Main fundraiser photo

~(‾▿‾)~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 ~


~~


Donate

Donations (5)

  • jon bell
    • $200
    • 1 mo
  • craig timmons
    • $25
    • 1 mo
  • Anonymous
    • $25
    • 2 mos
  • Michael Bath
    • $20
    • 2 mos
  • Lawrence Rosen
    • $20
    • 2 mos
Donate

Organizer

Ron Bath
Organizer
Morongo Valley, CA

Your easy, powerful, and trusted home for help

  • Easy

    Donate quickly and easily

  • Powerful

    Send help right to the people and causes you care about

  • Trusted

    Your donation is protected by the GoFundMe Giving Guarantee