THIS WEEK’S “HEADLINING” EVENT:
Wednesday, August 13, 6-8 pm: Capitol Land Trust “Friendraiser”
(Salish Cliffs Golf Club, near Shelton) Join us for a free, food-filled opportunity to learn more about who Capitol Land Trust is, what it is doing to preserve natural and working lands in southwest Washington, and what you can do to preserve local lands. This is not a fundraiser, so leave your checkbook at home. To RSVP and for more information, contact Alison atAlison@capitollandtrust.org or 360.943.3012
RECURRING EVENTS
Tuesdays: South Sound Prairie work party, 9 am – 3 pm
West Olympia Farmers’ Market, 4-7 pm (1515 Harrison Ave NW in the parking lot of Gloria Dei Lutheran Church)
Fresh produce, baked goods, pastured poultry and meats, flowers, veggie starts, crafts and more. Everything is locally grown and produced.
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: Olympia Farmers’ Market, 10 am – 3 pm (700 N Capitol Way; Olympia 98501) http://olympiafarmersmarket.com.
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.
Fridays: South Sound Prairie work party, 9 am – 3 pm
Olympia Farmers’ Market, 10 am – 3 pm (700 N Capitol Way; Olympia 98501) http://olympiafarmersmarket.com.
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: Olympia Farmers’ Market, 10 am – 3 pm (700 N Capitol Way; Olympia 98501) http://olympiafarmersmarket.com.
South Sound Estuarium, 10 am – 3 pm
Volunteer at the WET Science Center this Summer!
This summer we have activities every day and are looking for volunteers! Our biggest need is for Plaza Play Days every Thursday and Friday from 12:30 pm -2:30 p.m and from 2:30 pm – 4:30 pm. For more information about Plaza Play Days and to sign up for a 2 hour shift, go to http://www.signupgenius.com/go/10c094aada823a5fb6-saturday. We also need volunteers for this year’s Sand in the City event Saturday August 23 and Sunday August 24. For more information about volunteering with the WET Science Center, go tohttp://www.signupgenius.com/go/10c094aada823a5fb6-saturday. To see our Summer Activities and Events Newsletter, go to http://www.lottcleanwater.org/education.htm.
Marine Creature Mondays in August – 11:30 am – 12:45 pm OR 1:00-2:15 pm
(Boston Harbor Marina: 312 73rd Ave NE, Olympia) Join us as Stream Team pairs with local divers for hands-on viewing of some of the wonders of Puget Sound’s marine life. Divers will demonstrate their equipment prior to diving to the bottom of the Sound to collect various marine creatures for up close viewing. Biologists will talk about the different species found, their habitat needs and what is required to keep Puget Sound healthy. Registration is necessary to keep the group size small. This event is popular so please only sign up for one event. To register,go to http://www.streamteam.info/getinvolved/calendar and click on the event.
Sound Stewards Plankton Monitoring: Every Thursday until September 25
Join Stream Team and Pacific Shellfish Institute biologists this summer to get up-close-and-personal with some of the smallest organisms in the sea: phytoplankton. Help us collect plankton samples between 2:00 and 2:50 pm at the Port Plaza, and then travel to the LOTT Wet Science Center to view the plankton under a projecting microscope between 3 and 4 pm! Join us for part of the activity or stay for both parts. No experience is needed! (Note: on June 19th we will not be doing the LOTT Wet Science Center part.)
