Oct. 29th 2012 – Jan. 12, 2013
Thurston Conservation District’s Annual Native Plant Sale
Thurston Conservation District provides conservation-grade plants at affordable prices to the public. Most plants are bare root (as opposed to being potted in dirt). Species will be available in bundles of 10, ranging from $10 – $20 per bundle, depending on the species. Plant species to be offered include:
Evergreen Trees: Alaska Yellow Cedar; Douglas Fir; Grand Fir; Incense Cedar; Noble Fir; Port Orford Cedar; Western Red Cedar
Deciduous Trees: Bigleaf Maple; Oregon Ash; Pacific Dogwood; Paper Birch; Quaking Aspen
Shrubs: Cascara; Indian Plum; Low Oregongrape; Mock Orange; Peafruit Rose; Red-Flowering Currant; Red-Osier Dogwood; Serviceberry; Sweet Gale; Vine Maple.
You need to order your plants at www.thurstoncd.com/annual-native-plant-sale.html, and orders will be taken through November 20th Be sure to get your order in now, as we will not have a parking lot sale event this year.
RECURRING EVENTS
Tuesdays
9 am – 3 pm: South Sound Prairie Restoration Work Party
Contact ssvolunteers@cnlm.org. EVENT REVIEW
Wednesdays
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 as long as you wish.
Thursdays
10 am – 3 pm – Olympia Farmers’ Market
(700 N Capitol Way; Olympia 98501) Fresh organic produce; Washington-grown fruits & meats; fresh fish, clams & oysters; dried herbs; fresh-cut flowers; breads; desserts; eggs; cheeses; jams & jellies; great food; quality locally grown plants & flowers; lots of fun; art and crafts from local artisans; live entertainment! For more information, go to http://olympiafarmersmarket.com.
Fridays
10 am – 3 pm – Olympia Farmers’ Market
Saturdays
10 am – 3 pm – Olympia Farmers’ Market
Sundays
10 am – 3 pm – Olympia Farmers’ Market
Monday, October 29
6:30 pm – Imagine Olympia Public Hearing
(Olympia City Hall: 601 E. 4th Ave; Olympia) The Olympia Planning Commission will hold a public hearing to consider comments, questions and suggestions from interested parties on any proposed changes to the Comprehensive Plan through the Imagine Olympia update process. Each member of the public who wishes to speak will have five minutes, followed by an optional question and answer time with the Commissioners. For background on the Comprehensive Plan process, go to http://olympiawa.gov/imagine-olympia/general-pages/imagine-olympia-FAQ and http://olympiawa.gov/imagine-olympia/general-pages/process. For details about this particular hearing, go to http://olympia.legistar.com/Calendar.aspx, click on Agenda next to the 10/29 Planning Commission meeting, scroll down to the public hearing under item 6 “BUSINESS ITEMS”, and follow the links provided there. EVENT REVIEW
Tuesday, October 30
9 am – 3 pm – South Sound Prairie Restoration Work Party
We will be spending the day at Shotwell’s Landing. We have a variety of tasks to accomplish, including seed cleaning, weeding beds and the prairie demo garden, and general cleanup outside. Sierra will be leading volunteer day. As always, bring gloves, a box lunch and water. Also, be sure to bring raingear if you plan on working outside. Directions to Shotwell’s Landing Nursery (14447 Littlerock Road SW; Rochester 98579): take I-5 to exit 95 (Littlerock exit), ~10 miles south of Olympia; go west on Maytown Rd SW to the only stop sign in Littlerock (by the elementary school); 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. For more information, contact ssvolunteers@cnlm.org. EVENT REVIEW (Students: remember you need to stay for 3 hours—but not necessarily for the entire event.)
Thursday, November 1
7-9 pm – Octopus of the Pacific.
