Environmental Lobby Day: January 25
(Olympia, 8:30 am – 4:00 pm) Join 25 of the state’s leading conservation groups and hundreds of citizen advocates to push for the passage of the Environmental Priorities Coalition’s 2012 legislative package. Attendees will receive detailed briefings on the environmental priorities; receive training from top environmental lobbyists on how to lobby; have opportunities to join fellow citizens in meeting with their legislators; and celebrate the unveiling of the Puget Loop Birding Trail with Washington Audubon. Registration is required. For more information, see the entry for January 25th, below.
EVENTS & VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES
Every Tuesday, 9 am – 3 pm: South Sound Prairie Restoration Work Party
ContactAudrey Lamb with the Center for Natural Lands Management—South Sound Program, at alamb@cnlm.org. EVENT REVIEW
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.)
Tuesday, January 3
9 am – 3 pm – South Sound Prairie Restoration Work Party
The first work party of 2012 will take place at Glacial Heritage, where we will be pulling Scot’s broom and burning piles. Meet at Glacial Heritage at 9 am. We will have an indoor task there as well. As always, please make sure to bring gloves, lunch, rain gear, and a smile. Directions: 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.
5:30 pm – public hearings on development moratorium in certain urban growth areas, and on regulations regarding mineral extraction and asphalt production activities
(Room 280, Building 1 of the Thurston County Courthouse: 2000 Lakeridge Drive SW; Olympia 98502) The Thurston County Board of Commissioners will hold two public hearings to hear public testimony on a Subdivision Moratorium and on regulations regarding mineral-extraction activities (e.g., gravel mines) and asphalt-producing plants in Thurston County. A moratorium on new subdivisions in the Chambers Lake/South Olympia, and French Loop/ Butler Cove areas was passed in 2005, due to environmental constraints in the areas. Because the moratorium will expire in January unless renewed, the Planning Commission is taking public comment on whether the moratorium should be continued. The second hearing involves a proposal to renew a moratorium on asphalt batch plants in Thurston County. For more information on the subdivision moratorium, go to www.co.thurston.wa.us/planning/subdivision/subdivision_home.htm. For more information on the second issue, go to www.co.thurston.wa.us/planning/mineral_lands/mineral_interimreg.html. EVENT REVIEW
Thursday, January 5
5:30 pm – public hearing on protecting critical areas with agricultural uses
(Swede Hall: 18543 Albany Street SW; Rochester 98579) The Thurston County Board of Commissioners will hold a public hearing to hear public testimony on whether or not Thurston County should opt in to a voluntary stewardship program for the protection of critical areas associated with agricultural uses. This program promotes plans to protect and enhance critical areas where agricultural activities are conducted, while maintaining and improving the long-term viability of agriculture. For more information, go to www.co.thurston.wa.us/planning/voluntary-stewardship-program.html. EVENT REVIEW
Friday, January 6
9 am – 12 noon – Yelm Shoreline Planting
Come join the Nisqually Land Trust as we work to restore our protected lands near Yelm. We’ll plant hundreds of native trees and scrubs in order to create wildlife habitat and improve water quality in the Nisqually River. Come lend a hand and have a great time! To sign up, go to http://events.r20.constantcontact.com/register/event?oeidk=a07e5grq3a41d4c5f6f&llr=jzh7gggab. For more information, contact Charly Kearns at volunteer@nisquallylandtrust.org or (360) 489-3400. EVENT REVIEW
Saturday, January 7
9 am – 12 noon – Yelm Shoreline Planting
Come join the Nisqually Land Trust as we work to restore our protected lands near Yelm. We’ll plant hundreds of native trees and scrubs in order to create wildlife habitat and improve water quality in the Nisqually River. Come lend a hand and have a great time! To sign up, go to http://events.r20.constantcontact.com/register/event?oeidk=a07e5grq3gja6800f96&llr=jzh7gggab. For more information, contact Charly Kearns at volunteer@nisquallylandtrust.org or (360) 489-3400. EVENT REVIEW
9 am – 12:00 pm – field trip: Downtown Ducks at Capital Lake
Burt Guttman leads fabulous winter water birding trips to downtown Olympia. There are all kinds of ducks, grebes, geese, and the occasional loon, as well as passerines to be seen in the trees and shrubs. This trip begins at Marathon Park at Capital Lake and generally includes Tumwater Historical Park and Percival Cove. Occasionally visits to lower Budd Inlet are included. This trip is especially oriented for beginners, but all interested folks are welcome. Please read the field trip guidelines at http://blackhills-audubon.org/pubs/BHAS-Fieldtrip-Guidelines-Approved-Oct-05-2011.doc. Sponsored by the Black Hills Audubon Society.
