See below for an extensive list of Local Environmental Events
Every Tuesday:
9 am – 3 pm – South Sound Prairie Restoration Work Party
Contact: Ashley Smithers at 503.451.0824 or asmithers@tnc.org. VOLUNTEER EVENT
Every Wednesday:
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 the entire walk or for as long as you wish.
3-6 pm – GRub Farm Drop-in Volunteer Session
(GRuB Farm; 2016 Elliott Ave NW; Olympia 98502) Volunteers support the GRuB Farm in weeding, transplanting, seeding and miscellaneous maintenance of the farm. We ask that anyone under 14 be accompanied by an adult. Visit http://www.goodgrub.org/volunteer ahead of time so you can fill out a volunteer interest form that you can bring with you. VOLUNTEER EVENT
Every Thursday:
10 am – 3 pm – Olympia Farmers’ Market (700 Capitol Way N; Olympia)
Every Friday:
10 am – 3 pm – Olympia Farmers’ Market (700 Capitol Way N; Olympia)
Every Saturday:
9 am – 2 pm – West Olympia Farmers Market (Garfield Elementary bus loop, between the school and adjacent Woodruff Park, on Thomas Street.)
10 am – 3 pm – Olympia Farmers’ Market (700 Capitol Way N; Olympia)
Every Sunday:
10 am – 3 pm – Olympia Farmers’ Market (700 Capitol Way N; Olympia)
1-4 pm – GRub Farm Drop-in Volunteer Session
(GRuB Farm; 2016 Elliott Ave NW; Olympia 98502) Volunteers support the GRuB Farm in weeding, transplanting, seeding and miscellaneous maintenance of the farm. We ask that anyone under 14 be accompanied by an adult. Visit http://www.goodgrub.org/volunteer ahead of time so you can fill out a volunteer interest form that you can bring with you. VOLUNTEER EVENT
2-6 pm – Schaefer Park Cleanup (moved to Sunday from Monday)
Schaefer Park is located north of Centralia. It is a wonderful park, with the beautiful Skookumchuck River running along the edge. Sadly, it has recently been shut down due to lack of money. However, with the help of a few wonderful volunteers the park is up and running and looking great! If you’re interested in lending a hand, volunteers are encouraged to show up at the park on Sundays from 2-6pm. See the facebook page www.facebook.com/pages/Save-the-Schaefer/144068159003155. VOLUNTEER EVENT
When and Where to See Salmon
SALMON WHEN STREAM VIEWING LOCATION
Chinook September Deschutes River* Tumwater Falls Park
Pink September Mashell River** University of Washington Pack Forest
Pink September South Prairie Creek Veteran’s Park in Town of South Prairie
Chum November Kennedy Creek*** Kennedy Creek Trail
Chum November McLane Creek* McLane Creek Nature Trail
* These locations will be staffed with knowledgeable Stream Team Salmon Stewards on most weekend days from 11 am – 3 pm. Tumwater Falls will also be staffed most weekday evenings.
** Nisqually River Pinks are best viewed in the Mashell River tributary. To view pinks at the University of Washington Pack Forest, enter the gate for 200 Road, near the junction of Highways 161 and 7. Do not park in front of the gate. A trail map can be found at www.packforest.org/education.
*** For more information: www.masoncd.org/Kennedy
Volunteer and Intern Opportunities with Thurston County Food Bank Produce Programs
The Thurston County Food Bank’s (TCFB) Produce Team is dedicated to lowering access barriers to nutritious, local fruits and vegetables—particularly for low-income people. We have various outreach activities (described below) to bring in fresh produce, and to educate our clients about how to use it. Last year, TCFB received over 60,700 lbs of local produce from gleaning, Kiwanis Food Bank Gardens, and school gardens programs. This past winter, we collected over 1,700 pounds of produce from our first-ever Winter Produce Drive. None of these achievements would be possible without the generous support of our community. Please consider supporting our work by being a volunteer or an intern for one or more of these efforts.
Gleaning: Farmers routinely over-plant their fields as a safeguard against poor weather, poor yields, and pests. As a result there is often a large excess. Gleaning is the act of harvesting the excess fruits, grains, and vegetables farmers leave in their fields. Each week, from late June through December we take volunteers to farms, orchards, and residences to harvest this bounty. We host as many as five gleaning events a week. Our gleaning days this year are Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday and one additional weekday. For information about volunteering or interning in our gleaning program, email: gleaning@thurstoncountyfoodbank.org or call (360) 352-8597 ext 108.
Kiwanis work parties: The Olympia Kiwanis Club started their garden project in the early 90’s to provide fresh produce to hunger relief programs. Our work parties are currently every Thursday morning at one of their four gardens. Activities include tilling, mulching, weeding, planting, work on simple construction projects, and harvesting. To get on the Kiwanis work party email list, contact Derek Valley at schmidtvalley@comcast.net. For information about interning to coordinate the Kiwanis work parties, email: gleaning@thurstoncountyfoodbank.org or call (360) 352-8597 ext 108.
