Willmar bird count will go on with safety in mind The 59th annual Willmar Area Christmas Bird Count will be held Saturday, Dec. 19. The traditional social gatherings will not be part of this year's count, and participants are urged to follow protocols to keep this outdoor activity a safe one. 5:48 am, Dec. 12, 2020 × Area outdoor enthusiasts have an opportunity to participate in one of the longest running, citizen-scientist endeavors when the Willmar Area Bird Count is held on Saturday, Dec. 19. Social distancing protocols will be followed. Canada geese are shown over Foot Lake in this file photo. West Central Tribune/file photo