9:30 am – 2:45 pm – Environmental Priorities Coalition Legislative Workshop
(University of Washington, Kane Hall 120: 1410 NE Campus Parkway; Seattle 98105) As we prepare for the upcoming session, you are invited to join People for Puget Sound for the annual Environmental Priorities Coalition Legislative Workshop. The workshop is a fun way to come learn about the 2012 Environmental Priorities and how you can take action to support them. We’ll have experts on hand and a panel of our state legislators to answer your questions about this year’s Environmental Priorities. We’ll also have helpful break-out sessions on building a base, getting your voice heard, and immediate ways you can take action. Cost: $20 with lunch; $10 without lunch; $10 for students with lunch. Space is limited. To register, and for more information about this year’s legislative priorities, go to www.gifttool.com/registrar/ShowEventDetails?ID=1608&EID=11028. EXTRA CREDIT
10:00 am – 1:00 pm – Priest Point Park restoration project
(Priest Point Park: 2600 East Bay Drive NE; Olympia) Join Volunteers in Parks as they work on a restoration project in Priest Point Park. We will be focused on removing invasive plants in preparation for planting of native plants (on Jan 28th). Meet at shelter #2. Contact: Sylvana Niehuser (sniehuse@ci.olympia.wa.us or 360-753-8365). EVENT REVIEW
Monday, January 9
10:00 am – Workshop & Hearing for Municipal Stormwater General Permit
(WA State Department of Ecology, Headquarters Building: 300 Desmond Drive; Lacey) The Washington State Department of Ecology is proposing draft Phase I and Phase II Western Washington National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) municipal stormwater general permits. For more details, go to http://www.ecy.wa.gov/programs/wq/stormwater/municipal/2012draftMUNIcom.html. EXTRA CREDIT
7:00 pm – 9:00 pm – film: In Transition
(MIXX 96 Meeting Room: corner of State & Washington in downtown Olympia) A film about the Transition Movement, where communities around the world are responding to peak oil and climate change with creativity and humor. It’s about rebuilding local economies, creating local currencies, growing food locally, and celebrating local-ness. It is positive and solutions focused. It is a call to action and a story of hope. Find out how to get plugged in to the local Transition Initiative that’s working to make our community more resilient in the face of the coming changes. Bring your own mug and arrive at 6:45 for refreshments. Open to the public and free, but seating is limited. Donations are appreciated. EXTRA CREDIT
Tuesday, January 10
6:00 pm – 7:30 pm – Become a GRuB Docent and help host community workshops
(GRuB Farmhouse) Join us as a GRuB Ambassador—helping to host after-hours and weekend workshops, with the bonus that you get to attend! Your volunteer job is to help the workshop presenter set up, hold the space, and clean up. You also will learn about GRuB and share a short welcome to all participants – linking them in with opportunities to get involved, donate, etc.
Thursday, January 12
10 am – 1 pm – Hogum Bay Ivy Pull
For information and to sign up, email Nisqually Land Trust at www.nisquallylandtrust.org or call (360) 489-3800. EVENT REVIEW
7-9 pm – Black Hills Audubon Society: Birds and Culture of Taiwan
(First Christian Church (meeting hall): 701 Franklin Street, in downtown Olympia) Taiwan is an easy country to travel. English is spoken widely, yet it also has wonderful treasures of the ancient Chinese culture preserved. The three presenters traveled to Taiwan, where they saw over 100 bird species—including all the endemic species. Arrive at 7:00 pm to socialize; the program will begin promptly at 7:30. Free and open to the public.
Saturday, January 14
9:00 – 11:00 am – Black Hills Audubon Society class: Beginning Birding
(Education Building at Nisqually Nat’l Wildlife Refuge in Olympia) This course, taught by retired professor of ornithology Scott Mills, will provide an introduction to birding with an emphasis on developing identification skills. Other topics will include a review of birding tools (including binoculars and field guides), an introduction to birding terminology, and some discussion of basic bird biology as they relate to identification. The course is designed primarily for beginning birders but should be useful for many mid-level birders as well. The class is comprised of five Saturday-morning classes (January 14- February 11) and two field trips (dates to be determined at the first class). The cost for the entire class (including the field trips!) is $60. Some scholarships are available. Registration is required: call Deb Nickerson at 754-5397 or email her at debranick@gmail.com. Class is limited to 24 persons. EXTRA CREDIT if you attend the entire series.