(LOTT WET Science Center, 500 NE Adams, Olympia) Speaker: Kathryn Kegel, Aquarium Biologist, Seattle Aquarium. Doors open at 6:30. EXTRA CREDIT (2 points)
Friday, November 2
9 am – 12 pm – Upland & Forest 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. EVENT REVIEW
Saturday, November 3
7:30 am and 9:00 am – First Saturday Birding and Breakfast
Want to get a head start on your weekend? Come bird with Black Hills Audubon Society, and then enjoy breakfast at a local restaurant. Or, if you’re a late riser, just join us for breakfast and we’ll give you the run down on the birds we saw in the area. Beginning birders are welcome. Share what you know, connect, enjoy. No expert guide. We will meet at Bayview Thriftway Grocery (516 4th Ave; Olympia), main entrance at 7:30, and then bird along Percival Landing and Capitol Lake. At 9:00 am we will retire to the New Moon Cafe (113 4th Ave West, Olympia) for breakfast. For more information contact Leslie Lynam at 360 402-9513 or Deb Nickerson at 360 754-5397. EXTRA CREDIT (2 points)
9:00 am – early afternoon – Millersylvania Mushroom Foray
Always a popular trip, the Millersylvania Mushroom Foray helps participants learn to identify many of the more common mushroom species associated with Pacific Northwest conifer and deciduous forests. With luck, chanterelles, boletes, and other edible species will be found. Jim Pruske will discuss the ecological value of fungi in the overall health of a forest. Be prepared to walk through damp undergrowth and kneel on wet ground. Bring lunch and water. Bring a basket if you plan to take any specimens home. Plan to look for forest birds and amphibians as well. Pre-registration required by contacting Jim Pruske at 360-459-3655 or the BHAS office line at 360-352-7299. For more information, go to http://blackhills-audubon.org/fieldtrips-events.htm. EXTRA CREDIT (2 points)
9:30 am – 2:30 pm – Hauff Site work party
(Fife) Join EarthCorps and Citizens for a Healthy Bay as we continue to restore this 6.70-acre project site along the lower, tidal section of Hylebos Creek. From I-5, take the 54th Ave. exit in Fife, go right towards the bay, turn right on 4th St. E., turn left on 57th AVe. E and go to the end and you will be at the gate of the site. Please sign up at http://www.earthcorps.org/volunteer.php. EVENT REVIEW
10:00 am – 12:00 pm — Tree Planting along Allen Creek
Stream Team is seeking volunteers to help plant native trees and shrubs along Allen Creek. Volunteers will be planting native trees and shrubs to help stabilize the bank and create habitat for wildlife. Allen Creek is a fish-bearing stream, and trees protect the health of streams and fish by providing shade, food and habitat and by reducing storm water runoff and stream bank erosion. The planting site is located downstream from the Scott Lake community center, at the McElroy Residence (2724 Scotlac Dr SW, Olympia). The planting will occur rain or shine. Volunteers should wear sturdy shoes or boots and dress appropriately for the weather. Stream Team will provide gloves, tools and refreshments. Youth under the age of 13 must be accompanied by an adult. For directions, please contact Ann Marie Pearce at 360-754-3355 ext. 6857 or pearcea@co.thurston.wa.us, or visit Stream Team’s website at www.streamteam.info. EVENT REVIEW
10 am – 1 pm – Trillium Park work party
(Olympia) Come out to Trillium Park and help us remove invasive English Ivy! We will also groom the trail and remove other invasive plants from this well-loved park. Meet at 901 Eskridge Street SE. Please be courteous to neighbors as there is only street parking available. Dress for the weather and wear sturdy shoes or boots that can get wet and muddy. Youth under age 14 must be accompanied by an adult, and all youth under 18 years must have a signed Waiver and Medical Alert or have a parents’ signature on the sign-in roster at the project work site. For more information, contact Mike Baker, Olympia Parks, Arts & Recreation at 360.753.8365. EVENT REVIEW
1:00-2:00 pm – Marine Life of Puget Sound at LOTT’s WET Science Center
(500 Adams Street NE, in downtown Olympia) Come and learn about all the fascinating marine creatures living right here in Puget Sound. Beautiful photos and videos will take you on a cool virtual field trip filled with surprises. Virtual field trip begins at 1 p.m.! You can make a “Save the Sound” beaded necklace or a sea star print in the classroom all day. For more information, contact Amber Smith at 360.528.5742 or at ambersmith@lottcleanwater.org. EXTRA CREDIT (2 points)
3:00 pm – Dylan Tomine: Closer to the Ground
