See Below
RECURRING EVENTS
Tuesdays: South Sound Prairie work party, 9 am – 3 pm
Olympia City Council, 7 pm (Olympia City Council Chambers: 601 4th Ave E)
http://olympia.legistar.com/Calendar.aspx
Tumwater City Council, 7 pm on the 1st & 3rd Tuesday (Tumwater City Hall: 555 Israel Rd. SW) www.ci.tumwater.wa.us/ccagendasTOC.htm
Wednesdays: Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge Bird Walk, 8-11 am – Meet at Visitor Center Overlook at 8 am.
Nisqually Land Trust Work Party, 9 am – noon
Thursdays: Lacey City Council, 7 pm on the 2nd & 4th Thursday (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.
Saturdays: Olympia Farmers’ Market, 10 am – 3 pm (700 N Capitol Way; Olympia 98501) http://olympiafarmersmarket.com.
South Sound Estuarium, 10 am – 3 pm (608 Washington St NE; Olympia 98501) http://sseacenter.wordpress.com/south-sound-estuarium
Sundays: South Sound Estuarium, 10 am – 3 pm
Olympia Park Stewardship program needs volunteer leaders for Feb 17!
The Park Stewardship program is hosting a 4-H group of 300 volunteers at Decatur Woods Park on February 17th—and we need adults who would be willing to lead a group of 10 students. If you are interested in leading a group, please contact Sylvana Niehuser (Park Ranger | Park Stewardship Program, Olympia Parks, Arts & Recreation) at 360.753.8365 ASAP.
Tuesday, February 18
9 am – 3 pm – South Sound Prairie work party
(South Thurston County) Join us for a day of burning slash piles at Tenalquot Prairie Preserve! Dress for the weather, and bring along a box lunch, gloves and plenty of water. Directions to Tenalquot/Morgan Prairie: Directions from I-5: Take exit 99 and head east on 93rd Street; when 93rd dead-ends onto Old Hwy 99, turn right and head south; turn left at Waldrick Road and continue until it ends at Military Road; turn left and continue until Military Rd meets Rainier Road (at the blinking red light); turn left onto Rainier Road and continue for about half a mile, then turn left off of Rainier Road; follow the gravel road to the gate and park. Directions from Hwy 507: Head north on Rainier Road; after you pass through the blinking yellow lights at Military Road, look for the “Tenalquot Prairie Work Day” sign and turn left off of Rainier Road; follow the gravel road to the gate and park. For more information, contact ssvolunteers@cnlm.org. Sponsored by the Center for Natural Lands Management.
3:00 pm – Public Hearing on Enforcing Land Use Codes
(County Courthouse Building One, Room 152: 2000 Lakeridge Drive SW; Olympia) The Thurston County Board of Commissioners will hold a hearing to take public testimony on the creation of a new land use code enforcement title in the County Code. The new Title 26-Code Enforcement consolidates land use code enforcement regulations from thirteen chapters into one, and adds new enforcement strategies. If adopted, the new title will regulate land use code enforcement throughout unincorporated Thurston County. For more information, go to www.co.thurston.wa.us/bocc/agenda.htm and click on Current BoCC Agenda.
Wednesday, February 19
8:00 am – Legislative hearings on bills relating to renewable energy sources
(Senate Energy, Environment & Telecommunications Committee: Senate Hearing Rm 4 in the J.A. Cherberg Building, on the Capitol Campus in Olympia) Public hearings on SHB 2183 (Requires the Joint Committee on Energy Supply and Energy Conservation to make recommendations to the energy committees of the legislature on ways to improve the effectiveness and implementation of the existing law and policies that would further the renewable energy and energy efficiency goals for utilities after 2020. Also requires the WSU energy program to conduct a resource assessment on the amount of new energy resources that could be made available with a high-efficiency cogeneration policy or a thermal heating efficiency policy to assist the joint committee deliberations in developing new energy performance standards after 2020); and HB 2708 (Revises the definition of “qualified alternative energy resource”, for purposes of RCW 129A.090, to include the electricity or thermal energy produced from generation facilities that are fueled by biomass energy based on liquid organic fuels from wood, forest, or field residues). These may not be the only hearings scheduled for this meeting, and hearings can be rescheduled—so check the committee agenda before attending. The committee agenda can be found at www.leg.wa.gov/senate/committees/EET, then click on today’s date. In the agenda you will find links to additional information on the bills being considered.
8:00 am – Legislative hearing on bill prohibiting youth from using tanning devices
(House Health Care & Wellness Committee: House Hearing Rm B in the John L. O’Brien Building, on the Capitol Campus in Olympia) Public hearing on SB 6065 (Prohibiting persons under 18 from using an ultraviolet tanning device). This may not be the only hearing scheduled for this meeting, and the hearing may be rescheduled—so check the committee agenda before attending. The committee agenda can be found at www.leg.wa.gov/house/committees/HCW, then click on today’s date. In the agenda you will find links to additional information on the bills being considered.
9 am – noon – Powell Uplands Planting
(near Yelm) Join Nisqually Land Trust for work party to benefit wildlife habitat near the Nisqually River! We will be planting old logging roads amongst a beautiful forest stand and critical riparian habitat. It’s another important step in the restoration of this site! 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. To register and get directions, go to https://events.r20.constantcontact.com/register/eventReg?oeidk=a07e8x8j967c7085e3b, or go to www.nisquallylandtrust.org/events.php and click on the event. For more information, contact Cris Peck (AmeriCorps Volunteer Coordinator, Nisqually Land Trust) at 360-489-3400 ext. 106 or at www.nisquallylandtrust.org.
1:30 pm – Legislative hearing on reducing PCB-containing products
(House Environment Committee: House Hearing Rm C in the John L. O’Brien Building, on the Capitol Campus in Olympia) Public hearing on SSB 6086 (Reducing PCBs in products purchased by agencies). This may not be the only hearing scheduled for this meeting, and the hearing may be rescheduled—so check the committee agenda before attending. The committee agenda can be found at www.leg.wa.gov/house/committees/ENVI, then click on today’s date. In the agenda you will find links to additional information on the bills being considered.