10:00 am – 5:00 pm – Food Summit Follow-up Meeting: Healthy People, Strong Communities, and Justice and Fairness
(Community Room at the Tumwater Timberland Regional Library: 7023 New Market St, Tumwater) The Food Summit held in October marked the first step in our effort to create a plan for a sustainable local food system. In November we held a community debriefing to talk about what we learned at the Food Summit and continue the discussions. On January 14 and 21 we will be holding follow-up meetings to review the work that has happened since the Food Summit and finalize our draft goals and actions for the 6 Whole Measures areas (Healthy People, Strong Communities, Justice and Fairness, Vibrant Farms, Sustainable Ecosystems, Thriving Local Economies). Students from TESC’s Ecological Agriculture program who have been organizing the notes from the Food Summit will present their work. This will be followed by participatory discussions designed to finalize the goals and actions and begin discussing implementation strategies. On January 14 we will focus on Healthy People (10:15am-12:15pm), Strong Communities (12:30-2:30pm); and Justice and Fairness (2:45-4:45pm). Please attend the session(s) that you are most interested in continuing to be a part of. EXTRA CREDIT
8:00 – 9:00 pm – Hood Canal Pier Peer Exploration
(Hood Canal Marina: 5101 East State Route 106; Union) Join People For Puget Sound naturalists as they shine a light (literally!) on the creatures of Puget Sound. You’ll head out on the docks after dark and watch as animals are drawn to submerged lights. During the fall and winter, visitors range from jellyfish and colorful sea slugs to schools of fish and squid. And let’s not forget the creepy but compelling polychaete worms! These centipede-like creatures can grow to be the size of your arm and many have jaws that they shoot out of their mouths to capture prey. The event is family-friendly, but we recommend that children under 8 not attend. FREE for People For Puget Sound members; $10 for non-members. Bring a flashlight, and dress warmly; it can get cold on the pier at night. Space is limited and reservations are required. To RSVP, go to http://pugetsound.org/events/hood-canal-pier-peer-exploration/1015-hoodcanal-pier-peer/forms/event_rsvp. For more information, contact Ann Butler at 360-754-9177, ext 160. EXTRA CREDIT
Sunday, January 15
2:30 – 5:30 pm – Garden Planning for Seed Saving
This workshop is designed to help backyard gardeners plan their gardens and to give an introduction to seed saving. After attending this workshop, gardeners will be able to understand the steps necessary to plan their own garden, be able to interpret garden catalog information and apply it to developing a garden design, and be able to incorporate seed saving into that design. Gardeners will leave with many helpful handouts, and a map of their own gardens to use when planting in the spring. Registration is required, and the cost is $5. To register, go to www.olympiafood.coop/classes. (GRuB Farmhouse: 2016 Elliott Ave NW; Olympia 98502—on the westside of Olympia off of Harrison Ave, behind the Handy Pantry)
January 18
6:30 – 9:00 pm – Our Invisible Shoreline: A Video Tour
(LOTT’s WET Science Center: 500 Adams; Olympia 98501) As we walk along the shoreline, we are surrounded by things we can’t see: creatures that are hidden below the surface of the water, beneath rocks, or are too small to see; processes too slow for us to see, or just plain invisible! But each is a key part of our nearshore environment. Join filmmaker John F. Williams for a video tour of the secret watery world lapping, crashing, and swirling on our local beaches. See unusual underwater video clips, provocative photographs, and engage in conversation about some of the key marine shoreline processes that are not a part of our daily experience. Whether you live down on the beach or up in the watershed, you are a stakeholder in the health and beauty of our marine ecosystem, and you are a player in it’s future. FREE! For more information, go to www.sseacenter.org or contact Leihla Scharlau at 360-888-0565. Sponsored by South Sound Estuary Association. EXTRA CREDIT
Thursday, January 19
6:30 – 9 pm – Captain Charles Moore Book Tour
(Olympia Center: 222 Columbia St NW; Olympia 98501) For the last several decades Captain Moore has sounded the alarm about a severe crisis plaguing our planet. Petroleum-based plastics have not only become prevalent in our everyday lives, these same plastics are smothering the ocean world. Built to last over 500 years, plastics and the toxic chemicals they carry are now becoming part of the food web we all depend on. In the past we did not know any better, but now we are better informed to implement solutions thanks in large part to the tireless efforts and dedication of ocean champions such as Captain Moore. EXTRA CREDIT
Friday, January 20
5:30 – 8:30pm – Cooking class: Simple Spanish Cooking
Why include cooking classes in a list of local environmental events? Because one of the best ways to reduce the environmental effects of eating (and to save money) is to learn to cook! Come spend an evening with Arturo and explore some delicious and simple Spanish home-cooking. Sopa de ajo, tortilla de patatas, apple crisp, pan con tomate. Registration is required, and the cost is $5. To register, go to www.olympiafood.coop/classes. (Fertile Ground Guesthouse: 311 9th Ave SE, Olympia 98501— in downtown Olympia behind the Timberland Regional Library)
Saturday, January 21
9 am – noon – Yelm Shoreline Planting
For information and to sign up, email Nisqually Land Trust at www.nisquallylandtrust.org or call (360) 489-3800. EVENT REVIEW
10:00 am – public hearing on Thurston County Prairie protections
