Local Environmental Events! |

See Below

RECURRING EVENTS

Tuesdays:

9 am – 3 pm: South Sound Prairie Restoration Work Party.

(See specific dates below for details.)

4 – 7 pm: West Olympia Farmers’ Market

(Parking lot of Gloria Dei Church: 1515 Harrison Ave NW—at Harrison & Thomas) Produce, baked goods, eggs, flowers, veggie starts, crafts, tool sharpening and more! Farmers, artisans and producers are from Thurston County, and most work and live on the west side of Olympia. Most produce small-scale, and many only sell to the public through the West Olympia Farmers’ Market.

7 pm: Olympia City Council (Olympia City Council Chambers: 601 4^th Ave E)

Go to http://olympia.legistar.com/Calendar.aspx for more information.

7 pm (1^st & 3^rd Tuesday): 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:

10 am – 3 pm – Olympia Farmers’ Market

(700 N Capitol Way; Olympia 98501) Fresh organic produce; Washington-grown fruits & meats; fresh fish, clams & oysters; dried herbs; fresh-cut flowers; breads; desserts; eggs; cheeses; jams & jellies; great food; quality locally grown plants & flowers; lots of fun; art and crafts from local artisans; live entertainment. For more information, go to http://olympiafarmersmarket.com.

7 pm (2^nd & 4^th Thursday): 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.

Fridays

10 am – 3 pm – Olympia Farmers’ Market

Saturdays

10 am – 3 pm – Olympia Farmers’ Market

Sundays

10 am – 3 pm – Olympia Farmers’ Market

Volunteers with Botanical Backgrounds Needed July 16 and 17 (tentative dates)

Stream Team is looking for volunteers to assist with vegetation surveys for the Mission Creek Estuary restoration project at the southernmost boundary of Priest Point Park. The project is sponsored by the Port of Olympia and South Puget Sound Salmon Enhancement Group. For more information, contact Michelle Stevie at mstevie@ci.olympia.wa.us.

AmeriCorps Position Open with Thurston County Water Resources Program

October 1, 2013- August 15, 2014; 40 hours/week; $1125 monthly living stipend (before taxes) + $5500 educational award.

Thurston County Water Resources Education and Outreach Program (E & O) seeks to raise community awareness of stormwater runoff issues that affect water quality in Thurston County, and it offers community members volunteer opportunities to help improve water resources such as streams and wetlands. The E&O program works with youth and adults through classroom presentations, hands-on habitat restoration activities, workshops and field classes, stream monitoring, outreach at community events and by developing and disseminating educational articles and materials related to preventing stormwater pollution.

AmeriCorps service will include:

• Conduct stormwater education to students in grades 4-12 through watershed model presentations, “stream bug” presentations, field trips to learn about locally spawning salmon and implementing the “Lost and (Puget) Sound stormwater curriculum;

• Recruit, train and manage volunteers and volunteer data;

• Coordinate community service projects for school and community groups;

• Assist in the development and/or implementation of stormwater-related educational presentations and activities for student groups, adults and at public/community events;

• Assist in the collection of “stream bug” monitoring samples;

• Assist in the coordination of educational workshops and field trips;

• Write volunteer highlight articles for quarterly newsletter, posting on the web or on Facebook;

• Conduct evaluations of presentations/workshops to asses increase in knowledge; and

• Participate in local environmental coordination meetings.

Qualifications:

• Between ages of 21 and 25 (by October 1, 2013)

• Willing to submit to a background check to work with children and volunteers

• Valid Driver’s License and safe driving record (WA State Driver’s License preferred)

• Must be eligible to apply for AmeriCorps service (www.americorps.gov)

Preferred experience & skills include:

• Excellent written, verbal and organizational skills with ability to multi-task

• Demonstrated interest in environmental science or education, specifically as related to water quality, riparian habitat, or stormwater pollution

• Experience working with volunteers and/or students

• Some college preferred with a focus on environmental science and/or education

• Familiarity with Microsoft Office software and social media

• Social marketing and public outreach skills a plus

To apply, complete the AmeriCorps application (at https://my.americorps.gov/mp/listing/viewListing.do?id=51321&fromSearch=true) and submit a resume and cover letter to pearcea@co.thurston.wa.us. Application due by 5:00 pm PDT on July 19, 2013. For more information, contact Ann Marie Pearce at pearcea@co.thurston.wa.us or 360-754-3355, ext. 6857.

