Page 12 - Walton Living

Although Hayes is no stranger to hard work, she is quick to point and protected the cranes are, they might have second guessed their
out that you quickly become a jack of all trades. “I’d say the most actions.”
important thing to know is how to listen and how to follow directions. To that end, Operation Migration has put together a packet of
I had an advantage in the fact that I know my way around a tool information that is especially designed to educate and excite school
box, how to cook, how to pull large trailers and didn’t mind getting children to the life and travels of the Whooping Crane. Arrange-
my hands dirty, but there was on the job training as well. Emptying ments can be made for schools to borrow a crane trunk, which is full
of interesting information for kids and teachers.
and approximately three people. But it’s not hands on work that has impressed Hayes. It is the devo-
“Even then there’s no guarantee that someone’s feet won’t get tion of all involved
dirty.” “The dedication of the people involved in OM,” Hayes said.
But Hayes stresses that one of most important aspects of Oper- “How they hit the road, leaving their loved ones behind - for 120
ation Migration is to pass on the knowledge and commitment to days the last migration - to make sure that these majestic birds have a
the next generation. “Educate, educate, educate. That’s the most chance at life and contribute to our overall well-being.” •WLM
important thing that can be done. There have been recent losses of
Whooping Cranes by human interference and I would like to think For more information on volunteering or donating to Operation Migration, visit
that, had they known how to identify and knew how vulnerable their website at www.operationmigration.org or call 1-800-675-2618.

12 Walton Living Magazine