Cooking Demonstrations: Twice a month, we offer recipes and meal samples to our clients at our downtown location. The recipes are for nutritious, easy-to-prepare meals that clients can make at home using the produce and staples available at the Food Bank. With more volunteers or an intern, we can expand this nutrition education program. For information about volunteering or interning for this program, contact: produce@thurstoncountyfoodbank.org.
Plant a Row for the Hungry: Starting in early spring we distribute seeds and plant starts throughout Olympia/Tumwater/Lacey to encourage residents to grow food for the food bank. The food bank always accepts donations of produce and eggs. So bring ’em in! For information about volunteering for this program, or a winter/spring quarter internship to coordinate this program, contact: gleaning@thurstoncountyfoodbank.org or call (360) 352-8597 ext 108.
School Gardens: We work with school gardens to encourage nutritious eating habits, to teach children how to grow their own food, and to engage children in growing food for the needy. During the school year, we host farm stands and pack mini-CSAs at area schools. We also collaborate with schools on cooking classes and garden education, help schools maintain their gardens during the school year and in the summer, and host an annual networking/educational summit for those involved in school gardening. For information about volunteering or interning in the school gardens program, contact: schoolgardens@thurstoncountyfoodbank.org, or call (360) 352-8597 ext 123
Tuesday, October 11
4:30 – 7:00 pm – Help Update the Plan for Puget Sound Recovery
(LOTT Clean Water Alliance, 500 Adams St. N.E.; Olympia) The Puget Sound Partnership has drafted a regional plan for restoring the health of Puget Sound and determined top actions that need to be taken, and invites the public to this to help determine the steps needed to restore the health of Puget Sound. At the open house, the Partnership will highlight Puget Sound recovery priorities and accomplishments, and ask people for feedback on those priorities and what other activities are important for their community. The Partnership also will share information about the agency’s measure of Puget Sound health, seek comments on the upcoming update to the Puget Sound recovery plan and provide general information about Puget Sound, recovery and what individuals can do to help. EXTRA CREDIT
7:00 pm – Science Café of Olympia: Climate Change Impacts on Marine Systems
(Batdorf & Bronson Coffee House, 516 Capitol Way South, Olympia) Climate change is expected to be one of the greatest threats to biodiversity in modern times. However, most efforts to assess the impacts of climate change on species and ecosystems to date have focused on terrestrial systems. Marine and aquatic systems will likely face many poorly-understood challenges due to the strong links between climatic and aquatic processes, large migrations of many aquatic organisms, and ocean acidification. This presents new challenges for conservation of living natural resources in marine, estuarine, and freshwater environments. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) is conducting a set of case studies aimed at identifying the impacts of climate change on a wide range of taxa in many environments, including sea turtles, hard corals, anadromous salmonids, bottom-dwelling marine fishes and marine mammals. Michelle McClure (Director of Fisheries Research Analysis and Monitoring Division at NOAA) will present an overview of the range of impacts in marine and freshwater environments, a discussion of each of their case studies and potential approaches to conservation of marine and aquatic systems in the face of climate change. EXTRA CREDIT
7:30 pm — Beyond the Invisible: Secrets of the Blue Holes
(Washington Center for Performing Arts) Take a deep breath and join veteran cave explorer Kenny Broad on a harrowing expedition into some of the most dangerous and scientifically significant places on Earth.
Wednesday, October 12
6:30 – 8:00 pm – Green Cleaning
(Yelm Timberland Library) Jennifer Johnson from Thurston County Environmental Health will show you how to have a healthy home and will provide the supplies for you to make and take your own green cleaner. Discover the benefits of cleaning with low-toxic cleaners that are easy to make, effective, smell good, cost less than commercial products, and don’t pollute indoor air. Registration is required. EXTRA CREDIT
7:30 – 8:45 pm – Dog Days, Raven Nights with authors John and Colleen Marzluff
(Olympia Timberland Library) Experience natural science at work. Join authors John Marzluff, professor of wildlife science at the University of Washington, and Colleen Marzluff, an expert in dog training and animal behavior, in the wilds of Maine as they train and race reluctant sled dog and study the mysterious raven. EXTRA CREDIT
October 14th & 15th: Coming to the Table – A Community Food Summit
October 14th will feature a giant community pot-luck on the streets of downtown Olympia, and environmental and agricultural expo, and a presentation by Mark Winnie – author of Guerrilla Gardeners, and Smart Cookin’ Mamas: Fighting Back in an Age of Industrial Agriculture and Closing the Food Gap – at the Washington Center for the Performing Arts
October 15th will be a ‘roll up your sleeves’ conference at the Thurston County Fairgrounds where we will learn about our current local food system, clarify our vision for the future, and start building the roadmap to get us from today to tomorrow.