Volunteer at Lakefair: July 20

Summer is quickly approaching and that means Lakefair is, too! The Lakefair Parade is July 20th and a great opportunity to show our community that we are working hard to reduce, reuse and recycle. The City of Olympia, Public Works, Waste ReSources is looking for eager volunteers to walk the parade route… hold a sign, collect plastic water bottles and pop cans, or be part of the Recycle Cart Drill Team! Kids are welcome as well. This is also a great opportunity for high school students to get some volunteer hours. Volunteers are needed from 3:00 to 6:30 pm. Free t-shirt, drinks and snacks are provided for volunteers! If you have questions or are interested in this opportunity, please contact Kim Johnson at 570-5837 or through email kjohnson@ci.olympia.wa.us.

Volunteers Needed for South Sound Estuarium

The South Sound Estuarium—a marine life discovery center—is now open! The center is located at 608 Washington St. NE, 1 block south of the Olympia Farmer’s Market, and is open 10 am – 4 pm, Thursday through Sunday. More volunteers are needed to help staff the center. We have several activities we can only use if we have volunteers to supervise them. To volunteer or get more information, email Lisa Anderson at andersolis@cwu.edu.

Monday, July 15

10 am – 2 pm – Intensive Weed Control on Nisqually Land Trust Lands

(near Eatonville) Join Nisqually Land Trust as we take on invasive plants in the Ohop valley! We will be using brush cutters, a mower, and hand tools to intensively clear out blackberry, reed canarygrass, and other trouble weeds from NLT-protected land. Clean-up will include some debris removal. Some snacks and water will be provided, but you are encouraged to pack a lunch and bring a water bottle. Gloves, protective eye- and ear-wear, loppers and a limited number of brush cutters will be available. There are no restrooms at this site. To register for one or both days (we will be continuing on Tuesday), go to https://events.r20.constantcontact.com/register/eventReg?llr=jzh7gggab&oeidk=a07e7sul17sb94feb27. For more information, contact Candi Tobin at ctobin@nisquallylandtrust.org or at 360-489-3400 x102.

Tuesday, July 16

9 am – 3 pm – South Sound Prairie Restoration Work Party

We have two options for the day. For those who feel like pulling broom, we will meet over at Glacial Heritage to keep making progress in the pull area. If seed cleaning or collecting is more your speed, meet Tel over at Shotwell’s landing to lend him a hand. As always, please dress for the weather and bring along gloves, a box lunch and water. Directions to Glacial Heritage: take I-5 to exit 95 (the Littlerock exit), ~10 miles south of Olympia; go west into Littlerock; continue going straight through Littlerock—do not take any turns, and follow the road (128^th Ave) until it ends at Mima Road/Waddell Creek Road; turn south (left) on Mima Road and go 2.7 miles; take a left onto a gravel road with sign for Glacial Heritage—there will be a tractor sign shortly before the turn. Please obey the 15 mph speed limit, as there are often dogs and small children active nearby. Follow the road through the gate; take the first right, and then stay to the left to get to the house. 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. Sponsored by the Center for Natural Lands Management.

9:30am – 12:00pm – Burri Park work party

(Olympia) We will be spreading fibar bark in the playground and clearing brush from walking trails. Burri Park is located at 2415 Burbank Ave NW. 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 (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 Christina Newman (Program Specialist, Park Stewardship Program, City of Olympia Parks, Arts and Recreation) at 360.753.8365 or at www.olympiawa.gov/parkvolunteer.

