Wetland birds of the Calumet region have faced precipitous declines over the past 30 years. The conversion of rich marsh to open-water ponds or mono-cultures of invasive species has put secretive marsh species like Common Gallinule, Least Bittern and King Rail on the fast-track to extirpation. However, new and intensive monitoring and wetland restoration is setting the stage for an amazing comeback story. Nat Miller is the Great Lakes and Upper Mississippi Flyway Director of Conservation for National Audubon Society. Walter Marcisz, our popular speaker, has been a Chicago area birder for over 50 years.