Loon Conservancy
GIVING LOONS A REASON TO LIVE ON THE GULL LAKE CHAIN
GCOLA’s loon programs, led by Sheila Johnston (The Loon Lady), are incredibly active with many programs intended to increase their populations on our lakes. From nesting site construction, in partnership with the DNR, to population surveys, to rescue operations and communications about safe boating and fishing around loons, we have teams of passionate volunteers around all of these efforts. A generous GCOLA donor has also helped to fund a research team with a boat and motor used in the banding of loons for further data collection on their survival.
What We Do
- Conduct loon surveys, and report findings to DNR MN Loon Restoration Project (MLRP).
- Deliver education materials and signage regarding loon protection.
- Participate in the MPCA Get the Lead Out (GTLO) Program because lead poisoning, from the ingestion of lead fishing tackle, is the leading cause of loon deaths.
- Place artificial loon nesting platforms with guidance from the MLRP.
- Coordinate loon rescues as part of the Minnesota Loon Rescue Network.
- Support loon banding on the Gull Lake Chain through The Loon Project.
What You Can Do
- Volunteer to do a loon survey.
- Learn how to be a loon rescue volunteer.
- Deliver Loon Safe Boating Tips to local resorts and boat rental companies.
- Read our quarterly newsmagazine articles about our loon programs.