(Room 129, Building 2 of the Thurston County Courthouse: 2000 Lakeridge Drive SW; Olympia 98502) The purpose of the hearing is to take public testimony on the renewal of the Interim Prairie Conservation Ordinance. The hearing on this issue earlier this month was before the Thurston County Planning Commission, who act as advisors to the Thurston County Board of Commissioners. Today’s hearing will be before the Thurston County Commissioners, who are the final decision-makers. The hearing will begin at 10:00 am, with doors opening and sign-in beginning at 9:00 am. The Board of County Commissioners may take action at the close of the public hearing. For more information, go to www.co.thurston.wa.us/planning/prairieoak/prairieoak_home.htm. EVENT REVIEW
10:00 am – 1:00 pm – Priest Point Park restoration project
(Priest Point Park: 2600 East Bay Drive NE; Olympia) Join Volunteers in Parks as they work on a restoration project in Priest Point Park. We will be focused on removing invasive plants in preparation for planting of native plants (on Jan 28th). Meet at shelter #2. Contact: Sylvana Niehuser (sniehuse@ci.olympia.wa.us or 360-753-8365). EVENT REVIEW
10 am – 3 pm – Amphibians of the Pacific Northwest Workshop
(LOTT WET Science Center: 500 Adams St NE; Olympia) Would you like to know more about our five Pacific Northwest amphibians or learn how to survey amphibian egg masses? Workshop instructor, Dr. Marc Hayes, is a herpetological ecologist and senior research scientist with the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife. Dr. Hayes has 38 years of experience working with amphibians and reptiles in locations in Arizona, California, Costa Rica, Florida, Mexico, Oregon and Washington. The first portion of the workshop will explore the ecology, habitat requirements and unique characteristics of each species and potential changes anticipated because of climate change. The second portion of the workshop will address how to identify different lifestages of Pacific Northwest amphibians, with an emphasis on egg mass identification for participants that wish to participate in Stream Team Amphibian Egg-Mass Surveys. Amphibian Egg-Mass Surveys will occur from February through March or April. To sign up for this free workshop, or for more information about becoming a Stream Team Amphibian Survey volunteer, contact Michelle Stevie at mstevie@ci.olympia.wa.us or 360-753-8336. EXTRA CREDIT
10:00 am – 5:00 pm – Food Summit Follow-up Meeting: Vibrant Farms, Sustainable Ecosystems, and Thriving Local Economies
(Community Room at the Tumwater Timberland Regional Library: 7023 New Market St, Tumwater) The Food Summit held in October marked the first step in our effort to create a plan for a sustainable local food system. In November we held a community debriefing to talk about what we learned at the Food Summit and continue the discussions. On January 14 and 21 we will be holding follow-up meetings to review the work that has happened since the Food Summit and finalize our draft goals and actions for the 6 Whole Measures areas (Healthy People, Strong Communities, Justice and Fairness, Vibrant Farms, Sustainable Ecosystems, Thriving Local Economies). Students from TESC’s Ecological Agriculture program who have been organizing the notes from the Food Summit will present their work. This will be followed by participatory discussions designed to finalize the goals and actions and begin discussing implementation strategies. On January 21 we will focus on Vibrant Farms (10:15am-12:15pm), Sustainable Ecosystems (12:30-2:30pm); and Thriving Local Economies (2:45-4:45pm). Please attend the session(s) that you are most interested in continuing to be a part of. EXTRA CREDIT
Sunday, January 22
Winter Twig Identification Field Workshop
Join the Native Plant Salvage Foundation for its annual winter twig identification class at McLane Creek Nature trail. Join local plant experts for a 2½ -hour field class, learning to identify our common deciduous native shrubs and trees in their leafless, winter form. There are two sessions to choose from: 10 am-12:30 pm, or 1:00-3:30 pm. The class costs $5 and advanced registration is required. To register, e-mail nativeplantsalvage@gmail.com or call 360-867-2166. EXTRA CREDIT
3:00 – 6:00 pm – Cooking class: Gluten Free Bread Baking
Why include cooking classes in a list of local environmental events? Because one of the best ways to reduce the environmental effects of eating (and to save money) is to learn to cook! Bread is supposed to be the staff of life, but what do you do when you are gluten intolerant or allergic to wheat?—make Gluten-Free bread of course! You can enjoy again the smells, taste and texture of fresh bread from the oven. It’s totally possible and totally delicious. Come empower yourself and learn the simple, but unusual techniques to master gluten-free yeasted bread (all gluten-free with options for dairy-free and egg-free too). Registration is required, and the cost is $5. To register, go to www.olympiafood.coop/classes. (GRuB Farmhouse: 2016 Elliott Ave NW; Olympia 98502—on the westside of Olympia off of Harrison Ave, behind the Handy Pantry)
Monday, January 23
6:45-9:00 pm – Strategy to Respond to Sea Level Rise
(Olympia Center, room B: 222 Columbia St. NW, in downtown Olympia) Andy Haub (Planning and Engineering Manager for the City of Olympia Public Works Department) will present an annual update to the community on the effects of sea level rise in Olympia, and Olympia’s long-term strategy to respond to up to 50 inches of sea level rise. Bring a mug and arrive at 6:45 for refreshments. Program starts at 7:00, and is free and open to the public. EXTRA CREDIT
January 25
8:30 am – 4:00 pm – Environmental Lobby Day
(Olympia) Join 25 of the state’s leading conservation groups and hundreds of citizen advocates to push for the passage of the Environmental Priorities Coalition’s 2012 legislative package. This legislative session there are three priorities:
1. Preventing attempts to weaken, delay or roll back state environmental laws and programs that are critical for clean air, clean water, and healthy communities.
