Form990
Click to see attachment
Department of the Treasury
Internal Revenue Service
Return of Organization Exempt From Income Tax
Under section 501(c), 527, or 4947(a)(1) of the Internal Revenue Code (except black lung benefit trust or private foundation)

MediumBullet The organization may have to use a copy of this return to satisfy state reporting requirements.
OMB No. 1545-0047
2011
Open to Public Inspection
A For the calendar year, or tax year beginning 01-01-2011 and ending 12-31-2011
BCheck if applicable:
CName of organization
Avian Events Support Team
 
Doing Business As
 
 
Number and street (or P.O. box if mail is not delivered to street address)
435 Pecan Drive
 
Room/suite
City or town, state or country, and ZIP + 4
Saint Gabriel, LA70776
D Employer identification number

27-3103650
E Telephone number

G Gross receipts $ 21,877
F Name and address of principal officer:
Donna L Dittmann
435 Pecan Drive
Saint Gabriel,LA70776
I
Tax-exempt status: (   ) LeftBullet (insert no.) or
J
Website:MediumBullet
http://www.snowyegretenterprises.com/Snowy_Egret_Enterprises/AVESTEAM.html
H(a)
Is this a group return for
affiliates?
H(b)
Are all affiliates included?
If "No," attach a list. (see instructions)
H(c)
Group exemption number MediumBullet  
K Form of organization:
 
L Year of formation: 2010
M State of legal domicile: LA
Part I
Summary
Activities & Governance 1 Briefly describe the organization’s mission or most significant activities: Organize or help organize bird-oriented educational events, such as festivals, workshops, tours and surveys with emphasis on but not limited to promotion of regional agritourism and ecotourism. The principal (service) event is the Yellow Rails and Rice Festival (YRARF). YRARF 2011 was held 26-29 October 2011.
2 Check this box MediumBullet
3 Number of voting members of the governing body (Part VI, line 1a)..... 3 5
4 Number of independent voting members of the governing body (Part VI, line 1b) .... 4 5
5 Total number of individuals employed in calendar year 2011 (Part V, line 2a) ... 5 0
6 Total number of volunteers (estimate if necessary) .... 6 25
7a Total unrelated business revenue from Part VIII, column (C), line 12 .. 7a 0
b Net unrelated business taxable income from Form 990-T, line 34 .. 7b 0
Revenues; Prior Year Current Year
8 Contributions and grants (Part VIII, line 1h) .........   7,050
9 Program service revenue (Part VIII, line 2g) .........   12,769
10 Investment income (Part VIII, column (A), lines 3, 4, and 7d ) ....   13
11 Other revenue (Part VIII, column (A), lines 5, 6d, 8c, 9c, 10c, and 11e)   2,045
12 Total revenue—add lines 8 through 11 (must equal Part VIII, column (A), line 12)................... 0 21,877
Expenses; 13 Grants and similar amounts paid (Part IX, column (A), lines 1–3 )...   0
14 Benefits paid to or for members (Part IX, column (A), line 4).....   0
15 Salaries, other compensation, employee benefits (Part IX, column (A), lines 5–10)   4,300
16a Professional fundraising fees (Part IX, column (A), line 11e).....   0
b Total fundraising expenses (Part IX, column (D), line 25) MediumBullet0    
17 Other expenses (Part IX, column (A), lines 11a–11d, 11f–24f)....   16,665
18 Total expenses. Add lines 13–17 (must equal Part IX, column (A), line 25) 0 20,965
19 Revenue less expenses. Subtract line 18 from line 12....... 0 912
Net Assets or Fund Balances; Beginning of Current Year End of Year
20 Total assets (Part X, line 16)............. 4,304 5,216
21 Total liabilities (Part X, line 26)............. 0 0
22 Net assets or fund balances. Subtract line 21 from line 20..... 4,304 5,216
Part II
Signature Block
Under penalties of perjury, I declare that I have examined this return, including accompanying schedules and statements, and to the best of my knowledge and belief, it is true, correct, and complete. Declaration of preparer (other than officer) is based on all information of which preparer has any knowledge.
Sign Here
JumboBullet
Signature of officer Date
JumboBullet
Type or print name and title.
Paid preparer use only
Print/type preparer's name
 
Preparer's signature
Date
PTIN
Firm's name Right pointing arrowhead image

Firm's EIN Right pointing arrowhead image
Firm's address Right pointing arrowhead image



Phone no.
May the IRS discuss this return with the preparer shown above? See instructions .........bullet
For Paperwork Reduction Act Notice, see the separate instructions.
Cat. No. 11282Y
Form 990 (2011)
Form 990 (2011)
Page 2
Part III
Statement of Program Service Accomplishments
Check if Schedule O contains a response to any question in this Part III .........
1
Briefly describe the organization’s mission: Avian Events Support Team shall organize or assist with organization of bird-oriented events, such as festivals, workshops, or tours, emphasis will be on but not restricted to agritourism and/or ecotourism.
2
Did the organization undertake any significant program services during the year which were not listed on
the prior Form 990 or 990-EZ? ....................
If “Yes,” describe these new services on Schedule O.
3
Did the organization cease conducting, or make significant changes in how it conducts, any program services? ..........................
If “Yes,” describe these changes on Schedule O.
4
Describe the organization’s program service accomplishments for each of its three largest program services, as measured by expenses. Section 501(c)(3) and 501(c)(4) organizations and section 4947(a)(1) trusts are required to report the amount of grants and allocations to others, the total expenses, and revenue, if any, for each program service reported.
4a (Code:   ) (Expenses $ 17,785 including grants of $ 0 ) (Revenue $ 12,769 )
Yellow Rails and Rice Festival 2011
4b (Code:   ) (Expenses $ 475 including grants of $ 0 ) (Revenue $ 0 )
Sponsor four (4) Audubon Christmas Bird Counts in SW Louisiana by paying participant fees.
4c (Code:   ) (Expenses $ 0 including grants of $ 0 ) (Revenue $ 0 )
2011 Shorebird Blitz
4d Other program services (Describe in Schedule O.)
(Expenses $ 0 including grants of $ 0 ) (Revenue $ 0 )
4e Total program service expensesMediumBullet$ 18,260
Form 990 (2011)
Form 990 (2011)
Page 3
Part IV
Checklist of Required Schedules
Yes
No
1
Is the organization described in section 501(c)(3) or 4947(a)(1) (other than a private foundation)? If “Yes,” complete Schedule AClick to see attachment.....................
1
Yes
 
