JOHN DAY — The Grant County Bird Club is recruiting local birdwatchers to take part in the annual Audubon Christmas Bird Count, the world’s longest-running community science survey.

Launched in 1900 by the National Audubon Society, the Christmas Bird Count enlists volunteers from throughout the Western Hemisphere to create a snapshot of the health of bird populations on a year-by-year basis.

Each individual count is conducted in a circle with a 15-mile diameter. Volunteers break into teams to cover sections of the circle, counting every bird they see. Another way to participate is by counting birds that come to a feeder. Results are submitted to a local compiler who passes them on to the National Audubon Society.

In Grant County, interested birders are asked to meet at the Outpost Pizza Pub and Grill, 201 W. Main St. in John Day, before 7 a.m. on Saturday, Dec. 17. Local count compiler Tom Winters will designate teams and assign territories.

As a precaution against the spread of COVID-19 or other ailments, teams will consist of people who share space continually, are fully vaccinated and willing to share space, or are driving separate vehicles.

Results will be compiled at 5 p.m. at the 1188 Brewing Co., 141 E. Main St., John Day.

For more information, call Winters at 541-542-2006 or 541-620-2922 or email him at tjwinters1951@gmail.com.