Orca Books (509 E 4th Ave; Olympia 98501) is thrilled to welcome Bainbridge Island author Dylan Tomine to the store. Tomine, formerly a fly fishing guide and now a writer, conservation advocate, and blueberry farmer, will be reading from and discussing his new book Closer to the Ground: An Outdoor Family’s Year on the Water, in the Woods, and at the Table. Closer to the Ground is the deeply personal story of a father learning to share his love of nature with his children, not through the indoor lens of words or pictures, but directly, palpably, by exploring the natural world as they forage, cook and eat from the woods and sea. This compelling, masterfully written tale follows Dylan Tomine and his family through four seasons as they hunt chanterelles, fish for salmon, dig clams and gather at the kitchen table, mouths watering, to enjoy the fruits of their labor. Closer to the Ground captures the beauty and surprise of the natural world—and the ways it teaches us how to live—with humor, gratitude and a nose for adventure as keen as a child’s. It is a book filled with weather, natural history and many delicious meals. EXTRA CREDIT (2 points)
3 – 5pm – Food class: Preparing your Garden’s Veggies with the Authors of The Good GRuB Cookbook
Why include food classes in a list of local environmental events? Because one of the best ways to reduce the environmental effects of eating (and save money) is to learn to make your own meals! Do you need some recipes and tips on how to fix/use all the produce spilling out of your garden? Come learn a few great recipes from the authors of the The Good GRuB Cookbook. Good GRuB is filled with great recipes, cook’s helpers, & pantry basics, all designed to help you enjoy your garden bounty more. Registration is required, and the cost is $5. To register or for a complete list of classes, go to www.olympiafood.coop/classes. Location: GRuB Farmhouse (2016 Elliott Ave NW; Olympia 98502—on Olympia’s Westside, off of Harrison Ave, behind the Handy Pantry)
6:30 – 9:30 pm – Film Screenings: River As Spirit, Buried in Sawdust and Saving Puget Sound, with a panel to follow films
(Capitol Theater/Olympia Film Society: 206 5th Avenue SE; Olympia 98501) River As Spirit: Rebirth of the Elwah River (2012 / US / 32 min) is a meditation on the soul of the Elwha River and the people and salmon who have been a part of it for thousands of years. Buried In Sawdust For 50 Years: Estuary Restoration (2012 / US / 31 min) is fascinating film about how a Washington state estuary was filled with milling waste to a depth of 60’, where it remained for 50 years, and how a local nonprofit restore the estuary back to its original tidal elevation. Saving Puget Sound: One Watershed At A Time (2012 / US) is an inspirational story of a community’s effort to preserve and restore a forest, a salmon stream, and Puget Sound. For cost and other information, go to www.olympiafilmsociety.org. EXTRA CREDIT (3 points)—but you need to stay for the after-film panel.
8:00 pm – Pier Peer
Join South Sound Estuary Association at Boston Harbor Marina for Pier Peer night-lighting events the first Saturday of each month starting November 3rd. Peer below the waters of Puget Sound and discover the lives of mysterious and beautiful creatures. Jellyfish, colorful sea slugs, predatory worms and more visit us at the underwater lights. Learn about the animals of Puget Sound and see them like you never have before! Bring your own flashlight (one per person is ideal) and dress for the weather. Children under 5 are not advised. All children must be accompanied by an adult. Cost to register is $10/adult; children are free. Registration is required: go to http://events.constantcontact.com/register/event?llr=xcpwlrdab&oeidk=a07e6ibppkca0de8d4b. Questions?—contact Gabby@sseacenter.org or call (360) 878-9320. EXTRA CREDIT (2 points)
Sunday, November 4
3 – 5pm – Food class: Preparing a Whole Chicken
Why include food classes in a list of local environmental events? Because one of the best ways to reduce the environmental effects of eating (and save money) is to learn to make your own meals! Wondering how best to prepare a whole chicken with skill? Come learn from a professional how to best butcher and cook a whole bird to perfection as well as techniques for delicious stock making. Registration is required, and the cost is $5. To register or for a complete list of classes, go to www.olympiafood.coop/classes. Location: GRuB Farmhouse (2016 Elliott Ave NW; Olympia 98502—on Olympia’s Westside, off of Harrison Ave, behind the Handy Pantry)
Tuesday, November 6
9 am – 3 pm – South Sound Prairie Restoration Work Party
(Details coming soon!) For more information, contact ssvolunteers@cnlm.org. EVENT REVIEW (Students: remember you need to stay for 3 hours—but not necessarily for the entire event.)
