See Below
Volunteers Needed for Nisqually Land Trust Dinner and Auction,
March 16 (Saturday) from 9:00 am to 10:00 pm
(St. Martin’s University, Worthington Conference Center in Lacey) It’s time for our annual dinner and auction fundraiser, and we need help to make it a success. There is a lot of behind-the-scenes work to do leading up to the big event and through the end of the day. Stay for one hour or the whole day—any help will be greatly appreciated! To check out the volunteer opportunities available and sign up, go to https://events.r20.constantcontact.com/register/eventReg?llr=jzh7gggab&oeidk=a07e73cfp3433547c8a. If you have any questions about volunteering, call Nisqually Land Trust at 360-489-3400 or email staff@nisquallylandtrust.org.
Black Hills Audubon’s Beginning Birding Class
This class will run for six consecutive Saturday mornings–March 9, 16, 23, 30,
Apr. 6, 1—from 9 to 11am. Two of the six dates will extend into afternoon to allow for field study—those dates will be determined at the first class. This course, taught by professional biologist Kelly McAllister, will provide an introduction to birding with an emphasis on developing identification skills. Other topics include a review of birding tools including binoculars and field guides, an introduction to birding terminology, and some discussion of basic bird biology as it relates to identification. The course is designed primarily for beginning birders but should be useful for many mid-level birders as well. The book Finding Your Wings, by Burt Guttman, will be the text used, and is included in the course fee. The cost of the class is $85 with the book; $70 without the book. The class is held at the Education Center at Nisqually Wildlife Refuge. Pre-registration is required: contact Shelley Horn at shelleysmail@me.com to register or for more information.
Become a Stormwater Steward
Are you concerned about polluted stormwater runoff? Do you like talking with others and sharing what you learn? Then consider becoming a Stormwater Steward! Stormwater Stewards are highly trained volunteers who can help educate and assist other community members in Green Stormwater Infrastructure (GSI) techniques that are appropriate for home, school or small commercial landscapes. GSI techniques help manage and infiltrate rain close to where it falls, thereby preventing problems from flooding, erosion and pollution from entering our local waterways and Puget Sound. Once trained and certified, Stormwater Stewards conduct home-site assessments for interested residents and provide recommendations for ways to effectively manage stormwater on site using GSI Techniques. Stormwater Stewards receive training in topics as diverse as: sustainable landscaping techniques that intercept stormwater and allows it time to return to groundwater or evapotranspire, as well as ways to avoid the use of products that harm groundwater; designing and constructing rain gardens that manage stormwater quantity and treat pollution; permeable paving strategies that allows stormwater to soak back into the ground after it has been treated; vegetated roofs, minimal excavation foundations and rainwater harvesting. If you are interested in registering for the 2013 Stormwater Stewards training program, which starts in May, or if you would like more details about the training curriculum, the commitment required and training dates, contact WSU Native Plant Salvage at nativeplantsalvage@gmail.com or call Krista at 360-867-2166. If you are planning on installing a rain garden, or if you would like to learn about other Green Stormwater Infrastructure options that may be right for your landscape, contact Krista at WSU Native Plant Salvage to arrange for a free Stormwater Stewards site consultation at nativeplantsalvage@ gmail.com or call 360-867-2166.
RECURRING EVENTS
Tuesdays:
9 am – 3 pm: South Sound Prairie Restoration Work Party. (See specific dates below for details.)
7 pm: Olympia City Council (Olympia City Council Chambers: 601 4th Ave E) Go to http://olympia.legistar.com/Calendar.aspx for more information.
7 pm (1st & 3rd Tuesday of the month): Tumwater City Council (Tumwater City Hall: 555 Israel Rd. SW) Go to www.ci.tumwater.wa.us/ccagendasTOC.htm for more information.
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:
7 pm (2nd & 4th Thursday of the month): Lacey City Council (Lacey City Hall: 420 College Street) Go to www.ci.lacey.wa.us/city-government/city-council/city-council-2/city-council-meetings/council-meetings for more information.
Monday, March 4
9:00 pm – film: Promised Land(106 min)
(Capitol Theater: 206 5th Avenue SE; Olympia 98501) The latest film from famed director Gus Van Sant, Promised Land is an environmentally-themed drama starring Matt Damon, and set in a rural Mid-Western town. Damon plays a salesman from a multi-billion dollar energy company who arrives on the scene with his sales partner (Frances McDormand) in order to convince the townspeople to lease their land to his company. In trade for a great deal of money, the land will be used for the environmentally devastating practice of fuel extraction called “fracking”. Damon’s character, convinced that he’s helping more than hurting a fading way of life, runs into opposition from a keen-eyed environmentalist (John Krasinski) and a township that ends up being more informed than first realized.
Tuesday, March 5
9 am – 3 pm – South Sound Prairie Restoration Work Party
We are going to be back at Tenalquot Prairie, where we will continue burning Douglas-fir branches. For a special treat, we will be roasting potatoes in the fire, so bring along your favorite baked potato toppings and a fork. CNLM will provide potatoes, rakes, foil and hot pads; you provide the toppings. As always, please also bring rain gear, gloves, a lunch, and water. For those who would prefer to work in the nursery, we have some tasks at Shotwell’s Nursery, including weeding, cleaning trays, and general nursery work: please email ssvolunteers@cnlm.org if you want to be at Shotwell’s, so we can give Rachel a “Heads up” on how many people to expect. Directions to Tenalquot Prairie from Olympia: Head south on I-5; take exit 99 and head east on 93rd Street; when 93rd dead-ends onto Old Hwy 99, turn right and continue to head south; at Waldrick Road turn left, and continue until it ends at Military Road; turn left onto Military Road, and continue to Rainier Road (at the blinking red light); turn left onto Rainier Road and continue for about 1/4 a mile—then turn left onto the first dirt/gravel road, and proceed to the gate and park. 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.
6:30 pm – film: Promised Land (See description on Monday, March 4)
Wednesday, March 6
8:00 am – Public hearing on labeling genetically engineered foods
(House Agriculture & Natural Resources Committee and House Technology & Economic Development Committee: House Hearing Rm B, John L. O’Brien Building in Olympia) Public Hearing on Initiative 522 (An act relating to disclosure of foods produced through genetic engineering.) NOTE: the hearing is likely to be heavily attended, so arrive early if you want to get in. Committee agendas change, so check the agenda before going, at http://www.leg.wa.gov/house/committees/agnr/Pages/Agendas.aspx?aid=18880. The committee agenda also contains links to information on the bills being considered, the most useful of which is the bill report. The bill report provides background information on how the law currently operates, what changes the proposed bill would make—and if there was a previous legislative hearing, a summary of the testimony given there.
