Longtime readers have watched my cliched descent into middle aged bird watching in cringeworthy real time. Ten years ago I would have made fun of birders, now I am one.
Today’s column touches on that amusing transition, but also expands a conversation I’ve been having with readers about forestry and resource management. The best management plan is one that takes into account everything — the economic outcome, sure, but also the health of the forest, wildlife, people and communities that are part of our world.
Birds keep it 100 percent real. They tell you which habitat they prefer, what food they like, and what they’ll do if you deny them what they need. Unlike a lot of animals, including us, they will bounce when shit goes down and you’ll never see them again. They might thrive somewhere else or they might die, but that’s none of your damn business.
But if you make what I like to call “a world for birds” they’ll stick around and co-exist. Generations of their families will prosper in your midst and you’ll start to see each other as neighbors, maybe even friends.
It’s a beautiful way to live.
Read “Smart forestry saves birds — and people, too” in the Wednesday, Aug. 27, 2025 edition of the Minnesota Star Tribune.
Aaron J. Brown is a columnist and member of the editorial board for the Minnesota Star Tribune. His new book about Hibbing Mayor Victor Power and his momentous fight against the world’s largest corporation will be out soon.