10 am – 2 pm – Intensive Weed Control on Nisqually Land Trust Lands

(near Eatonville) See description under Monday, July 15.

Wednesday, July 17

7 pm – Public hearing on changes to Thurston County Critical Areas Ordinance

(Room 152 of Building One at the Thurston County Courthouse Complex: 2000 Lakeridge Drive SW; Olympia 98502) In July 2012, the Thurston County Board of Commissioners approved a comprehensive update to the County’s critical areas regulations. Since then, county staff have been reviewing implementation of the new regulations to identify areas that need better refinement, as well as working with the Thurston County Farm Bureau and Washington State Farm Bureau on changes to parts of the ordinance that deal with agricultural activities. As a result, county staff proposed some changes to the Thurston County Critical Areas Ordinance. Today’s hearing before the Thurston County Planning Commission is to get public comment on the proposed changes. To read the full text of the proposed amendments, go to www.co.thurston.wa.us/planning/critical_areas/docs/cao-2013-staff-report-amendments-pc-public-hearing-20130717.pdf. The sign-up sheet for those wishing to make public comments will be available when the doors open at 6 pm. The Thurston County Planning Commission will review the proposed amendments and consider the public’s comments before making recommendations to the Thurston County Board of Commissioners—who will then hold a separate public hearing on the proposed changes at a later date.

7 pm – Elk and Deer: What Wondrous Species

(Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge Visitor Center) Speaker: Michelle Tirhi (District Biologist for Thurston and Pierce Counties, WA Department of Fish and Wildlife). Lectures start at 7 pm and will last approximately 1 hour followed by questions. All lectures are free, and the Refuge entrance fee is waived for those attending the lectures. Attendance is limited to seats available. Seating will be issued starting at 6 pm on a first-come basis, and you must be present. If there are not seats available when you arrive, you will not be able to attend the lecture. Persons with disabilities who require accommodations should contact the Refuge at (360)753-9467.

Thursday, July 18

8:00 – 11:00 am (or so) – Black Hills Audubon Society field trip to Eagles Pride Golf Course at Joint Base Lewis-McChord

The Eagles Pride Golf Course covers 431 acres, 55% of which is native or naturalized Douglas-fir/Hemlock woodland forest with five bodies of water. One-half mile from Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge, the golf course attracts many species of birds and other wildlife. We will walk open gravel roads and paths. For more details go to http://blackhills-audubon.org/fieldtrips-events.htm or contact David Wienecke at david.l.wienecke.naf@mail.mil or 253-964-0341 (office) or 760- 828-8788 (mobile).

10:00 am – FREE Composting Workshop on Worms and Yard Waste for small spaces

(Olympia Farmers Market Garden—located on the east side of the Market, on the north end of Capitol Way in downtown Olympia)

6 pm – Yard & Worm Composting for Small Spaces Workshop

(Olympia Farmers Market Demonstration Garden: on the East side of the Market on the North end of Capitol Way in downtown Olympia) Even if you live a small space you can compost yard and food waste. Join the Master Recycler Composters of Thurston County to learn how to compost food scraps with red worms and divert yard waste from your trash can. This class will show you different options for small space composting. Free! No pre-registration needed.

Friday, July 19

9 am – 3 pm – South Sound Prairie Restoration Work Party

The seeds from the annual plants are taking over the drying shed at Shotwell’s Landing, so we’re going to help Tel clean some of them and free up space for the next batch of seeds. We also have some more seed collecting and weeding to work on, so there is plenty of work for all. As always, please dress for the weather and bring along gloves, a box lunch and water. 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. 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. Go to www.google.com/calendar/embed?src=upsgreenspaces@gmail.com&gsessionid=OK and click on the event to find a map.

Saturday, July 20

9 am – 12 pm – McKinley Park Cleanup Work Party

(Tacoma) 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.