6:30 – 8 pm – Food class: Co-op Shopping on a Budget
This class will help you save money! Learn some savvy tips for shopping at the Co-op, as well as how to do grocery budgeting and meal planning for money savings. Free—but registration is required. To register or for a complete list of classes, go to www.olympiafood.coop/classes. Location: Fertile Ground Guesthouse (311 9th Ave SE, Olympia 98501— in downtown Olympia behind the Timberland Regional Library)
Wednesday, November 7
10 am – 1 pm – Hogum Bay Work Party
Join Nisqually Land Trust as they remove English ivy from a site near Lacey. To sign up and get more information, email volunteer@nisquallylandtrust.org. EVENT REVIEW
6 pm – Public Hearing on Low Emission Vehicles
(Dept of Ecology Lacey Headquarters: 300 Desmond Drive; Lacey) The public hearing is to receive comments on proposed changes to Chapter 173-423 WAC (Low Emission Vehicles) that will incorporate recent changes to California clean car regulations. These changes will maintain consistency with the California motor vehicle emission standards and compliance with federal law. For more information on the proposed changes, go to http://www.ecy.wa.gov/laws-rules/wac173423/1101.html. Contact: Neil Caudill, (360) 407-6811 or ncau461@ecy.wa.gov.
Thursday, November 8
6-9 pm – Free workshop on Naturescaping for Water & Wildlife
(Tumwater) Are you interested in learning about landscaping practices that will reduce your water bill, time spent mowing and on maintenance chores? Or, perhaps you want to learn about creating a beautiful landscape that will attract birds, butterflies or other wildlife. You can learn about all this and much more at Stream Team & Native Plant Salvage Project’s Naturescaping for Water and Wildlife workshop. Participants will receive lots of free handouts and helpful tips to create more attractive and sustainable landscapes. To register, or for more information, contact Native Plant Salvage Project at 360-867-2166 or nativeplantsalvage@gmail.com. EXTRA CREDIT (2 points)
Saturday, November 10
7:00 am – late afternoon – Black Hills Audubon Field Trip: Birding in Kitsap and Jefferson Counties
Crossing the Narrows Bridge with Port Townsend as the final destination, the day’s emphasis will be water birds arriving for the winter. Several stops along the way include Marrowstone Island and Fort Flagler. To register, contact Phil Kelley at 360-459-1499 or at Scrubjay323@aol.com or Ruth Sullivan at 253-564-7419. For more information, go to http://blackhills-audubon.org/fieldtrips-events.htm. EXTRA CREDIT (2 points)
9 am – 12 pm – Salmon Steward field training
Whether you are new to the area or have lived here for years, it is always a sight worth seeing to view the chum salmon spawning in McLane Creek at the McLane Creek Nature Trail. With their dark purplish-black coloring, they are truly a sight to see as they dig their nests and vie for optimal spawning positions. Every year, Stream Team trains Salmon Steward volunteers to greet people walking along the nature trail and answer questions people may have about the wild, native run of chum salmon. Chum return to spawn in early November through mid-December, once the rains have helped the water levels to rise. If you are interested in being a Salmon Steward at the McLane Creek Nature Trail, Stream Team is hosting this field training. For more information, or to register for the training, contact Ann Marie at pearcea@co.thurston.wa.us or 360-754-3355 ext. 6857. EXTRA CREDIT (4 points)—provided you also volunteer.