9:00 pm – film: Promised Land (See description on Monday, March 4)
Thursday, March 7
6:00 pm – Woodland Trail Greenway Association planning meeting
(Urban Onion: 116 Legion Way; Olympia) The Woodland Trail Greenway Association meets the first Thursday of each month. The meeting room is in the back of the main lobby, not in the restaurant itself! Food and beverages are available for purchase. For more information, contact Jack Horton at info@woodlandtrail.org or 360.789.0944—or go to www.woodlandtrail.org.
6:30 pm – film: Promised Land (See description on Monday, March 4)
Friday, March 8
9:30 am – 12 pm – Madison Scenic Park work party
Come out to Madison Scenic Park and enjoy the newly renovated trail! We will focus on removing invasive plants such as English ivy, Himalayan blackberry and Scotch broom. Madison Scenic Park is located at 1600 10th Ave SE in Olympia. 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 (available at http://olympiawa.gov/~/media/Files/Parks/Volunteering/WAIVER%20Form.ashx) or have a parents’ signature on the sign-in roster at the project work site. Tools, gloves and refreshments will be provided. For more information, contact the Park Stewardship program at (360) 753-8365 or visit www.olympiawa.gov/parkvolunteer.
Saturday, March 9
9 am – noon – Yelm Shoreline Tube Removal Work Party with Nisqually Land Trust
We will be removing protective tubes from plants that have outgrown their use. These plantings were a part of a restoration project in the riparian zone of the Nisqually River near Yelm. Some have grown to be over 15 feet tall and their protective tubes are no longer effective. It’s one of the final steps in restoring this critical area to its original habitat. Coffee, water, and some light snacks will be provided; please bring a water bottle and anything else you might need. Work parties are rain or shine. Bring layers, raingear, and close-toed shoes that you don’t mind getting dirty. All minors MUST be accompanied by a parent or guardian. RSVP is required for directions: go to https://events.r20.constantcontact.com/register/eventReg?llr=jzh7gggab&oeidk=a07e74cas4yc8dd2334. For more information, contact Cris Peck at volunteer@nisquallylandtrust.org or (360) 489-3400 x 106.
9 am – 12 pm – Friends of Franklin Park Forest Cleanup and Restoration
(South 12th St. and Puget Sound Ave. in Tacoma) Join us for our monthly work party at Franklin Park as we continue working on the wooded area in the northeast portion of the park (forested portion along South 12th Street). We will be pruning low branches on trees, cleaning out the understory, and pulling out invasive plants. Our goal is to develop this portion of the park into a safer and more inviting area for walking and other recreational activities. Tools, snacks, and water will be provided but please bring your own gloves. Go to www.google.com/calendar/embed?src=upsgreenspaces@gmail.com&gsessionid=OK and click on the event to find a map.
9 am – 12 pm – Julia’s Gulch Work Party
(Tacoma) We will be cutting and digging up blackberry roots along the road and in the lower Gulch, and weeding in the upper area. We have some tools but if you have a favorite bring it along. Pitch forks, clippers and loppers are good for the blackberries. If you plan to tackle the blackberries wear long sleeves, long pants, heavy gloves and heavy footwear. Please bring your own water but tea and treats will be provided. We will meet at the picnic table overlooking the Gulch. Cars can be parked at View Point Park. Go to www.google.com/calendar/embed?src=upsgreenspaces@gmail.com&gsessionid=OK and click on the event to find a map.
9 am – 12 pm – Puget Creek Restoration Society Work Party
(Tacoma) Contact Scott Hansen at pugetcreek@yahoo.com or (253) 779-8890 for exact meeting location of the work party.
9 am – 12 pm – Wapato Hills Clean-up Party
(S Wapato St and S 64th St in Tacoma) Join fellow volunteers as work continues to clean-up Wapato Hills Urban Wildlife Habitat. This work party meets on the second Saturday of each month, and is currently removing invasive species and doing general clean-up. Go to www.google.com/calendar/embed?src=upsgreenspaces@gmail.com&gsessionid=OK and click on the event to find a map.
9:30 am – Native Plant Salvage
(Olympia) 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. Plants are also used to support NPSP-sponsored projects such as Learning Landscapes, Demonstration Gardens and habitat restoration projects in and around Thurston County. We usually finish salvaging around noon and a hot vegetarian lunch is provided. We then move to our holding beds around 1 pm to pot the plants. Work at the holding beds usually continues until around 3:30 pm, during which time volunteers can continue to help themselves to hot soup and other snacks to keep themselves fueled for the work at hand. Some volunteers choose to work all day, while others join us for the afternoon re-potting session. Pre-registration is required: go to www.nativeplantsalvage.org/get-involved/upcoming-events. You will receive directions and more information upon registration.
10:00 am – 1:00 pm (or until we get tired) – Ivy Pull along McDonald Creek
The Grays Harbor Stream Team will be having an ivy pull along McDonald Creek in Elma. There are around 50 large trees located on the new Elma Hospital property along McDonald Creek that are being overtaken by invasive English Ivy. Our plan is to cut sections of the ivy off around the tree, causing the ivy above to die off and the trees to survive. What to bring: loppers, hand pruners, or small hand saw (if you have them), gloves, sturdy shoes and dress for the weather. We will provide extra gloves and few extra tools. In addition we will have light refreshments including water, cookies, fruit, etc. Where: McDonald Creek in Elma, located on the Elma Hospital property, on E. Main Street (across from the Rusty Tractor Restaurant). Parking will be available across the street. We will have some signs/markers out to help guide you. For more information, contact Janel Bistrika at 360-538-4212 or jbistrik@ghc.edu.
10 am – 4 pm – Edible Forest Garden Planting (continued Sunday)
Join Edible Forest Gardens to establish an Edible Forest Garden in the South Capitol neighborhood. Edible Forest Gardens consist of three main layers, with fruit and nut trees as the upper canopy, berries and other edible bushes as the middle layer and perennial vegetables and fruits as the ground cover. This free workshop includes: design and layout of trees and shrubs in an edible forest garden; planting trees and shrubs; sheet mulching the lawn; making hugelkulturs (raised beds filled with wood, then soil and compost on top). Schedule: 10 am — planting edible trees and shrubs, taking tape off cardboard, making hugelkulturs; 12:00 pm discussion of Edible Forest Forest Gardens; 12:30 pm – lunch;
2 pm – sheet-mulching the lawn. Lunch is potluck, so bring a dish to share! Come for all day, half day, or just stop by when you can. This hands-on workshop will show what you too could do in your own yard. Location: 1715 Capitol Way S in Olympia (park on 17 Ave.). For more information contact Pat Rasmussen at 509-669-1549 or patr@crcwnet.com, or go to www.oly-wa.us/edibleforestgardens.