6:30 pm – Public hearing on expanding Lacey UGA + presentation on prairie species found in Thurston County
(Room 152, Building 1 of the Thurston County Courthouse: 2000 Lakeridge Drive S.W; Olympia 98502) The Thurston County Planning Commission will hold a public hearing on a proposal by the North Thurston School District to expand the Urban Growth Boundary for the City of Lacey to include adjacent land it purchased for additional schools. In addition, staff from WA Department of Fish and Wildlife will provide a presentation on the ecology and life history of prairie species found in Thurston County. This information will provide background on future discussions of the prairie Habitat Conservation Plan that will come before the Planning Commission. (The draft prairie HCP is currently under development between Thurston County, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, and other partners.) For more information, go to www.co.thurston.wa.us/planning/planning_commission/planning_comm_currentwork.html
7:00 pm – (talk) What Can We Do to Protect Puget Sound Waters?—a diver’s perspective
(LOTT’s WET Science Center: 500 Adams Street NE; Olympia 98501) Presented by Laura James (Videographer, Beneath the Looking Glass, LLC) and Janna Nichols (Outreach Coordinator, REEF Environmental Education Foundation). Join us and hear about their unique perspectives on engaging people in water quality issues such as working with divers for Jana and some of the film work Laura does in Puget Sound, to show that average folks can make a difference while doing things they love to do already. Puget Sound is in trouble, it is a wonderful and unique place, and we can each help protect and improve it! Appropriate for teens and older. Free and open to the public. Doors open at 6:30 pm; presentation is from 7:00 to 8:30pm. Sponsored by the South Sound Estuary Association in partnership with the WET Science Center. For more information, contact Leihla at at 360-888-0565 or leihla@sseacenter.org.
7:00 – 8:30 pm – talk: Janna Nichols from REEF and Laura James from Beneath the Looking Glass, LLC
(LOTT’s WET Science Center: 500 Adams St. NE, Olympia) Join us and hear about their unique perspectives on engaging people in water quality issues such as working with divers for Jana and some of the film work Laura does in Puget Sound, to show that average folks can make a difference while doing things they love to do already. Puget Sound is in trouble, it is a wonderful and unique place, and we can each help protect and improve it! Free and open to the public. For more information, contact Leihla at at 360-888-0565 or leihla@sseacenter.org.
Thursday, February 20
8:00 am – Legislative hearings on bills relating to nuclear energy and on the definition of “renewable energy”
(House Technology & Economic Development Committee: House Hearing Rm B in the John L. O’Brien Building, on the Capitol Campus in Olympia) Public hearings on SSB 5991 (Studying nuclear power as a replacement for electricity generated from the combustion of fossil fuels) and SSB 6058 (Allowing incremental electricity produced as a result of efficiency improvements to hydroelectric generation projects whose energy output is marketed by the Bonneville power administration to qualify as an eligible renewable resource under the energy independence act). These may not be the only hearings scheduled for this meeting, and the hearing may be rescheduled—so check the committee agenda before attending. The committee agenda can be found at www.leg.wa.gov/house/committees/TED, then click on today’s date. In the agenda you will find links to additional information on the bills being considered.
1:30 pm – Legislative hearing on establishing minimum energy-efficiency standards for certain battery systems
(Senate Energy, Environment & Telecommunications Committee: Senate Hearing Rm 4 in the J.A. Cherberg Building, on the Capitol Campus in Olympia) Public hearing on E2SHB 1017 (Establishes minimum energy efficiency standards for battery charger systems, battery backup, and uninterruptible power supplies). This may not be the only hearing scheduled for this meeting, and hearings can be rescheduled—so check the committee agenda before attending. The committee agenda can be found at www.leg.wa.gov/senate/committees/EET, then click on today’s date. In the agenda you will find links to additional information on the bills being considered.
1:30 pm – Legislative hearings on bills making shoreline development easier, creating a community forest trust account, and requiring DNR to develop recreational trail policies.
(Senate Natural Resources & Parks Committee: Senate Hearing Rm 1 in the J.A. Cherberg Building, on the Capitol Campus in Olympia) Public hearings on ESHB 1090 (Increasing the dollar amount for construction of a dock that does not qualify as a substantial development under the shoreline management act); SHB 2126 (Creating the community forest trust account); and ESHB 2151 (Requires the department of natural resources to develop and implement an official recreational trail policy that is consistent with the management mandate of the department). These may not be the only hearings scheduled for this meeting, and hearings can be rescheduled—so check the committee agenda before attending. The committee agenda can be found at www.leg.wa.gov/senate/committees/NRP, then click on today’s date. In the agenda you will find links to additional information on the bills being considered.
Friday, February 21
9 am – 3 pm – South Sound Prairie work party
(South Thurston County) Come see our native seed farm and help us weed the annual rows! Dress for the weather, and bring along a box lunch, gloves and plenty of water. Directions to Webster’s Seed Farm: Take I-5 South from Olympia to exit 99. Turn right after the exit. Take a left on Jones Rd. Turn into the gate on the right side of the road. For more information, contact ssvolunteers@cnlm.org. Sponsored by the Center for Natural Lands Management.
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.
Saturday, February 22
9 am – noon – Powell Uplands Planting
(near Yelm) Join Nisqually Land Trust for work party to benefit wildlife habitat near the Nisqually River! We will be planting old logging roads amongst a beautiful forest stand and critical riparian habitat. It’s another important step in the restoration of this site! 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. To register and get directions, go to https://events.r20.constantcontact.com/register/eventReg?oeidk=a07e8xwj3xd148d23dd, or go to www.nisquallylandtrust.org/events.php and click on the event. For more information, contact Cris Peck (AmeriCorps Volunteer Coordinator, Nisqually Land Trust) at 360-489-3400 ext. 106 or at www.nisquallylandtrust.org.
10:00 am-1 pm – Watershed Park Work Party
(Olympia) Come out to Watershed Park to help improve the trail. The focus of this work party will be to re-gravel sections of the trail and improve erosion control. Meet at Harry Fains Legion Park, 1115 20th Ave SE. 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 online 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. For more information, contact Mike Baker with City of Olympia Parks, Arts and Recreation at mbaker@ci.olympia.wa.us or at 360.753.8365, or go to www.olympiawa.gov/parkvolunteer.
10 am – 2 pm – Fascinating World of Lichens!
(LOTT WET Science Center: 500 Adams St NE, Olympia) With common names like Fairy Puke and Golden Moon Glow, who wouldn’t be interested in these fascinating organisms? Join Stream Team for our second annual field class with arborist and lichen enthusiast, Micki McNaughton. Lichens are unusual organisms; they are not true plants but a combination of two organisms living symbiotically together, algae and fungus! In this workshop we will learn how these two organisms support each other in a symbiotic relationship to provide for each other’s survival needs. Discover why lichens are ecologically important to the health of our environment, their many uses, and how they are an indicator of air quality. There will be a lecture from 10 am to 12 noon, followed by a field trip to Priest Point Park from 1-2 pm. Micki McNaughton is a Certified Arborist and has a degree in Ecology and Horticulture. She is currently working on an advance degree in Restoration of Natural Systems, as well as working as the Urban Forestry Special Project Coordinator for the Washington State Department of Natural Resources. To register for this workshop, or for additional information, visit www.streamteam.info, click on Get Involved, select Calendar, and then click on “Register”. Staff contact: Michelle Stevie at mstevie@ci.olympia.wa.us.