Other lists of volunteer events in Washington
Department of Fish and Wildlife: http://wdfw.wa.gov/about/volunteer/events
Washington Department of Natural Resources: http://www.dnr.wa.gov
Washington Department of Parks: http://www.parks.wa.gov/262/Volunteer-Program
Monday, August 11
10 am – Noon — McLane Creek Trail work party
(McLane Creek Nature Trail: 5044 Delphi Rd. SW Olympia, 98512) Join fun-loving Stream Team staff members and volunteers as we brush, rake, trim, and weed the McLane Creek Nature Trail to ensure easy access for the educational events we sponsor throughout the year. Stream Team will provide gloves, tools, and refreshments. For more information, contact April Roe at 360-867-2073 or roea@co.thurston.wa.us
11:30 am and 1 pm — Marine Creature Monday
(Boston Harbor Marina in Olympia) How do species such as barnacles and sea stars contribute to zooplankton in Puget Sound, and who eats them? Join us as Stream Team pairs with local divers for hands-on viewing of some of the wonders of Puget Sound’s marine life. Divers will demonstrate their equipment prior to diving to the bottom of the Sound to collect various marine creatures for up close viewing. Biologists will talk about the different species found, their habitat needs and what is required to keep Puget Sound healthy. All the marine creatures are kept in sea water for the viewing and then released back into Puget Sound. For more information or to register online, visit www.streamteam.info and click on “Register”. Space is limited. Please register for only one session. If you will be bringing additional people with you to a Marine Creature Monday, make sure to register the total number of people as a group. If you need assistance, contact Michelle Stevie at mstevie@ci.olympia.wa.us.
Tuesday, August 12
9 am – 3 pm – South Sound Prairie work party
(South Thurston County) Please join us at Glacial Heritage Preserve. We will be pulling invasive Scotch Broom, and hunting for Camas quamash seed. Dress for the weather, and bring along a box lunch, gloves and plenty of 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 (128th 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. Because we are only at the house at 9:00 am and at lunch time—and it can be difficult to find us once we are out in the field—volunteers should plan to arrive before 9 am or around lunch time. For more information, contact ssvolunteers@cnlm.org. Sponsored by the Center for Natural Lands Management.
6:30 pm — Priest Point Park Beach Seine
Ever wonder which fishes use our shorelines? The nearshore environment is one of the most productive areas along the shorelines of Puget Sound. Since the 1980’s, local Puget Sound tribes have been conducting seine surveys to see just how productive are our nearshore waters. What have they found? These areas are rich in sand lance, surf smelt and other forage fish providing a nursery full of nutrient-rich food for juvenile salmon. For this very reason, juvenile salmon from natal streams in northern Puget Sound, such as the Green and White Rivers, can be found in the local inlets of southern Puget Sound. You can experience the marine fauna found in our local nearshore waters! Join Stream Team and special guest biologist, Larry Phillips, from the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife, for a beach seine at Priest Point Park. Participants may help pull the seining net to shore to see the different species that are caught. Larry will identify and talk about the individual species found in the net, and discuss their importance to the health of our nearshore ecosystems and the challenges they face to survive. For more information or to register online, visit www.streamteam.info and click on “Register”.
Wednesday, August 13
9 am-noon — Mashel River Weed Control with Nisqually Land Trust
(Near Eatonville) Help us in pulling invasive Scotch Broom from a site in the riparian zone of the beautiful Mashel River! There is Broom growing on a gravel bar of the Mashel, and we could sure use your help in controlling it! 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 tohttps://events.r20.constantcontact.com/register/eventReg?oeidk=a07e9ode5yqd35a0829,https://events.r20.constantcontact.com/register/eventReg?oeidk=a07e9ode5yqd35a0829, or emailvolunteer@nisquallylandtrust.org. For more information, contact Cris Peck (AmeriCorps Volunteer Coordinator, Nisqually Land Trust) at 360-489-3400 ext. 106.
9:30am – 12pm – Yashiro Japanese Garden work party
(Olympia) This downtown oasis need our help! Volunteers will paint the front entrance sign and weed inside the garden to give the space a fresh new look. Yashiro Japanese Garden is located at 1010 Plum St SE. Parking available in a small lot off Plum Street. Meet inside the garden under the event tent. Dress for the weather and wear sturdy shoes or boots that can get wet and muddy. Youth under age 14 must be accompanied by an adult, and all youth under 18 years must have a signed Waiver and Medical Alert or have a parents’ signature on the sign-in roster at the project work site. Please sign up so we know how many people are coming, by going to https://apm.activecommunities.com/olyparksartsrec, or contacting Christina Lamour (Park Stewardship Program, Olympia Parks, Arts & Recreation) at 360.753.8365 or at olympiawa.gov/parkstewardship.