10 am – 1 pm – Lions Park work party
Join us as we spread new Fibar material on the playground and weed and mulch. We will focus the weeding efforts on the planting beds and around the trees. Meet near the new picnic shelter. Lions Park is located at 800 Wilson St SE in Olympia. 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 (available at http://olympiawa.gov/~/media/Files/Parks/Volunteering/WAIVER%20Form.ashx) or have a parents’ signature on the sign-in roster at the project work site. Tools, gloves and refreshments will be provided. For more information, contact the Park Stewardship program at (360) 753-8365 or visit www.olympiawa.gov/parkvolunteer.
Sunday, March 10
10 am – 4 pm – Edible Forest Garden Planting (continued from Saturday)
Join Edible Forest Gardens to establish an Edible Forest Garden in the South Capitol neighborhood. Edible Forest Gardens consist of three main layers, with fruit and nut trees as the upper canopy, berries and other edible bushes as the middle layer and perennial vegetables and fruits as the ground cover. This free workshop includes: design and layout of trees and shrubs in an edible forest garden; planting trees and shrubs; sheet mulching the lawn; making hugelkulturs (raised beds filled with wood, then soil and compost on top). Schedule: 10 am –sheet mulching; 12:30 pm – lunch; 2 pm – watering plants and applying Azomite rock dust. Come for all day, half day, or just stop by when you can. This hands-on workshop will show what you too could do in your own yard. Location: 1715 Capitol Way S in Olympia (park on 17 Ave.) For more information contact Pat Rasmussen at 509-669-1549 or patr@crcwnet.com, or go to www.oly-wa.us/edibleforestgardens.
1:00 – 3:00 pm — Scott Lake Habitat Restoration
Stream Team will provide gloves, tools, snacks and refreshments. Sturdy boots or shoes are recommended. Please dress for the weather as we will be out there rain or shine! Youth under the age 13 must be accompanied by an adult. Youth under the age of 16 must have a parent/guardian sign a waiver form. To register, go to www.streamteam.info/getinvolved/calendar/. For questions, contact Ann Marie at 360-754-3355 ext. 6857 or pearcea@co.thurston.wa.us.
Monday, March 11
7 pm – The Sustainability in Prisons Project’s Participation in the Restoration of Salish Sea Prairie Ecosystems
(Washington State Capitol Museum: 211 21st Avenue SW; Olympia) Carl Elliott will discuss Washington State’s Sustainability in Prisons Project (SPP) and its support for projects aimed at South Sound prairie restoration and preservation. Carl will discuss the work being done at the Mission Creek Corrections Center for Women where a facility has been built to breed and rear Taylor’s checkerspot butterflies. He also will discuss the work being done by SPP in propagating 400,000 native flowers and grasses each year to restore habitat on South Salish Sea prairies. This effort not only supports ongoing habitat preservation efforts, but also provides valuable skills in native plant ecology and large-scale seed production to inmates working on the project. Carl Elliott is currently working to expand plant propagation work to a variety of prisons in Washington State. The meeting is open to the public and free of charge. Sponsored by the Washington Native Plant Society–South Sound Chapter. Directions to the Washington State Capital Museum: From Interstate 5 in Olympia, take Exit 105, following the “State Capital/City Center” route. Go through a tunnel, (get in the left hand lane) and turn left on Capital Way. Follow the brown and white “State Capital Museum” signs to 21st Avenue. Turn right on 21st Avenue and proceed two blocks. The museum is on the left in a stucco mansion. We meet in the carriage house in back of the mansion.
Tuesday, March 12
9 am – 3 pm – South Sound Prairie Restoration Work Party
(Details forthcoming) For more information, contact ssvolunteers@cnlm.org.
9:30 am – 12:00 pm – Kettle View Park work party
Become a steward of the new Kettle View Park. We will focus on weeding the planting beds. All ages are welcome. Kettle View Park is located at 1250 Eagle Bend Drive SE in Olympia, near the Briggs YMCA. 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 (available at http://olympiawa.gov/~/media/Files/Parks/Volunteering/WAIVER%20Form.ashx) or have a parents’ signature on the sign-in roster at the project work site. Tools, gloves and refreshments will be provided. For more information, contact the Park Stewardship program at (360) 753-8365 or visit www.olympiawa.gov/parkvolunteer.
6:30 – 8:30pm – Raw Kitchen Creation
(Olympia) Why include a food class 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! Would you like to include more fresh, raw & live foods in your diet without spending all your time in the kitchen? Raw food chef & educator Rebeka Gentian will walk you through tips & tricks to go raw, not crazy! The cost is $5, and registration is required. For more information and to register–or to learn about more classes–go to www.olympiafood.coop/classes.
7:00 pm – Olympia Science Café: From Zebrafish to Sea Lions to Humans: Common Effects of Seafood Toxin Exposure
(Orca Books: 509 East 4th Avenue; Olympia) Our speaker this month is Kathi Lefebvre, Ph.D., Research Biologist at NOAA Fisheries, Northwest Fisheries Science Center (Seattle, Washington). The neurotoxic amino acid domoic acid (DA) is naturally produced by marine phytoplankton and presents a significant threat to the health of marine mammals, seabirds and humans via transfer of the toxin through the foodweb. In humans, acute exposure causes a neurotoxic illness known as amnesic shellfish poisoning characterized by seizures, memory loss, coma and death. Regular monitoring for high DA levels in edible shellfish tissues has been effective in protecting human consumers from acute DA exposure. However, chronic low-level DA exposure remains a concern, particularly in coastal and tribal communities that subsistence harvest shellfish known to contain low levels of the toxin. Domoic acid exposure via consumption of planktivorous fish also has a profound health impact on California sea lions (Zalophus californianus) affecting hundreds of animals yearly. Due to increasing algal toxin exposure threats globally, there is a critical need for reliable diagnostic tests for assessing chronic DA exposure in humans and wildlife. Our research team has discovered a novel DA-specific antibody response that is a signature of chronic low-level exposure identified initially in a zebrafish exposure model and confirmed in naturally exposed wild sea lions. Additionally, we found that chronic exposure in zebrafish caused increased neurologic sensitivity to DA, revealing that repetitive exposure to DA (at levels well below the threshold for acute behavioral toxicity) has underlying neurotoxic consequences. The discovery that chronic exposure to low levels of a small, water-soluble single amino acid triggers a detectable antibody response is surprising and has profound implications for the development of diagnostic tests for exposure to other pervasive environmental toxins.
