BALLSTON SPA – The first village Birdhouse Competition is now underway and accepting entries through April 14.
Mark Blech, owner of the Black Dog Gallery and Studio on Thompson Street, is coordinating the competition with Ballston Spa Mayor John Romano. Blech is a visual artist and sculptor who specializes in works exploring nature and the environment.
The birdhouses submitted must be original works (no kits allowed), made of sturdy materials and designed for native birds. All birdhouses built within guidelines will be expertly mounted along the half-mile Tedisco Trail in the village.
The winning entries will be awarded ribbons and prizes at the first Village of Ballston Spa Birdhouse Festival from 1 to 4 p.m. on April 21 at Iron Springs Park, across from the Brookside Museum.
Contest entry forms are available on the websites www.villageofballstonspa.org or www.ballston.org.
Local organizations that are interested in organizing a birdhouse-building day before April 14 (Scouts, schools, veterans, seniors, etc.) can contact Blech for guidance and assistance at 518-742-6355.