2. Protecting children’s health from cancer-causing flame retardants and helping to put businesses on the path to using chemicals that won’t harm the environment or the bottom line.
3. Sustaining the success of I-937, our state’s voter-approved clean energy initiative, in bringing investments, jobs, and economic development throughout Washington.
Attendees will receive detailed briefings on the environmental priorities; receive training from top environmental lobbyists on how to lobby; have opportunities to join fellow citizens in meeting with their legislators; and celebrate the unveiling of the Puget Loop Birding Trail with Washington Audubon. The event costs $15 (to cover the cost of snacks and materials)—$10 for students—if you register before January 22, and registration is required. To register or for more information, go to http://pugetsound.org/policy/lobby-day/lEnvironmental-Lobby-Day-2012/#Environmental_Lobby_Day.
7:30 – 8:45 pm – (talk) Flotsametrics and the Floating World
(Olympia Timberland Library) Curtis Ebbesmeyer will discuss his book Flotsametrics and the Floating World: How One Man’s Obsession with Runaway Sneakers and Rubber Ducks Revolutionized Ocean Science. Curtis Ebbesmeyer holds a Ph.D. in oceanography from the University of Washington. Media worldwide have turned to his expertise on ocean currents and floating objects. Each year, Curt presents a booth and talks at beachcomber fairs in Alaska, Florida, and Washington, as well as hosting the radio program Flotsam Hour, in which listeners call in with interesting flotsam (like “Antiques Roadshow” for ocean currents). Copies of the book will be available for purchase. This program takes place after the library closes. EXTRA CREDIT
Friday, January 27
9 am – noon – Thurston Ridge Planting
For information and to sign up, email Nisqually Land Trust at www.nisquallylandtrust.org or call (360) 489-3800. EVENT REVIEW
6 – 9 pm – South of the Sound Community Farm Land Trust Annual Meeting
(South Bay Grange Hall: 3918 Sleater-Kinney Rd. NE; Olympia 98506) The annual meeting of the South of the Sound Community Farm Land Trust includes a community potluck dinner, celebration of several grants dedicated to preservation of farmland, updates and a short business meeting. Our speaker will be TJ Johnson, Sustainable South Sound Program Lead – Local Food Systems, who will give a follow-up from the October 2011 South Sound Food Summit with a focus on the action plans related to the topic “Vibrant Farms.” This family-friendly evening is free and open to all. We will pass the hat to cover meeting costs and provide a fun raffle opportunity as well. EXTRA CREDIT
Saturday, January 28
9 am – noon – Thurston Ridge Planting
For information and to sign up, email Nisqually Land Trust at www.nisquallylandtrust.org or call (360) 489-3800. EVENT REVIEW
10:00 am – 1:00 pm – Priest Point Park restoration project
(Priest Point Park: 2600 East Bay Drive NE; Olympia) Join Volunteers in Parks as they work on a restoration project in Priest Point Park. We will be focused on planting native plants in areas previously cleared of invasive plants. Meet at shelter #2. Contact: Sylvana Niehuser (sniehuse@ci.olympia.wa.us or 360-753-8365). EVENT REVIEW
1:00 – 3:00 pm – Hands-on Water Fun
(Tumwater Timberland Library) Learn about streams, groundwater, and salmon through activities and crafts including the Enviroscape game, groundwater model, salmon life cycle beads and marine creature button-making. Bring the whole family for some hands-on fun! Presented by the Tumwater Stream Team and South Sound GREEN. For more information, contact Debbie Smith at dmsmith@ci.tumwater.wa.us or 360-754-4148.