Wednesday, March 13
7 pm – The Columbia River Wildflower Discoveries of Lewis & Clark
(Tacoma Nature Center: 1919 S Tyler St; Tacoma 98405) In one of our country’s most fortunate coincidences, Meriwether Lewis & William Clark began their canoe ride home from their Pacific encampment just as spring was breaking along the Columbia River. During their difficult two-year journey, Lewis & Clark dutifully collected specimens and wildflowers during the day and wrote down their discoveries at night by the campfire. Joan Hockaday, lecturer and author, will discuss the lasting legacy of those Lewis & Clark discoveries and talk about the wildflowers. The meeting is open to the public and free of charge. Sponsored by the Washington Native Plant Society–South Sound Chapter. Directions: From Interstate 5, take State Highway 16 towards Gig Harbor; look for the 19th Street EAST, exit and take it, which puts you onto South 19th Street; travel to the first light, turn right on South Tyler, and then left into the first driveway at the Tacoma Nature Center.
Thursday, March 14
6:00 – 9:00 pm – Naturescaping for Water & Wildlife Part 2
If you attended the Part 1 Naturescaping workshop on February 5, then this workshop is for you! Your naturescaping plan will be reviewed during this workshop. To register, go to www.streamteam.info/getinvolved/calendar
Friday, March 15
8:30 am – 1 pm – Vision2Action: Sustainable Urban Corridors
(Washington Dept. of Enterprise Services HQ: 1500 Jefferson St. SE; Olympia) Hear about the bold vision for livable, walkable urban corridors recommended for Tumwater, Lacey and Olympia including Brewery District & Woodland District redevelopment, turning strip malls into hip malls, and gentle densification for housing & transportation choices. Be part of a strategic conversation with private developers, neighbors and agencies to help investments in mixed use sustainable communities pencil out for the common good. Join a Café-style discussion with local leaders: Thera Black, Senior Planner with Thurston Regional Planning Council; Mark Lahaie, Partner with MJR Development, 6th Ave Project developer; Rick Walk, Director of Community Development, Lacey; Jennifer Kenny, Neighborhoods Program Manager, Olympia; Jason Robertson, Tumwater Brewery District planner; and Michael Matthias, Brewery Redevelopment Project Manager. Program begins at 9am. Coffee, tea and light refreshments will be served. Space is limited and registration is required: go to www.ecobuilding.org/guild-chapters/olympia/vision2action-series/register-for-vision2action-series.
9 am – 12 pm – 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. Go to www.google.com/calendar/embed?src=upsgreenspaces@gmail.com&gsessionid=OK and click on the event to find a map.
9:30 am – 12:00 pm – Kettle View Park work party
Become a steward of the new Kettle View Park. We will focus on weeding the planting beds. All ages are welcome. Kettle View Park is located at 1250 Eagle Bend Drive SE in Olympia, near the Briggs YMCA. 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 (available at http://olympiawa.gov/~/media/Files/Parks/Volunteering/WAIVER%20Form.ashx) or have a parents’ signature on the sign-in roster at the project work site. Tools, gloves and refreshments will be provided. For more information, contact the Park Stewardship program at (360) 753-8365 or visit www.olympiawa.gov/parkvolunteer.
5:30 – 9:30 pm – South of the Sound Farm Community Farmland Trust Annual Meeting
(South Bay Grange Hall: 3918 Sleatter Kinney Rd NE; Olympia 98506) Best-in-the-County community potluck dinner, updates and presentations, a short business meeting and square dancing with The Grizzle Grazzle Tune Snuggler! This family-friendly evening is free. We will do a raffle of great items donated by the Board of Directors and others. Starts at 5:30 with Ag Networking featuring organizations that serve the farm community; dinner is at 6:30; business and presentations at 7 pm; and dancing starting at 8:30. This year presentations include information on preservation of historic barns. For more information, go to http://communityfarmlandtrust.org/events.
Saturday, March 16
9 am – 12 pm – McKinley Park Cleanup Work Party
(500 E McKinley Way; Tacoma 98404) Meet down at the new playground and restrooms off of McKinley Ave. Metro Parks will provide all of the necessary tools and equipment. Volunteers need to dress for the weather and have work gloves. Volunteers will be assigned to work in specific areas removing invasive and non-native plants such as English Ivy and blackberry bushes. Go to www.google.com/calendar/embed?src=upsgreenspaces@gmail.com&gsessionid=OK and click on the event to find a map.
9 am – 12 pm – 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. The work at Oak Tree Park on this day will include removal of non-native and invasive plant species, and litter pick-up. Bring sturdy shoes and clothes to get dirty in. Optional: gloves, shovels, rakes, and loppers – some gloves and tools will be provided, but you are encouraged to bring your own if you have them and can bring them. The east entrance to Oak Tree Park is at the north end of Pine Street South. Please meet at the end of Pine Street South in the culdesac. Go to www.google.com/calendar/embed?src=upsgreenspaces@gmail.com&gsessionid=OK and click on the event to find a map.
10 am – 1 pm – Garfield Nature Trail work party
Join us for a second round at maintaining this well loved trail. We will focus on removing invasive Himalayan blackberry and English Ivy, planting native plants, grading the trail, and adding gravel to the surface. Meet at the West Bay Park (700 West Bay Drive). Garfield Nature trail is located at 701 West Bay Drive NW in Olympia. Parking is available, but limited at West Bay Park across from Garfield Nature Trail. 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 (available at http://olympiawa.gov/~/media/Files/Parks/Volunteering/WAIVER%20Form.ashx) or have a parents’ signature on the sign-in roster at the project work site. Tools, gloves and refreshments will be provided. For more information, contact the Park Stewardship program at (360) 753-8365 or visit www.olympiawa.gov/parkvolunteer.
Nisqually Land Trust 21st Annual Auction and Dinner
Sunday, March 17
2 – 4pm – Cooking with Greens
(Olympia) Why include a food class 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! Greens are easy to use, inexpensive, filling, and full of nutrients. This class will cover a basic introduction to greens (kale, collards, chard, and arugula), easy ways to add them to your diet, and several vegetarian dishes that include greens as a primary component. The cost is $5, and registration is required. For more information and to register–or to learn about more classes–go to www.olympiafood.coop/classes.
Tuesday March 19
9 am – 3 pm – South Sound Prairie Restoration Work Party
(Details forthcoming) For more information, contact ssvolunteers@cnlm.org.
9:30 am – 12:00 pm – Decatur Woods Park work party
Become a steward Decatur Woods Park. We will focus on weeding the planting beds and removing invasive English Ivy. All ages are welcome. Decatur Woods Park is located at 1015 Decatur St SW in Olympia. 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 (available at http://olympiawa.gov/~/media/Files/Parks/Volunteering/WAIVER%20Form.ashx) or have a parents’ signature on the sign-in roster at the project work site. Tools, gloves and refreshments will be provided. For more information, contact the Park Stewardship program at (360) 753-8365 or visit www.olympiawa.gov/parkvolunteer.
