The Townsend big-eared bat is considered a sensitive species in Oregon with only 24 known maternity colonies in Oregon.  The McIver barn colony is one of only four non-cave colonies in Oregon and represents a unique resource in a protected park setting.

The Oregon State Parks Trust secured a grant to develop a ‘Youth Naturalist’ program at the park to explore the natural history and biology of bats through hands-on materials, school field trips, teacher learning materials, educational interpretive exhibits and a public event. 

The program included the first annual “Bat Night Out” event for the general public to watch, under controlled conditions, the bats leave the colony for their evening foraging.  The project may lead to a broader adult/family educational experience with interpretive displays, booths, and interactive activities.