10 am – 1 pm – Trillium Park work party
(Olympia) Come out to Trillium Park and help us rebuild part of the trail! We will install a culvert, add gravel, and improve the trail for park users. We will also remove some invasive plants from this well loved park. Meet at 901 Eskridge Street SE. Please be courteous to neighbors as there is only street parking available. Dress for the weather and wear sturdy shoes or boots that can get wet and muddy. Youth under age 14 must be accompanied by an adult, and all youth under 18 years must have a signed Waiver and Medical Alert or have a parents’ signature on the sign-in roster at the project work site. For more information, contact Mike Baker, Olympia Parks, Arts & Recreation at 360.753.8365. EVENT REVIEW
10 am – 4 pm – The Drip Stops Here & Shrink Your Water Footprint
(WET Science Center: 500 Adams Street NE, in downtown Olympia) Come play our giant floor game, The Drip Stops Here, to find out how everyone can help conserve water. At 1 p.m. watch a fun, engaging slideshow for the whole family about how to “Shrink Your Water Footprint”. Your water footprint is the total amount of water you use, not only in your home, but to produce the food you eat and the products you buy. You’ll leave with a whole new perspective about your water use and ideas for conserving water at home. For more information, contact Amber Smith at 360.528.5742 or at ambersmith@lottcleanwater.org. EXTRA CREDIT (2 points)
10 am – noon – Enhancing Wetlands Through Native Plantings Workshop
(Northwest Trek: 11610 Trek Drive East; Eatonville 98328-9502) Join Northwest Trek staff for this two-hour workshop to learn how to enhance your wetlands through native planting and natural landscaping methods. This workshop will begin with a 30-minute indoor lecture and finish with 1-1/2 hours of planting outdoors on Trek property. Workshop materials, gloves, tools and plants will be provided. Please bring water and snacks. This workshop is free—however, class size is limited to 15 participants. Contact Jessica Moore at 360-832-7160 or Jessica.moore@nwtrek.org to reserve your spot today! EXTRA CREDIT (2 points)
10 am – 1 pm – Mount Rainier Gateway work party
Join Nisqually Land Trust as they remove Scot’s broom from a site near Ashford. To sign up and get more information, email volunteer@nisquallylandtrust.org. EVENT REVIEW
1:00-2:30 pm – 17 Million Years in an Hour: Washington Forests Past, Present, and Future.
(Shelton Timberland Library) Forestry is a cornerstone of Mason County’s economy. Learn how Washington’s natural and political histories have shaped the forest industry over the years, take a virtual tour of today’s practices, and see what’s on the horizon. Presenter and Shelton native Patti Case is Public Affairs/Regulatory Manager for Green Diamond Resource Company. Contact Number: 426-1362. EXTRA CREDIT (2 points)
Sunday, November 11
3 – 5pm –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 or for a complete list of classes, go to www.olympiafood.coop/classes. Location: GRuB Farmhouse (2016 Elliott Ave NW; Olympia 98502—on Olympia’s Westside, off of Harrison Ave, behind the Handy Pantry)
Saturday, November 10
9:30 am – 3:00 pm – Career Day at Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium
(Tacoma) If you are in college or in grades 6-12 and would like find out about animal care and education careers at a zoo or aquarium, this event is for you! The day will be filled with special presentations by zoo and aquarium keepers (including animal feeds and training demonstrations), and behind-the-scenes tours (space is very limited). Jobs in zoos, aquariums and other wildlife organizations encompass a wide range of activities–from basic animal care to behavior training, public education, research and breeding programs for endangered species. Career Day participants will have opportunities to talk with PDZA Keepers, Veterinarians and Educators, learn more about their work and find out what it takes to be competitive in this field. This event is FREE to students in 6th grade through college. For more details, visit www.pdza.org/schools and click on Career Programs and Information.
Tuesday, November 13
9 am – 3 pm – South Sound Prairie Restoration Work Party
(Details coming soon!) For more information, contact ssvolunteers@cnlm.org. EVENT REVIEW (Students: remember you need to stay for 3 hours—but not necessarily for the entire event.)