10-11 am – Family Nature Walk in McKinley Park
Explore Tacoma’s Parks during this free naturalist-led walk. Discover amazing plants and animals and how they adapt to the seasons. Walks are organized and led by Tacoma Nature Center staff. Not recommended for strollers or children under 3. The event is FREE but space is limited. Please sign up online by going to www.metroparkstacoma.net/onlineregistration/Activities/ActivitiesDetails.asp?aid=2526 or calling the Tacoma Nature Center at (253) 591-6439.
11 am – 5 pm – Training: Coastal Observation and Seabird Survey Team Project
(Ocean Shores Convention Center: 120 W Chance a la Mer NW; Ocean Shores) The Coastal Observation and Seabird Survey Team project (http://depts.washington.edu/coasst) is a citizen-science project which trains volunteers to look for beach-cast carcasses of marine birds on a monthly basis to establish the baseline of bird mortality on local beaches. Anyone can volunteer! You don’t need to be bird expert, just someone willing to walk about a 3/4 mile stretch once/month. It’s a fun program and a great way to contribute to ongoing, local research. To find out more about COASST or RSVP, please contact Erika Frost, Volunteer Coordinator: 206-221-6893 or coasst@uw.edu.
1-5 pm – class: Urban Foraging
(Olympia) This class focuses on the delightful weeds from your yard and garden. Roughly 9 out of 10 of these weeds are delicious, nutritious and fun to cook with. This class will help you to identify many of these plants and show you ways to prepare them. Coop classes cost $5. For location and to register, go to www.olympiafood.coop/classes. (Why include cooking classes on a list of environmental events? Because learning to cook can greatly reduce the ecological footprint of your food—and it connects you to the sources of your food!)
Sunday, February 23
1:00 – 3:00 pm – Woodard Creek Tree Planting & Maintenance
(Olympia) Join Stream Team (rain or shine!) as we help protect and enhance the stream bank along Woodard Creek at the Lehman property. We will be planting native trees and shrubs that will help stabilize the stream bank and create habitat for wildlife. Dress for the weather and wear sturdy boots or shoes. To register, go to www.streamteam.info/getinvolved/calendar and click on the event. For more information, contact April Roe at roea@co.thurston.wa.us or at 360-867-2073.
Tuesday, February 25
9 am – 3 pm – South Sound Prairie work party
(South Thurston County) Dress for the weather, and bring along a box lunch, gloves and plenty of water. For more information, contact ssvolunteers@cnlm.org. Sponsored by the Center for Natural Lands Management.
Wednesday, February 26
9 am – noon – Wilcox Flats-Pierce County Tube Pull and Cleanup
(near Yelm) Join Nisqually Land Trust for work party to benefit wildlife habitat near the Nisqually River! 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. To register and get directions, go to www.nisquallylandtrust.org/events.php and click on the event. For more information, contact Cris Peck (AmeriCorps Volunteer Coordinator, Nisqually Land Trust) at 360-489-3400 ext. 106 or at www.nisquallylandtrust.org.
9:30 am-12 pm – Evergreen Park Work Party
(Olympia) Help us spruce up this well-loved neighborhood park. The focus of this work party will be to remove Himalayan Blackberry and Scotch Broom in the park. Evergreen Park is located at 1445 Evergreen Park Dr SW. 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 online 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. For more information, contact Mike Baker with City of Olympia Parks, Arts and Recreation at mbaker@ci.olympia.wa.us or at 360.753.8365, or go to www.olympiawa.gov/parkvolunteer.
4:30 pm – Birds and Beer (Shelton)
(Smoking Mo’s Kitchen: 203 W Railroad Ave, Shelton) Meet other birders from Mason County or those who happen to be in the area. Discuss good places to bird and the interesting birds you have sighted recently. Have a beverage and or a bite to eat with us. Come ready to share where and why you go birding in a particular spot. People new to our area will benefit from your knowledge.
Thursday, February 27
noon – 1:00 pm – Small Farms: the importance of the past and integrating for the future
(South Puget Sound Community College, Building 26, Room 102) Small farms across the world are the stewards of the landscape and preservers of our cultural heritage. Join us to hear Erik Hagan, Small Farms Specialist for WSU Extension and Mason Conservation District, ask he speaks on remembering where we came from, how to integrate our modern science and technology for a resilient future, and engaging in a global movement to redefine and discover a culture based on traditional and local ecological knowledge.
6:00-9:15 pm – Beyond Landscaping: Planting to Protect and Restore Shoreline Property
(City of Lacey Jacob Smith House, 4500 Intelco Loop SE, Lacey) If you live along a stream, lake or Puget Sound, this workshop is for you! Living next to water is a special place and requires unique landscaping methods and approaches. Attend this workshop to learn how to improve the habitat, stability and beauty of your shoreline. This workshop is especially tailored for shoreline property owners. Topics include managing invasive species, choosing the right plants for revegetation, erosion and geese control, tree care and view maintenance, and how to make an affordable action and planting plan. Learn from each other: with other shoreline property owners in attendance, the conversation and question and answer may give you landscaping tips and strategies for your property! To register for this workshop and field class, or for additional information, visit www.streamteam.info, click on Get Involved, select Calendar, and then click on “Register”. There will be an optional follow-up class on Saturday, March 15, that will enable participants to meet with experts to review and discuss landscape plans for their own properties: see details below.
Friday, February 28
1 – 4 pm – Twin Rivers Ranch Work Party
(near Shelton) Join Capitol Land Trust as it continues its efforts to restore habitat on this beautiful Oakland Bay shoreline property. Come help restore the tidal Sitka spruce forests and wetland habitat. A great chance to visit this unique and special place! To sign up and receive directions, or for more information, e-mail Yen at yenj@capitollandtrust.org. All are welcome; no experience is necessary.