6-8 pm – Capitol Land Trust “Friendraiser”
(Salish Cliffs Golf Club, near Shelton) Join us for a free, food-filled opportunity to learn more about who Capitol Land Trust is, what it is doing to preserve natural and working lands in southwest Washington, and what you can do to preserve local lands. This is not a fundraiser, so leave your checkbook at home. To RSVP and for more information, contact Alison atAlison@capitollandtrust.org or 360.943.3012
Thursday, August 14
9am-12pm — Capital Museum Native Plant Garden work party
Join the South Sound Chapter of the Washington Native Plant Society at the Capital Museum Native Plant Garden as they continue weeding and cleanup. Bring your favorite weeding tool and sun screen (I hope for good weather). Water and snacks will be furnished. For more information, contact Bill Brookreson at b.brookreson@comcast.net or 253-292-8570.
Friday, August 15
9 am – 3 pm – South Sound Prairie work party
(South Thurston County) Please join us at Glacial Heritage Preserve and help us harvest Castilleja levisecta seeds from the research plots. It should be a gorgeous sunny afternoon to work among native plants. This too is a great opportunity to become versed in our invasive weeds and native prairie plant species. Dress for the weather, and bring along a box lunch, gloves and plenty of 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 (128th 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. Because we are only at the house at 9:00 am and at lunch time—and it can be difficult to find us once we are out in the field—volunteers should plan to arrive before 9 am or around lunch time. For more information, contact ssvolunteers@cnlm.org. Sponsored by the Center for Natural Lands Management.
9-11 am – Native Plant Salvage nursery work party
Summer brings a shift in activities for everyone, and for us it means the need for extra love for the native and drought-tolerant plants at our nursery! Our August nursery work parties offer the same camaraderie as our winter salvages, but without all the rain gear! We’ll be tending plants to be sure they’re healthy, and generally sprucing up the nursery. (A little-known secret is that during these summer work parties, plants that need extra love go home with volunteers to enhance their gardens immediately!) To RSVP or get directions, emailerica@nativeplantsalvage.org.
9:30am – 12pm – Yashiro Japanese Garden work party
(Olympia) This downtown oasis need our help! Volunteers will paint the front entrance sign and weed inside the garden to give the space a fresh new look. Yashiro Japanese Garden is located at 1010 Plum St SE. Parking available in a small lot off Plum Street. Meet inside the garden under the event tent. Dress for the weather and wear sturdy shoes or boots that can get wet and muddy. Youth under age 14 must be accompanied by an adult, and all youth under 18 years must have a signed Waiver and Medical Alert or have a parents’ signature on the sign-in roster at the project work site. Please sign up so we know how many people are coming, by going to https://apm.activecommunities.com/olyparksartsrec, or contacting Christina Lamour (Park Stewardship Program, Olympia Parks, Arts & Recreation) at 360.753.8365 or at olympiawa.gov/parkstewardship.
Saturday, August 16
9 am-noon — Mashel River Nature Mapping
(Near Eatonville) NatureMapping provides an opportunity for citizen scientists to observe, monitor and inventory their local habitats and use the information gathered to effect real change. Data collected can be used by scientists on state and local levels to help make decisions that determine a healthy future for fish and wildlife. NatureMapping Field Trips are free for participants. You do not need NatureMapping experience for this activity. Participants should come dressed for the weather and for walking in a wet environment on uneven surfaces. For more information or to sign up, contact Rachael Mueller at Rachael.Mueller@nwtrek.org.
