See below for some amazing environmental events and volunteer opportunities!
Every Tuesday:
9 am – 3 pm – South Sound Prairie Restoration Work Party
Contact: Audrey Lamb, alamb@cnlm.org. VOLUNTEER EVENT
Every Wednesday:
8-11 am – Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge Bird Walk
Meet at Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge Visitor Center Overlook at 8 am, and join Phil Kelley from Black Hills Audubon Society for the entire walk or for as long as you wish.
3-6 pm – GRub Farm Drop-in Volunteer Session
(GRuB Farm; 2016 Elliott Ave NW; Olympia 98502) Volunteers support the GRuB Farm in weeding, transplanting, seeding and miscellaneous maintenance of the farm. We ask that anyone under 14 be accompanied by an adult. Visit http://www.goodgrub.org/volunteer ahead of time so you can fill out a volunteer interest form that you can bring with you. VOLUNTEER EVENT
Every Thursday:
10 am – 3 pm – Olympia Farmers’ Market (700 Capitol Way N; Olympia)
Every Friday:
10 am – 3 pm – Olympia Farmers’ Market (700 Capitol Way N; Olympia)
Every Saturday:
9 am – 2 pm – West Olympia Farmers Market (Garfield Elementary bus loop, between the school and adjacent Woodruff Park, on Thomas Street.)
10 am – 3 pm – Olympia Farmers’ Market (700 Capitol Way N; Olympia)
Every Sunday:
10 am – 3 pm – Olympia Farmers’ Market (700 Capitol Way N; Olympia)
1-4 pm – GRub Farm Drop-in Volunteer Session
(GRuB Farm; 2016 Elliott Ave NW; Olympia 98502) Volunteers support the GRuB Farm in weeding, transplanting, seeding and miscellaneous maintenance of the farm. We ask that anyone under 14 be accompanied by an adult. Visit http://www.goodgrub.org/volunteer ahead of time so you can fill out a volunteer interest form that you can bring with you. VOLUNTEER EVENT
2-6 pm – Schaefer Park Cleanup (moved to Sunday from Monday)
Schaefer Park is located north of Centralia. It is a wonderful park, with the beautiful Skookumchuck River running along the edge. Sadly, it has recently been shut down due to lack of money. However, with the help of a few wonderful volunteers the park is up and running and looking great! If you’re interested in lending a hand, volunteers are encouraged to show up at the park on Sundays from 2-6pm. See the facebook page www.facebook.com/pages/Save-the-Schaefer/144068159003155. VOLUNTEER EVENT
When and Where to See Salmon
SALMON WHEN STREAM VIEWING LOCATION
Chinook September Deschutes River* Tumwater Falls Park
Pink September Mashell River** University of Washington Pack Forest
Pink September South Prairie Creek Veteran’s Park in Town of South Prairie
Chum November Kennedy Creek*** Kennedy Creek Trail
Chum November McLane Creek* McLane Creek Nature Trail
* These locations will be staffed with knowledgeable Stream Team Salmon Stewards on most weekend days from 11 am – 3 pm. Tumwater Falls will also be staffed most weekday evenings.
** Nisqually River Pinks are best viewed in the Mashell River tributary. To view pinks at the University of Washington Pack Forest, enter the gate for 200 Road, near the junction of Highways 161 and 7. Do not park in front of the gate. A trail map can be found at www.packforest.org/education.
*** For more information: www.masoncd.org/Kennedy
Volunteer and Intern Opportunities with Thurston County Food Bank Produce Programs
The Thurston County Food Bank’s (TCFB) Produce Team is dedicated to lowering access barriers to nutritious, local fruits and vegetables—particularly for low-income people. We have various outreach activities (described below) to bring in fresh produce, and to educate our clients about how to use it. Last year, TCFB received over 60,700 lbs of local produce from gleaning, Kiwanis Food Bank Gardens, and school gardens programs. This past winter, we collected over 1,700 pounds of produce from our first-ever Winter Produce Drive. None of these achievements would be possible without the generous support of our community. Please consider supporting our work by being a volunteer or an intern for one or more of these efforts.
Gleaning: Farmers routinely over-plant their fields as a safeguard against poor weather, poor yields, and pests. As a result there is often a large excess. Gleaning is the act of harvesting the excess fruits, grains, and vegetables farmers leave in their fields. Each week, from late June through December we take volunteers to farms, orchards, and residences to harvest this bounty. We host as many as five gleaning events a week. Our gleaning days this year are Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday and one additional weekday. For information about volunteering or interning in our gleaning program, email: gleaning@thurstoncountyfoodbank.org or call (360) 352-8597 ext 108.