Saturday, March 1
7:30 am – Birding near Tumwater Historical Park
Want to get a head start on your weekend? Join the Black Hills Audubon Society for Birding and Breakfast. Bird with us, 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 what birds are in the area. Beginning birders are welcome. Share what you know, connect, enjoy. No expert guide. We will meet at Tumwater Historical Park (777 Simmons Ln SW, Tumwater 98501) at 7:30 am. (Go north from Falls Terrace Restaurant towards Olympia on Deschutes Parkway for about .2 miles and take the unmarked road between Henderson House Museum and Crosby Road, down to the river.) We will meet at 9 am for breakfast at Rivers Edge Restaurant at the Tumwater Golf Course (4611 Tumwater Valley Drive SE, Tumwater). For more information, contact Leslie Lynam at 360- 402-9513 or Deb Nickerson at 360-754-5397.
9 am – 1 pm – Chehalis Western Trail work party
(Olympia) Join us for a work party along the trail. We have trees to plant and weeds to tackle. Bring gloves, tools and dress in layers with some rain gear (it is WA state after all), a sack lunch and any tools you like to use. WTGA has gloves, tools, snacks and water available at the work site. We will meet on the Chehalis Western Trail at 67th Street: look for the white tent and sign in there. For more information, go to www.woodlandtrail.org.
10 am-1 pm – Priest Point Park Work Party
(Olympia) Join us for this fun-filled restoration event. We will be planting native vegetation in an area previously used for storing park maintenance materials. Priest Point Park is located at 2600 East Bay Drive NE. Meet east of the Park Maintenance facility. 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 online 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. For more information, contact Mike Baker with City of Olympia Parks, Arts and Recreation at mbaker@ci.olympia.wa.us or at 360.753.8365, or go to www.olympiawa.gov/parkvolunteer.
10 am – noon – Nature Nurtures Farm work party
(2406 Delphi Road SW; Olympia 98512) Join Stream Team in planting native trees and shrubs along McLane Creek at Nature Nurtures Farm. We will also be removing blackberry. Dress for the weather and wear sturdy boots or shoes. To register, go to www.streamteam.info/getinvolved/calendar and click on the event. For more information, contact April Roe at roea@co.thurston.wa.us or at 360-867-2073.
10 am – 4 pm – The Drip Stops Here
(LOTT’s Wet Science Center: 500 Adams St NE; Olympia 98501) Play our giant floor game, the Drip Stops Here, to learn how everyone can help conserve water. You will get to take home water conservation stickers and a reusable lunch bag or water bottle!
5:00 pm – Black Hills Audubon Society Annual Dinner and Silent Auction
(Olympia Center: 222 Columbia Street NW; Olympia) For those new to the Black Hills Audubon Society, this evening is our major social and fundraising event of the year. Activities include: a scrumptious catered dinner, silent auction, plant sale, raffle, presentation of the annual BHAS Environmental Educator and Conservationist of the Year awards, and a special presentation. This year’s presentation will be by artist/biologist Chris Maynard, “Feathers: The Art and Biology”. RSVP and pre-payment are required by February 18th to attend. Go to http://blackhills-audubon.org/AnnualDinner.htm for more information and a link to RSVP.
Sunday, March 2
9:30 am – 3:30 pm – Native Plant Salvage
(Olympia) Volunteers with the Native Plant Salvage Project rescue small native trees, shrubs and herbaceous plants from local areas that are scheduled to be bulldozed for development. We then transport the salvaged plants to our plant nursery, where volunteers pot the salvaged plants and place them in holding beds. The salvaged plants are later provided to community groups who use them to restore habitat and improve water quality, and to support NPSP-sponsored projects such as Learning Landscapes, Demonstration Gardens and habitat restoration projects in and around Thurston County. Volunteers also can salvage plants for home landscaping projects. Salvages begin at 9:30 am at the site. We usually finish salvaging around noon, at which point a hot vegetarian lunch is provided. Afterwards, we move to our holding beds to pot the recovered plants around 1 pm until about 3:30 pm. Some volunteers choose to work all day, while others join us for the afternoon re-potting session. To register and get directions, email nativeplantsalvage@gmail.com.
Monday, March 3
6:00 – 7:30 pm – Volunteer Training for the South Sound Estuarium
(Olympia) South Sound Estuary Association has scheduled a volunteer orientation for the South Sound Estuarium program. The training will take place at the Estuarium (608 Washington Street NE), and light refreshments will be provided. This will be an opportunity for community members to learn about the South Sound Estuary Association and how to volunteer at the South Sound Estuarium. At the orientation, prospective volunteers can expect to learn about the process of becoming a volunteer, program policies, and procedures to volunteering as an education docent at the Estuarium. After going through the orientation, prospective volunteers can begin gaining experience as a new volunteer through further training. Prospective volunteers should RSVP to Nate Bernitz at nate@sseacenter.org, and should bring their completed volunteer form and criminal history check form to the orientation. These forms can be found at http://sseacenter.org (click on the Estuarium tab). For more information, contact Nate Bernitz (South Sound Estuarium, Operations Manager) at nate@sseacenter.org or at (781)-799-0278.
Wednesday, March 5
9:30 am-12 pm – Priest Point Park Work Party
(Olympia) Come out and help out on part 2 of this fun-filled restoration event. We will be mulching native vegetation that was planted in our Saturday event. Priest Point Park is located at 2600 East Bay Drive NE. Meet east of the Park Maintenance facility. 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 online 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. For more information, contact Mike Baker with City of Olympia Parks, Arts and Recreation at mbaker@ci.olympia.wa.us or at 360.753.8365, or go to www.olympiawa.gov/parkvolunteer.
Thursday, March 6
6 – 9 pm – Naturescaping for Water & Wildlife, Part 2: Landscape Plans
This optional follow-up to the February 5th Naturescaping for Water & Wildlife class will enable participants to receive a free planting-plan consultation! Bring your draft landscape plan and have it reviewed by local experts who can answer specific questions about your landscape and plant choices, and give their expert advice! Work on and/ or revise your plan during this workshop. Prior participation in the February 5th Naturescaping workshop is required. Erica Guttman, WSU Native Plant Salvage Project, will teach the class. To register for this workshop, or for additional information, visit www.streamteam.info, click on Get Involved, select Calendar, and then click on “Register”.
Friday, March 7
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.
Saturday, March 8
9:00 am – Noon – Franklin Park Work Party
(1201 S Puget Ave; Tacoma) Metro Parks Tacoma, the Central Neighborhood Council, and Friends of South 12th Street are joining together to clean up and improve Franklin Park. On the 2nd Saturday of each month we meet at the entrance to Franklin Park for a work party cleaning up the park and removing overgrown brush and invasive species. Tools, snacks, and water will be provided, but please bring your own gloves and a “can do” attitude! Help us clean up, maintain, and transform our park!