2
Is the organization required to complete Schedule B, Schedule of Contributors? ........
2
 
No
3
Did the organization engage in direct or indirect political campaign activities on behalf of or in opposition to candidates for public office? If “Yes,” complete Schedule C, Part I..........
3
 
No
4
Section 501(c)(3) organizations. Did the organization engage in lobbying activities? If “Yes,” complete Schedule C,
Part II.........................
4
 
No
5
Is the organization a section 501(c)(4), 501(c)(5), or 501(c)(6) organization that receives membership dues, assessments, or similar amounts as defined in Revenue Procedure 98-19? If “Yes,” complete Schedule C, Part III........................
5
 
No
6
Did the organization maintain any donor advised funds or any similar funds or accounts for which donors have the right to provide advice on the distribution or investment of amounts in such funds or accounts? If “Yes,” complete Schedule D, Part I....................
6
 
No
7
Did the organization receive or hold a conservation easement, including easements to preserve open space,
the environment, historic land areas or historic structures? If “Yes,” complete Schedule D, Part II...
7
 
No
8
Did the organization maintain collections of works of art, historical treasures, or other similar assets? If “Yes,” complete Schedule D, Part III ....................
8
 
No
9
Did the organization report an amount in Part X, line 21; serve as a custodian for amounts not listed in Part X; or provide credit counseling, debt management, credit repair, or debt negotiation services? If “Yes,”
complete Schedule D, Part IV...................
9
 
No
10
Did the organization, directly or through a related organization, hold assets in temporarily restricted endowments, permanent endowments, or quasi-endowments? If “Yes,” complete Schedule D, Part V
10
 
No
11
If the organization’s answer to any of the following questions is ‘Yes,’ then complete Schedule D, Parts VI, VII, VIII, IX, or X as applicable:
a
Did the organization report an amount for land, buildings, and equipment in Part X, line10? If “Yes,” complete Schedule D, Part VI.
11a
 
No
b
Did the organization report an amount for investments—other securities in Part X, line 12 that is 5% or more of its total assets reported in Part X, line 16? If “Yes,” complete Schedule D, Part VII.
11b
 
No
c
Did the organization report an amount for investments—program related in Part X, line 13 that is 5% or more of its total assets reported in Part X, line 16? If “Yes,” complete Schedule D, Part VIII.
11c
 
No
d
Did the organization report an amount for other assets in Part X, line 15 that is 5% or more of its total assets reported in Part X, line 16? If “Yes,” complete Schedule D, Part IX.
11d
 
No
e
Did the organization report an amount for other liabilities in Part X, line 25? If “Yes,” complete Schedule D, Part X.
11e
 
No
f
Did the organization’s separate or consolidated financial statements for the tax year include a footnote that addresses the organization’s liability for uncertain tax positions under FIN 48 (ASC 740)? If “Yes,” complete Schedule D, Part X.
11f
 
No
12a
Did the organization obtain separate, independent audited financial statements for the tax year?
If “Yes,” complete Schedule D, Parts XI, XII, and XIII
12a
 
No
b
Was the organization included in consolidated, independent audited financial statements for the tax year? If “Yes,” and if the organization answered ‘No’ to line 12a, then completing Schedule D, Parts XI, XII, and XIII is optional
12b
 
No
13
Is the organization a school described in section 170(b)(1)(A)(ii)? If “Yes,” complete Schedule E
13
 
No
14a
Did the organization maintain an office, employees, or agents outside of the United States?....
14a
 
No
b
Did the organization have aggregate revenues or expenses of more than $10,000 from grantmaking, fundraising, business, investment, and program service activities outside the United States or aggregate foreign investments valued at $100,000 or more? If “Yes,” complete Schedule F, Part I.........
14b
 
No
15
Did the organization report on Part IX, column (A), line 3, more than $5,000 of grants or assistance to any organization or entity located outside the U.S.? If “Yes,” complete Schedule F, Part II..
15
 
No
16
Did the organization report on Part IX, column (A), line 3, more than $5,000 of aggregate grants or assistance to individuals located outside the U.S.? If “Yes,” complete Schedule F, Part III..
16
 
No
17
Did the organization report a total of more than $15,000, of expenses for professional fundraising services on Part IX, column (A), lines 6 and 11e? If “Yes,” complete Schedule G, Part I
17
 
No
18
Did the organization report more than $15,000 total of fundraising event gross income and contributions on Part VIII, lines 1c and 8a? If “Yes,” complete Schedule G, Part II..........
18
 
No
19
Did the organization report more than $15,000 of gross income from gaming activities on Part VIII, line 9a? If “Yes,” complete Schedule G, Part III...................
19
 
No
20a
Did the organization operate one or more hospitals? If “Yes,” complete Schedule H.....
20a
 
No
b
If “Yes” to line 20a, did the organization attach a copy of its audited financial statement to this return? Note. All Form 990 filers that operated one or more hospitals must attach audited financial statements.
20b
 
 
Form 990 (2011)
Form 990 (2011)
Page 4
Part IV
Checklist of Required Schedules (continued)
21
Did the organization report more than $5,000 of grants and other assistance to any government or organization in the United States on Part IX, column (A), line 1? If “Yes,” complete Schedule I, Parts I and II..
21
 
No
22
Did the organization report more than $5,000 of grants and other assistance to individuals in the United States on Part IX, column (A), line 2? If “Yes,” complete Schedule I, Parts I and III.....
22
 
No
23
Did the organization answer “Yes” to Part VII, Section A, questions 3, 4, or 5, about compensation of the organization’s current and former officers, directors, trustees, key employees, and highest compensated employees? If “Yes,” complete Schedule J................
23
 
No
24a
Did the organization have a tax-exempt bond issue with an outstanding principal amount of more than $100,000 as of the last day of the year, that was issued after December 31, 2002? If “Yes,” answer questions 24b–24d and complete Schedule K. If “No,” go to line 25................
24a
 
No
b
Did the organization invest any proceeds of tax-exempt bonds beyond a temporary period exception?...
24b
 
 
c
Did the organization maintain an escrow account other than a refunding escrow at any time during the year
to defease any tax-exempt bonds?......................
24c
 
 
d
Did the organization act as an “on behalf of” issuer for bonds outstanding at any time during the year?...
24d
 