9:30 am – 1:30 pm – 6^th Annual Shoreline Clean-Up and Kayak Rodeo

(Tacoma) For more information, contact Jeanine Riss at jriss@healthybay.org. Sponsored by Citizens for a Healthy Bay.

10:00 am – 1:00 pm – Meet Us At The Beach at Priest Point Park & Burfoot County Park

Trained Beach Naturalists from South Sound Estuary Association will be on the beach during low-tide to answer questions. Visit the beach and see what you can discover! For more information, go to www.sseacenter.org.

10 am – 1 pm – How to Keep a Wave on the Sand: Capturing the Outdoors in Photographs

(Nisqually Wildlife Refuge) Never again let nature’s beauty escape your lens! In this hands-on workshop with writer and photographer Greg Farley, you will learn to take your camera off the “automatic” settings and then head outside to apply basic and professional outdoor photography techniques. Bring your camera (film, DSLR, or point and shoot), extra batteries and a sense of adventure! Meet in the Visitor Center auditorium. The program is free, but there is a $3 fee for entering the Refuge.

2 – 4:30 pm – Hand-Made Pasta

(Westside Olympia) Perfect for the first-time pasta maker, this hands-on class instructs students in the basics of traditional fresh egg pasta. Christine Ciancetta will guide you through the steps in mixing the dough in a well on a board and shaping with a hand-cranked pasta machine. You’ll also learn how to incorporate fresh herbs or black pepper in your dough for easy and delicious variations. Sample your work with Cucina Ciancetta Marinara and an olive oil garlic sauce. The cost is $5, and registration is required. To register and get more information about this and other classes, go to www.olympiafood.coop/classes.

Sunday, July 21

10:30 am – 1:30 pm – Meet Us At The Beach at Tolmie State Park

Mon, July 22

11:30 am – 12:30 pm – Marine Creature Monday at Boston Harbor Marina!

(Olympia) Stream Team will pair with local divers and retired volunteer marine biologists David Jamison and Joe Hiss. Divers will demonstrate their equipment prior to diving to the bottom of the Sound to collect marine creatures for our viewing. Biologists will talk about each species found and their habitat needs and what is required to keep Puget Sound clean and healthy. All the marine creatures are kept in seawater and gently released back into Puget Sound. Life vests required for age 6 and under; please bring your own or the marina has a few loaners. This is one of our most popular, all ages event. Online registration is necessary to keep the group size small: go to http://streamteam.info/getinvolved/calendar. For more information contact Michelle Stevie at mstevie@ci.olympia.wa.us or 360-753-8336.

1:00 – 2:00 pm – Marine Creature Monday at Boston Harbor Marina!

See description for event earlier today.

Tuesday, July 23

9 am – 3 pm – South Sound Prairie Restoration Work Party

(Stay tuned for details) For more information, contact ssvolunteers@cnlm.org. Sponsored by the Center for Natural Lands Management.

Wednesday, July 24

7 pm – The Giant Pacific Octopus

(Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge Visitor Center) Kathryn Kegel (Aquarium Biologist, Seattle Aquarium). Lectures start at 7 pm and will last approximately 1 hour followed by questions. All lectures are free, and the Refuge entrance fee is waived for those attending the lectures. Attendance is limited to seats available. Seating will be issued starting at 6 pm on a first-come basis, and you must be present. If there are not seats available when you arrive, you will not be able to attend the lecture. Persons with disabilities who require accommodations should contact the Refuge at (360)753-9467.

Friday, July 26

9:30am – 12:00pm – McGrath Woods Park work party

(Olympia) We will be spreading fibar bark around the playground area and clearing brush from walking trail through the woods. McGrath Woods Park is located at 2300 Cain Rd SE. Meet in the grassy area off the main parking lot. 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 must have a signed Waiver (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 Christina Newman (Program Specialist, Park Stewardship Program, City of Olympia Parks, Arts and Recreation) at 360.753.8365 or at www.olympiawa.gov/parkvolunteer.