9 – noon – Gulia’s Gulch Work Party
(Tacoma) Park at View Point Park (see map at www.juliasgulch.org): we will meet at the picnic table under the big leaf maples. We will be removing the Himalayan blackberry and planting the remainder of the fir tree saplings. Come dressed for the weather, wear sturdy footwear and garden gloves. Some tools will be provided but if you have a pick or lopper please bring it along. I’ll bring hot tea and cookies.
9 am – 12 pm – Puget Creek Restoration Society Work Party
(Tacoma) The second Saturday of each month is our monthly restoration activity. We have all the tools, boots, gloves etc.—we just need willing and able volunteers to help out. We do a variety of activities such as planting native vegetation, eradicate invasive non-native, do trail work, pick up trash, weed around planted vegetation and a whole bunch of other activities. We meet down at Puget Creek. RSVP if you want to attend by emailing us at pcrs@pugetcreek.org or calling (253) 779-8890.
9 am – 12 pm – Wapato Hills Clean-up Party
(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. For directions, go to http://www.metroparkstacoma.org/wapato-park.
10:30 am – noon – Edible Spring Mushrooms
(Centralia Timberland Library) Debbie Burris from the Southwest Washington Mycological Society will discuss local mushrooms found during the spring season. There will be a slide show to help with identification. SWMS is a non-profit organization created for the purpose of educating the public on how to identify local mushrooms, both edible and inedible.
12:00- 4:00 pm – Robotics for Kids
(LOTT’s Wet Science Center: 500 Adams St NE; Olympia 98501) Experience the amazing world of robots! This introduction is great preparation for participating in local robotics clubs and classes. From 12:00- 4:00 pm staff from Seattle’s Museum of Flight, and students from local robotics clubs, will be on-site leading activities, building and programming robots, showing off unique robots, and playing robot tic-tac-toe. At 2:00 pm the Museum of Flight will lead the Robot Garage workshop. Learn about the history of robotics and the cutting edge robots being developed. They’ll assist you in designing a robot to complete a challenge. Activities and presentations appropriate for 4th grade and up; no experience necessary.
Sunday, March 9
2-4:30 pm – cooking class: Introduction to Greens
(Olympia) Adding hearty greens to your diet is one of the simplest (and cheapest) ways to improve your nutrition. Once you get the hang of cooking with greens, it is easy to add them to your everyday meals, and you may even find yourself looking for recipes that feature them. Come join Erin in this fun and accessible introduction to cooking with greens. We will go over basic selection and preparation tips and make four dishes that feature hearty greens including kale, collard greens, and chard. Co-op classes cost $5. For location and to register, go to www.olympiafood.coop/classes. (Why include cooking classes on a list of environmental events? Because learning to cook can greatly reduce the ecological footprint of your food—and it connects you to the sources of your food!)
1-4 pm – Native Plant Salvage Project fundraiser: Heathers & Hellebores Happening
(Olympia) Join us in embracing early signs of spring! Our first Heathers & Hellebores Happening will be at the exquisite garden of Gary Schuldt, located at 1335 Pear St NE. Gary’s splendid garden is rich with color and texture, and the hellebores, heathers and conifers will be at their best. The Schuldt garden has been on numerous tours including the Garden Conservancy Open Days, Garden Rhapsodies, and The International Heather Society Tour. Bill Lepman of Lupe’s Hot Tamales and Jennifer Witherspoon of The Saucy Spoon are providing delicious tamales, flan, and libations! Sliding-scale donations of $10-$30 will support the important work of the Native Plant Salvage Project in teaching young people and community members about protecting water resources and habitat, as well as field projects to create rain gardens and revegetate areas where habitat has been compromised. To RSVP, send an email to nativeplantsalvage@gmail.com or call (360) 867-2167.
Monday, March 10
7 pm – Burning for Butterflies: Using fire as a restoration tool for rare species habitat
(Washington State Capitol Museum Coach House: 211 21st Avenue SW; Olympia 98501) For two decades, a growing collaborative effort has been aimed at restoring rare prairie habitat in the Puget Lowlands. A large part of this effort has involved restoring one of the most important native processes to this landscape: fire. The South Sound prescribed fire program has steadily expanded over the years, both in capacity and in knowledge about this restoration tool. In this talk, Sarah Hamman will discuss the evolution of the fire program and how it’s being used today to strategically restore habitat for a wide suite of prairie species, including fire sensitive butterflies. Sponsored by the South Sound Chapter of the Washington Native Plant Society. Open to the public and free of charge. For more information go to www.southsoundchapterwnps.org.
Tuesday, March 11
7 pm – Marbled Murrelets: Recovering a Rare Bird
(Olympia REI: 625 Black Lake Blvd. #410; Olympia 98502) Maria Ruth moved her family from the East Coast to the West and spent the next several years learning about this fascinating seabird, following murrelet biologists into the field, delving into the complexity of murrelet conservation, and exploring the question of why the marbled murrelet matters. In 2005 she published an account of her adventures—Rare Bird: Pursuing the Mystery of the Marbled Murrelet—which has just been reissued by Mountaineers Books. Maria will be giving a slide presentation on this fascinating bird, followed by a Q&A and an opportunity to buy her book. The event is free but space is limited. To reserve a spot, go to http://www.rei.com/event/55681/session/86074.
Wednesday, March 12
7 pm – Trees Live Here: Visiting America’s Arboretums
(Tacoma Nature Center: 1919 South Tyler Street; Tacoma 98405) Based upon her visits to 33 of the country’s arboretums, Susan McDougall will present a photographic and textual exploration of these special “places for trees.” Besides introducing a selection of these arboretums, her talk will give special emphasis to the work being done by modern arboretums to present their native trees and other plants in ecosystem settings. Sponsored by the South Sound Chapter of the Washington Native Plant Society. Open to the public and free of charge. For more information go to www.southsoundchapterwnps.org.
Saturday, March 15
9 am – 1 pm – Chehalis Western Trail work party
(Olympia) Join us for a work party along the trail. We have trees to plant and weeds to tackle. Bring gloves, tools and dress in layers with some rain gear (it is WA state after all), a sack lunch and any tools you like to use. WTGA has gloves, tools, snacks and water available at the work site. We will meet on the Chehalis Western Trail at 67th Street: look for the white tent and sign in there. For more information, go to www.woodlandtrail.org.
10 am – 2:30 pm – Beyond Landscaping, Part 2: Landscape Plans
Participants who develop their own landscape plan for their shoreline property after the February 27th Beyond Landscaping class will have a chance to meet with experts to review and discuss their landscape plan. Following the plan review, the class will travel to a field site for a hands-on session on slope-planting techniques, including how to plant fascines and live stakes on a steep-slope site, as well as other practices to minimize impact and maximize stability! To attend this workshop you must have attended the February 27th Beyond Landscaping class and register separately for this class. To register or for additional information, visit www.streamteam.info, click on Get Involved, select Calendar, and then click on “Register”.