 
25a
Section 501(c)(3) and 501(c)(4) organizations. Did the organization engage in an excess benefit transaction with a disqualified person during the year? If “Yes,” complete Schedule L, Part I......
25a
 
No
b
Is the organization aware that it engaged in an excess benefit transaction with a disqualified person in a prior year, and that the transaction has not been reported on any of the organization’s prior Forms 990 or 990-EZ? If “Yes,” complete Schedule L, Part I................
25b
 
No
26
Was a loan to or by a current or former officer, director, trustee, key employee, highly compensated employee, or disqualified person outstanding as of the end of the organization’s tax year? If “Yes,” complete Schedule L,
Part II.........................
26
 
No
27
Did the organization provide a grant or other assistance to an officer, director, trustee, key employee, substantial contributor or employee thereof, a grant selection committee member, or to a 35% controlled entity or family member of any of these persons? If “Yes,” complete Schedule L, Part III.........
27
 
No
28
Was the organization a party to a business transaction with one of the following parties? (see Schedule L, Part IV instructions for applicable filing thresholds, conditions, and exceptions):
a
A current or former officer, director, trustee, or key employee? If “Yes,” complete Schedule L, Part IV .........................
28a
 
No
b
A family member of a current or former officer, director, trustee, or key employee? If “Yes,”
complete Schedule L, Part IV...................
28b
 
No
c
An entity of which a current or former officer, director, trustee, or key employee (or a family member thereof) was an officer, director, trustee, or owner? If “Yes,” complete Schedule L, Part IV..
28c
 
No
29
Did the organization receive more than $25,000 in non-cash contributions? If “Yes,” complete Schedule M
29
 
No
30
Did the organization receive contributions of art, historical treasures, or other similar assets, or qualified conservation contributions? If “Yes,” complete Schedule M............
30
 
No
31
Did the organization liquidate, terminate, or dissolve and cease operations? If “Yes,” complete Schedule N,
Part I...........................
31
 
No
32
Did the organization sell, exchange, dispose of, or transfer more than 25% of its net assets? If “Yes,” complete Schedule N, Part II.......................
32
 
No
33
Did the organization own 100% of an entity disregarded as separate from the organization under Regulations sections 301.7701-2 and 301.7701-3? If “Yes,” complete Schedule R, Part I........
33
 
No
34
Was the organization related to any tax-exempt or taxable entity? If “Yes,” complete Schedule R, Parts II, III, IV, and V, line 1.....................
34
 
No
35a
Did the organization have a controlled entity within the meaning of section 512(b)(13)?
35a
 
No
b
If ‘Yes’ to line 35a, did the organization receive any payment from or engage in any transaction with a controlled entity within the meaning of section 512(b)(13)? If “Yes,” complete Schedule R, Part V, line 2...
35b
 
No
36
Section 501(c)(3) organizations. Did the organization make any transfers to an exempt non-charitable related organization? If “Yes,” complete Schedule R, Part V, line 2...........
36
 
No
37
Did the organization conduct more than 5% of its activities through an entity that is not a related organization and that is treated as a partnership for federal income tax purposes? If “Yes,” complete Schedule R, Part VI
37
 
No
38
Did the organization complete Schedule O and provide explanations in Schedule O for Part VI, lines 11 and 19? Note. All Form 990 filers are required to complete Schedule O. ............
38
Yes
 
Form 990 (2011)
Form 990 (2011)
Page 5
Part V
Statements Regarding Other IRS Filings and Tax Compliance
Check if Schedule O contains a response to any question in this Part V .........
Yes
No
1a
Enter the number reported in Box 3 of Form 1096. Enter -0- if not applicable. .......
1a
0
b
Enter the number of Forms W-2G included in line 1a. Enter -0- if not applicable.
1b
0
c
Did the organization comply with backup withholding rules for reportable payments to vendors and reportable gaming (gambling) winnings to prize winners? ..................
1c
 
No
2a
Enter the number of employees reported on Form W-3, Transmittal of Wage and Tax Statements filed for the calendar year ending with or within the year covered by this return .....................
2a
0
b
If at least one is reported on line 2a, did the organization file all required federal employment tax returns?

Note. If the sum of lines 1a and 2a is greater than 250, you may be required to e-file. (see instructions)
2b
 
 
3a
Did the organization have unrelated business gross income of $1,000 or more during the year?.............................
3a
 
No
b
If “Yes,” has it filed a Form 990-T for this year? If “No,” provide an explanation in Schedule O.....
3b
 
 
4a
At any time during the calendar year, did the organization have an interest in, or a signature or other authority over, a financial account in a foreign country (such as a bank account or securities account)?.......................
4a
 
No
b
If "Yes," enter the name of the foreign country: MediumBullet
See instructions for filing requirements for Form TD F 90-22.1, Report of Foreign Bank and Financial Accounts.
5a
Was the organization a party to a prohibited tax shelter transaction at any time during the tax year?..
5a
 
No
b
Did any taxable party notify the organization that it was or is a party to a prohibited tax shelter transaction?
5b
 
No
c
If “Yes” to line 5a or 5b, did the organization file Form 8886-T? ........
5c
 
 
6a
Does the organization have annual gross receipts that are normally greater than $100,000, and did the organization solicit any contributions that were not tax deductible?..........
6a
 
No
b
If “Yes,” did the organization include with every solicitation an express statement that such contributions or gifts were not tax deductible?........................
6b
 
 
7
Organizations that may receive deductible contributions under section 170(c).
a
Did the organization receive a payment in excess of $75 made partly as a contribution and partly for goods and services provided to the payor?....................
7a
 
 
b
If “Yes,” did the organization notify the donor of the value of the goods or services provided?.....
7b
 
 
c
Did the organization sell, exchange, or otherwise dispose of tangible personal property for which it was required to file Form 8282?...........................
7c
 
 
d
If “Yes,” indicate the number of Forms 8282 filed during the year ....
7d
 
e
Did the organization receive any funds, directly or indirectly, to pay premiums on a personal benefit contract?..........................
7e
 
 
f
Did the organization, during the year, pay premiums, directly or indirectly, on a personal benefit contract?..
7f
 
 
g
If the organization received a contribution of qualified intellectual property, did the organization file Form 8899 as required?...................
7g
 
 
h
If the organization received a contribution of cars, boats, airplanes, or other vehicles, did the organization file a Form 1098-C?...............
7h
 