2 pm – Native Plants, Native People: Ethnobotany of Puget Sound
(Wet Science Center: 500 Adams Street NE; Olympia) Join us for a presentation on some of the ways local plants were used by Native Americans for food, medicine, clothing, baskets, and more. Weaving projects and native plant identification cards are available in the classroom all day. Following the presentation, take a guided native plant walk on our plaza. You’ll learn some easy identification tips for common native plants. For more information, contact Amber Smith at (360) 528-5742 or ambersmith@lottcleanwater.org. To view the Wet Science Center’s entire calendar of events go to http://www.lottcleanwater.org/pdf/wetSummer.pdf.
2 – 5 pm — Grand Re-Opening of the South Sound ESTUARIUM
(New location: 309 State Ave. NE Olympia) The South Sound ESTUARIUM is a marine life discovery center featuring aquariums, interactive activities and interpretive exhibits for all ages! You are invited to the grand reopening celebration in our new location, with fun activities and refreshments. The Estuarium is open to the public on weekends; free to South Sound Estuary Association members, or with an admission/requested donation of $5-family; $3-individual/adult; $1 children under 18. For more information, go to http://sseacenter.wordpress.com/south-sound-estuarium.
Monday, August 18
11:30 am and 1 pm — Marine Creature Monday
(Boston Harbor Marina in Olympia) How do species such as barnacles and sea stars contribute to zooplankton in Puget Sound, and who eats them? Join us as Stream Team pairs with local divers for hands-on viewing of some of the wonders of Puget Sound’s marine life. Divers will demonstrate their equipment prior to diving to the bottom of the Sound to collect various marine creatures for up close viewing. Biologists will talk about the different species found, their habitat needs and what is required to keep Puget Sound healthy. All the marine creatures are kept in sea water for the viewing and then released back into Puget Sound. For more information or to register online, visit www.streamteam.info and click on “Register”. Space is limited. Please register for only one session. If you will be bringing additional people with you to a Marine Creature Monday, make sure to register the total number of people as a group. If you need assistance, contact Michelle Stevie at mstevie@ci.olympia.wa.us.
Tuesday, August 19
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.
6-8 pm – Native Plant Salvage nursery work party
Summer brings a shift in activities for everyone, and for us it means the need for extra love for the native and drought-tolerant plants at our nursery! Our August nursery work parties offer the same camaraderie as our winter salvages, but without all the rain gear! We’ll be tending plants to be sure they’re healthy, and generally sprucing up the nursery. (A little-known secret is that during these summer work parties, plants that need extra love go home with volunteers to enhance their gardens immediately!) To RSVP or get directions, emailerica@nativeplantsalvage.org.
Wednesday, August 20
9 am-noon — Powell Creek Weed Control with Nisqually Land Trust
(Near Yelm) Coffee, water, and some light snacks will be provided; please bring a water bottle and anything else you might need. Work parties are rain or shine. Bring layers, raingear, and close-toed shoes that you don’t mind getting dirty. All minors MUST be accompanied by a parent or guardian. To register and get directions, email volunteer@nisquallylandtrust.org. For more information, contact Cris Peck (AmeriCorps Volunteer Coordinator, Nisqually Land Trust) at 360-489-3400 ext. 106.
9:00am – 3pm – Garfield Nature Trail work party
(Olympia) Come support Eagle Scout candidates as they improve trail conditions on Garfield Nature Trail! Scouts Michael Schmidtke and Ben Riley will divide the responsibilities of adding timber steps and railings to the start of the trail off Rogers Street. Volunteers will assist in leveling the trail for step installation, backfilling the steps with gravel, and adding supportive railings. The project will span four days, with each scout leading two work days. Join us for a few hours anytime between 9am and 3pm to lend a hand in this formidable endeavor! Meet at the entrance to Garfield Nature Trail at 620 Rogers St 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 or have a parents’ signature on the sign-in roster at the project work site. Please sign up so we know how many people are coming, by going to https://apm.activecommunities.com/olyparksartsrec, or contacting Christina Lamour (Park Stewardship Program, Olympia Parks, Arts & Recreation) at 360.753.8365 or at olympiawa.gov/parkstewardship.