Sunday, January 29
9:30 am – 3:00 pm – Native plant salvaging with the Native Plant Salvage Project
Join WSU’s Native Plant Salvage Project for an exciting plant recovery event! Digging begins at 9:30 am; we will serve a hot vegetarian lunch in the field; and then around 1 pm head to NPSP’s nursery on Olympia’s West Side to pot the plants, until about 3 pm. Volunteers might even find some lovely plants to transplant to their own landscapes! Volunteers are needed for morning and afternoon shifts, or spend the entire day with us. Contact James O’Keeffe at 360-867-2166 or nativeplantsalvage@gmail.com for details and directions. EVENT REVIEW
Tuesday, January 31
6:30 – 8:30 pm – Creating Centers 2010-2040: Changing Demographics and Market Demand in Thurston County Cities and Towns
(Lacey Community Center: 6729 Pacific Ave SE; Lacey 98503) Featuring two presentations: “The Future of Our Housing Market”, and “Commercial Market Potential in Our Urban Centers and Corridors, and South County City/Town Centers”. Sponsored by Sustainable Thurston. EXTRA CREDIT
Saturday, February 4
9:30 am – 3:00 pm – Native Plant Salvaging with the Native Plant Salvage Project
NPSP’s volunteers salvage small native trees, shrubs and herbaceous plants from local areas that are scheduled for clearing due to development. The plants are cared for and later provided to community groups who use them to restore habitat and improve water quality in and around Thurston County. Digging begins at 9:30 am; we will serve a hot vegetarian lunch in the field; and then around 1 pm head to NPSP’s nursery on Olympia’s West Side to pot the plants, until about 3 pm. For site location and more information, contact the Native Plant Salvage Project at 360-867-2166 or nativeplantsalvage@gmail.com. EVENT REVIEW
2:00 – 4:30 pm – Cooking class: Ethnic Spice Blends
Why include cooking classes in a list of local environmental events? Because one of the best ways to reduce the environmental effects of eating (and to save money) is to learn to cook! Spice up the cold days of winter by discovering the simplicity and versatility of cooking with spice blends. We will make a hearty winter soup and colorful, quick stir-fry using the flavors and aromas of our global neighbors. Registration is required, and the cost is $5. To register, go to www.olympiafood.coop/classes. (GRuB Farmhouse: 2016 Elliott Ave NW; Olympia 98502—on the westside of Olympia off of Harrison Ave, behind the Handy Pantry)
Sunday, February 5
2:30 – 5:00 pm – Cooking class: Simple Soups
Why include cooking classes in a list of local environmental events? Because one of the best ways to reduce the environmental effects of eating (and to save money) is to learn to cook! Ready to get warm? Since the sunshine is still a few months away, come warm up with some hearty, filling, vegetarian soups. We’ll teach you a few basic recipes that you can divide up and freeze to take for a warm and satisfying lunch or eat right away for a weeknight supper. Registration is required, and the cost is $5. To register, go to www.olympiafood.coop/classes. (GRuB Farmhouse: 2016 Elliott Ave NW; Olympia 98502—on the westside of Olympia off of Harrison Ave, behind the Handy Pantry)
Wednesday, February 8
7 – 8:30 pm – free presentation: Shoreline Master Planning
(Traditions Café: 300 5th Avenue SW; Olympia) Across Washington, many local governments are in the process of updating their Shoreline Master Programs. Shoreline Master Programs are local policies and regulations designed to manage human use of shorelines. More than 260 Washington towns, cities and counties have marine, lake and stream shorelines that fall under the Shoreline Management Act, passed by voter referendum in 1972. The act requires local governments in Washington State to regularly review and revise their shoreline regulations and policies; however, most jurisdictions have not done a thorough update of their shoreline master programs since the 1970s. In 2003, the state legislature began providing funding and established a mandatory schedule for updating local shoreline programs through 2014. These updates are a unique opportunity to create a positive future for Washington’s shorelines. Find out more about Shoreline Master Programs and where your local jurisdiction is in the process at this talk given by Department of Ecology staff. For more information, contact Patricia Pyle at ppyle@ci.olympia.wa.us or (360) 570-5841. EXTRA CREDIT
Thursday, February 9
10 am – 1 pm – Hogum Bay Ivy Pull
For information and to sign up, email Nisqually Land Trust at www.nisquallylandtrust.org or call (360) 489-3800. EVENT REVIEW
Saturday, February 11
9 am – noon – McKenna Planting
For information and to sign up, email Nisqually Land Trust at www.nisquallylandtrust.org or call (360) 489-3800. EVENT REVIEW
10 am – noon – Create a Backyard Bird Habitat Workshop
(LOTT WET Science Center: 500 Adams St NE; Olympia) Join Stream Team and South Sound Green for a free workshop with special guests Wild Birds Unlimited and Eco Woodworks. Wild Birds Unlimited will talk about: local species of birds and their habitats; how we can turn our back yards into a more welcoming habitat; the different adaptations that birds utilize for survival; how and where to install bird nesting boxes and/or provide supplemental feeding; which supplemental foods to avoid and why. Eco Woodworks local custom woodworker, Dave King, will instruct us on building a bird nesting box for your back yard. Bird nesting box kits will be available at no cost, and participants will get hands-on instruction for constructing your bird nesting box kit. Families welcome (limited to one bird nesting box per family). Space is limited to 25, and pre-registration is required. To register, contact Michelle Stevie at mstevie@ci.olympia.wa.us or 360-753-8336. EXTRA CREDIT
