
~(‾▿‾)~Build a Vital Water Feature @ New Desert Birding Spot
Donation protected
GoFundMe Campaign: Help Build a Water Feature for 'De Las Plumas' (A New Feathered Desert Birding Refuge) ~ Morongo Valley, CA ~ $5,300
About De Las Plumas:
Our Feathered Desert Refuge is a privately-funded sanctuary dedicated to preserving and nurturing the diverse bird-life, pollinators, and plant species native to our Morongo Valley desert ecosystems. Established in December 2023 by the descendants of the James F. Illingworth Family, to honor a rich legacy of excellence in ornithology, entomology, and botany. Our mission is to create a safe haven for wildlife while offering unique and enriching experiences for birders, naturalists, and outdoor enthusiasts alike.
NOTE: The adjacent residence is being made available as a destination within AirBnB ecosystem 'Jack's Place for Birders' to fund Seed, Suet, Sweets & Maintenance of Refuge.
The Need for a New Water Feature?
Water is life, especially in the arid desert environment where De Las Plumas is located (adjacent to Big Morongo Canyon Preserve ~ on Birding Tour path). A thoughtfully designed water feature will:
~ Complete the renaissance of Jack Lee Bath's vision, begun in 2016.
~ Provide Essential Resources:
- Support countless bird species, pollinators, and other wildlife that rely on water for survival.
- Enhance Visitor Experience: Offer guests a serene and immersive environment for BIRDERS and photography.
~ Promote Conservation Awareness:
- Encourage private parties to undertake similar projects.
- Inspire future generations to appreciate and protect our fragile desert ecosystems.
Your generous support will help us design and construct a sustainable, eco-friendly flowing water feature + a few mature trees bearing fruit/berries that aligns with the reserve's conservation goals.
Why Your Support Matters:
As a private philanthropic initiative, De Las Plumas is entirely self-funded and relies on the generosity of individuals like you. Contributions will directly fund:
Design, Construction and Materials: Ensuring durability and sustainability.
Maintenance: Keeping the water feature functional and thriving for years to come.
Honor a Legacy of Habitat Preservation:
James F. Illingworth’s passion for ornithology, entomology, and botany set a standard of excellence that inspires us to this day. By contributing to this campaign, you become part of a living legacy, ensuring that his vision continues to enrich lives and landscapes.
Thank You for Your Support !!
Together, we can make a profound impact on these fragile desert ecosystem and the countless species that call them home. Help us finish something extraordinary | a refuge where nature thrives and inspiration grows.


~ A Water Feature to Encourage This ~ Big Morongo Preserve Water Fall ~ Photo by Dan Ward ~

~ THE BUDGET ~

~ THE SKETCH ~

THE HISTORY...


~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ... And NOW ~ ~ ~ ~ ~


~ OBSERVATION DECK SEATING~

~ FEEDERY ~

~ Joshua Tree Triplets ~

~ Hanging Seed Buffet ~

~ ~

~ Many Thanks to Craig T., whose vision got us started us started on our journey to this point.

~ MAIN FEEDING ARCH ~

~ TOP VIEWS ~

~~

Organizer

Ron Bath
Organizer
Morongo Valley, CA