Thursday, August 21
9:00am – 3pm – Garfield Nature Trail work party
(Olympia) Come support Eagle Scout candidates as they improve trail conditions on Garfield Nature Trail! Scouts Michael Schmidtke and Ben Riley will divide the responsibilities of adding timber steps and railings to the start of the trail off Rogers Street. Volunteers will assist in leveling the trail for step installation, backfilling the steps with gravel, and adding supportive railings. The project will span four days, with each scout leading two work days. Join us for a few hours anytime between 9am and 3pm to lend a hand in this formidable endeavor! Meet at the entrance to Garfield Nature Trail at 620 Rogers St 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 or have a parents’ signature on the sign-in roster at the project work site. Please sign up so we know how many people are coming, by going to https://apm.activecommunities.com/olyparksartsrec, or contacting Christina Lamour (Park Stewardship Program, Olympia Parks, Arts & Recreation) at 360.753.8365 or at olympiawa.gov/parkstewardship.
Friday, August 22
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.
11:30 am and 1 pm – Marine Creature Monday: on Friday, in Spanish!
(Boston Harbor Marina in Olympia) How do species such as barnacles and sea stars contribute to zooplankton in Puget Sound, and who eats them? Join us as Stream Team pairs with local divers for hands-on viewing of some of the wonders of Puget Sound’s marine life. Divers will demonstrate their equipment prior to diving to the bottom of the Sound to collect various marine creatures for up close viewing. Biologists will talk about the different species found, their habitat needs and what is required to keep Puget Sound healthy. This session will be held in Spanish for our Spanish-as-a-first -language community. All the marine creatures are kept in sea water for the viewing and then released back into Puget Sound. For more information or to register online, visit www.streamteam.info and click on “Register”. Space is limited. Please register for only one session. If you will be bringing additional people with you to a Marine Creature Monday, make sure to register the total number of people as a group. If you need assistance, contact Michelle Stevie at mstevie@ci.olympia.wa.us.
Saturday, August 23
10 to 1pm – Beach Naturalists at Frye Cove and Priest Point Parks
Come to the beach and learn about the amazing diversity of creatures in Puget Sound! Beach Naturalists from South Sound Estuary Association will be there to point out the amazing creatures that live at the beach and answer questions about them; organize scavenger hunts for kids; and answer questions about how we can help protect Puget Sound waters. For more information, visit http://sseacenter.org. Sponsored by South Sound Estuary Association.
10:00 am-2:00pm — Native Plant Hike at Mima Falls Trail, Capital Forest
Come and join the South Sound Chapter of the Washington Native Plant Society on a hike exploring the Mima Falls Trail in Capital Forest outside Olympia. The trail passes through a logged-off area that is in restoration before passing into a very pleasant wooded trail to the Mima Falls and on. We will picnic at the falls before pushing on for a short distance. The trail is quite an easy walk with very little elevation change. Thanks to Regina Johnson, we have a very nice plant list for the trail to help your botanizing. Bring your favorite plant ID book, water, lunch and snacks. Good hiking shoes are recommended. The Discover Pass is needed for the Trailhead. Directions: From Olympia go south on I-5 to the Little Rock exit. Go west on Maytown Road which becomes 128th Ave SW. Turn South onto Mima Road SW, turn right onto Bordeaux Road and next right onto Marksman Road to the Trailhead.
Sunday, August 24
Restoration at Twin Rivers Ranch Preserve
(near Shelton) Join Capitol Land Trust on this 133-acre preserve as we remove blackberries and other weeds to ensure that our stream buffer plantings survive. We will be there from 10 am to 2 pm: arrive when you can; stay as long as you are able. We will provide tools, gloves, and light refreshments. To RSVP and get more information, contact Yen at 360.943.3012 orinfo@capitollandtrust.org.