7:00 pm – The Art & Biology of Feathers with Chris Maynard
(Olympia REI: 625 Black Lake Blvd. #410; Olympia 98502) Chris Maynard sees the world in a single feather. The Olympia artist creates intricate shadowboxes from whole and cut feathers, and while he has loved feathers since childhood, he describes his deeper interest as much broader, “Feathers are a symbol of the wonder of life.” Chris will speak about both the biology and his art, taking us from the beginning of a growing feather, to what they do on the birds, to how he designs and creates his feather shadowbox dioramas. The talk is free, but space is limited—so you must reserve a seat. To register, go to www.rei.com/event/48625/session/66023/03292013 or call Kathleen at (360) 943-3012. Sponsored by Capitol Land Trust and REI.
Friday, March 22
9:30 am – 12:00 pm – Decatur Woods Park work party
Become a steward Decatur Woods Park. We will focus on weeding the planting beds and removing invasive English Ivy. All ages are welcome. Decatur Woods Park is located at 1015 Decatur St SW in Olympia. 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 (available at http://olympiawa.gov/~/media/Files/Parks/Volunteering/WAIVER%20Form.ashx) or have a parents’ signature on the sign-in roster at the project work site. Tools, gloves and refreshments will be provided. For more information, contact the Park Stewardship program at (360) 753-8365 or visit www.olympiawa.gov/parkvolunteer.
Saturday, March 23
9 am – noon – Powell Pasture NatureMapping Field Trip
(near Yelm) This Nisqually Land Trust property was recently planted to restore natural habitat for wildlife use along the Nisqually River. The land trust needs to collect wildlife data on the site, and Northwest Trek has offered to help by organizing citizen-scientists to do the data collection. No previous NatureMapping experience is required, and the event is free. Participants should come dressed for the weather and for walking in grassy and woody environments and on uneven surfaces. The terrain ranges from level unpaved roads to uneven meadows and forests. Some areas require climbing and maneuvering over debris. To sign up or for more information, contact Jessica Moore at 360.832.7160 or at Jessica.Moore@nwtrek.org.
9:30 am – Native Plant Salvage
(Olympia) 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. Plants are also used to support NPSP-sponsored projects such as Learning Landscapes, Demonstration Gardens and habitat restoration projects in and around Thurston County. We usually finish salvaging around noon and a hot vegetarian lunch is provided. We then move to our holding beds around 1 pm to pot the plants. Work at the holding beds usually continues until around 3:30 pm, during which time volunteers can continue to help themselves to hot soup and other snacks to keep themselves fueled for the work at hand. Some volunteers choose to work all day, while others join us for the afternoon re-potting session. Pre-registration is required: go to www.nativeplantsalvage.org/get-involved/upcoming-events. You will receive directions and more information upon registration.
10:00 am – 2:00 pm – Day of Stewardship at Twin Rivers Ranch
Be part of an on-going ecological restoration project located at the beautiful Twin Rivers Ranch on Oakland Bay, near Shelton, WA. We will be planting native trees and shrubs to help restore that habitat on this special property. Carpools may be available. For more information and to RSVP, email our Stewardship Coordinator Guy Maguire at guym@capitollandtrust.org.
10 am – 1:00 pm – Watershed Park work party
Join us for a second round at maintaining the Watershed trail bridges. We will focus on adding anti-slip material to the remaining bridges on the loop trail. We will meet at the Henderson parking lot at 2500 Henderson Blvd. SE in Olympia. 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 (available at http://olympiawa.gov/~/media/Files/Parks/Volunteering/WAIVER%20Form.ashx) or have a parents’ signature on the sign-in roster at the project work site. Tools, gloves and refreshments will be provided. For more information, contact the Park Stewardship program at (360) 753-8365 or visit www.olympiawa.gov/parkvolunteer.
3 – 5pm – Preparing a Whole Chicken
(Olympia) Why include a food class 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 the professionals at August Farm how to roast a whole chicken to perfection. A few recipes will be explored to compare the benefits of each. Technique for cutting a whole bird into parts will also be covered. A very informative class that’s not to be missed! The cost is $5, and registration is required. For more information and to register–or to learn about more classes–go to www.olympiafood.coop/classes.
Sunday, March 24
9:30 am – Native Plant Salvage
(Olympia) 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. Plants are also used to support NPSP-sponsored projects such as Learning Landscapes, Demonstration Gardens and habitat restoration projects in and around Thurston County. We usually finish salvaging around noon and a hot vegetarian lunch is provided. We then move to our holding beds around 1 pm to pot the plants. Work at the holding beds usually continues until around 3:30 pm, during which time volunteers can continue to help themselves to hot soup and other snacks to keep themselves fueled for the work at hand. Some volunteers choose to work all day, while others join us for the afternoon re-potting session. Pre-registration is required: go to www.nativeplantsalvage.org/get-involved/upcoming-events. You will receive directions and more information upon registration.
Tuesday, March 26
9 am – 3 pm – South Sound Prairie Restoration Work Party
(Details forthcoming) For more information, contact ssvolunteers@cnlm.org.
Wednesday, March 27
7:30 – 8:45 pm – Revitalizing Northwest Coastal Indian Food Culture, with Valerie Segrest
(Olympia Timberland Library: 313 8th Ave SE, Olympia) Roots, berries, elk and salmon were at the center of traditional food culture for the Coast Salish people of the Pacific Northwest. Valerie Segrest, a native nutrition educator and an enrolled member of the Muckleshoot Indian Tribe, will discuss these local and traditional foods. She hopes to inspire and enlighten others about the importance of a nutrient-dense diet through a simple, common sense approach to eating.
Saturday, March 30
9 am – noon – Mashel River Scotch Broom and Ivy Pull with Nisqually Land Trust
(Eatonville) Coffee, water, and some light snacks will be provided; please bring a water bottle and anything else you might need. Work parties are rain or shine. Bring layers, raingear, and close-toed shoes that you don’t mind getting dirty. All minors MUST be accompanied by a parent or guardian. RSVP is required for directions. For more information, contact Cris Peck at volunteer@nisquallylandtrust.org or (360) 489-3400 x 106.
10 am – 3 pm – Mima Mounds work party
Aid in facilities maintenance including repairs, sign and trail maintenance, and prairie restoration. An interpretive walk will be offered near the end of the day for interested volunteers. Bring work gloves, sturdy shoes, water, and dress for the weather; DNR will provide tools. This event is eligible for a voucher towards a complimentary Discover Pass. Directions to Mima Mounds NAP: from I-5, take exit 95; go west on Highway 121 toward Littlerock; from Littlerock, continue west on 128th to “T” in the road; turn right on Waddell Creek Road—Mima Mounds Natural Area Preserve entrance is about 1 mile on the left. For more information, contact DNR Representative, Birdie Davenport at 360-902-1434 or roberta.davenport@dnr.wa.gov.