 
8
Sponsoring organizations maintaining donor advised funds and section 509(a)(3) supporting organizations. Did the supporting organization, or a donor advised fund maintained by a sponsoring organization, have excess business holdings at any time during the year?................
8
 
 
9
Sponsoring organizations maintaining donor advised funds.
a
Did the organization make any taxable distributions under section 4966?.........
9a
 
 
b
Did the organization make a distribution to a donor, donor advisor, or related person?......
9b
 
 
10
Section 501(c)(7) organizations. Enter:
a
Initiation fees and capital contributions included on Part VIII, line 12 ...
10a
 
b
Gross receipts, included on Form 990, Part VIII, line 12, for public use of club facilities
10b
 
11
Section 501(c)(12) organizations. Enter:
a
Gross income from members or shareholders .........
11a
 
b
Gross income from other sources (Do not net amounts due or paid to other sources against amounts due or received from them) ........
11b
 
12a
Section 4947(a)(1) non-exempt charitable trusts. Is the organization filing Form 990 in lieu of Form 1041?
12a
 
 
b
If “Yes,” enter the amount of tax-exempt interest received or accrued during the year.
12b
 
13
Section 501(c)(29) qualified nonprofit health insurance issuers.
a
Is the organization licensed to issue qualified health plans in more than one state?
Note. All 501(c)(29) organizations must list in Schedule O each state in which they are licensed to issue qualified health plans, the amount of reserves required by each state, and the amount of reserves the organization allocated to each state.
13a
 
 
b
Enter the aggregate amount of reserves the organization is required to maintain by the states in which the organization is licensed to issue qualified health plans.
13b
 
c
Enter the aggregate amount of reserves on hand.
13c
 
14a
Did the organization receive any payments for indoor tanning services during the tax year?.....
14a
 
 
b
If "Yes," has it filed a Form 720 to report these payments? If “No,” provide an explanation in Schedule O..
14b
 
 
Form 990 (2011)
Form 990 (2011)
Page 6
Part VI
Governance, Management, and Disclosure For each “Yes” response to lines 2 through 7b below, and for a “No” response to lines 8a, 8b, or 10b below, describe the circumstances, processes, or changes in Schedule O. See instructions.
Check if Schedule O contains a response to any question in this Part VI .........
Section A. Governing Body and Management
Yes
No
1a
Enter the number of voting members of the governing body at the end of the tax year
If the governing body delegated broad authority to an executive committee or similar committee, explain in Schedule O.
1a
5
b
Enter the number of voting members included in line 1a, above, who are independent .................
1b
5
2
Did any officer, director, trustee, or key employee have a family relationship or a business relationship with any other officer, director, trustee, or key employee? .................
2
Yes
 
3
Did the organization delegate control over management duties customarily performed by or under the direct supervision of officers, directors or trustees, or key employees to a management company or other person? .
3
 
No
4
Did the organization make any significant changes to its governing documents since the prior Form 990 was filed?
4
 
No
5
Did the organization become aware during the year of a significant diversion of the organization’s assets? .
5
 
No
6
Did the organization have members or stockholders? ................
6
 
No
7a
Did the organization have members, stockholders, or other persons who had the power to elect or appoint one or more members of the governing body? .................
7a
 
No
b
Are any governance decisions of the organization reserved to (or subject to approval by) members, stockholders, or persons other than the governing body? ............
7b
 
No
8
Did the organization contemporaneously document the meetings held or written actions undertaken during the year by the following:
a
The governing body? .........................
8a
Yes
 
b
Each committee with authority to act on behalf of the governing body? ..........
8b
Yes
 
9
Is there any officer, director, trustee, or key employee listed in Part VII, Section A, who cannot be reached at the organization’s mailing address? If “Yes,” provide the names and addresses in Schedule O .....
9
 
No
Section B. Policies (This Section B requests information about policies not required by the Internal
Revenue Code.)
Yes
No
10a
Did the organization have local chapters, branches, or affiliates? ............
10a
 
No
b
If “Yes,” did the organization have written policies and procedures governing the activities of such chapters, affiliates, and branches to ensure their operations are consistent with the organization's exempt purposes? ....
10b
 
 
11a
Has the organization provided a complete copy of this Form 990 to all members of its governing body before filing the form?
11a
Yes
 
b
Describe in Schedule O the process, if any, used by the organization to review the Form 990. .....
12a
Did the organization have a written conflict of interest policy? If “No,” go to line 13.......
12a
Yes
 
b
Were officers, directors or trustees, and key employees required to disclose annually interests that could give rise to conflicts? ........................
12b
Yes
 
c
Did the organization regularly and consistently monitor and enforce compliance with the policy? If “Yes,” describe in Schedule O how this was done ....................
12c
Yes
 
13
Did the organization have a written whistleblower policy? ...............
13
 
No
14
Did the organization have a written document retention and destruction policy? .........
14
 
No
15
Did the process for determining compensation of the following persons include a review and approval by independent persons, comparability data, and contemporaneous substantiation of the deliberation and decision?
a
The organization’s CEO, Executive Director, or top management official ...........
15a
 
No
b
Other officers or key employees of the organization ................
15b
Yes
 
If "Yes," to line 15a or 15b, describe the process in Schedule O (see instructions).
16a
Did the organization invest in, contribute assets to, or participate in a joint venture or similar arrangement with a taxable entity during the year? ......................
16a
 
No
b
If “Yes,” did the organization follow a written policy or procedure requiring the organization to evaluate its participation in joint venture arrangements under applicable federal tax law, and take steps to safeguard the organization’s exempt status with respect to such arrangements? ............
16b
 
 
Section C. Disclosure
17
List the States with which a copy of this Form 990 is required to be filedMediumBullet
LA
18
Section 6104 requires an organization to make its Form 1023 (or 1024 if applicable), 990, and 990-T (501(c)(3)s only) available for public inspection. Indicate how you made these available. Check all that apply.
19
Describe in Schedule O whether (and if so, how), the organization made its governing documents, conflict of interest policy, and financial statements available to the public during the tax year.
20
State the name, physical address, and telephone number of the person who possesses the books and records of the organization: MediumBullet
Donna L Dittmann
435 Pecan Drive
Saint Gabriel,LA70776
(225) 642-5763
Form 990 (2011)
Form 990 (2011)
Page 7
Part VII
Compensation of Officers, Directors,Trustees, Key Employees, Highest Compensated Employees, and Independent Contractors
Check if Schedule O contains a response to any question in this Part VII .........
Section A. Officers, Directors, Trustees, Key Employees, and Highest Compensated Employees
1a Complete this table for all persons required to be listed. Report compensation for the calendar year ending with or within the organization’s tax year.
RoundBullet List all of the organization’s current officers, directors, trustees (whether individuals or organizations), regardless of amount
of compensation, and current key employees. Enter -0- in columns (D), (E), and (F) if no compensation was paid.