Kiwanis work parties: The Olympia Kiwanis Club started their garden project in the early 90’s to provide fresh produce to hunger relief programs. Our work parties are currently every Thursday morning at one of their four gardens. Activities include tilling, mulching, weeding, planting, work on simple construction projects, and harvesting. To get on the Kiwanis work party email list, contact Derek Valley at schmidtvalley@comcast.net. For information about interning to coordinate the Kiwanis work parties, email: gleaning@thurstoncountyfoodbank.org or call (360) 352-8597 ext 108.
Cooking Demonstrations: Twice a month, we offer recipes and meal samples to our clients at our downtown location. The recipes are for nutritious, easy-to-prepare meals that clients can make at home using the produce and staples available at the Food Bank. With more volunteers or an intern, we can expand this nutrition education program. For information about volunteering or interning for this program, contact: produce@thurstoncountyfoodbank.org.
Plant a Row for the Hungry: Starting in early spring we distribute seeds and plant starts throughout Olympia/Tumwater/Lacey to encourage residents to grow food for the food bank. The food bank always accepts donations of produce and eggs. So bring ’em in! For information about volunteering for this program, or a winter/spring quarter internship to coordinate this program, contact: gleaning@thurstoncountyfoodbank.org or call (360) 352-8597 ext 108.
School Gardens: We work with school gardens to encourage nutritious eating habits, to teach children how to grow their own food, and to engage children in growing food for the needy. During the school year, we host farm stands and pack mini-CSAs at area schools. We also collaborate with schools on cooking classes and garden education, help schools maintain their gardens during the school year and in the summer, and host an annual networking/educational summit for those involved in school gardening. For information about volunteering or interning in the school gardens program, contact: schoolgardens@thurstoncountyfoodbank.org, or call (360) 352-8597 ext 123
Monday, October 17
12 noon – 1 pm— Plant Walk at Adriana Hess Wetland Park
(Tacoma) Take a lunch break and enjoy a guided plant walk at a local urban park to learn how you can use native plants to attract wildlife to your yard. The Adriana Hess Wetland Park was preserved by the Hess Family and given to the city of University Place in 1995, and since then has undergone a transformation from a backyard to an urban wildlife sanctuary. Join us to discover the possibilities and get inspired! Volunteers at Tahoma Audubon Society provide monthly walks on the third Monday of each month. Pick up a free Donna Cooper Pepos Native Plant Trail Guide and come by anytime. Adults and families welcome. FREE. Call 253-565-9278 to sign up or for more information. EXTRA CREDIT
2-3 pm – Coffee Hour with Commissioner Sandra Romero
(Olympic Crest Coffee: 4211 Pacific Ave SE; Lacey 98503) Thurston County Planning Director, Scott Clark, discusses requirements under the State’s Growth Management Act to update and revise the County’s Critical Areas Ordinance. Coffee provided by Commissioner Romero. EXTRA CREDIT
7:00-9:00 pm – Travel That Transforms Lives: Clean Water in India
(Olympia Unitarian Universalist; 2300 East End St NW; Olympia 98502) David Albert has lived his beliefs for decades by helping in areas of greatest need, especially in setting up water purification systems in India. Come hear David speak about an India most travelers (and most Indians that travelers meet) don’t know at all. David found his very self in India, he found family and community there, and he “found entry to a much larger world, one that most people only dream of”. As David says, “In my life, I have learned to expect the unexpected; the unexpected is where life really happens.” Part of the Olympia Unitarian Universalist Congregation Adult Education Program. Open to all interested individuals. A single registration fee of $10 applies to all the classes in the Program Guide; fee waivers are available. For more information, contact Roger Nielsen at thenielsens2000@yahoo.com. EXTRA CREDIT
Tuesday October 18
9 am – 3 pm – South Sound Prairie Restoration Work Party
This week there are three tasks that we need to accomplish. The top priority will be working at Shotwell’s Landing to sow seeds in the raised beds that have been lined with tarps. Over the winter, the beds will be covered with frost protection cloths so that the seeds can undergo natural stratification in order to germinate. The two species we will focus on sowing are: Collinsia parviflora (Blue-eyed Mary) and Plectritis congesta (Sea Blush). If you’d prefer to plant, there are plugs of Aquilegia formosa (Red Columbine) that needed to be planted at Shotwell’s Landing. Another priority is pulling Scot’s broom at Glacial Heritage. We covered a large area last Saturday, and, with your help, can continue to reduce the broom population! If you’re interested in pulling broom, please meet Sanders at the volunteer house at Glacial Heritage at 9:00 am. Either way, bring gloves, lunch, rain gear, and a