards or their favorite nature center. All funds are spent on NSVAS projects. Contact (to be announced).
Bluebird Trails	NSVAS members maintain a 110 nest box Bluebird Trail at Blandy Experimental Farm in Boyce, VA to encourage productivity of native cavity nesting birds and to conduct scientific research. For more information, contact Kaycee Lichliter (540-869-5152). NSVAS members also maintain smaller Bluebird Trails at Calmes Neck (approx. 20 nest boxes) - contact Margaret Wester (540-837-2799), on private property (Sam Patten; Charlie Clevenger; and other NSVAS members), and at Andy Guest State Park (contact Roxy Leonard or Lee Bowen).
Scholarships	NSVAS : Tim Melton Memorial Scholarship is presented to a student of Lord Fairfax Community College Environmental Science curriculum. Contact LFCC: Lord Fairfax Community College / 540-868-7000) for further information .
Birding Festival	Annual Birding Festival: Live birds and animals, talks, and bird and nature related slide presentations, conservation and environmental exhibits, crafts sales, activities, nature walks, and so much more is held on a Saturday in the fall in conjunction with the Bird Seed Sale. This is a family event for everyone in the area to come, enjoy and learn. Plan to bring your neighbors and friends as well as your whole family! Contact: Judy Hagan (540-667-6778).
Bird Seed Sale	Held in conjunction with our Birding Festival (see above), the Bird Seed Sale of fresh bird seed, suet blocks, and other related material is a fundraiser for the programs and projects sponsored by NSVAS. Contact: Margaret Wester (540-837-2799).
Student Bird Study Workshop	Scouts and 4Hers who attend are eligible for a bird badge; other youth enjoy the learning experience: how to identify birds by sight and sound using eyes, ears, and binoculars in conjunction with a free bird book, what habitat and conservation measures we can assist with, and building a birdfeeder. This is such a popular, free activity, early registration is advised. The Workshop is now held in conjunction with our Birding Festival (see above) and adults are welcome to attend. Contact (to be announced).
Other Projects	The chapter is currently working with Grimm's Farm/ Kernstown Battlefield on environmental activities/ projects. Field trips as announced. Bird talks held annually held at Frederick County Middle School & other school locations.
Web Site	www.audubon-nsvas.org - updated as additional information becomes available.
Oak Leaf Newsletter	The Oak Leaf newsletter is published 4 times a year and contains meeting information, NSVAS events, President's monthly message, articles by Board and other members, and much more of interest. Send articles to Terri Loria; preferably via e-mail to: belloria_svcs@yahoo.com