xi, 124 p. : col. ill. and map. / The Arcata Marsh and Wildlife Sanctuary (AMWS), located on the Humboldt Bay of northwestern California in the town of Arcata, is an excellent example of reciprocity between humans and the natural environment. The AMWS is a constructed wetland ecosystem that works in conjunction with the town's wastewater treatment plant, providing a healthy habitat for birds and other wildlife and a context for the folkloric activity of birding. Interviews with seven local birders at the AMWS and an analysis of the material, economic, biological, social, and spiritual implications of the activity in context serve to support the assertion that reciprocity is an important factor in the sustainability of folkloric interactions between humans and the natural environment. / Committee in charge: Sharon Sherman, Chairperson; Kathryn Lynch, Member; Jill Harrison, Member