smile. Directions to Shotwell’s Landing Nursery (14447 Little Rock Road SW; Rochester 98579): take I-5 to exit 95 (Littlerock exit), ~10 miles south of Olympia; go west to the Stop sign in Littlerock by the elementary school (the only stop sign in Littlerock); continue straight for ~100 feet, and turn left onto Littlerock Road; go 1.7 miles south on Littlerock Road—Shotwell’s Nursery will be on your right. Directions to Glacial Heritage: take I-5 to exit 95 (the Littlerock exit), ~10 miles south of Olympia; go west through Littlerock to the T-intersection at Mima Road/Waddell Creek; turn south (left) on Mima Road and go 2.7 miles; take a left onto a gravel road with sign for Glacial Heritage—you will see a tractor sign and then the turn. Please obey the 15 mph speed limit, as there are often dogs and small children active nearby. Follow the road through the gate; take the first right, and then stay to the left to get to the house. Contact: Audrey Lamb, alamb@cnlm.org. VOLUNTEER EVENT
7:00 to 8:15 pm – Foraging in Crow’s Backyard
(Olympia REI: 625 Black Lake Blvd SW, Suite 410; Olympia 98502) Despite common perceptions of cities as ecological wastelands, people engage in a vibrant practice of plant and mushroom gathering in urban ecosystems. In this presentation you will hear about some of the common edible weeds, native berries, and heritage orchard fruits gathered in the city, and how foragers are engaging in stewardship activities in urban greenspaces while also creating access to food and nature. We’ll explore ways that foraging might be a strategy for open space and biodiversity conservation, pollution reduction, and community resiliency. Dr. Poe is based in Seattle and conducts applied social science research on the human dimensions of environments. She’s lived in the Northwest for 25 years. Prior to her work as an environmental anthropologist, Poe guided local and international wilderness and ecotravel programs. You must register at www.rei.com/event/30682/session/38281 to attend. EXTRA CREDIT
7:00 – 9:00 pm – On-site Tour of a Passive Solar House
(Olympia) Picture this: You’re heating your beautiful new home with less energy than it takes to run a hairdryer. You’re enjoying fresh indoor air and relaxing in comfortable, stable room temperatures day and night—oh, and paying 90% less on your heating bill! Benefits of passive house: unbeatable comfort; outstanding indoor air quality; save about 75% on total energy bill; save about 90% on heating/cooling bill; super low-maintenance; significantly reduce your carbon footprint; and affordable net-zero as energy costs increase. Space is limited and preregistration is required. To register and get directions, email barb@scavezze.com. EXTRA CREDIT
Wednesday, October 19
12 noon – 1pm – Black Hills AudubonBrown bag lunch & discussion
Natural Resources Building, Room 172: 1111 Washington St. SE; Olympia) Julia Parrish will speak about trends and findings in the Coastal Observation and Seabird Survey Team (COASST) program. EXTRA CREDIT
6:30 pm – Thurston County Planning Commission
(Room 129, Building 2 of the Thurston County Courthouse: 2000 Lakeridge Drive SW; Olympia 98502) The Thurston County Planning Commission will review proposed changes to the Thurston County Critical Areas Ordinance—in particular, draft chapters pertaining to Fish and Wildlife Habitat Conservation Areas, Special Reports, and Critical Area Tracts and Easements. It also will review Lacey Urban Growth Area density provisions and may receive new draft information from staff. No final action is scheduled to occur on the proposed changes at the meeting. The meeting is open to the public. The meeting agenda is at http://www.co.thurston.wa.us/planning/planning_commission/planning_comm_currentwork.html. EXTRA CREDIT
7-9 pm – Plastics in the Ocean: Curiosity or Concern?
(LOTT’s WET Science Center: 500 Adams Street NE; Olympia) While much research has focused on effects of large plastics in the water, very little has been done on what happens when those big pieces break down. To expand upon this topic, SSEA is honored to have Dr. Joel Baker, Science Director at Center for Urban Waters in Tacoma, give a lecture. According to Dr. Baker, microscopic fragments are floating in the ocean and washing up on shores, but the exact consequences for marine organisms are still unknown. Do microplastics pose harm to organisms when ingested? What happens when microplastics enter the food chain? All these questions are being posed in Dr. Baker’s work with the UW Puget Sound Institute. Come find out how they are approaching these questions and more in his upcoming lecture. Plus, the results of samples collected during our cruise will be announced at this lecture—come find out how our local waters measure up! The lecture is free and open to the public. For more information, contact Leihla at at 360-888-0565 or leihla@sseacenter.org. EXTRA CREDIT
7-9 pm – Olympia Candidate Forum
(The Olympia Center: 222 N. Columbia; Olympia 98501) The Olympian newspaper and TCTV are sponsoring a candidate forum for all candidates running for the Olympia City Council. Send your questions to news@theolympian.com. All are invited to attend this free event.
