Blackburn Labs and CIRP Collaborate to Bring Rhode Island Raptors to the Digital World

Norma Burnell, principal web designer for Blackburn Labs and a longtime Jamestown resident and admitted “bird nerd,” worked with Chris Powell, founder of the Conanicut Island Raptor Project (CIRP), to develop a website that is both informative, easy to navigate, and aesthetically pleasing.
A Modern Digital Presence for Conservation
The new website includes several innovative features:
- Live webcam feed of the osprey nest at the Great Creek in Jamestown
- Blog area for regular updates and raptor news
- Educational resources on Rhode Island’s local raptors
- Modern design built with WordPress for easy content management
The WordPress platform enables Chris to write blog posts and update content without needing to know code, making it perfect for ongoing conservation updates and community engagement.
Modernizing for Today’s Standards
The previous website, which launched about 8 years ago, needed a fresh modern look and an upgrade to today’s best practices and standards. The new site delivers on all fronts with:
- Responsive design that works on all devices
- Improved navigation and user experience
- Contemporary visual design
- Content management capabilities for ongoing updates
About the Conanicut Island Raptor Project
The Conanicut Island Raptor Project, founded in 2005, is dedicated to the preservation, study, and enjoyment of Jamestown, RI’s birds of prey. CIRP believes that an informed community that values its wildlife will act responsibly to protect wild animals and the habitat on which they depend for survival.
Conservation Success Story
The CIRP has achieved remarkable success in osprey conservation:
- 22 nesting platforms built throughout Jamestown
- 18 occupied sites in 2023
- Dramatic growth from just one active osprey nest in 2005
This represents a true conservation success story, demonstrating what dedicated community effort can accomplish.
Supporting Small Businesses and Nonprofits
At Blackburn Labs, we’re passionate about what we do, especially when it comes to helping small businesses, nonprofits, and community organizations share their message with the world. Whether you need:
- A new website from scratch
- An update to your current site
- Content management systems for easy updates
- Modern design that meets today’s standards
We bring expertise, creativity, and passion to every project.
Get Started Today
Ready to bring your organization’s story to the digital world? Reach out to us for a free estimate and let’s discuss how we can help you create a website that informs, engages, and inspires your audience.