Sunday, February 12
3:00 – 5:00 pm – Understanding Mushrooms: Basic Cultivation
Traditional mushroom cultivation techniques have long relied on special equipment and precision techniques. Not any longer. Thanks to the work of innovative amateur growers, the process has largely been simplified to the point where most can learn to cultivate at home with minimal investment or contamination risk. In this 2-hour class we will cover the basics of edible mushroom biology and low-tech cultivation. You will learn how mushrooms grow in the wild and how that understanding is important for growing and using them well. We will cover several easy and cheap cultivation methods you can do at home and will provide resources for learning more. Specific methods to be covered include log inoculation, cardboard spawn, cold water (fermentation) pasteurization, hydrogen peroxide “sterilization,” easy liquid cultures, and more. Registration is required, and the cost is $5. To register, go to www.olympiafood.coop/classes. (GRuB Farmhouse: 2016 Elliott Ave NW; Olympia 98502—on the westside of Olympia off of Harrison Ave, behind the Handy Pantry)
WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 15 – ALL EVENT REVIEWS DUE
Thursday, February 16
5:30 – 8:30 pm – Cooking class: Homemade Vegan Soft Cheese
Missing the creaminess and tang that dairy cheeses add to a meal? Soft nut cheeses can fill in some of the gap. Great for spreads, in your favorite pasta dish and even as a filling for blini! Come learn the simple process for making soft vegan cheeses from cashews and macadamia nuts and then learn a few recipes that highlight its deliciousness. Registration is required, and the cost is $5. To register, go to www.olympiafood.coop/classes. (Fertile Ground Guesthouse: 311 9th Ave SE, Olympia 98501— in downtown Olympia behind the Timberland Regional Library)
6:00 – 9:15 pm – Naturescaping for Water & Wildlife Workshop
(LOTT WET Science Center: 500 Adams St NE; Olympia) Learn about sustainable landscaping techniques that will save you time and money while also attracting birds and butterflies to your garden and protecting water resources. Erica Guttman of WSU’s Native Plant Salvage Project will lead the class. Topics include how to make a landscaping plan; design ideas for outdoor living spaces; managing drainage, slopes and other trouble spots; how to reduce unnecessary lawn; how to create habitat for birds and butterflies; and selecting water-wise plants for all four seasons. The class is free, but advance registration is required as space is limited. For details and registration call 360-867-2166 or email nativeplantsalvage@gmail.com. To register, contact Native Plant Salvage Project at nativeplantsalvage@gmail.com or 360-867-2166. EXTRA CREDIT
Saturday, February 18
6:00 – 8:00 pm – Successful Starts
(Olympia Timberland Regional Library: 313 8th Ave SE; Olympia 98501-1307—in downtown Olympia on the corner of 8th and Franklin) In this workshop we will demonstrate how to start seeds in your home to get a head “start” on the season. Taught by a former greenhouse manager, we go over basic planting, lighting, watering, and fertilizer, and how to make a greenhouse small enough for apartment dwellers. Product resource lists will be provided. THIS CLASS IS FREE AND REGISTRATION IS NOT REQUIRED!
Monday, February 20 (Presidents’ Day)
9:30 am – 3:00 pm – Native Plant Salvaging with the Native Plant Salvage Project
NPSP’s volunteers salvage small native trees, shrubs and herbaceous plants from local areas that are scheduled for clearing due to development. The plants are cared for and later provided to community groups who use them to restore habitat and improve water quality in and around Thurston County. Digging begins at 9:30 am; we will serve a hot vegetarian lunch in the field; and then around 1 pm head to NPSP’s nursery on Olympia’s West Side to pot the plants, until about 3 pm. For site location and more information, contact the Native Plant Salvage Project at 360-867-2166 or nativeplantsalvage@gmail.com. EXTRA CREDIT
Friday, February 24
9:30 am – 3:00 pm – Native Plant Salvaging with the Native Plant Salvage Project
NPSP’s volunteers salvage small native trees, shrubs and herbaceous plants from local areas that are scheduled for clearing due to development. The plants are cared for and later provided to community groups who use them to restore habitat and improve water quality in and around Thurston County. Digging begins at 9:30 am; we will serve a hot vegetarian lunch in the field; and then around 1 pm head to NPSP’s nursery on Olympia’s West Side to pot the plants, until about 3 pm. For site location and more information, contact the Native Plant Salvage Project at 360-867-2166 or nativeplantsalvage@gmail.com. EXTRA CREDIT
Saturday, February 25
9 am – noon – Yelm Shoreline Planting
For information and to sign up, email Nisqually Land Trust at www.nisquallylandtrust.org or call (360) 489-3800. EXTRA CREDIT
Noon – 2 pm — Annual Native Plant Sale
Pre-orders begin Jan. 1. For details, contact Thurston Conservation District at www.thurstoncd.com or 360-754-3588
1:00 – 4:00 pm – Beginning Backyard Chickens
Have you ever wondered what it would be like to have chickens in your backyard? Come and learn all about it: coops and fencing, feeding and tending and gathering your own fresh eggs! Registration is required, and the cost is $5. To register, go to www.olympiafood.coop/classes. (GRuB Farmhouse: 2016 Elliott Ave NW; Olympia 98502—on the westside of Olympia off of Harrison Ave, behind the Handy Pantry)
Sunday, March 4
9:30 am – 3:00 pm – Native Plant Salvaging with the Native Plant Salvage Project