Thursday October 20
6:30 – 8:30 pm – Understanding our Energy Futures
(Urban Onion Ballroom: 116 Legion Way SE—in downtown Olympia, across from Sylvester Park) With growing demand and a volatile, shrinking supply of fossil fuel energy, the Alliance for Community Transition is exploring how conservation, efficiency and renewable energy sources can help our community adapt to an uncertain future. What are the possible solutions, what’s feasible and what’s already happening? A panel of energy experts—including representatives from Puget Sound Energy, South Sound Solar, Sunset Air, and members of the Energy Working Group—will offer answers, and invite discussion of our possible energy futures. The program begins at 7 pm. Arrive early if you want to order from the menu. Sponsored by the NW EcoBuilding Guild, South Sound Chapter and Alliance for Community Transition – South Sound. EXTRA CREDIT
7:30 pm – Fair Trade Around the World
(Olympia Center, Room 101) Fair Trade implies the practice of using only ingredients that are grown sustainably, partnering with growers to ensure they earn a living wage and having access to education for their families, honoring and respecting employees and suppliers, and using green energy power sources whenever possible. Matt Warning is a professor of economics at the University of Puget Sound, and has spent 25 years studying rural communities in Africa and Latin America. An authority on the economics of fair trade coffee, he has often been interviewed for articles in a variety of publications. Professor Warning will speak about the conflicts in the African Great Lakes region, fair trade and its limitations, and quality as a necessary focus for sustainability. Cherie Fontenot from Theo Chocolate in Seattle also will speak. Theo is the first and currently the only organic Fair Trade certified roaster of cacao in the United States, sourcing cacao from small farmers in the Dominican Republic, Ecuador, Panama, Ghana, Madagascar, Venezuela and the Ivory Coast. Ms. Fontenot will relate how Theo’s small team is guided by a passion for chocolate, care for the environment, and dedication to enriching the lives of everyone involved, including cacao farmers and chocolate lovers. Sponsored by the Olympia World Affairs Council. EXTRA CREDIT
Friday, October 21
9 am – 12 noon – Wetland Habitat Restoration work party
(Tacoma Nature Center, 1919 S. Tyler St; Tacoma) Join us for our regular stewardship activities as we care for the park by removing invasive plant species, re-planting areas with native plants and helping those plants thrive. No experience necessary – experienced habitat stewards will guide you through the projects. Come dressed for the weather and prepared to get dirty. Bring your own gloves and gardening gear or use what we provide. All ages are welcome, but children need to be supervised at all times by an adult. Work parties occur rain or shine! Call 253-591-6439 for more information. VOLUNTEER EVENT
6:30 – 8:30 pm – Olympia Food Co-op Cooking Class: Making Fermented Vegetables
(GRuB Farmhouse: 2016 Elliott Ave NW, Olympia 98502) Learn how to make fermented veggies from the one and only, Oly Kraut. Summer Bock will show you everything you need to know to turn your kitchen into a fermentation station. Join us for this fun and information packed evening where you enjoy the fermentation from start to finish. Samples will be provided. Registration is required: go to www.olympiafood.coop/classes.
Saturday, October 22
9 am – 3 pm – COASST Training Session for Seabird Beach Surveys
(Olympia) Ever see a dead bird on a beach and wonder why it succumbed? Would you like to help scientists find out why? The Coastal Observation and Seabird Survey Team (COASST) provides that opportunity by training volunteers to do regular surveys of beaches in their area. Volunteers identify and take measurements on any dead birds found and report them to COASST. This training session is a free, six-hour session, with a break for lunch. If you are interested, contact Sam Merrill at sammerrill3@comcast.net. You do not have to commit to be a volunteer surveyor to take the training class. The COASST program is intended to establish baseline data for scientific purposes and to alert wildlife personnel for possible intervention when a significant increase in dead birds is observed. Currently, four Thurston County beaches are on the COASST survey list: Evergreen, Priest Point, and two at Tolmie State Park. Four Mason County beaches are also on the list: Menard’s Landing, Rendsland Creek, Twanoh State Park, and Walker County Park. Sites can be added and there are many other potential sites on Puget Sound and the ocean shore. EXTRA CREDIT
9 am – 12 noon – Oak Tree Park Work Party
(Tacoma) Oak Tree Park is a beautiful and unique 25-acre park located off of South 74th and Cedar Streets. It protects a Garry Oak woodland community that has become increasingly rare due to a combination of land development and colonization of invasive species of native trees like Douglas fir. We will meet at the east entrance to Oak Tree Park, at the end of Pine Street South, just north of S 78th St. We will be removing non-native and invasive plant species, and litter pick-up. Bring sturdy shoes and clothes to get dirty in. Some gloves and tools will be provided, but if you have gloves, shovels, rakes, or loppers, please bring them. VOLUNTEER EVENT