1:00 pm – Wastewater Treatment Plant Tour
(LOTT’s Wet Science Center: 500 Adams St NE; Olympia 98501) Learn how we clean wastewater, including the extra steps we’ve added to protect Puget Sound. A slideshow followed by a treatment plant tour will begin at 1:00 p.m. Tour participants must be 10 or older; please dress for outdoor weather, and wear closed-toe, closed-heel shoes.
5:30 – 8:30 pm – Successful Starts Workshop and Seed Exchange with Caitlin Moore
(Olympia Timberland Library) Learn how to start vegetables and herbs indoors using the right tools at the right time. You will learn about potting soil, watering, fertilizing, planting, transplanting, lighting, and more. A small indoor greenhouse will be on display so you can learn how to do this in your apartment or home. Bring seeds to swap at 7:30 after the workshop. Sponsored by the Friends of the Olympia Timberland Library. This is an after-hours event; no other library services will be available.
March 18
6:30 – 8:00 pm – Grow and Preserve Your Own Food
(Shelton Timberland Library) Plant! Pickle! Preserve! Brine! Join WSU Food Safety and Mason County Master Gardeners for the lowdown on the best varieties to grow for preserving. Then learn the basics of pickling, drying and canning your crops safely and efficiently. Watch a WSU Preservation Information Assistant demonstrate how to brine cabbage. Bring the gauge for your pressure canner and have it tested! This Timberland-sponsored program is also supported by the Friends of the Shelton Timberland Library.
Wednesday, March 19
7:00 pm – (talk) Waterbirds & Shorebirds of Puget Sound: Observations from the Field
(LOTT’s WET Science Center: 500 Adams Street NE; Olympia 98501) Phil Kelley and Whittier Johnson, Black Hills Audubon Society. Doors open at 6:30 pm; presentation is from 7-8:30pm. Sponsored by the South Sound Estuary Association in partnership with the WET Science Center.
Friday, March 21
1 – 4 pm – Twin Rivers Ranch Work Party
(near Shelton) Join Capitol Land Trust as it continues its efforts to restore habitat on this beautiful Oakland Bay shoreline property. Come help restore the tidal Sitka spruce forests and wetland habitat. A great chance to visit this unique and special place! To sign up and receive directions or for more information, e-mail Yen at yenj@capitollandtrust.org. All are welcome; no experience is necessary.
Friday, March 21 or Saturday, March 22 (awaiting clarification)
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.
Saturday, March 22
9 am – noon — Powell Pasture NatureMapping Field Trips
(Yelm) The Nisqually Land Trust is seeking wildlife data on this property on the Nisqually River. The Powell Pasture site is in the Yelm area and has been recently planted in efforts to restore the natural habitat for wildlife use along the River. The event is free, and does not require previous NatureMapping experience. Participants should dress 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 get more information, contact Jessica Moore at 360.832.7160 or at Jessica.Moore@nwtrek.org.
10 am – 4 pm – Art-Rageous Science
(LOTT’s Wet Science Center: 500 Adams St NE; Olympia 98501) Art and science join hands through a variety of fun and educational experiments. Explore pH, crystals, and salmon anatomy through fun painting activities. Take home some beautiful science-inspired artwork!
Sunday, March 23
2-4:30 pm – cooking class: Basic Sauces
(Olympia) A sauce can be the crowning glory of any dish. There are hundreds of variations of sauce that are used to dress, compliment enhance and bring out the flavor of the food it is served with. Come and learn to make a few basic sauces and make them your own. They will add a new dynamic to your kitchen repertoire! We will make Roasted Garlic Aioli, Bechamel, Classic Cocktail, Cheddar Mustard and Spicy Jamaican Jerk Dipping Sauce. Co-op classes cost $5. For location and to register, go to www.olympiafood.coop/classes. (Why include cooking classes on a list of environmental events? Because learning to cook can greatly reduce the ecological footprint of your food—and it connects you to the sources of your food!)
March 29
10 am – 4 pm – Monoculars & Weather Windows Tools for Nature Explorers
(LOTT’s Wet Science Center: 500 Adams St NE; Olympia 98501) Make a real, easy to assemble monocular natureviewing scope with 3x magnification, and a cloud identification weather window that has pictures of cloud types classified by altitude. Then head outside to spot some local wildlife and identify clouds!
Friday, April 4
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.
Saturday, April 5
7:30 am – Birding along McLane Nature Area Trail
(Olympia) Want to get a head start on your weekend? Join the Black Hills Audubon Society for Birding and Breakfast. Bird with us, 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 what birds are in the area. Beginning birders are welcome. Share what you know, connect, enjoy. No expert guide. We will meet at 7:30 am at McLane Nature Area Trail (DNR) on Delphi Road (meet at trailhead parking area). We will meet at 9 am for breakfast at Top Food’s Food Court, Shipwreck Café, or group’s choice. For more information, contact Leslie Lynam at 360- 402-9513 or Deb Nickerson at 360-754-5397.
8 am – 5:00 pm—Ohop Creek Restoration NatureMapping Field Trip
The South Sound Salmon Enhancement Group, Nisqually Indian Tribe, Nisqually Land Trust and its partners have joined together to restore the creek through the Ohop Valley to its original meandering pathway. Northwest Trek is helping with the habitat restoration efforts by providing data collection and monitoring of the wildlife in the project area—using citizen-scientists to help collect data. Today’s event will be a “mini-bioblitz”, with two 4-hour shifts and a 1-hour lunch in between. This event is free, and you do not need to have NatureMapping experience. Participants should come dressed for the weather and for walking in tall grass and in wet environments on uneven surfaces. To sign up or get more information, contact Jessica Moore at 360.832.7160 or at Jessica.Moore@nwtrek.org.
April 9
7 pm – Pierce College Oak Woodland Restoration: Learning, teaching, and partnerships
(Tacoma Nature Center: 1919 South Tyler Street; Tacoma 98405) In an effort to restore a Garry oak woodland ecosystem near Pierce College and Fort Steilacoom Park, educators and multigenerational students have become involved in environmental stewardship. Elysia Mbuja, Assistant Professor at Pierce College, will discuss how the restoration project began 5 years ago, the progression of the project, how strategies have changed, and about the challenges that are yet to be solved. The logistics of partnering with an elementary school will also be discussed. Sponsored by the South Sound Chapter of the Washington Native Plant Society. Open to the public and free of charge. For more information go to www.southsoundchapterwnps.org.