RoundBullet List all of the organization’s current key employees, if any. See instructions for definition of "key employee."
RoundBullet List the organization’s five current highest compensated employees (other than an officer, director, trustee or key employee)
who received reportable compensation (Box 5 of Form W-2 and/or Box 7 of Form 1099-MISC) of more than $100,000 from the
organization and any related organizations.

RoundBullet List all of the organization’s former officers, key employees, or highest compensated employees who received more than $100,000
of reportable compensation from the organization and any related organizations.

RoundBullet List all of the organization’s former directors or trustees that received, in the capacity as a former director or trustee of the
organization, more than $10,000 of reportable compensation from the organization and any related organizations.

List persons in the following order: individual trustees or directors; institutional trustees; officers; key employees; highest
compensated employees; and former such persons.
Check this box if neither the organization nor any related organizations compensated any current or former officer, director, or trustee.
(A)
Name and Title 		(B)
Average hours per week (describe hours for related organizations in Schedule O) 		(C)
Position (do not check more than one box, unless person is both an officer and a director/trustee) 		(D)
Reportable compensation from the organization (W- 2/1099-MISC) 		(E)
Reportable compensation from related organizations (W- 2/1099-MISC) 		(F)
Estimated amount of other compensation from the organization and related organizations
Individual Trustee or Director; Institutional Trustee; Officer; Key Employee; Highest compensated employee; Former;
(1) Snowy Egret Enterprises LLC
Donna L Dittmann
Secretary
 .6 X   X   X   1,500 0 0
(2) KMB Farms
Kevin M Berken
Director
 1 X   X       1,000 0 0
(3) Donna L Dittmann
Secretary
 8 X   X       500 0 0
(4) Steven W Cardiff
President
 4 X   X       500 0 0
(5) Shirley Berken
Treasurer
 3 X   X       550 0 0
(6) Jennifer Alexander
Director
 1 X   X       250 0 0






















Form 990 (2011)
Form 990 (2011)
Page 8
Part VII
Section A. Officers, Directors, Trustees, Key Employees, and Highest Compensated Employees (continued)
(A)
Name and Title 		(B)
Average hours per week (describe hours for related organizations in Schedule O) 		(C)
Position (do not check more than one box, unless person is both an officer and a director/trustee) 		(D)
Reportable compensation from the organization (W- 2/1099-MISC) 		(E)
Reportable compensation from related organizations (W- 2/1099-MISC) 		(F)
Estimated amount of other compensation from the organization and related organizations
Individual Trustee or Director; Institutional Trustee; Officer; Key Employee; Highest compensated employee; Former;


























1b Sub-Total................MediumBullet
c Total from continuation sheets to Part VII, Section A....MediumBullet
d Total (add lines 1b and 1c)............MediumBullet 4,300 0 0
2
Total number of individuals (including but not limited to those listed above) who received more than $100,000 of reportable compensation from the organizationMediumBullet0
Yes
No
3
Did the organization list any former officer, director or trustee, key employee, or highest compensated employee on line 1a? If “Yes,” complete Schedule J for such individual .............
3
 
No
4
For any individual listed on line 1a, is the sum of reportable compensation and other compensation from the organization and related organizations greater than $150,000? If “Yes,” complete Schedule J for such individual...........................
4
 
No
5
Did any person listed on line 1a receive or accrue compensation from any unrelated organization or individual for services rendered to the organization? If “Yes,” complete Schedule J for such person .....
5
 