10 am – 2 pm – Allison Springs Estuary Restoration Project
(Allison Springs, Olympia) Join us to restore fish and wildlife habitat on Mud Bay in Olympia! Volunteers are needed to install native plants and to remove invasive vegetation. No experience is necessary. Please bring work gloves if you have them, a sack lunch, and a water bottle. Dress for the weather (rain or shine) and wear sturdy, waterproof shoes or boots. We will provide hand tools, light snacks and beverages, and will have some extra work gloves to share. Minors who plan to attend without their legal guardians must contact the event coordinator prior to the event to receive a special release form that must be completed. Children ten and under must have adult supervision. We will provide driving directions and parking instructions to all participants upon RSVP. Project partners/cosponsors include Capitol Land Trust, the City of Olympia, Stream Team, South Puget Sound Salmon Enhancement Group, and People For Puget Sound. To volunteer, RSVP to Christina Donehower with People For Puget Sound, at cdonehower@pugetsound.org (preferred) or 360-754-9177 ext. 183. VOLUNTEER EVENT
10:00 am – 1:00 pm – Restoration Event at Clover Creek Reserve
(Tacoma) Clover Creek Reserve is an example of woodland prairie, an increasingly rare landscape in Pierce County. Dress for the weather. Suggested dress: boots or comfortable athletic shoes, work clothes, rain gear and appropriate layers. Volunteers should bring a refillable water bottle. Snacks, drinks, tools and gloves will be provided. Directions: Clover Creek Reserve is located on Johns Street E, Tacoma 98445 (enter 6th Ave E & Johns St E, Tacoma, WA 98445 on on google maps/mapquest). If you are under 18 and attending the event without a parent or guardian, please come to the event with a waiver signed by a parent or guardian. (Go to www.cascadeland.org/files/stewardship-files/Youth%20Waiver.updated%2011.22.10.pdf) To register for this event, go to https://dnbweb1.blackbaud.com/OPXREPHIL/EventDetail.asp?cguid=6374B924%2DD0D5%2D4655%2DBC98%2D66623676DF2C&eid=38536&sid=923AEE4B%2D2232%2D45D5%2D87B8%2D38E0D515BBAD. VOLUNTEER EVENT
Monday, October 24
Real Food Day: Local, Humane, Fair
(The Evergreen State College; 2700 Evergreen Parkway NW; Olympia 98505) Students, faculty, and community members will join together with the Campus Food Coalition to celebrate the importance of Real Food. We are talking about: food that is local and community based; food that is FAIR to both producer and consumer, and ecologically sound; and food that is HUMANE to workers and animals. Through art exhibition, photo petition, and engaging activities including lots of delicious local food, we will focus on raising awareness of the upcoming expiration of our contract with Aramark, and organize to discuss what we would like to see our campus food system become. We are still in the planning process, and we need as much help as we can get from absolutely everyone tied to Evergreen and greater Olympia. If you are part of our community and care about real food, please help us organize this event! Please email evergreenfoodcoalition@gmail.com for more information or to get involved. EXTRA CREDIT
Tuesday October 25
9 am – 3 pm – South Sound Prairie Restoration Work Party
Contact: Audrey Lamb, alamb@cnlm.org. VOLUNTEER EVENT
Wednesday October 26
6-8p m – Green Tacoma Partnership Fall Meeting and Potluck
(Portland Ave Community Center, Tacoma) EXTRA CREDIT
Thursday, October 27
6 – 8 pm – Olympia Food Co-op Cooking Class: Gluten-Free Cookies
(Fertile Ground Guesthouse: 311 9th Ave SE, Olympia 98501) Delicious artisan treats for special occasions, classics to pack for lunch, or decadence to nibble at midnight. Don’t be resigned to the sad offerings that come out of a box in a plastic tray. Gluten-free cookies can be so much more than what you thought possible. Registration is required: go to www.olympiafood.coop/classes/.
Saturday, October 29
12:00 – 4:00 pm – Salmon Saturday
(LOTT WET Center: 500 Adams Street NE in downtown Olympia) Stream Team is teaming up with the WET Center to celebrate the return of salmon! Come learn which salmon return to spawn in Thurston County, what they need to survive and how you can help. Play the salmon migration game, make salmon hats, buttons, bracelets and key chains. Plus, do other fun activities and take home salmon stickers and the “Save the Sound” card game! (If you would like to volunteer to staff an activity booth, contact Ann Marie at 360-754-3355 ext. 6857 or finanam@co.thurston.wa.us) Admission is FREE!
4 – 6 pm – Olympia Food Co-op Cooking Class: Root Vegetables
(GRuB Farmhouse: 2016 Elliott Ave NW, Olympia 98502) Come and get back to your roots. Learn how various cuts and preparations will make the same vegetable shine in different ways. We will make Parsnip Ribbon salad, Roasted Roots with Balsamic Glazed Mushrooms, and more! Registration is required: go to www.olympiafood.coop/classes/.