Saturday, July 27

9 am – 11 am – Birding Basics: Learning to See

(Nisqually Wildlife Refuge) What subtle cues do experienced birders use to quickly and accurately identify species? Birding is nothing less than the art of seeing, so the techniques used by birders increase awareness of all things natural. Refuge Ranger Michael Schramm will guide you through the estuary’s diverse habitats on an odyssey of avian discovery, all the while teaching the ins and outs of birding. Meet at the landing overlooking the pond at the Visitor Center – and remember to bring binoculars! The program is free, but there is a $3 fee for entering the Refuge.

10 am – 3 pm – Yowkwala invasive species removal and clean-up

(Tacoma) For more information, contact Jeanine Riss at jriss@healthybay.org. Sponsored by Citizens for a Healthy Bay.

10:00 am –Children’s Nature Activity at Seminary Hill Natural Area

(Centralia) Barbara Fandrich, Margie Joy and Marshall Murray, retired forester, will be your guides as you and your child explore the flora of Seminary Hill. Children up to age 12 and their parents are welcome to participate. Then they will make forest notebooks filled with samples of the flora they find. All materials will be provided, and activities will vary by the age of the child. Meet in the parking lot at the main entrance to Seminary Hill Natural Area, at the corner of East Locust Street and Barner Drive in Centralia. For more information, call 360-736-7045 or 360-330-7688.

Mon, July 29

11:30 am – 12:30 pm – Marine Creature Monday at Boston Harbor Marina!

1:00 – 2:00 pm – Marine Creature Monday at Boston Harbor Marina!

See description for event earlier today.

Tuesday, July 30

9 am – 3 pm – South Sound Prairie Restoration Work Party

(Stay tuned for details) For more information, contact ssvolunteers@cnlm.org. Sponsored by the Center for Natural Lands Management.

9:30am – 12:00pm – Evergreen Park work party

(Olympia) Pitch in to spread fibar bark around the playground area and lend a hand in light pruning of encroaching vegetation. 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 (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 Christina Newman (Program Specialist, Park Stewardship Program, City of Olympia Parks, Arts and Recreation) at 360.753.8365 or at www.olympiawa.gov/parkvolunteer.

Wednesday, July 31

7 pm – The Warming Ocean’s Role in Climate

(Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge Visitor Center) Speaker: Greg Johnson (Oceanographer, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration). Lectures start at 7 pm and will last approximately 1 hour followed by questions. All lectures are free, and the Refuge entrance fee is waived for those attending the lectures. Attendance is limited to seats available. Seating will be issued starting at 6 pm on a first-come basis, and you must be present. If there are not seats available when you arrive, you will not be able to attend the lecture. Persons with disabilities who require accommodations should contact the Refuge at (360)753-9467.

Thursday, August 1

6:30 am – late afternoon – Black Hills Audubon Society field trip to Mt. Rainier: Wildflowers and Casual Birding

Join us for a Mt. Rainier wildflowers trip—on a Thursday, so we can avoid the weekend crowds. However, the date for this trip may change depending on snow and flower conditions at Paradise. We will go for a relatively easy and slow hike and enjoy the views, the flowers, and any birds we happen upon. We plan to hike a fair distance, but at a leisurely pace. For more details go to http://blackhills-audubon.org/fieldtrips-events.htm. To sign up, call Jan Sharkey at (360) 943-8786 or Kristin Stewart at (360) 456-5098.

Saturday, August 3

10:00 am – 1:00 pm – Meet Us At The Beach at Priest Point Park & Burfoot County Park

10 am – 1 pm – Birds of a Feather: Take Flight on a Bird Walk

(Nisqually Wildlife Refuge) Many species of bird, from the tiny Rufous Hummingbird to the majestic Bald Eagle, nest on the Refuge. Join experienced birder Eric Slagle for a guided walk full of the sights and sounds of one of the Refuge’s largest treasures – the birds! Meet at the landing overlooking the pond at the Visitor Center. The program is free, but there is a $3 fee for entering the Refuge.