No
Section B. Independent Contractors
1
Complete this table for your five highest compensated independent contractors that received more than $100,000 of compensation from the organization. Report compensation for the calendar year ending with or within the organization’s tax year.
(A)
Name and business address 		(B)
Description of services 		(C)
Compensation
2
Total number of independent contractors (including but not limited to those listed above) who received more than $100,000 of compensation from the organization MediumBullet0
Form 990 (2011)
Form 990 (2011)
Page 9
Part VIII
Statement of Revenue
(A)
Total revenue 		(B)
Related or
exempt
function
revenue 		(C)
Unrelated
business
revenue 		(D)
Revenue
excluded from
tax under sections
512, 513, or 514
Contributions, Gifts, Grants and Other Similar Amounts 1a Federated campaigns..1a 0
b Membership dues....1b 0
c Fundraising events....1c 0
d Related organizations...1d 0
e Government grants (contributions)1e 0
f All other contributions, gifts, grants, and
similar amounts not included above1f 		7,050
g Noncash contributions included in lines 1a-1f:$ 2,000
h Total. Add lines 1a-1f.......MediumBullet 7,050
Program Service Revenue Business Code
2a Yellow Rails and Rice Festival 900,099 12,769 12,769 0 0
b
c
d
e
f All other program service revenue . 0 0 0 0
g Total. Add lines 2a–2f........MediumBullet 12,769
Other Revenue 3 Investment income (including dividends, interest
and other similar amounts).....MediumBullet 13 13 0 0
4 Income from investment of tax-exempt bond proceeds..MediumBullet 0 0 0 0
5 Royalties............MediumBullet 0 0 0 0
(i) Real (ii) Personal
6a Gross rents    
b Less: rental expenses    
c Rental income or (loss) 0 0
d Net rental income or (loss).......MediumBullet        
(i) Securities (ii) Other
7a Gross amount from sales of assets other than inventory    
b Less: cost or other basis and sales expenses    
c Gain or (loss) 0 0
d Net gain or (loss)..........MediumBullet        
8a Gross income from fundraising events (not including
$ 0
of contributions reported on line 1c). See Part IV, line 18 ...
a  
b Less: direct expenses ...b  
c Net income or (loss) from fundraising events..MediumBullet      
9a Gross income from gaming activities.
See Part IV, line 19 ...
a  
b Less: direct expenses ...b  
c Net income or (loss) from gaming activities...MediumBullet        
10a Gross sales of inventory, less
returns and allowances .
a 2,045
b Less: cost of goods sold ..b 0
c Net income or (loss) from sales of inventory..MediumBullet 2,045 2,045 0 0
Miscellaneous Revenue Business Code
11a            
b            
c            
d All other revenue ....        
e Total. Add lines 11a–11d ......MediumBullet 0
12 Total revenue. See Instructions....MediumBullet 21,877 14,827 0 0
Form 990 (2011)
Form 990 (2011)
Page 10
Part IX
Statement of Functional Expenses
Section 501(c)(3) and 501(c)(4) organizations must complete all columns. All other organizations must complete column (A) but are not required to complete columns (B), (C), and (D).
Check if Schedule O contains a response to any question in this Part IX. .........
Do not include amounts reported on lines 6b,
7b, 8b, 9b, and 10b of Part VIII. 		(A)
Total expenses 		(B)
Program service expenses 		(C)
Management and general expenses 		(D)
Fundraising expenses
1 Grants and other assistance to governments and organizations in the United States. See Part IV, line 21 0 0
2 Grants and other assistance to individuals in the United States. See Part IV, line 22 0 0
3 Grants and other assistance to governments, organizations, and individuals outside the United States. See Part IV, lines 15 and 16 0 0
4 Benefits paid to or for members 0 0
5 Compensation of current officers, directors, trustees, and key employees .... 4,300 2,800 1,500 0
6 Compensation not included above, to disqualified persons (as defined under section 4958(f)(1)) and persons described in section 4958(c)(3)(B) .... 0 0 0 0
7 Other salaries and wages 0 0 0 0
8 Pension plan accruals and contributions (include section 401(k) and 403(b) employer contributions) .... 0 0 0 0
9 Other employee benefits ....... 0 0 0 0
10 Payroll taxes ........... 0 0 0 0
11 Fees for services (non-employees):        
a Management ...... 0 0 0 0
b Legal ......... 0 0 0 0
c Accounting ........... 0 0 0 0
d Lobbying ........... 0 0 0 0
e Professional fundraising. See Part IV, line 17.. 0 0
f Investment management fees ...... 0 0 0 0
g Other .......... 0 0 0 0
12 Advertising and promotion .... 0 0 0 0
13 Office expenses ....... 0 0 0 0
14 Information technology ...... 0 0 0 0
15 Royalties .. 0 0 0 0
16 Occupancy ........... 0 0 0 0
17 Travel ............ 0 0 0 0
18 Payments of travel or entertainment expenses for any federal, state, or local public officials ...... 0 0 0 0
19 Conferences, conventions, and meetings .... 0 0 0 0
20 Interest ........... 0 0 0 0
21 Payments to affiliates ....... 0 0 0 0
22 Depreciation, depletion, and amortization ..... 0 0 0 0
23 Insurance .............. 400 400 0 0
24 Other expenses. Itemize expenses not covered above (List miscellaneous expenses in line 24f. If line 24f amount exceeds 10% of line 25, column (A) amount, list line 24f expenses on Schedule O.)
a
b
c
d
e
f All other expenses 16,265 15,060 1,205 0
25 Total functional expenses. Add lines 1 through 24f 20,965 18,260 2,705 0
26 Joint costs. Complete this line only if the organization reported in column (B) joint costs from a combined educational campaign and fundraising solicitation. Check here MediumBullet if following SOP 98-2 (ASC 958-720).        
Form 990 (2011)
Form 990 (2011)
Page 11
Part X Balance Sheet
(A)
Beginning of year 		(B)
End of year
Assets 1 Cash—non-interest-bearing .......... 3,344 1 4,410
2 Savings and temporary cash investments ....... 0 2 0
3 Pledges and grants receivable, net ......... 0 3 0
4 Accounts receivable, net ......... 0 4 0
5 Receivables from current and former officers, directors, trustees, key employees, and highest compensated employees. Complete Part II of
Schedule L .......... 0 5 0
6 Receivables from other disqualified persons (as defined under section 4958(f)(1)) and persons described in section 4958(c)(3)(B). Complete Part II of
Schedule L .......... 0 6 0
7 Notes and loans receivable, net ............. 0 7 0
8 Inventories for sale or use .............. 960 8 806
9 Prepaid expenses and deferred charges ............   9 0
10a Land, buildings, and equipment: cost or other basis. Complete Part VI of Schedule D 10a  
b Less: accumulated depreciation. ..... 10b   0 10c  
11 Investments—publicly traded securities .......... 0 11 0
12 Investments—other securities. See Part IV, line 11 ...... 0 12 0
13 Investments—program-related. See Part IV, line 11 .. 0 13 0
14 Intangible assets ......... 0 14 0
15 Other assets. See Part IV, line 11 ........... 0 15 0
16 Total assets. Add lines 1 through 15 (must equal line 34)... 4,304 16 5,216
Liabilities 17 Accounts payable and accrued expenses . 0 17 0
18 Grants payable .......... 0 18 0
19 Deferred revenue .......... 0 19 0
20 Tax-exempt bond liabilities .......... 0 20 0
21 Escrow or custodial account liability. Complete Part IV of Schedule D.. 0 21 0
22 Payables to current and former officers, directors, trustees, key
employees, highest compensated employees, and disqualified
persons. Complete Part II of Schedule L.......... 0 22 0
23 Secured mortgages and notes payable to unrelated third parties .. 0 23 0
24 Unsecured notes and loans payable to unrelated third parties .... 0 24 0
25 Other liabilities (including federal income tax, payables to related third parties, and other liabilities not included on lines 17-24). Complete Part X of Schedule D..... 0 25  
26 Total liabilities. Add lines 17 through 25..... 0 26 0
Net Assets or Fund Balance Organizations that follow SFAS 117, check here MediumBullet and complete lines 27 through 29, and lines 33 and 34.
27 Unrestricted net assets ..... 4,304 27 5,216
28 Temporarily restricted net assets ..... 0 28 0
29 Permanently restricted net assets ..... 0 29 0
Organizations that do not follow SFAS 117, check here MediumBullet and complete lines 30 through 34.
30 Capital stock or trust principal, or current funds .....   30  
31 Paid-in or capital surplus, or land, building or equipment fund .....   31  
32 Retained earnings, endowment, accumulated income, or other funds   32  
33 Total net assets or fund balances ..... 4,304 33 5,216
34 Total liabilities and net assets/fund balances ..... 4,304 34 5,216
Form 990 (2011)
Form 990 (2011)
Page 12
Part XI
Reconcilliation of Net Assets
Check if Schedule O contains a response to any question in this Part XI .........
1
Total revenue (must equal Part VIII, column (A), line 12) ...
1
21,877
2
Total expenses (must equal Part IX, column (A), line 25) ....
2
20,965
3
Revenue less expenses. Subtract line 2 from line 1 ...
3
912
4
Net assets or fund balances at beginning of year (must equal Part X, line 33, column (A)) ..
4
4,304
5
Other changes in net assets or fund balances (explain in Schedule O) ...
5
0
6
Net assets or fund balances at end of year. Combine lines 3, 4, and 5 (must equal Part X, line 33, column (B)) ....
6
5,216
Part XII
Financial Statements and Reporting
Check if Schedule O contains a response to any question in this Part XII .........
Yes
No
1
Accounting method used to prepare the Form 990:  
If the organization changed its method of accounting from a prior year or checked "Other," explain in
Schedule O.
2a
Were the organization’s financial statements compiled or reviewed by an independent accountant?....
2a
 