Monday, October 31
9 am – 1 pm – Nisqually Planting Assistance
(Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge) Description: Staging and moving plants for later installation by schoolchildren. To volunteer, RSVP to Christina Donehower with People For Puget Sound, at cdonehower@pugetsound.org (preferred) or 360-754-9177 ext. 183. VOLUNTEER EVENT
Thursday, November 3
10 am – 3 pm – Glass Summit: Recycled Glass Aggregate Workshop
(New Market Skills Center: 7299 New Market Street SW; Tumwater 98501) Thurston County Solid Waste, LeMay, Inc. and the NW EcoBuilding Guild of Olympia are teaming up to host a Glass Aggregate Summit for folks that work in construction, such as planners, builders, engineers and public utilities. Glass placed in recycling bins in Thurston County and neighboring counties is not actually recycled into new bottles or jars, but is ground into a fine sand/gravel called aggregate or cullet. It is not sharp and is a perfect substitute for pea gravel or sand in many types of construction projects. Common uses include: base for roadways; fill underneath slabs; bedding for pipes; drainage. Benefits of using glass aggregate: costs about 50% less than virgin product; easier and cleaner to use in adverse weather; satisfy DOT requirements and get LEED certification points; help grow the market for recycled products in a green economy. The Glass Aggregate Summit will have speakers from all aspects of the construction industry that are experts on the specifications and are successfully using the product. Registration is required. Cost per person is $12 for lunch. To register, go to http://www.ecobuilding.org/events/glass-summit. For more information, contact Chris van Daalen at (360) 754-6152 or education@ecobuilding.org. EXTRA CREDIT
6-9 pm – Naturescaping for Water & Wildlife Workshop
(Tumwater) Fall is an ideal time to do some research and make plans for your lawn and garden. If you are interested in learning how to turn your yard into a lovely year-round landscape that attracts birds, butterflies and amphibians, then this workshop is for you. Attend this FREE workshop to learn: planting for 4-season interest; landscaping for tricky areas like slopes; easy ways to minimize lawns; water-wise ideas for your landscape; how simple landscape changes can save you time and money. Erica Guttman, WSU Native Plant Salvage Project, will teach the class. Registration is required, and space is limited. To register, or for more information, contact nativeplantsalvage@gmail.com or 360-867-2166. EXTRA CREDIT
7:00 pm – South Sound Sierra Group: Protecting Our Tidelands
(Traditions Café: 300 5th Avenue SW, Olympia) You are invited to an informative evening about how our tidelands and water quality are being degraded, and what you can do to help save them. You will meet the South Sound Sierra Group and other organizations who are working on this very important issue. Please join us early (before 6:00 pm) if you would like to support Traditions Café by ordering dinner there. EXTRA CREDIT
Friday, November 4
9 am – 12pm – Upland & Forest Habitat Restoration work party
(Tacoma Nature Center, 1919 S. Tyler St.) Join us for our regular stewardship activities as we care for the park by removing invasive plant species, re-planting areas with native plants and helping those plants thrive. No experience necessary – experienced habitat stewards will guide you through the projects. Come dressed for the weather and prepared to get dirty. Bring your own gloves and gardening gear or use what we provide. All ages are welcome, but children need to be supervised at all times by an adult. Work parties occur rain or shine! Call 253-591-6439 for more information. VOLUNTEER EVENT
6:30 – 8:30 pm – Olympia Food Co-op Cooking Class: Making Fermented Vegetables
(GRuB Farmhouse: 2016 Elliott Ave NW, Olympia 98502) Learn how to make fermented veggies from the one and only, Oly Kraut. Summer Bock will show you everything you need to know to turn your kitchen into a fermentation station. Join us for this fun and information packed evening where you enjoy the fermentation from start to finish. Samples will be provided. Registration is required: go to www.olympiafood.coop/classes/.