Thursday, November 15
6:30 – 8:30pm – Food class: Perfect Gluten-Free Pie Crust
Why include food classes in a list of local environmental events? Because one of the best ways to reduce the environmental effects of eating (and save money) is to learn to make your own meals! What is fall without an amazing pumpkin pie? Or an apple pie? Or a pear tart for that matter? Learn to make perfect flakey gluten-free crust that truly satisfies. We will learn both a traditional GF crust as well as a vegan alternative—both amazing. Taste testing is of course included! Registration is required, and the cost is $5. To register or for a complete list of classes, go to www.olympiafood.coop/classes. Location: Fertile Ground Eco House (911 Adams St; Olympia 98501—in downtown Olympia behind the Timberland Regional Library)
Saturday, November 17
10:00 am – 1:00 pm – Day of Stewardship with REI on Lower Eld Inlet
(Randall Preserve) Join Capitol Land Trust and our local REI as we kick off a new season of stewardship at the beautiful Randall Preserve on lower Eld Inlet. This fall we need your help to put the finishing touches on what has been a 10-year restoration project. PLUS, local naturalists will be on hand to enrich your experience with expert knowledge of Puget Sound biota. So come get your hands dirty as we remove invasive species, plant native trees, enjoy the scenery, and have a great time! Snacks, coffee, tea, gloves, tools, and water provided. Please dress for cold and wet weather with sturdy, closed-toed shoes. Bring tools and gloves if you have them. This is an all-ages event, feel free to bring the kids! You’ll receive additional information, including directions to the site when you RSVP. To RSVP, contact Guy at guym@capitollandtrust.org or by calling (360) 943-3012. EVENT REVIEW
10 am – 1 pm – Harry Fain’s Legion Park Friendly Grove Park work party
(Olympia) Join us at Friendly Grove Park and help us sheet mulch and maintain the paved pathway! We will focus on restoring the health of the plants and trees and cleaning up the park. Friendly Grove Park is located at 2316 Friendly Grove RD NE. Dress for the weather and wear sturdy shoes or boots that can get wet and muddy. Youth under age 14 must be accompanied by an adult, and all youth under 18 years must have a signed Waiver and Medical Alert or have a parents’ signature on the sign-in roster at the project work site. For more information, contact Mike Baker, Olympia Parks, Arts & Recreation at 360.753.8365. EVENT REVIEW
1:00-2:00 pm – Hazards on the Homefront
(WET Science Center: 500 Adams Street NE, in downtown Olympia) Come find out about the hazards of common household products to people and the environment. This fun and informative class teaches participants how to read product labels for toxicity levels and proper use, storage, and disposal. A fast-paced bingo game teaches about alternative products and an experiment comparing cleaners lets participants determine firsthand whether less-toxic products are effective! This presentation is ideal for ages 11 through adults. Two lucky people will win a door prize – a green cleaning kit full of useful, least-toxic products! For more information, contact Amber Smith at 360.528.5742 or at ambersmith@lottcleanwater.org. EXTRA CREDIT (2 points)
Sunday, November 18
11 am – 1 pm – Chum Salmon and Cider Celebration at McLane Creek Nature Trail
Enjoy hot cider and snacks while learning from trained Salmon Stewards about the wild spawning chum salmon. For more information, contact Ann Marie at 360-754-3355 ext. 6857 or pearcea@co.thurston.wa.us. EXTRA CREDIT (2 points)
Tuesday, November 20
9 am – 3 pm – South Sound Prairie Restoration Work Party
(Details coming soon!) For more information, contact ssvolunteers@cnlm.org. EVENT REVIEW (Students: remember you need to stay for 3 hours—but not necessarily for the entire event.)
Tuesday, November 27
9 am – 3 pm – South Sound Prairie Restoration Work Party
(Details coming soon!) For more information, contact ssvolunteers@cnlm.org. EVENT REVIEW (Students: remember you need to stay for 3 hours—but not necessarily for the entire event.)