Saturday, April 12
9:00 am – Noon – Franklin Park Work Party
(1201 S Puget Ave; Tacoma) Metro Parks Tacoma, the Central Neighborhood Council, and Friends of South 12th Street are joining together to clean up and improve Franklin Park. On the 2nd Saturday of each month we meet at the entrance to Franklin Park for a work party cleaning up the park and removing overgrown brush and invasive species. Tools, snacks, and water will be provided, but please bring your own gloves and a “can do” attitude! Help us clean up, maintain, and transform our park!
9 am – 12 pm – Puget Creek Restoration Society Work Party
(Tacoma) The second Saturday of each month is our monthly restoration activity. We have all the tools, boots, gloves etc.—we just need willing and able volunteers to help out. We do a variety of activities such as planting native vegetation, eradicate invasive non-native, do trail work, pick up trash, weed around planted vegetation and a whole bunch of other activities. We meet down at Puget Creek. RSVP if you want to attend by emailing us at pcrs@pugetcreek.org or calling (253) 779-8890.
9 am – 12 pm – Wapato Hills Clean-up Party
(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. For directions, go to http://www.metroparkstacoma.org/wapato-park.
April 14
7 pm – Shrubsteppe: the Richest of our Paupers
(Washington State Capitol Museum Coach House: 211 21st Avenue SW; Olympia 98501) Shrubsteppe is a community that once carpeted a majority of the surface of what came to be the state of Washington. So rich in life that it would make a mature redwood forest look like the inside of a burial crypt, it is now reduced to an impoverishment of its former distribution. First described and most studied by our state’s preeminent plant ecologist, Rexford Daubenmire, remnants of it still exist. Little known and widely abused, shrubsteppe needs a makeover in terms of what is known of its botanical and zoological value; it deserves much more respect than it currently enjoys. Dr. Steven Herman fell in love with this landscape, after hearing a lecture by Professor Daubenmire in 1974 and soon thereafter bought 80 acres of it in Southeastern Oregon where he installed the infrastructure for a field station. Now protected from sundry insults for 30 years, it stands out clearly, healthy in a sea of the infirm. As a professor at Evergreen, Steve taught “The Natural History and Conservation of Shrubsteppe,” taking students into the field to study shrubsteppe for weeks at a time. Now a professor Emeritus at Evergreen, he continues to teach summer courses at the college. In this presentation he will tell stories related to his shrubsteppe experiences. But perhaps his highest goal will be to convince you (in part through his beautiful photographs) that this is a landscape of great beauty and natural history interest, worthy of your attention and that of land managers across the American West—a landscape of elegance and poetic beauty. Sponsored by the South Sound Chapter of the Washington Native Plant Society. Open to the public and free of charge. For more information go to www.southsoundchapterwnps.org.
Thursday, April 24
6:30 – 8:30 pm – Let It Soak In: Rain Garden Workshop
(LOTT WET Center Board Room: 500 Adams St NE, Olympia) Thinking about adding a rain garden to your landscape? Or wondering what a rain garden is? A rain garden is a great way for you to make a big difference in protecting our local waterways and Puget Sound, while beautifying your yard. Rain gardens are shaped and sized to fit your yard and planted with a variety of flowers, shrubs and ornamental grasses. Rain gardens act like a 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 ground. Attend this 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 our local water resources. Participants will receive a rain garden poster and a copy of WSU’s Rain Garden Handbook for Western Washington. The basic instructional workshop will be followed by an optional session from 8:15 to 9 pm offering assistance creating a rain garden planting plan. The class will be taught by Erica Guttman, who has been a hands-on environmental educator for over 25 years and has been designing, installing, researching, and teaching about rain gardens for over seven years. She has contributed to several rain garden publications and created a 30-minute video, “Building a Rain Garden: Keeping our Pacific Northwest Waters Clean.” She holds an MA in ecological restoration with a focus on the Puget Sound nearshore. To register for this workshop, or for additional information, visit www.streamteam.info, click on Get Involved, select Calendar, and then click on “Register”. (If you live in Olympia, Lacey, Tumwater or Thurston County, a rain garden installation on your property could be eligible for a rebate! Go to www.streamteam.info/actions/raingardens for more information, the guidelines and applications.)
Saturday, April 26
Parks Appreciation Day
(Tacoma) Stay tuned for details.
4-9 pm – 25th Anniversary Conservation Dinner & Auction
(Worthington Conference Center: Lacey, WA) For more information, go to www.nisquallylandtrust.org.
Friday, May 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.
Saturday, May 10
9:00 am – Noon – Franklin Park Work Party
(1201 S Puget Ave; Tacoma) Metro Parks Tacoma, the Central Neighborhood Council, and Friends of South 12th Street are joining together to clean up and improve Franklin Park. On the 2nd Saturday of each month we meet at the entrance to Franklin Park for a work party cleaning up the park and removing overgrown brush and invasive species. Tools, snacks, and water will be provided, but please bring your own gloves and a “can do” attitude! Help us clean up, maintain, and transform our park!
9 am – 12 pm – Puget Creek Restoration Society Work Party
(Tacoma) The second Saturday of each month is our monthly restoration activity. We have all the tools, boots, gloves etc.—we just need willing and able volunteers to help out. We do a variety of activities such as planting native vegetation, eradicate invasive non-native, do trail work, pick up trash, weed around planted vegetation and a whole bunch of other activities. We meet down at Puget Creek. RSVP if you want to attend by emailing us at pcrs@pugetcreek.org or calling (253) 779-8890.
9 am – 12 pm – Wapato Hills Clean-up Party
(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. For directions, go to http://www.metroparkstacoma.org/wapato-park.
May 12
7 pm – Conserving Oakland Bay
(Washington State Capitol Museum Coach House: 211 21st Avenue SW; Olympia 98501) From tidal Sitka forests to shellfish to oak savannahs, Oakland Bay’s cultural, economic, and ecological significance reaches far deeper than its depth as the shallowest bay in Puget Sound. Guy Maguire from Capitol Land Trust will give a presentation about the work of the local citizens, including Capitol Land Trust, to conserve and restore the special mix of habitats and agriculture that make Oakland Bay unique. Participants will learn about Twin Rivers Ranch, a 133 acre wildlife preserve and historic farm located at the head of Oakland Bay, the site of major restoration work to restore habitat, as well as Oakland Bay Park, a public park with trails and a historic homestead, permanently protected by Capitol Land Trust. Participants will also learn about some exciting new conservation projects, and learn ways that volunteers and citizens can get involved in the effort to protect and restore this local treasure. Sponsored by the South Sound Chapter of the Washington Native Plant Society. Open to the public and free of charge. For more information go to www.southsoundchapterwnps.org.