Sunday, March 31
3 – 5 pm – Bladeless Cooking with Kids
(Olympia) Why include a food class 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! Raw vegan food preparation with kids 3-? This interactive workshop features demos & samples of live and whole food recipes from “Bladeless,” a raw recipe book for kids create by Rebeka & Eraelah Gentian. The cost is $5, and registration is required. For more information and to register–or to learn about more classes–go to www.olympiafood.coop/classes.
Thursday, April 4
6:00 pm – Woodland Trail Greenway Association planning meeting
(Urban Onion: 116 Legion Way; Olympia) The Woodland Trail Greenway Association meets the first Thursday of each month. The meeting room is in the back of the main lobby, not in the restaurant itself! Food and beverages are available for purchase. For more information, contact Jack Horton at info@woodlandtrail.org or 360.789.0944—or go to www.woodlandtrail.org.
Saturday, April 6
9 am – noon – Ohop Creek Restoration NatureMapping Field Trip
(near Eatonville) The South Sound Salmon Enhancement Group, Nisqually Indian Tribe, Nisqually Land Trust and its partners are working together to restore the creek through the Ohop Valley to its original meandering pathway. Northwest Trek is helping by using citizen-scientists to collect data on wildlife in the project area—which is what today’s event involves. No previous NatureMapping experience is required, and the event is free. Participants should come dressed for the weather and for walking in a wet environment on uneven surfaces. To sign up or for more information, contact Jessica Moore at 360.832.7160 or at Jessica.Moore@nwtrek.org.
8:00 – 10:00 – Pier Peer at Boston Harbor Marina
(Boston Harbor Marina; Olympia) Join South Sound Estuary Association for a night-lighting event. 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 a flashlight (one per person is ideal) and dress for the weather. All children must be accompanied by an adult, and children under 5 are not advised. Registration is required, and the cost is $10/adult; accompanying child 6 and over are free. To register, go to www.sseacenter.org and click the Pier Peer tab. Event registration will be closed at ten adults for the safety and enjoyment of participants. EXTRA CREDIT (3 points)
Monday, April 8
7pm – Day Hiking in Eastern Washington
(Washington State Capitol Museum: 211 21st Avenue SW; Olympia) In this presentation, Craig Romano will be spotlighting the scenically stunning and biologically diverse landscapes in Washington State east of the Columbia and Okanogan Rivers. Drawing from his new book, Craig will explore the deep canyons of the Blue Mountains, towering dunes of the Hanford Reach, channeled scablands of the Columbia River Plateau, lofty lonely Kettle River Range, grizzly and caribou harboring Selkirk Mountains, and the plethora of conservation lands ringing the Spokane Valley. Craig has hiked over 15,000 miles in our state—from Cape Flattery in the NW to Puffer Butte in the SE, and from Cape Disappointment in the SW to the Salmo-Priest Wilderness in the NE. Craig is author of eight books and co-author of two others, including his latest book, Day Hiking Eastern Washington, which will be on sale at the presentation. The meeting is open to the public and free of charge. Sponsored by the Washington Native Plant Society–South Sound Chapter. Directions: From Interstate 5, take State Highway 16 towards Gig Harbor; look for the 19th Street EAST, exit and take it, which puts you onto South 19th Street; travel to the first light, turn right on South Tyler, and then left into the first driveway at the Tacoma Nature Center.
Wednesday, April 10
7 pm – Day Hiking in Eastern Washington
(Tacoma Nature Center: 1919 S Tyler St; Tacoma 98405) See the description for the April 8 event in Olympia. Directions: From Interstate 5, take State Highway 16 towards Gig Harbor; look for the 19th Street EAST, exit and take it, which puts you onto South 19th Street; travel to the first light, turn right on South Tyler, and then left into the first driveway at the Tacoma Nature Center.
Saturday, April 13
9 am – noon – Powell Creek Scotch Broom Pull with Nisqually Land Trust
(Yelm) Coffee, water, and some light snacks will be provided; please bring a water bottle and anything else you might need. Work parties are rain or shine. Bring layers, raingear, and close-toed shoes that you don’t mind getting dirty. All minors MUST be accompanied by a parent or guardian. RSVP is required for directions. For more information, contact Cris Peck at volunteer@nisquallylandtrust.org or (360) 489-3400 x 106.
Olympic Mudminnow Presentation and Field Trip
Lecture: 10 – 11:30 am at LOTT WET Science Center (500 Adams St NE, Olympia)
Field Trip: Noon – 1:30 pm at Evergreen Park Drive and Kaiser Road (van will be available)
Join Stream team and fisheries biologist, Jamie Glasgow to learn about this small endemic fish that resides only in Western Washington! For more information, and to register online, visit www.streateam.info and click on “Register”. Staff contact: Michelle Stevie, mstevie@ci.olympia.wa.us.
Sunday, April 14
10:30 am – 12:30 pm – Kennedy Creek Shorebird Field Trip
Watch flocks of western sandpipers, dunlins and black-bellied plovers feed along the mudflat shoreline as the tide changes. Join us for a field trip to Kennedy Creek estuary to observe the shorebird migration and to learn of the importance of estuaries for migrating shorebirds. Field trip speaker, Joe Buchanan is a wildlife biologist with the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife, and on his own time, he has been monitoring shorebird migration at Kennedy Creek estuary for over 30 years. Volunteers interested in citizen monitoring opportunities will learn how to record birding observations and how your observations can help track bird populations in South Puget Sound. (Van leaves Thurston County Building #4 (929 Lakeridge Dr. SW, Olympia) at 10 am) For more information and to register online for the field trip, visit www.streamteam.info and click on “Register”. Staff contact: Michelle Stevie, mstevie@ci.olympia.wa.us
1 – 5 pm – Crazy About Art and Nature? Create Ecosystem Stories Batik Art
Learn the ancient technique of batik, wax painting on cloth, to capture your favorite Stream Team memory or South Sound natural place. Draw a simple design, wax and paint. It’s that simple and fun! Then, turn your batik design into a beautiful wall hanging. All supplies and instruction provided at the Procession of the Species Art Studio. Young artists will have the opportunity to have their batik designs on display at Olympia’s new City Hall for Arts Walk on April 26 and 27. For more information and to register online, visit www.streamteam.info and click on “Register”. Staff contact: Michelle Stevie, mstevie@ci.olympia.wa.us.