9 pm – 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.

Sunday, August 4

9 am – 11 am – It’s in Your Nature: Exploring the Wild

(Nisqually Wildlife Refuge) From bitterns to butterflies, chickadees to crabapples, the Refuge is home to many types of wildlife. Join naturalist Jan Seguin on this nature walk that is sure to teach you something new about the creatures of the Refuge. Meet in the Visitor Center. The program is free, but there is a $3 fee for entering the Refuge.

10:30 am – 1:30 pm – Meet Us At The Beach at Tolmie State Park & Frye Cove County Park

1 pm – 2:30 pm – The Nisqually and Medicine Creek: Where Nature, Culture and History Converge

(Nisqually Wildlife Refuge) Learn about the events surrounding the signing of the Medicine Creek Treaty; explore how the Nisqually people came to the Nisqually delta and how their lives changed with the settlement of Europeans. Lynn Corliss leads you down history’s winding path, where you will discover important things about the people who enjoyed this land before you did. Meet at the flagpole in front of the Visitor Center. The program is free, but there is a $3 fee for entering the Refuge.

Mon, August 5

11:30 am – 12:30 pm – Marine Creature Monday at Boston Harbor Marina!

1:00 – 2:00 pm – Marine Creature Monday at Boston Harbor Marina!

See description for event earlier today.

Wednesday, August 7

7 pm – Ice Worms: What they Tell Us About Glaciation

(Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge Visitor Center) Speaker Peter Wimberger (Professor and Director of the Slater Museum of Natural History, University of Puget Sound). Lectures start at 7 pm and will last approximately 1 hour followed by questions. All lectures are free, and the Refuge entrance fee is waived for those attending the lectures. Attendance is limited to seats available. Seating will be issued starting at 6 pm on a first-come basis, and you must be present. If there are not seats available when you arrive, you will not be able to attend the lecture. Persons with disabilities who require accommodations should contact the Refuge at (360)753-9467.

Saturday, August 10

9 am – 11 am – Birds of a Feather: Take Flight on a Bird Walk

(Nisqually Wildlife Refuge) Many species of bird, from the tiny Rufous Hummingbird to the majestic Bald Eagle, nest on the Refuge. Join experienced birder Phil Kelley for a guided walk full of the sights and sounds of one of the Refuge’s largest treasures – the birds! Meet at the landing overlooking the pond at the Visitor Center. The program is free, but there is a $3 fee for entering the Refuge.

10 am – 1 pm – How to Keep a Wave on the Sand: Capturing the Outdoors in Photographs

10:00 am – FREE Composting Workshop on Yard Waste

(Dirt Works Garden) Directions: From I-5 take HWY 101 towards Shelton. Get off at Black Lake Blvd. exit and at the bottom of the ramp turn right. Get in the left lane and make a left onto Cooper Point Road. Make a left onto Capital Mall Drive and follow it until you see the Yauger Park and Dirt Works sign on the corner of Alta Street. Turn right onto Alta Street. Follow this road into the park and drive through the parking lot until it ends. The garden entrance is located at the end of the parking lot.

Mon, August 12

11:30 am – 12:30 pm – Marine Creature Monday at Boston Harbor Marina!

1:00 – 2:00 pm – Marine Creature Monday at Boston Harbor Marina!

See description for event earlier today.

Tuesday, August 13

6:00 – 7:30 pm – Priest Point Park Beach Seine

(Olympia) The nearshore and open waters of lower Puget Sound are highly productive. Juvenile salmon, sand lance and Pacific staghorn skulpin all utilize the nearshore environments shallow waters to rest, feed or spawn. These fish are critical to the larger marine food web and the integrity of the nearshore environments of Puget Sound. Join Washington State Department Fish and Wildlife fish biologist, Larry Phillips for a beach seine at Priest Point Park. Participants will help unroll a seining net and pull the net to shore to see what is caught. Larry will identify and talk about the fish and other marine creatures that are found in the net and their importance to the health of our nearshore ecosystems. To register, go to http://streamteam.info/getinvolved/calendar. For more information contact Michelle Stevie at mstevie@ci.olympia.wa.us or 360-753-8336.