NPSP’s volunteers salvage small native trees, shrubs and herbaceous plants from local areas that are scheduled for clearing due to development. The plants are cared for and later provided to community groups who use them to restore habitat and improve water quality in and around Thurston County. Digging begins at 9:30 am; we will serve a hot vegetarian lunch in the field; and then around 1 pm head to NPSP’s nursery on Olympia’s West Side to pot the plants, until about 3 pm. For site location and more information, contact the Native Plant Salvage Project at 360-867-2166 or nativeplantsalvage@gmail.com. EXTRA CREDIT
2:30 – 5:30 pm – Cooking class: Southern Indian Dal
Why include cooking classes in a list of local environmental events? Because one of the best ways to reduce the environmental effects of eating (and to save money) is to learn to cook! The basic lentil dishes of southern India are nutritious, simple to make, and endlessly variable using the vegetables you have on hand. We’ll explore some economical, vegan dal from Kerala: rasam, a thin soup for drinking, and sambar, which is great on rice. These dishes are full of spices, but not spicy-hot. Registration is required, and the cost is $5. To register, go to www.olympiafood.coop/classes. (GRuB Farmhouse: 2016 Elliott Ave NW; Olympia 98502—on the westside of Olympia off of Harrison Ave, behind the Handy Pantry)
Saturday, March 10
9 am. to noon – Yelm Shoreline Planting
For information and to sign up, email Nisqually Land Trust at www.nisquallylandtrust.org or call (360) 489-3800. EXTRA CREDIT
2:00 – 5:00 pm – Cooking class: Amazing Plantains: a bilingual cooking class
This class is not only a fun exploration into the versatile deliciousness of the simple plantain, but also a Spanish language and Peruvian cultural immersion. If you enjoy cooking and learning Spanish, then it is double the pleasure! The plantain is a close relative of the banana but much more versatile, used in many savory dishes as they are starchy. We will prepare the traditional “tostones” or “patacones” which are fried as well as a baked dish. All instructions will be provided in English and Spanish or Spanish then English. All are welcome regardless of Spanish language proficiency. Registration is required, and the cost is $5. To register, go to www.olympiafood.coop/classes. (GRuB Farmhouse: 2016 Elliott Ave NW; Olympia 98502—on the westside of Olympia off of Harrison Ave, behind the Handy Pantry)
Sunday, March 11
2:30 – 5:30 pm – Intermediate Backyard Chickens
Have a flock of birds in your backyard? Build on your knowledge of laying hens and the best ways to care for them. Meet other chicken enthusiasts for the ultimate skill share session. Registration is required, and the cost is $5. To register, go to www.olympiafood.coop/classes. (Fertile Ground Guesthouse: 311 9th Ave SE, Olympia 98501— in downtown Olympia behind the Timberland Regional Library)
MONDAY, MARCH 12 – ALL EXTRA-CREDIT ASSIGNMENTS DUE
Saturday, March 17
9:30 am – 3:00 pm – Native Plant Salvaging with the Native Plant Salvage Project
NPSP’s volunteers salvage small native trees, shrubs and herbaceous plants from local areas that are scheduled for clearing due to development. The plants are cared for and later provided to community groups who use them to restore habitat and improve water quality in and around Thurston County. Digging begins at 9:30 am; we will serve a hot vegetarian lunch in the field; and then around 1 pm head to NPSP’s nursery on Olympia’s West Side to pot the plants, until about 3 pm. For site location and more information, contact the Native Plant Salvage Project at 360-867-2166 or nativeplantsalvage@gmail.com.
Sunday, March 18
5:30 – 8:30 pm – Cooking class: Cheese Making 101
Learn how to make delicious cheese at home. Cathy is a seasoned cheese maker back again to share her wealth of knowledge on all things cheesy. Registration is required, and the cost is $5. To register, go to www.olympiafood.coop/classes. (GRuB Farmhouse: 2016 Elliott Ave NW; Olympia 98502—on the westside of Olympia off of Harrison Ave, behind the Handy Pantry)
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.
Saturday, March 24
4-9 pm — Nisqually Land Trust 20th Annual Auction & Dinner
(Worthington Conference Center in Lacey)
Sunday, March 25
2:30 – 5:00 pm – Cooking class: Keeping Yourself Motivated to Eat Well
Why include cooking classes in a list of local environmental events? Because one of the best ways to reduce the environmental effects of eating (and to save money) is to learn to cook! Late winter and early spring can be tough times to stay motivated eating healthy in the NW. With little local produce available, inspiration can be hard to come by. Come and get ideas for easy side dishes that taste great anytime of the year. We will discuss how adding nuts, healthy fats, and seasonings can transform out-of-season vegetables and fruits into dishes that you are excited to eat. Registration is required, and the cost is $5. To register, go to www.olympiafood.coop/classes. (GRuB Farmhouse: 2016 Elliott Ave NW; Olympia 98502—on the westside of Olympia off of Harrison Ave, behind the Handy Pantry)
Thursday, March 29
6:00 – 8:00 pm – Cooking class: Exploring Edible Weeds
Why include cooking classes in a list of local environmental events? Because one of the best ways to reduce the environmental effects of eating (and to save money) is to learn to cook! Come join us for a discussion about edible weeds, covering where they grow, how to identify them, what to do with them, and more. Handouts will be provided, and a salad with edible weed components will be available for sampling. Registration is required, and the cost is $5. To register, go to www.olympiafood.coop/classes. (Fertile Ground Guesthouse: 311 9th Ave SE, Olympia 98501— in downtown Olympia behind the Timberland Regional Library)