11am to 2pm – Beach Naturalists at Tolmie Park
Come to the beach and learn about the amazing diversity of creatures in Puget Sound! Beach Naturalists from South Sound Estuary Association will be there to point out the amazing creatures that live at the beach and answer questions about them; organize scavenger hunts for kids; and answer questions about how we can help protect Puget Sound waters. Be sure to bring your Discover Pass to Tolmie State Park. For more information, visit http://sseacenter.org. Sponsored by South Sound Estuary Association.
Monday, August 25
9:00am – 3pm – Garfield Nature Trail work party
(Olympia) Come support Eagle Scout candidates as they improve trail conditions on Garfield Nature Trail! Scouts Michael Schmidtke and Ben Riley will divide the responsibilities of adding timber steps and railings to the start of the trail off Rogers Street. Volunteers will assist in leveling the trail for step installation, backfilling the steps with gravel, and adding supportive railings. The project will span four days, with each scout leading two work days. Join us for a few hours anytime between 9am and 3pm to lend a hand in this formidable endeavor! Meet at the entrance to Garfield Nature Trail at 620 Rogers St 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 or have a parents’ signature on the sign-in roster at the project work site. Please sign up so we know how many people are coming, by going to https://apm.activecommunities.com/olyparksartsrec, or contacting Christina Lamour (Park Stewardship Program, Olympia Parks, Arts & Recreation) at 360.753.8365 or at olympiawa.gov/parkstewardship.
11:30 am and 1 pm — Marine Creature Monday
(Boston Harbor Marina in Olympia) How do species such as barnacles and sea stars contribute to zooplankton in Puget Sound, and who eats them? Join us as Stream Team pairs with local divers for hands-on viewing of some of the wonders of Puget Sound’s marine life. Divers will demonstrate their equipment prior to diving to the bottom of the Sound to collect various marine creatures for up close viewing. Biologists will talk about the different species found, their habitat needs and what is required to keep Puget Sound healthy. All the marine creatures are kept in sea water for the viewing and then released back into Puget Sound. For more information or to register online, visit www.streamteam.info and click on “Register”. Space is limited. Please register for only one session. If you will be bringing additional people with you to a Marine Creature Monday, make sure to register the total number of people as a group. If you need assistance, contact Michelle Stevie at mstevie@ci.olympia.wa.us.
Tuesday, August 26
9:00am – 3pm – Garfield Nature Trail work party
(Olympia) Come support Eagle Scout candidates as they improve trail conditions on Garfield Nature Trail! Scouts Michael Schmidtke and Ben Riley will divide the responsibilities of adding timber steps and railings to the start of the trail off Rogers Street. Volunteers will assist in leveling the trail for step installation, backfilling the steps with gravel, and adding supportive railings. The project will span four days, with each scout leading two work days. Join us for a few hours anytime between 9am and 3pm to lend a hand in this formidable endeavor! Meet at the entrance to Garfield Nature Trail at 620 Rogers St 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 or have a parents’ signature on the sign-in roster at the project work site. Please sign up so we know how many people are coming, by going to https://apm.activecommunities.com/olyparksartsrec, or contacting Christina Lamour (Park Stewardship Program, Olympia Parks, Arts & Recreation) at 360.753.8365 or at olympiawa.gov/parkstewardship.
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, August 27
9 am-noon — Hogum Bay Weed Control with Nisqually Land Trust
(Near Olympia) 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, email volunteer@nisquallylandtrust.org. For more information, contact Cris Peck (AmeriCorps Volunteer Coordinator, Nisqually Land Trust) at 360-489-3400 ext. 106.
9:30am – 12pm – Yauger Park work party
(Olympia) Join Luke Burns and the garden box owners to spruce up the space around the Yauger community garden! Volunteers will meet at the garden near the end of the parking lot next to Dirt Works. Yauger Park is located at 530 Alta St 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 or have a parents’ signature on the sign-in roster at the project work site. Please sign up so we know how many people are coming, by going to https://apm.activecommunities.com/olyparksartsrec, or contacting Christina Lamour (Park Stewardship Program, Olympia Parks, Arts & Recreation) at 360.753.8365 or at olympiawa.gov/parkstewardship.