No
b
Were the organization’s financial statements audited by an independent accountant?........
2b
 
No
c
If “Yes,” to 2a or 2b, does the organization have a committee that assumes responsibility for oversight of the audit, review, or compilation of its financial statements and selection of an independent accountant? If the organization changed either its oversight process or selection process during the tax year, explain in Schedule O. ...........................
2c
 
 
d
If “Yes” to line 2a or 2b, check a box below to indicate whether the financial statements for the year were issued on a separate basis, consolidated basis, or both:
3a
As a result of a federal award, was the organization required to undergo an audit or audits as set forth in the Single Audit Act and OMB Circular A-133? ................
3a
 
No
b
If “Yes,” did the organization undergo the required audit or audits? If the organization did not undergo the required audit or audits, explain why in Schedule O and describe any steps taken to undergo such audits. ..
3b
 
 
Form 990 (2011)
Additional Data


Software ID: 11000129
Software Version: v1.00
Form 990, Special Condition Description:
Special Condition Description
SCHEDULE A
(Form 990 or 990EZ)

Department of the Treasury
Internal Revenue Service
Public Charity Status and Public Support

Complete if the organization is a section 501(c)(3) organization or a section
4947(a)(1) nonexempt charitable trust.
right arrow Attach to Form 990 or Form 990-EZ. right arrow See separate instructions.
OMB No. 1545-0047
2011
Open to Public
Inspection
Name of the organization
Avian Events Support Team
 
Employer identification number

27-3103650
Part I
Reason for Public Charity Status (All organizations must complete this part.) See instructions
The organization is not a private foundation because it is: (For lines 1 through 11, check only one box.)
1
2
3
4
5
section 170(b)(1)(A)(iv). (Complete Part II.)
6
7
8
9
receipts from activities related to its exempt functions—subject to certain exceptions, and (2) no more than 331/3% of
its support from gross investment income and unrelated business taxable income (less section 511 tax) from businesses
acquired by the organization after June 30, 1975. See section 509(a)(2). (Complete Part III.)
10
11
e
f
g
(i) a person who directly or indirectly controls, either alone or together with persons described in (ii)
Yes
No
and (iii) below, the governing body of the the supported organization? ................
11g(i)
 
 
(ii) a family member of a person described in (i) above? ......................
11g(ii)
 
 
(iii) a 35% controlled entity of a person described in (i) or (ii) above? ................
11g(iii)
 
 
h
(i)
Name of supported organization 		(ii)
EIN 		(iii)
Type of organization (described on lines 1- 9 above or IRC section (see instructions)) 		(iv)
Is the organization in col. (i) listed in your governing document? 		(v)
Did you notify the organization in col. (i) of your support? 		(vi)
Is the organization in col. (i) organized in the U.S.? 		(vii)
Amount of support?
Yes No Yes No Yes No
Total                  

For Paperwork Reduction Act Notice, see the Instructions for Form 990.
Cat. No. 11285F
Schedule A (Form 990 or 990-EZ) 2011
Schedule A (Form 990 or 990-EZ) 2011
Page 2
Part II
Support Schedule for Organizations Described in IRC 170(b)(1)(A)(iv) and 170(b)(1)(A)(vi)
(Complete only if you checked the box on line 5, 7, or 8 of Part I or if the organization failed to qualify under Part III. If the organization fails to qualify under the tests listed below, please complete Part III.)
Section A. Public Support
Calendar year(or fiscal year beginning in) (a) 2007 (b) 2008 (c) 2009 (d) 2010 (e) 2011 (f) Total
1 Gifts, grants, contributions, and membership fees received. (Do not include any "unusual grants.") ....            
2 Tax revenues levied for the organization's benefit and either paid to or expended on its behalf.......            
3 The value of services or facilities furnished by a governmental unit to the organization without charge..            
4 Total. Add lines 1 through 3..            
5 The portion of total contributions by each person (other than a governmental unit or publicly supported organization) included on line 1 that exceeds 2% of the amount shown on line 11, column (f)..            
6 Public Support. Subtract line 5 from line 4.            
Section B. Total Support
Calendar year(or fiscal year beginning in) (a) 2007 (b) 2008 (c) 2009 (d) 2010 (e) 2011 (f) Total
7 Amounts from line 4..            
8 Gross income from interest, dividends, payments received on securities loans, rents, royalties and income from similar sources..            
9 Net income from unrelated business activities, whether or not the business is regularly carried on..            
10 Other income. (Explain in Part IV.) Do not include gain or loss from the sale of capital assets..            
11 Total support (Add lines 7 through 10).            
12
12
 