November 29
7:30 -9:00 pm – Solving the Climate Crisis through Social Change: an Evening with Gar Lipow
(Olympia Timberland Library) Join Gar Lipow for a discussion of his book, Solving the Climate Crisis through Social Change: Public Investment in Social Prosperity to Cool a Fevered Planet. The book argues that the massive waste that caused the climate crisis resulted not only from fundamental flaws in markets, but also from social inequality, lack of democracy, and a deeply flawed foreign policy. Rather than a providing a doomsday perspective, it offers realistic optimism about the expanding climate crisis, highlighting the convergence between the necessary steps to save the planet and what needs to be done to improve the lives of Americans. This program takes place after the library closes. EXTRA CREDIT (2 points)
Saturday, December 1
7:30 am and 9:00 am – First Saturday Birding and Breakfast
Want to get a head start on your weekend? Come bird with Black Hills Audubon Society, and then enjoy breakfast at a local restaurant. Or, if you’re a late riser, just join us for breakfast and we’ll give you the run down on the birds we saw in the area. Beginning birders are welcome. Share what you know, connect, enjoy. No expert guide. We will meet at Bayview Thriftway Grocery (516 4th Ave; Olympia), main entrance at 7:30, and then bird along Percival Landing and Capitol Lake. At 9:00 am we will retire to The Spar Restaurant (114 4th Ave E) for breakfast. For more information contact Leslie Lynam at 360 402-9513 or Deb Nickerson at 360 754-5397. EXTRA CREDIT (2 points)
9 am – noon – Mashel River Work Party
Join Nisqually Land Trust as they remove Scot’s broom from a site near Eatonville. To sign up and get more information, email volunteer@nisquallylandtrust.org. EVENT REVIEW
10 am – 4 pm – Ocean Bingo at LOTT’s WET Science Center
(500 Adams Street NE, in downtown Olympia) Escape the rain and bring the family inside to play a fun and educational game of Ocean Bingo! There are many great prizes for adults and children to win. Bingo games and ocean inspired art projects will continue throughout the day. For more information, contact Amber Smith at 360.528.5742 or at ambersmith@lottcleanwater.org.
8:00 pm – Pier Peer
Join South Sound Estuary Association at Boston Harbor Marina for Pier Peer night-lighting events the first Saturday of each month starting November 3rd. Peer below the waters of Puget Sound and discover the lives of mysterious and beautiful creatures. Jellyfish, colorful sea slugs, predatory worms and more visit us at the underwater lights. Learn about the animals of Puget Sound and see them like you never have before! Bring your own flashlight (one per person is ideal) and dress for the weather. Children under 5 are not advised. All children must be accompanied by an adult. Cost to register is $10/adult; children are free. Registration is required: go to http://events.constantcontact.com/register/event?llr=xcpwlrdab&oeidk=a07e6ii7alw5285ab76 Questions?—contact Gabby@sseacenter.org or call (360) 878-9320. EXTRA CREDIT (2 points)
December 6
7-9 pm – Estuary Restoration.
(LOTT WET Science Center, 500 NE Adams, Olympia) Speaker: South Puget Sound Salmon Enhancement Group and Capitol Land Trust. Doors open at 6:30. EXTRA CREDIT (2 points)
THURSDAY, DECEMBER 6: EVENT REVIEW #2 DUE for 1:15 MWTh class
FRIDAY, DECEMBER 7: EVENT REVIEW #2 DUE for 9:00 MWF class
FRIDAY, DECEMBER 7: EXTRA CREDIT DUE for both classes
December 8
10 am – noon – Enhancing Wetlands Through Native Plantings Workshop
(Northwest Trek: 11610 Trek Drive East; Eatonville 98328-9502) Join Northwest Trek staff for this two-hour workshop to learn how to enhance your wetlands through native planting and natural landscaping methods. This workshop will begin with a 30-minute indoor lecture and finish with 1-1/2 hours of planting outdoors on Trek property. Workshop materials, gloves, tools and plants will be provided. Please bring water and snacks. This workshop is free—however, class size is limited to 15 participants. Contact Jessica Moore at 360-832-7160 or Jessica.moore@nwtrek.org to reserve your spot today!
1:00-2:00 pm – Wonderful World of Worms
(WET Science Center: 500 Adams Street NE, in downtown Olympia) What has no lungs, is both male and female, and hatches from a cocoon? Worms of course! Put on your lab coat, grab your magnifying glass, and examine red wiggler worms and other soil critters up close. You’ll get to learn about the importance of worms in the environment and their role in turning our garbage into compost. Presentation starts at 1 pm. Worm-related activities will be available in the classroom all day. For more information, contact Amber Smith at 360.528.5742 or at ambersmith@lottcleanwater.org.