Friday, August 29
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.
9-11 am – Native Plant Salvage nursery work party
Summer brings a shift in activities for everyone, and for us it means the need for extra love for the native and drought-tolerant plants at our nursery! Our August nursery work parties offer the same camaraderie as our winter salvages, but without all the rain gear! We’ll be tending plants to be sure they’re healthy, and generally sprucing up the nursery. (A little-known secret is that during these summer work parties, plants that need extra love go home with volunteers to enhance their gardens immediately!) To RSVP or get directions, emailerica@nativeplantsalvage.org.
Wednesday, September 3
9 am-noon — Ohop Valley Weed Control with Nisqually Land Trust
(Near Eatonville) Coffee, water, and some light snacks will be provided; please bring a water bottle and anything else you might need. Work parties are rain or shine. Bring layers, raingear, and close-toed shoes that you don’t mind getting dirty. All minors MUST be accompanied by a parent or guardian. To register and get directions, email volunteer@nisquallylandtrust.org. For more information, contact Cris Peck (AmeriCorps Volunteer Coordinator, Nisqually Land Trust) at 360-489-3400 ext. 106.
9:30am – 12pm – Stevens Field work party
(Olympia) We return to this small ballfield park to help make it a welcoming environment for all to enjoy! Volunteers will paint the front entrance sign and weed surrounding flowerbeds. S tevens Field is located at 300 24th Ave SE. Meet near the front sign at the corner of Washington St and 24th 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 or have a parents’ signature on the sign-in roster at the project work site. Please sign up so we know how many people are coming, by going to https://apm.activecommunities.com/olyparksartsrec, or contacting Christina Lamour (Park Stewardship Program, Olympia Parks, Arts & Recreation) at 360.753.8365 or at olympiawa.gov/parkstewardship.
Friday, September 5
8 pm — Pier Peer
(Olympia) Join South Sound Estuary Association at Boston Harbor Marina for Pier Peer night-lighting events the first Friday night of each month. 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! The cost is $10 for 12 and older; children 6-11 that accompany an adult are free. (The event is not appropriate for children under 6.) Pre-register is required: go to http://sseacenter.wordpress.com/pier-peer. If you find registration is closed, don’t worry — there is a Pier Peer every month ALL YEAR!
Saturday, 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 Rachael Mueller at Rachael.Mueller@nwtrek.org.
10:00am – 1pm – LBA Park work party
(Olympia) The painting continues as Park Stewardship travels further south in eastside Olympia. Lend a hand in refurbishing the entrance sign to LBA Park and weeding around the front flowerbed. LBA Park is located at 3333 Morse-Merryman Rd SE. Meet behind the sign under the event tent in the large 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 years must have a signed Waiver and Medical Alert or have a parents’ signature on the sign-in roster at the project work site. Please sign up so we know how many people are coming, by going to https://apm.activecommunities.com/olyparksartsrec, or contacting Christina Lamour (Park Stewardship Program, Olympia Parks, Arts & Recreation) at 360.753.8365 or at olympiawa.gov/parkstewardship.
Wednesday, September 10
9 am-noon — Mashel River Weed Control with Nisqually Land Trust
(Near Eatonville) Coffee, water, and some light snacks will be provided; please bring a water bottle and anything else you might need. Work parties are rain or shine. Bring layers, raingear, and close-toed shoes that you don’t mind getting dirty. All minors MUST be accompanied by a parent or guardian. To register and get directions, email volunteer@nisquallylandtrust.org. For more information, contact Cris Peck (AmeriCorps Volunteer Coordinator, Nisqually Land Trust) at 360-489-3400 ext. 106.