13
Section C. Computation of Public Support Percentage
14
14
 
15
15
 
16a
b
17a
b
18
Schedule A (Form 990 or 990-EZ) 2011
Schedule A (Form 990 or 990-EZ) 2011
Page 3
Part III
Support Schedule for Organizations Described in IRC 509(a)(2)
(Complete only if you checked the box on line 9 of Part I or if the organization failed to qualify under Part II. If the organization fails to qualify under the tests listed below, please complete Part II.)
Section A. Public Support
Calendar year(or fiscal year beginning in) (a) 2007 (b) 2008 (c) 2009 (d) 2010 (e) 2011 (f) Total
1 Gifts, grants, contributions, and membership fees received. (Do not include any "unusual grants.") .         1 1
2 Gross receipts from admissions, merchandise sold or services performed, or facilities furnished in any activity that is related to the organization's tax-exempt purpose......         21,864 21,864
3 Gross receipts from activities that are not an unrelated trade or business under section 513..         0 0
4 Tax revenues levied for the organization's benefit and either paid to or expended on its behalf...         0 0
5 The value of services or facilities furnished by a governmental unit to the organization without charge..         0 0
6 Total. Add lines 1 through 5. 0 0 0 0 21,865 21,865
7a Amounts included on lines 1, 2, and 3 received from disqualified persons...         0 0
b Amounts included on lines 2 and 3 received from other than disqualified persons that exceed the greater of $5,000 or 1% of the amount on line 13 for the year.         0 0
c Add lines 7a and 7b.. 0 0 0 0 0 0
8 Public Support (Subtract line 7c from line 6.)           21,865
Section B. Total Support
Calendar year (or fiscal year beginning in) (a) 2007 (b) 2008 (c) 2009 (d) 2010 (e) 2011 (f) Total
9 Amounts from line 6... 0 0 0 0 21,865 21,865
10a Gross income from interest, dividends, payments received on securities loans, rents, royalties and income from similar sources..         13 13
b Unrelated business taxable income (less section 511 taxes) from businesses acquired after June 30, 1975.         0 0
c Add lines 10a and 10b. 0 0 0 0 13 13
11 Net income from unrelated business activities not included in line 10b, whether or not the business is regularly carried on.       0 0 0
12 Other income. Do not include gain or loss from the sale of capital assets (Explain in Part IV.)       0 0 0
13 Total support (Add lines 9, 10c, 11 and 12.). 0 0 0 0 21,878 21,878
14
Section C. Computation of Public Support Percentage
15
15
99.941 %
16
16
0 %
Section D. Computation of Investment Income Percentage
17
17
0.059 %
18
18
0 %
19a
b
20
Schedule A (Form 990 or 990-EZ) 2011
Schedule A (Form 990 or 990-EZ) 2011
Page 4
Part IV
Supplemental Information. Supplemental Information. Complete this part to provide the explanation required by Part II, line 10; Part II, line 17a or 17b; or Part III, line 12. Also complete this part for any additional information. (See instructions).
Facts And Circumstances Test
 
Explanation
 
 
 
 
Schedule A (Form 990 or 990-EZ) 2011

Additional Data


Software ID: 11000129
Software Version: v1.00
SCHEDULE O
(Form 990 or 990-EZ)

Department of the Treasury
Internal Revenue Service
Supplemental Information to Form 990 or 990-EZ

Complete to provide information for responses to specific questions on
Form 990 or to provide any additional information.
MediumBullet Attach to Form 990 or 990-EZ.
OMB No. 1545-0047
2011
Open to Public
Inspection
Name of the organization
Avian Events Support Team
 
Employer identification number

27-3103650
Identifier Return Reference Explanation
F990_P03_S00_L02 Form 990, Part III, Line 2 Initial filing: 1-Yellow Rails and Rice Festival (YRARF). YRARF 2011 was held 26-29 October 2011, based in Jennings, LA. YRARF attracted participants from 31 states, DC, England, and Canada. The primary goal of this festival is to provide participants a unique venue to view Yellow Rails (a very secretive marsh bird that spends the winter in Louisiana) while at the same time bringing birders and farmers together to realize the value to birds of the area's "working wetlands." 2-Sponsor four (4) Audubon Christmas Bird Counts in SW LA. 3-organize the 2011 Shorebird Blitz, a SW LA one-day survey of shorebirds that will serve as the foundation for a future festival.
F990_P06_S0A_L02 Form 990, Part VI, Section A, Line 2 Shirley Berken and Kevin Berken are married. Kevin Berken is a rice farmer and owner of KMB Farms. Kevin and Shirely Berken, Donna Dittmann, and Steve Cardiff devised the idea of a bird-agriculture festival, which resulted in the subsequent creation of the Yellow Rails and Rice Festival in 2009, and ultimately from which Avian Events Support Team evolved in 2010. Each Director is an independent entity and has an equal voice and vote however to offset any possible conflict resulting from these relationships, we added a fifth and unrelated director (Jennifer Alexander) who could be a deciding vote to achieve parity.
F990_P06_S0B_L11b Form 990, Part VI, Section B, Line 11b A pdf of this form was distributed by email to all directors for review and to accept prior to e-submission.
F990_P06_S0B_L12c Form 990, Part VI, Section B, Line 12c Directors discuss policy at an annual meeting.
F990_P06_S0B_L15 Form 990, Part VI, Section B, Line 15 1-Avian Events Support Team does not have a CEO. 2-Compensation is in two forms. The first type of compensation is the honorarium. Depending on amount available from festival (service) receipts, small honorarium amounts are distributed to individuals/businesses. Honoraria are primarily intended currently to help offset expenses incurred during the Yellow Rails and Rice Festival, however honoraria also acknowledge the expertise and assistance of those involved with this event and represent a "thank you." The honoraria amount is predetermined by the Directors following evaluation of festival net proceeds based time volunteered (e.g., morning only versus all day) or type of service (field trip leader, event host, or farmer). Honoraria amounts are distributed at the same rate to volunteers and Avian Events Support Team directors for their service. Volunteers and/or directors can waive their honoraria. Directors may not receive honoraria if funds are insufficient following payment of honoraria to volunteers. Secondly, website and graphics are currently provided by a Director who is paid for these services if and only if adequate funds are available. Amount is determined by fair market value.
F990_P06_S0C_L19 Form 990, Part VI, Section C, Line 19 If requested, then we will provide pdfs of requested documents by email.
For Paperwork Reduction Act Notice, see the Instructions for Form 990 or 990-EZ.
Cat. No. 51056K
Schedule O (Form 990 or 990-EZ) 2011

Additional Data


Software ID: 11000129
Software Version: v1.00