Saturday, November 5
10 am – 2 pm – Allison Springs Estuary Restoration Project
(Randall Preserve, Olympia) Join us to restore fish and wildlife habitat on Mud Bay in Olympia! Volunteers are needed to install native plants and to remove invasive vegetation. No experience is necessary. Please bring work gloves if you have them, a sack lunch, and a water bottle. Dress for the weather (rain or shine) and wear sturdy, waterproof shoes or boots. We will provide hand tools, light snacks and beverages, and will have some extra work gloves to share. Minors who plan to attend without their legal guardians must contact the event coordinator prior to the event to receive a special release form that must be completed. Children ten and under must have adult supervision. We will provide driving directions and parking instructions to all participants upon RSVP. Project partners/cosponsors include Capitol Land Trust, the City of Olympia, Stream Team, South Puget Sound Salmon Enhancement Group, and People For Puget Sound. To volunteer, RSVP to Christina Donehower with People For Puget Sound, at cdonehower@pugetsound.org (preferred) or 360-754-9177 ext. 183. VOLUNTEER EVENT
Olympic View restoration site work party
(Tacoma) Join Citizens for a Healthy Bay volunteers in an invasive species removal and native plant planting work party at the Olympic View restoration site. For details, call
253-383-2429. VOLUNTEER EVENT
Sunday, November 6
4 – 6 pm – Olympia Food Co-op Cooking Class: Warming Asian Soups
(GRuB Farmhouse: 2016 Elliott Ave NW, Olympia 98502) Come and learn how to stay warm to your bones. We’ll make Miso Kabocha Ginger soup and Bone Broth with Asian Spices. Registration is required: go to www.olympiafood.coop/classes/.
Monday, November 7
9 am – 1 pm – Nisqually Planting Assistance
(Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge) Description: Staging and moving plants for later installation by schoolchildren. To volunteer, RSVP to Christina Donehower with People For Puget Sound, at cdonehower@pugetsound.org (preferred) or 360-754-9177 ext. 183. VOLUNTEER EVENT
Friday, November 11
8-10 am – Titlow Park Waterbird Survey
(Tacoma) Description: Identifying and counting waterbirds at Titlow Lagoon and beach, no experience necessary. To volunteer, RSVP to Christina Donehower (cdonehower@pugetsound.org, 360-754-9177 ext. 183). We will provide driving directions and other event details to participants upon RSVP. EXTRA CREDIT
Saturday, November 12
7:00 am – 5:00 pm – Black Hills Audubon Field Trip: Birding in Kitsap and Jefferson Counties
This trip will cross the Narrows Bridge with Port Townsend as the final destination, with stops along the way, including Marrowstone Island and Fort Flagler. The emphasis of the day will be water birds arriving for the winter. In addition to waterfowl and other birds, this trip offers lovely views of Hood Canal, Admiralty Inlet, and the Straits of Juan de Fuca. There will be little walking that is not difficult. Dress for weather, which means possible rain and wind (it is winter in the PNW, after all). Bring food and drinks. There is a limit of 4 cars. Meet at the Martin Way Park and Ride at 7:00 and the 6th Avenue Park and Ride in Tacoma at 7:30 am. Call Phil at 360-970-6323 or Ruth at 253-564-7419 to reserve a spot for this trip. EXTRA CREDIT
9 am – 2 pm – Mount Rainier Gateway Forest Reserve Work Party
The Nisqually Land Trust will be carrying out invasive-plant control and other stewardship tasks on land it owns near Ashford. To sign up, send an email to staff@nisquallylandtrust.org. VOLUNTEER EVENT
10:00 am – 1:00 pm – Environmental Restoration at Clover Creek Reserve
(Tacoma) Clover Creek Reserve is an example of woodland prairie, an increasingly rare landscape in Pierce County. Dress for the weather. Suggested dress: boots or comfortable athletic shoes, work clothes, rain gear and appropriate layers. Volunteers should bring a refillable water bottle. Snacks, drinks, tools and gloves will be provided. Directions: Clover Creek Reserve is located on Johns Street E, Tacoma 98445 (enter 6th Ave E & Johns St E, Tacoma, WA 98445 on on google maps/mapquest). If you are under 18 and attending the event without a parent or guardian, please come to the event with a waiver signed by a parent or guardian. (Go to www.cascadeland.org/files/stewardship-files/Youth%20Waiver.updated%2011.22.10.pdf) To register for this event, go to https://dnbweb1.blackbaud.com/OPXREPHIL/EventDetail.asp?cguid=6374B924%2DD0D5%2D4655%2DBC98%2D66623676DF2C&eid=38534&sid=89CF7DD7%2D4E81%2D4BBA%2D92A1%2DC48FDE2AD220. VOLUNTEER EVENT
10 am – noon – Salmon Steward Chum Field Training
(DNR McLane Creek Nature Trail) To register, contact Ann Marie at finanam@co.thurston.wa.us or 360-754-3355 x6857. VOLUNTEER EVENT
November 16
7-9 pm – Biodiversity in the South Sound & the Human Condition
(LOTT’s WET Science Center: 500 Adams Street NE; Olympia) Presented by Daniel Hull, Executive Director of Nisqually Reach Nature Center. For more information, contact Leihla at at 360-888-0565 or leihla@sseacenter.org. EXTRA CREDIT
Saturday, November 19
10 am – 2 pm – Allison Springs Estuary Restoration Project
(Randall Preserve, Olympia) Join us to restore fish and wildlife habitat on Mud Bay in Olympia! Volunteers are needed to install native plants and to remove invasive vegetation. No experience is necessary. Please bring work gloves if you have them, a sack lunch, and a water bottle. Dress for the weather (rain or shine) and wear sturdy, waterproof shoes or boots. We will provide hand tools, light snacks and beverages, and will have some extra work gloves to share. Minors who plan to attend without their legal guardians must contact the event coordinator prior to the event to receive a special release form that must be completed. Children ten and under must have adult supervision. We will provide driving directions and parking instructions to all participants upon RSVP. Project partners/cosponsors include Capitol Land Trust, the City of Olympia, Stream Team, South Puget Sound Salmon Enhancement Group, and People For Puget Sound. To volunteer, RSVP to Christina Donehower with People For Puget Sound, at cdonehower@pugetsound.org (preferred) or 360-754-9177 ext. 183. VOLUNTEER EVENT
TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 29: ALL EVENT REVIEWS DUE!