Wednesday, August 14

7 pm – Mountain Fever: Stories of the First Ascents on Mt. Rainier

(Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge Visitor Center) Speaker: Jim Ross (Outreach Specialist and Naturalist, Mt. Rainier National Park). Lectures start at 7 pm and will last approximately 1 hour followed by questions. All lectures are free, and the Refuge entrance fee is waived for those attending the lectures. Attendance is limited to seats available. Seating will be issued starting at 6 pm on a first-come basis, and you must be present. If there are not seats available when you arrive, you will not be able to attend the lecture. Persons with disabilities who require accommodations should contact the Refuge at (360)753-9467.

Thursday, August 15

8:00 – 11:00 am (or so) – Black Hills Audubon Society field trip to Eagles Pride Golf Course at Joint Base Lewis-McChord

Saturday, August 17

9:30 am – 2:30 pm – Yowkwala invasive species removal and clean-up

(Tacoma) For more information, contact Jeanine Riss at jriss@healthybay.org. Sponsored by Citizens for a Healthy Bay.

10:00 am – 1:00 pm – Meet Us At The Beach at Priest Point Park & Burfoot County Park

10 am – Seminary Hill Natural Area Geology Walk

(Centralia) Join geologist Jim Ward on a trip back in time as he explains the geological history of the Seminary Hill area. As we walk we will see examples of and learn about development of the present-day land forms of this region. Note: Some trails are quite steep, and there is a 2-300-foot elevation gain from the parking lot to the higher points in the Natural Area. Wear appropriate shoes or hiking boots: trails can be slippery when it has been raining. A walking stick can make the climbing and descending much easier and safer. Be prepared for changes in the weather: layered clothing and rainwear are advisable. Remember your camera, a water bottle, perhaps a snack and a litter bag. Books for identifying trees, flowers, birds and animals are also handy. Directions: Follow Seminary Hill Road past the Armory, then past Saxon and Baker Streets to the large blue gate on the right (just beyond the small pump house). Enter through the large blue gate to park and meet the event leader. For more information, call 360-736-7045 or 360-330-7688.

Sunday, August 18

10:00 am – 1:00 pm – Meet Us At The Beach at Tolmie State Park & Frye Cove County Park

Wednesday, August 21

7 pm – The Insect Safari

(Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge Visitor Center) Speaker: Don Ehlen (naturalist). Lectures start at 7 pm and will last approximately 1 hour followed by questions. All lectures are free, and the Refuge entrance fee is waived for those attending the lectures. Attendance is limited to seats available. Seating will be issued starting at 6 pm on a first-come basis, and you must be present. If there are not seats available when you arrive, you will not be able to attend the lecture. Persons with disabilities who require accommodations should contact the Refuge at (360)753-9467.

August 22-25 – Joint WA Ornithology Society / Western Field Ornithologists Conference

Black Hills Audubon Society (BHAS) will host the first joint conference of the Western Field Ornithologists (WFO) and the Washington Ornithology Society (WOS) at the Red Lion Inn in Olympia. The conference will feature over 20 field trips in addition to workshops, science sessions, and panels. For more details, go to http://blackhills-audubon.org/fieldtrips-events.htm and http://blackhills-audubon.org/pubs/WFO-WOS_2013_Conf_flyer.pdf.