May 14
7 pm – Birds and Native Plants
(Tacoma Nature Center: 1919 South Tyler Street; Tacoma 98405) Everyone knows that birds come to feeders full of seeds. There are a lot of seed-eating birds! But birds relate to our native plants in many more ways than that, both positive and negative, and Dennis Paulson will tell you how in an illustrated lecture. Dennis Paulson, recently retired from being Director of the Slater Museum of Natural History, University of Puget Sound, has been a professional biologist and naturalist all of his adult life. He began studying natural history as a boy and is a world expert on dragonflies and shorebirds. He is the author of nine books, including “Shorebirds of North America” and “Dragonflies and Damselflies of the West”, as well as 90 scientific papers on birds and dragonflies. Sponsored by the South Sound Chapter of the Washington Native Plant Society. Open to the public and free of charge. For more information go to www.southsoundchapterwnps.org.
Friday, May 16
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.
May 17
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 a 150-acre riparian forest mosaic perched between the Centralia power canal and the Nisqually River. This event is designed to obtain wildlife data from the site, and is free and does not require previous NatureMapping experience. Participants should dress 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 get more information, contact Jessica Moore at 360.832.7160 or at Jessica.Moore@nwtrek.org.
Friday, June 6
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.
Saturday, June 14
9 am – noon —Bragett Parcel NatureMapping Field Trip
The Nisqually Tribe protects this 50+ acre site that is a mixture of estuary, river, forest and meadow, adjacent to the Nisqually Wildlife Refuge. The diverse habitat creates ideal conditions for a wide variety of wildlife. This event is designed to obtain wildlife data from the site, and is free and does not require previous NatureMapping experience. Participants should dress for the weather and for walking in grassy, woody and wetland environments and on uneven surfaces. Rubber boots are advised for portions of the site. To sign up or get more information, contact Jessica Moore at 360.832.7160 or at Jessica.Moore@nwtrek.org.
9 am – Noon – Franklin Park Work Party
(1201 S Puget Ave; Tacoma) Metro Parks Tacoma, the Central Neighborhood Council, and Friends of South 12th Street are joining together to clean up and improve Franklin Park. On the 2nd Saturday of each month we meet at the entrance to Franklin Park for a work party cleaning up the park and removing overgrown brush and invasive species. Tools, snacks, and water will be provided, but please bring your own gloves and a “can do” attitude! Help us clean up, maintain, and transform our park!
9 am – 12 pm – Puget Creek Restoration Society Work Party
(Tacoma) The second Saturday of each month is our monthly restoration activity. We have all the tools, boots, gloves etc.—we just need willing and able volunteers to help out. We do a variety of activities such as planting native vegetation, eradicate invasive non-native, do trail work, pick up trash, weed around planted vegetation and a whole bunch of other activities. We meet down at Puget Creek. RSVP if you want to attend by emailing us at pcrs@pugetcreek.org or calling (253) 779-8890.
9 am – 12 pm – Wapato Hills Clean-up Party
(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. For directions, go to http://www.metroparkstacoma.org/wapato-park.
Friday, June 20
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.
Friday, July 4
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.
July 7
9 am – noon — Wilcox Flats NatureMapping and Habitat Restoration Field Trip
The Nisqually Land Trust is looking to gather wildlife data at the Wilcox Flats property, located along the Nisqually River near Roy. This site is vital to salmon recovery efforts along the Nisqually River. The trip will collect baseline data about plants and wildlife in the surrounding habitat, and continue restoration efforts in the meadows and forests along the Nisqually River and side channels. This field trip will consist of data collection, invasive species removal, and weeding and care of new plantings. The event is free, and does not require previous NatureMapping experience. Participants should come dressed for the weather and for walking in grassy and woody environments and on uneven surfaces. To sign up or get more information, contact Jessica Moore at 360.832.7160 or at Jessica.Moore@nwtrek.org.
July 12
9 am – noon—Ohop Creek Restoration NatureMapping Field Trip
The South Sound Salmon Enhancement Group, Nisqually Indian Tribe, Nisqually Land Trust and its partners have joined together to restore the creek through the Ohop Valley to its original meandering pathway. Northwest Trek is helping with the habitat restoration efforts by providing data collection and monitoring of the wildlife in the project area—using citizen-scientists to help collect data. This event is free, and you do not need to have NatureMapping experience. Participants should come dressed for the weather and for walking in tall grass and in wet environments on uneven surfaces. To sign up or get more information, contact Jessica Moore at 360.832.7160 or at Jessica.Moore@nwtrek.org.
Friday, July 18
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.
Friday, August 1
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.
Friday, August 15
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.
Friday September 5
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.
September 6
9 am – noon — Red Salmon Creek NatureMapping Field Trip
The Nisqually Land Trust protects this 25+ acre site near the Nisqually Wildlife Refuge that 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 there is an active beaver population. This event is designed to obtain wildlife data from the site, and is free and does not require previous NatureMapping experience. Participants should dress 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 get more information, contact Jessica Moore at 360.832.7160 or at Jessica.Moore@nwtrek.org.
Saturday, September 19
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.
September 20
9 am – noon — Powell Creek NatureMapping Field Trip
(Yelm) The Nisqually Land Trust is seeking wildlife data on this property on the Nisqually River. The Powell Creek site is in the Yelm area and has been recently planted in efforts to restore the natural habitat for wildlife use along the River. The event is free, and does not require previous NatureMapping experience. Participants should dress 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 get more information, contact Jessica Moore at 360.832.7160 or at Jessica.Moore@nwtrek.org.
Friday, October 3rd
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.
Saturday, October 11
9 am – noon—Ohop Creek Restoration NatureMapping Field Trip
The South Sound Salmon Enhancement Group, Nisqually Indian Tribe, Nisqually Land Trust and its partners have joined together to restore the creek through the Ohop Valley to its original meandering pathway. Northwest Trek is helping with the habitat restoration efforts by providing data collection and monitoring of the wildlife in the project area—using citizen-scientists to help collect data. This event is free, and you do not need to have NatureMapping experience. Participants should come dressed for the weather and for walking in tall grass and in wet environments on uneven surfaces. To sign up or get more information, contact Jessica Moore at 360.832.7160 or at Jessica.Moore@nwtrek.org.
Green Tacoma Day
Stay tuned for details.
Friday, November 7
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.
Friday, November 21
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.
Friday, December 5
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.
Friday, December 19
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.