Saturday, December 3
10 am – 2 pm – Allison Springs Estuary Restoration Project
(Allison Springs, Olympia) Join us to restore fish and wildlife habitat on Mud Bay in Olympia! Volunteers are needed to install native plants and to remove invasive vegetation. No experience is necessary. Please bring work gloves if you have them, a sack lunch, and a water bottle. Dress for the weather (rain or shine) and wear sturdy, waterproof shoes or boots. We will provide hand tools, light snacks and beverages, and will have some extra work gloves to share. Minors who plan to attend without their legal guardians must contact the event coordinator prior to the event to receive a special release form that must be completed. Children ten and under must have adult supervision. We will provide driving directions and parking instructions to all participants upon RSVP. Project partners/cosponsors include Capitol Land Trust, the City of Olympia, Stream Team, South Puget Sound Salmon Enhancement Group, and People For Puget Sound. To volunteer, RSVP to Christina Donehower with People For Puget Sound, at cdonehower@pugetsound.org (preferred) or 360-754-9177 ext. 183.
December 7
7-9 pm – The Road to Recovery for Endangered Southern Resident Killer Whales
(LOTT’s WET Science Center: 500 Adams Street NE; Olympia) Presented by Lynne Barre, National Marine Fisheries. For more information, contact Leihla at at 360-888-0565 or leihla@sseacenter.org.
Saturday, December 10
8:00 am – late afternoon – Black Hills Audubon Field Trip: Port Townsend and vicinity
Stops will include Fort Worden SP, Point Hudson, Mystery Bay SP, Fort Flagler SP, and Kah Tai Lagoon. Possible species include Ancient and Marbled Murrelet, Rhinoceros Auklet, Pigeon Guillemot, Black Oystercatcher, loons (including a possibility for Yellow-billed Loon), Brant, Long-tailed, Harlequin, and Ruddy Duck, and 8 or more species of shore birds. This is a great opportunity for beginning birders to see some of our harder to find northwest specialties! What to bring along: It can be windy, rainy, and cold, so appropriate Winter weather clothing and rain gear are strongly recommended; water, snack, and lunch. The trip will entail several stops with short walks on level ground. Where and when to meet: Mud Bay Park & Ride, 8:00 am. Pre-registration is required: contact Lonnie Somer at wheelermombi@comcast.net.
10 am – 2 pm – Allison Springs Estuary Restoration Project
(Randall Preserve, Olympia) Join us to restore fish and wildlife habitat on Mud Bay in Olympia! Volunteers are needed to install native plants and to remove invasive vegetation. No experience is necessary. Please bring work gloves if you have them, a sack lunch, and a water bottle. Dress for the weather (rain or shine) and wear sturdy, waterproof shoes or boots. We will provide hand tools, light snacks and beverages, and will have some extra work gloves to share. Minors who plan to attend without their legal guardians must contact the event coordinator prior to the event to receive a special release form that must be completed. Children ten and under must have adult supervision. We will provide driving directions and parking instructions to all participants upon RSVP. Project partners/cosponsors include Capitol Land Trust, the City of Olympia, Stream Team, South Puget Sound Salmon Enhancement Group, and People For Puget Sound. To volunteer, RSVP to Christina Donehower with People For Puget Sound, at cdonehower@pugetsound.org (preferred) or 360-754-9177 ext. 183.
Saturday, December 17
10 am – 12 noon – Titlow Park Waterbird Survey
(Tacoma) Description: Identifying and counting waterbirds at Titlow Lagoon and beach, no experience necessary. To volunteer, RSVP to Christina Donehower (cdonehower@pugetsound.org, 360-754-9177 ext. 183). We will provide driving directions and other event details to participants upon RSVP.
March 21
7-9 pm – SSEA Discovery Lecture Series at LOTT’s WET Science Center
For more information, contact Leihla at at 360-888-0565 or leihla@sseacenter.org.