September 13
2 pm – The Water Energy Connection
(Wet Science Center: 500 Adams Street NE; Olympia) Many people know about the importance of saving water and energy, but few know about the direct connection between the two. This engaging presentation highlights this connection and gives you tips for saving water, energy, and money. After the presentation, take a tour of LOTT’s LEED Platinum-certified building. Find out about the building’s sustainable features, including how electricity is produced on-site using methane gas from the wastewater treatment process. For more information, contact Amber Smith at (360) 528-5742 or ambersmith@lottcleanwater.org. To view the Wet Science Center’s entire calendar of events go to http://www.lottcleanwater.org/pdf/wetSummer.pdf.
Wednesday, September 17
9 am-noon — Yelm Shoreline Weed Control with Nisqually Land Trust
(Yelm) Coffee, water, and some light snacks will be provided; please bring a water bottle and anything else you might need. Work parties are rain or shine. Bring layers, raingear, and close-toed shoes that you don’t mind getting dirty. All minors MUST be accompanied by a parent or guardian. To register and get directions, email volunteer@nisquallylandtrust.org. For more information, contact Cris Peck (AmeriCorps Volunteer Coordinator, Nisqually Land Trust) at 360-489-3400 ext. 106.
Saturday, 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 Rachael Mueller at Rachael.Mueller@nwtrek.org.
10 am – 1 pm — Nisqually Land Trust Nature Walk: Ohop Creek
(Near Eatonville) For more information, email staff@nisquallylandtrust.org or call 360-489-3400.
Soil Safari: The World of Decomposers
(Wet Science Center: 500 Adams Street NE; Olympia) Put on your lab coat, grab a magnifying glass, and examine some F.B.I. up close. No, not the Federal Bureau of Investigation. We’re talking about nature’s hardest workers – fungus, bacteria, and insects! During this soil lab, you’ll learn all about the fascinating world of decomposers. Come see how many soil critters you can identify. The presentation starts at 2 pm, and the bug lab runs all day (10 am – 4 pm). For more information, contact Amber Smith at (360) 528-5742 or ambersmith@lottcleanwater.org. To view the Wet Science Center’s entire calendar of events go to http://www.lottcleanwater.org/pdf/wetSummer.pdf.
Wednesday, September 24
9 am-noon — Ohop Valley Weed Control with Nisqually Land Trust
(Near Eatonville) Coffee, water, and some light snacks will be provided; please bring a water bottle and anything else you might need. Work parties are rain or shine. Bring layers, raingear, and close-toed shoes that you don’t mind getting dirty. All minors MUST be accompanied by a parent or guardian. To register and get directions, email volunteer@nisquallylandtrust.org. For more information, contact Cris Peck (AmeriCorps Volunteer Coordinator, Nisqually Land Trust) at 360-489-3400 ext. 106.
September 27
10 am – 4 pm – Salmon Saturday
(Wet Science Center: 500 Adams Street NE; Olympia) It’s that time of year. Local salmon are finishing up their long, tiring journey and returning to their home streams to spawn. Bring the family in to honor these amazing fish by creating salmon inspired artwork to take home. You can create fish prints, make a salmon button, stuff a salmon, and play our salmon life-cycle game! For more information, contact Amber Smith at (360) 528-5742 or ambersmith@lottcleanwater.org. To view the Wet Science Center’s entire calendar of events go tohttp://www.lottcleanwater.org/pdf/wetSummer.pdf.
September 28
2-5 pm – South Sound Estuary Association Fundraiser “Cruising for the Sound”
(Olympia) This is our 6th annual “Cruising for the Sound”. Join us this year for a fun afternoon cruise, with marine education and good food. See the South Puget Sound from the water! Enjoy a wonderful day! Support SSEA onboard a large luxury yacht, My Girl. No host bar. Adult-only event. Plan to join us for this outstanding yearly event! Cost: $ 65 non-members/$50 members. Space limited (90). Proceeds of our annual fundraiser support SSEA’s marine education programs. To register, go to http://http://sseacenter.wordpress.com/events-and-programs6thannual-cruise/.
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 Rachael Mueller at Rachael.Mueller@nwtrek.org.