Let It Soak In: Free Two-Part Rain Garden Workshop
Part I: Thursday, April 18 • 6:30 – 8:30 p.m. • Tumwater Fire Hall
Part II: Thursday, April 25 • 6:30 – 8:30 p.m. • Tumwater Fire Hall
Creating a home rain garden is a great way for you to make a big difference in protecting local waterways and Puget Sound, while also beautifying your yard. Rain gardens are shaped and sized to fit your yard and are planted with a variety of flowers, shrubs and ornamental grasses. Rain gardens act like a native forest by collecting, absorbing and filtering stormwater runoff from rooftops, driveways, patios and other areas around our homes that do not allow rainwater to soak back into the groundwater. Join us for a free, two-part hands-on workshop to learn how to add one of these lovely “stormwater” features to your yard. The workshop will give you all the details you need to design and install a beautiful rain garden that will manage your home’s stormwater drainage while protecting local water resources. The instructional workshop on April 18 will focus on developing a sizing and planting plan right for your home landscape. At an optional session on April 25, participants will receive assistance reviewing draft rain garden plans they will have learned how to create in Part 1. Participants will receive a free, full-color rain garden poster and a free copy of WSU’s Rain Garden Handbook for Western Washington Homeowners. Workshops are free and registration is required, as space is limited. Visit www.streamteam.info and click on “Register”. Co-sponsored by Stream Team and WSU Native Plant Salvage Project.
Saturday, April 20
9 am – noon – Yelm Shoreline Scotch Broom Pull with Nisqually Land Trust
Coffee, water, and some light snacks will be provided; please bring a water bottle and anything else you might need. Work parties are rain or shine. Bring layers, raingear, and close-toed shoes that you don’t mind getting dirty. All minors MUST be accompanied by a parent or guardian. RSVP is required for directions. For more information, contact Cris Peck at volunteer@nisquallylandtrust.org or (360) 489-3400 x 106.
10 am – 3 pm – Mima Mounds work party
Aid in facilities maintenance including repairs, sign and trail maintenance, and prairie restoration. An interpretive walk will be offered near the end of the day for interested volunteers. Bring work gloves, sturdy shoes, water, and dress for the weather; DNR will provide tools. This event is eligible for a voucher towards a complimentary Discover Pass. Directions to Mima Mounds NAP: from I-5, take exit 95; go west on Highway 121 toward Littlerock; from Littlerock, continue west on 128th to “T” in the road; turn right on Waddell Creek Road—Mima Mounds Natural Area Preserve entrance is about 1 mile on the left. For more information, contact DNR Representative, Birdie Davenport at 360-902-1434 or roberta.davenport@dnr.wa.gov.
Monday, April 22
9 am – noon – Earth Day Work Party with Nisqually Land Trust
(Details and location to be announced) Coffee, water, and some light snacks will be provided; please bring a water bottle and anything else you might need. Work parties are rain or shine. Bring layers, raingear, and close-toed shoes that you don’t mind getting dirty. All minors MUST be accompanied by a parent or guardian. RSVP is required for directions. For more information, contact Cris Peck at volunteer@nisquallylandtrust.org or (360) 489-3400 x 106.
Friday, April 26
9 am – noon – Arbor Day Work Party with Nisqually Land Trust
(Details and location to be announced) Coffee, water, and some light snacks will be provided; please bring a water bottle and anything else you might need. Work parties are rain or shine. Bring layers, raingear, and close-toed shoes that you don’t mind getting dirty. All minors MUST be accompanied by a parent or guardian. RSVP is required for directions. For more information, contact Cris Peck at volunteer@nisquallylandtrust.org or (360) 489-3400 x 106.
Thursday, May 2
6:00 pm – Woodland Trail Greenway Association planning meeting
(Urban Onion: 116 Legion Way; Olympia) The Woodland Trail Greenway Association meets the first Thursday of each month. The meeting room is in the back of the main lobby, not in the restaurant itself! Food and beverages are available for purchase. For more information, contact Jack Horton at info@woodlandtrail.org or 360.789.0944—or go to www.woodlandtrail.org.
Saturday, May 11
9 am – noon – Powell Creek Herb Robert Weed Pull with Nisqually Land Trust
(Yelm) Coffee, water, and some light snacks will be provided; please bring a water bottle and anything else you might need. Work parties are rain or shine. Bring layers, raingear, and close-toed shoes that you don’t mind getting dirty. All minors MUST be accompanied by a parent or guardian. RSVP is required for directions. For more information, contact Cris Peck at volunteer@nisquallylandtrust.org or (360) 489-3400 x 106.
10 am – 5 pm – “Naturescaping for Water & Wildlife” Field Class
(Olympia) Learn how to turn your yard into a lovely year-round landscape that attracts birds, butterflies and amphibians with beautiful plants that require less water and protects the quality of local water bodies. This full-day class offers more material than our evening workshops (offered in fall and winter) and includes site visits to local landscapes. A morning classroom session will be followed by field visits to local yards. Bus transportation will be provided. Included topics: water-wise ideas for your landscape; keys to attracting birds, butterflies, beneficial insects and amphibians; easy ways to minimize lawn space; how to solve drainage issues with on-site stormwater management; planting for four-season interest; landscaping for tricky areas like slopes; and how simple landscape changes can save you time and money while protecting water quality. The class is taught by Erica Guttman, WSU Native Plant Salvage Project and Linda Andrews, owner of Patterns in Nature Landscape & Design. Both instructors have decades of professional experience in horticulture and botany, plus a passion for protecting water and creating wildlife habitat. Field class is free. Registration is required, as space is limited. Visit www.streamteam.info and click on “Register”.
Monday, May 13
7 pm – Elwha: A River Reborn
(Washington State Capitol Museum: 211 21st Avenue SW; Olympia) Lynda V. Mapes will discuss her new book, Elwha: A River Reborn, scheduled for release on May 15. Lynda Mapes is an environmental reporter for the Seattle Times. Through interviews, fieldwork, photojournalism, and historical research, Lynda Mapes and Seattle Times have reported on the dam removal process in a series of feature articles. Elwha: A River Reborn is based on these feature articles. The book brings out the impact on the Elwha Klallam Tribe awaiting the return of the salmon runs. It also discusses the unprecedented revegetation effort to restore 700 acres of mudflats. Join us to hear the story of this unprecedented effort from a reporter who has followed it in depth. The meeting is open to the public and free of charge. Sponsored by the Washington Native Plant Society–South Sound Chapter. Directions: From Interstate 5, take State Highway 16 towards Gig Harbor; look for the 19th Street EAST, exit and take it, which puts you onto South 19th Street; travel to the first light, turn right on South Tyler, and then left into the first driveway at the Tacoma Nature Center.
Saturday, May 18
9 am – noon – Railway Road NatureMapping Field Trip
The Nisqually Land Trust protects over 190 acres along the whitewater reach of the Nisqually River. This 10+ acre wetland just outside of Yelm is a part of the 150 contiguous acres of riparian forest mosaic located between the Centralia power canal and the Nisqually River. The land trust needs to collect wildlife data along the Nisqually river, and Northwest Trek has offered to help by organizing citizen-scientists to do the data collection. No previous NatureMapping experience is required, and the event is free. Participants should come dressed for the weather and for walking in grassy and woody environments and on uneven surfaces. The terrain ranges from level unpaved roads to uneven meadows and forests. Some areas require climbing and maneuvering over debris. Rubber boots and walking sticks are advised. To sign up or for more information, contact Jessica Moore at 360.832.7160 or at Jessica.Moore@nwtrek.org.