Saturday, December 15
8:00 am – late afternoon – Black Hills Audubon Field Trip: Birding in Port Townsend and vicinity
This is a great opportunity for beginning birders to see some of the harder-to-find special birds of the Pacific Northwest. Stops will include Fort Worden, Point Hudson, Mystery Bay, and Fort Flagler State Parks, as well as Kah Tai Lagoon. Pre-registration required: e-mail Lonnie Somer at wheelermombi@comcast.net. For more information, go to http://blackhills-audubon.org/fieldtrips-events.htm.
9 am – noon – Downtown Ducks at Capital Lake
Join Burt Guttman for his fabulous annual quest for winter birds in downtown Olympia. There are all kinds of ducks, geese, grebes, and the occasional loon possible, as well as passerines in the trees and shrubs. This trip begins at Marathon Park at Capital Lake and generally includes Tumwater Historical Park and Percival Cove. Sometimes visits to lower Budd Inlet are included. This trip is especially oriented toward beginner birders, but all interested folks are welcome. No registration required—just show up!
9 am – noon – Lower Reach work party
Join Nisqually Land Trust as they remove Scot’s broom and other weeds from a site on the Nisqually River near Yelm. To sign up and get more information, email volunteer@nisquallylandtrust.org.
1:00-2:00 pm – Mighty Microbes: The Superheroes of Sludge
(WET Science Center: 500 Adams Street NE, in downtown Olympia) Put on your lab coat and gloves, and take a look at some mighty microbes under our microscopes. You’ll learn how these tiny heroes help LOTT clean up the dirty water from your house. You’ll also get to visit the water quality lab to talk to a real scientist. Everyone will take home some fun trading cards with fun facts about these microscopic bugs. Limited to upper elementary-aged children and older. For more information, contact Amber Smith at 360.528.5742 or at ambersmith@lottcleanwater.org.
Dec 22
Holiday Handprint Crafts at LOTT
(WET Science Center: 500 Adams Street NE, in downtown Olympia) Looking to make a last minute holiday gift for a loved one? Bring the family down to get creative and make a special holiday work of art including handprint trees, wreaths, reindeers, and snowmen. We supply all the materials and you create the holiday memories. For more information, contact Amber Smith at 360.528.5742 or at ambersmith@lottcleanwater.org.
Dec 29
1:00-2:00 pm – Go Green in 2013!
(WET Science Center: 500 Adams Street NE, in downtown Olympia) Bring the family in to get some easy ideas for greening-up around the house. There is no better time to start new family habits that will help save money as well as the environment! This fun, all-ages presentation starts at 1 pm. Earth inspired coloring activities will be in the classroom all day. For more information, contact Amber Smith at 360.528.5742 or at ambersmith@lottcleanwater.org.
January 5
8:00 pm – Pier Peer
Join South Sound Estuary Association at Boston Harbor Marina for Pier Peer night-lighting events the first Saturday of each month starting November 3rd. Peer below the waters of Puget Sound and discover the lives of mysterious and beautiful creatures. Jellyfish, colorful sea slugs, predatory worms and more visit us at the underwater lights. Learn about the animals of Puget Sound and see them like you never have before! Bring your own flashlight (one per person is ideal) and dress for the weather. Children under 5 are not advised. All children must be accompanied by an adult. Cost to register is $10/adult; children are free. Registration is required: go to http://events.constantcontact.com/register/event?llr=xcpwlrdab&oeidk=a07e6ii85hx867667c3 Questions?—contact Gabby@sseacenter.org or call (360) 878-9320.
Saturday, January 12
9 am – noon – Downtown Ducks at Capital Lake
Join Burt Guttman for his fabulous annual quest for winter birds in downtown Olympia. There are all kinds of ducks, geese, grebes, and the occasional loon possible, as well as passerines in the trees and shrubs. This trip begins at Marathon Park at Capital Lake and generally includes Tumwater Historical Park and Percival Cove. Sometimes visits to lower Budd Inlet are included. This trip is especially oriented toward beginner birders, but all interested folks are welcome. No registration required—just show up!
Tuesday, February 19, 2013
Environmental Lobby Day 2013 – stay tuned for details