Birding In the Yakima River Canyon

·       Originally from California, Deborah majored in Natural Resources Management at Cal-Poly S.L.O. and worked as a naturalist at Morro Bay State Park while attending college.

·       Deborah has worn many hats in the conservation world: raptor rehabilitator for almost a decade in California, taught ornithology at a community college, veterinary technician and eagle release coordinator at the Woodland Park Zoo in Seattle, Game Warden for the Washington State Department of Fish & Wildlife for 8 years (including a couple years as a Detective in the Special Investigative Unit).

·       Currently Essman volunteers as: WDFW Hunter Education instructor, birding field trip leader for several organizations (including over 20 years for the Kittitas Environmental Education Network’s annual “Get Intimate with the Shrub-steppe event); and teaching kids about wildlife tracking at Ellensburg School District’s 5th Grade Camp for over 30 years.

·       A resident in Kittitas County for 36 years, and a diligent bird enthusiast, she and her husband travel throughout the west to hunt, in Idaho, Montana and Wyoming.

·       Essman continues to serve on several committees for the Washington State Department of Fish and Wildlife and Department of Natural Resources.

·       Tour one of our luxury 2-bedroom condos and stunning grounds located on the Yakima River.

·       Enjoy lunch on the river- Book your table at the Canyon River Grill at www.CanyonRiverGrill.com

·       Visit Red’s Fly Shop to see our shop expansion and preview new season merchandise.

·       Chat with our guides and learn about new classes and services. Reserve your guided fishing, hunting, and river cruises for this season.

·       Riverside overnight accommodations are available at The Canyon River Lodge www.CanyonRiver.net or call 509-933-2100.

"We are thrilled to have Deborah Essman to introduce us to the birds and other animals that call this historic canyon home. It’s a unique opportunity to enjoy the lodge, see what’s new at Red’s as you make your summer and fall recreation plans, build community, and connect with nature.”