Watson and Willow Lakes are technically reservoirs that were formed in the early 1900s when Granite Creek was dammed by the Chino Valley Irrigation Commission. The Lakes are now controlled by the City of Prescott and are maintained for recreation and wildlife. Watson and Willow Lakes are the number one and number two E-bird hotspots in Yavapai County. Both Lakes have significant walking trails and viewing areas around them that go through a variety of habitats. This Field Trip should have one of the highest species counts, if not the highest of the Festival. Everything from shorebirds to warblers to owls are possible. There could be a total of two or more miles of hiking along fairly level maintained paths.

Rating: 3

Transportation: Self-drive

Meal: Bring your own lunch

Cost: $55

Trip Guide: Marceline VandeWater

Marceline grew up in the Netherlands where she studied botany. Later she became interested in birds, then butterflies and now, natural history in general. She leads bird and butterfly walks for the local chapters of the Audubon Society and for Arizona State Parks. She also works on botanical illustrations at the Desert Botanical Garden and has provided photographs for several publications. She loves to spend time with her husband, their grown kids and grandchildren. Other hobbies include hiking, kayaking, skiing, cooking and traveling.

Part of the Verde Valley Birding and Nature Festival