Date: 6/16/26 5:08 pm From: Paul L. Pearson via groups.io <Propearson...> Subject: [NEBirds] *no sighting* Request for feedback on TreeRush lights/music at Fontenelle Forest
I have a favor to ask regarding Fontenelle Forest.
Fontenelle Forest is one of the prime birding hotspots for Nebraska Birders. As many of you know, and have experienced, TreeRush near the Nature Center business blasts music during the day and into the evening along with disruptive bright lights. Fontenelle Forest’s mission is foremost a conservation forest and light/noise pollution that affects birds, animals and especially the people who pay to support and visit to enjoy nature directly contradicts that mission.
There was apparently a lot of controversy when TreeRush was given a 15 year contract (7 years remaining) several years ago by a former director. I have been told that longtime supporters of Fontenelle Forest, some NOU members, were extremely upset when TreeRush came in (destroying the habitat where Connecticut Warblers had previously nested) to the point of withdrawing all financial support including taking FF out of their wills.
If you have experienced ANY lessening of your enjoyment of the forest because of TreeRush’s music or lights, if you are a volunteer that has had your programs disrupted or affected, if you have withdrawn or held back support for FF, have avoided birding or been impacted when birding in the Boardwalk/Nature center because of the noise/lights, I ask you to please submit your comments to <info...>
Even if you are just concerned about the impact that TreeRush has on the birds in the forest, please send your comments. If possible, please do so this evening (Tues June 16) or tomorrow AM, but your feedback on this topic any time will be helpful. Commentary from the many birders and nature enthusiasts that attempt to use the Forest for its intended purpose may have a direct effect on how that entity is allowed to operate in the future and lessen their impact.
As NOU president, as well as a member, volunteer educator, and financial supporter of FF, I would like to see the birds, animals and people who use the Forest be prioritized over TreeRush and their intrusive music and lights.
Again, the email to submit commentary is <info...>
Thank you!
--
Paul L. Pearson, PhD
President-Nebraska Ornithologists’ Union
Omaha, NE