10 am – Free Invasive Plant Identification and Mapping Workshop
Interested in learning how to identify invasive nuisance plants and map them for future eradication? Join Stream Team and Thurston County Noxious Weed Control nuisance plant expert, Mary Jo Seery to learn about common invasive plants plaguing our parks and cities. In this workshop, you will learn to identify invasive nuisance plant species and how to record their locations. An iphone data collection option will also be discussed. Identifying and mapping locations of these plant species will help managers develop and implement long-range eradication plans. Bring your enthusiasm!
Lecture: 10-11 am at LOTT WET Science Center (500 Adams St NE, Olympia)
Field trip to Grass Lake: Noon-1:30 pm (vans will be available)
For more information, and to register online, visit www.streateam.info and click on “Register”. Staff contact: Michelle Stevie, mstevie@ci.olympia.wa.us
Saturday, May 25
9 am – noon – Ohop Creek Ivy Pull and Blackberry Control with Nisqually Land Trust
(Eatonville) Coffee, water, and some light snacks will be provided; please bring a water bottle and anything else you might need. Work parties are rain or shine. Bring layers, raingear, and close-toed shoes that you don’t mind getting dirty. All minors MUST be accompanied by a parent or guardian. RSVP is required for directions. For more information, contact Cris Peck at volunteer@nisquallylandtrust.org or (360) 489-3400 x 106.
Saturday, June 8
9 am – noon – Bragett Parcel NatureMapping Field Trip
The Nisqually Tribe trust protects this 50+ acre site adjacent to the Nisqually Wildlife Refuge. The site is a mixture of estuary, river, forest and meadow, and the diverse habitat creates ideal conditions for a wide variety of wildlife. Northwest Trek has offered to help collect data on wildlife in the project area using citizen-scientists—which is what today’s event involves. No previous NatureMapping experience is required, and the event is free. Participants should come dressed for the weather and for walking in a grassy, woody and wetland environments and on uneven surfaces. Rubber boots are advised for portions of the site. To sign up or for more information, contact Jessica Moore at 360.832.7160 or at Jessica.Moore@nwtrek.org.
10 am – 4:30 pm — Meet the Trees of Washington Field Class
(Thurston County Courthouse, Bldg 1, Rm. 152) This class is especially beneficial for newcomers to our area or anyone else who has ever wondered about the benefits and horticultural uses of native trees and other plants. Participants will learn about a variety of different ecosystems found in Western Washington and the plants and animals that inhabit them. Start the morning with classroom instruction, an introduction to four South Sound ecosystems and some basic hands-on native plant identification. Then take a field trip to a local nature trail and learn to identify native trees, shrubs, ferns and perennials. Bus transportation is provided for the field trip. Field class is free and registration is required, as space is limited. For more information and to register online visit www.streamteam.info and click on “Register”.
Saturday, July 6
9 am – noon – Wilcox Flats NatureMapping and Habitat Restoration Field Trip
(near Wilcox Farms in Roy) The Nisqually Land Trust is looking to gather wildlife data at its Wilcox Flats property along the Nisqually River—a site vital to salmon recovery efforts along the Nisqually River. Northwest Trek has offered to help by organizing citizen-scientists to collect baseline data about plants and wildlife in the surrounding habitat, and to continue restoration efforts in the meadows and forests along the Nisqually River and side channels. Today’s field trip will consist of data collection, invasive species removal, and weeding and care of new plantings. No previous NatureMapping experience is required, and the event is free. Participants should come dressed for the weather and for walking in grassy and woody environments and on uneven surfaces. To sign up or for more information, contact Jessica Moore at 360.832.7160 or at Jessica.Moore@nwtrek.org.
Saturday, July 13
9 am – noon – Ohop Creek Restoration NatureMapping Field Trip
(near Eatonville) The South Sound Salmon Enhancement Group, Nisqually Indian Tribe, Nisqually Land Trust and its partners are working together to restore the creek through the Ohop Valley to its original meandering pathway. Northwest Trek is helping by using citizen-scientists to collect data on wildlife in the project area—which is what today’s event involves. No previous NatureMapping experience is required, and the event is free. Participants should come dressed for the weather and for walking in a wet environment on uneven surfaces. To sign up or for more information, contact Jessica Moore at 360.832.7160 or at Jessica.Moore@nwtrek.org.
Saturday, September 7
9 am – noon – Red Salmon Creek NatureMapping Field Trip
The Nisqually Land Trust protects this 25+ acre site near the Nisqually Wildlife Refuge. The site is a mosaic of small coastal streams buffered by narrow forest bands and pastures that have been planted with natives in the last 6 years. The site also contains a small area of salt marsh at the southwest edge of the property and an active beaver population. The land trust needs to collect wildlife data at the site, and Northwest Trek has offered to help by organizing citizen-scientists to do the data collection. No previous NatureMapping experience is required, and the event is free. Participants should come dressed for the weather and for walking in grassy and woody environments and on uneven surfaces. The terrain ranges from uneven meadows and forests to riparian and wetland edges. Some areas require climbing and maneuvering over debris. Rubber boots and walking sticks are advised for portions of the site. To sign up or for more information, contact Jessica Moore at 360.832.7160 or at Jessica.Moore@nwtrek.org.
Saturday, September 21
9 am – noon – Powell Creek NatureMapping Field Trip
(near Yelm) This Nisqually Land Trust property was recently planted to restore natural habitat for wildlife use along the Nisqually River. The land trust needs to collect wildlife data on the site, and Northwest Trek has offered to help by organizing citizen-scientists to do the data collection. No previous NatureMapping experience is required, and the event is free. Participants should come dressed for the weather and for walking in grassy and woody environments and on uneven surfaces. The terrain ranges from level unpaved roads to uneven meadows and forests. Some areas require climbing and maneuvering over debris. To sign up or for more information, contact Jessica Moore at 360.832.7160 or at Jessica.Moore@nwtrek.org.
Saturday, October 12
9 am – noon – Ohop Creek Restoration NatureMapping Field Trip
(near Eatonville) The South Sound Salmon Enhancement Group, Nisqually Indian Tribe, Nisqually Land Trust and its partners are working together to restore the creek through the Ohop Valley to its original meandering pathway. Northwest Trek is helping by using citizen-scientists to collect data on wildlife in the project area—which is what today’s event involves. No previous NatureMapping experience is required, and the event is free. Participants should come dressed for the weather and for walking in a wet environment on uneven surfaces. To sign up or for more information, contact Jessica Moore at 360.832.7160 or at Jessica.Moore@nwtrek.org.