Saturday, August 24

10 am – 1 pm – How to Keep a Wave on the Sand: Capturing the Outdoors in Photographs

10 am – 12 noon – It’s in Your Nature: Exploring the Wild

(Nisqually Wildlife Refuge) From bitterns to butterflies, chickadees to crabapples, the Refuge is home to many types of wildlife. Join naturalists Art Pavey, Jan Kramer, and Cheri Greenwood on this nature walk that is sure to teach you something new about the creatures of the Refuge. Meet in the Visitor Center. The program is free, but there is a $3 fee for entering the Refuge.

Sunday, August 25

1 pm – 2:30 pm – Our Amazing Plant World

(Nisqually Wildlife Refuge) Summer is the perfect time to experience the Refuge plant life is all its diversity! Join Sally Vogel on a nature walk through the Refuge—all the while learning about plant-insect interactions, adaptations for survival and other interesting facts. You only live once: Stop to smell the flowers! Meet at the flagpole in front of the Visitor Center. The program is free, but there is a $3 fee for entering the Refuge.

Monday, August 26

11:30 am – 12:30 pm – Marine Creature Monday at Boston Harbor Marina!

1:00 – 2:00 pm – Marine Creature Monday at Boston Harbor Marina!

See description for event earlier today.

Wednesday, August 28

7 pm – Feathers: Biology and Beauty

(Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge Visitor Center) Speaker: Chris Maynard (artist). Lectures start at 7 pm and will last approximately 1 hour followed by questions. All lectures are free, and the Refuge entrance fee is waived for those attending the lectures. Attendance is limited to seats available. Seating will be issued starting at 6 pm on a first-come basis, and you must be present. If there are not seats available when you arrive, you will not be able to attend the lecture. Persons with disabilities who require accommodations should contact the Refuge at (360)753-9467.

Saturday, August 31

8:30 am – 12 noon – Birds of a Feather: Take Flight on a Bird Walk

(Nisqually Wildlife Refuge) Experience the thrill of seeing a Peregrine Falcon (the world’s fastest bird) or of hearing a woodpecker pecking away (up to 20 pecks per second)! Join experienced birder David Richardson for a guided walk full of the sights and sounds of one of the Refuge’s largest treasures: The birds! Meet at the landing overlooking the pond at the Visitor Center. The program is free, but there is a $3 fee for entering the Refuge.

Sunday, September 1

9 am – 11 am – It’s in Your Nature: Exploring the Wild

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.

10 am – 1 pm – Birds of a Feather: Take Flight on a Bird Walk

10 am – 1 pm – How to Keep a Wave on the Sand: Capturing the Outdoors in Photographs

9 pm – Pier Peer at Boston Harbor Marina

Sunday, September 8

1 pm – 2:30 pm – The Nisqually and Medicine Creek: Where Nature, Culture and History Converge

Saturday, September 14

10 am – 1 pm – How to Keep a Wave on the Sand: Capturing the Outdoors in Photographs

10:00 am – FREE Composting Workshop on Yard Waste

(Closed Loop Park—just inside the Thurston County Waste and Recovery Center entrance at 2418 Hogum Bay Road at Hawk’s Prairie). Directions: From downtown Olympia take I-5 North. Take exit 111, the ramp has two lanes. Stay in the left lane and follow it to the traffic light on Marvin Road. Turn left onto Marvin Road; make sure you are in the right lane. Once you go through the light turn right onto Hogum Bay Road (a Mexican restaurant on this corner). Take the second road into the Waste and Recovery Center entrance. Look for a small “Closed Loop Park” sign on the fence at that intersection. Follow the road in and the garden is located on the right, just past the dog park.

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, September 28

10 am – 4 pm – Nisqually Watershed Festival

(Nisqually Wildlife Refuge) Tours and guided walks through-out the day, as well as music, live animal presentations, educations exhibits, a marine touch tank, and walks and tours. Join us in a celebration of the cultural, economic and natural resources of the Nisqually Watershed! All events are free (except the food!). For more information, go to www.nisquallyriver.org or call (360) 753-9467.

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.

10:00 am – FREE Composting Workshop on Putting your worms to bed for the winter

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