The food summit will be the capstone of a series of events throughout the fall and summer that is called Focus on Food. Events leading up to the summit will include tours of local farms and gardens, events and programs at local Timberland Regional Libraries, discussion groups, and other opportunities to learn about the food system, our local food economy, and options for a more sustainable food future. To register, go to http://cometothetablefoodsummit.eventbrite.com. Email Halli Winstead at hallilw@gmail.com if you have questions! EXTRA CREDIT
Thursday, October 13
7 – 9 pm – Black Hills Audubon Society Monthly Program Meeting: Wildlife Rehabilitation
(First Christian Church: 701 Franklin Street SE; Olympia 98507) Tammy Yuth, a licensed wildlife rehabilitator in Washington, will talk about what she does, its challenges, and the state and federal laws that guide her. When should an animal or bird be left alone? When should it be “rescued?” What steps can you take to help? How can we live with wildlife in an ever-increasing urban environment? What is a ‘nuisance” animal?” Tammy will address these questions and more. She will also bring a special wildlife guest to help illustrate her talk. Social hour begins at 7 pm; the presentation starts promptly at 7:30 pm. EXTRA CREDIT
Friday, October 14
5-9pm – A Table for South Sound Potluck
(Washington Center: Washington St, between 5th and Legion in downtown Olympia) Do you eat food, or know someone who does? As part of Come to the Table: The Food Summit, we are hosting a potluck in the streets of downtown Olympia. Following the meal, we invite you to join us inside the Washington Center to be inspired by the words of Mark Winne, author of Closing the Food Gap: Resetting the Table in the Land of Plenty and Food Rebels, Guerilla Gardeners, and Smart Cookin’ Mamas: Fighting Back in an Age of Industrial Agriculture. There also will be an Environmental and Agricultural Expo in the lobby areas of the Washington Center, with local organization sharing their work and contribution to our food system. The potluck begins at 5:00 pm. We will have a large tent, along with tables and chairs. Bring some food to share, a serving utensil, and a note to describe your dish (including possible allergens: nuts, gluten, dairy, etc.). Please bring your own plate and utensils to limit waste. At 7:00 pm, the speaking event will begin inside the Washington Center with an opening statement from the Mayor, followed by keynote speaker Mark Winne. So, come to the table, make some friends, and get inspired to participate in our local food system! This event is free and open to all. For more information on the Food Summit, go to www.sustainablesouthsound.org/. EXTRA CREDIT (for the speaking event)
6:30 – 7:45 pm – film: Farmageddon
(Capitol Theater: 206 5th Ave SE, Olympia 98501) “Farmageddon is an eye-opening look at the US government’s questionable practices involving the independent farming industry. It begins with one mother’s quest to find raw milk for her son, and grows into a full-fledged investigation when it is found to be practically illegal to acquire. Digging beneath the surface, the harsh system used by the FDA and USDA is revealed, exposing a twisted knot of regulation that favors factory and commercial farming practices over small farms producing wholesome food.” EXTRA CREDIT
Saturday, October 15
Skookum Wulge planting event
(Pierce County) Join Citizens for a Healthy Bay volunteers in a native planting work party at the Skookum Wulge restoration site. For details, call 253-383-2429. VOLUNTEER EVENT
8:00 am – late afternoon – Black Hills Audubon Field Trip to Port Susan Bay Preserve
Port Susan Bay Preserve, located near Stanwood, is owned by The Nature Conservancy and consists of more than 4,000 acres of protected habitat, much of it estuarine. Access to the preserve is limited and permission is required in advance. We will walk along a dike trail, looking for several species of waterfowl, including ducks, geese, loons, and grebes. Raptors should be common, including possible Barn Owls, Peregrine Falcons, Bald Eagles, and various species of hawks. Birders of all levels of experience welcomed! What to bring along: appropriate Fall weather clothing and rain gear; water, snack, and lunch. The trip consists of a 2.5 mile walk along a flat levee or dike loop trail. Pre-Registration Required: contact Lonnie Somer at wheelermombi@comcast.net. Participants will be e-mailed a Nature Conservancy release form which needs to be submitted to the Nature Conservancy steward in advance. EXTRA CREDIT
9 am – 12 noon – McKinley Park Clean-Up Work Party
(McKinley Park; 500 E McKinley Way, Tacoma 98404) Meet 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. VOLUNTEER EVENT
9 am – 12 noon – 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. We will meet at the east entrance to Oak Tree Park, at the end of Pine Street South, just north of S 78th St. We will be removing non-native and invasive plant species, and litter pick-up. Bring sturdy shoes and clothes to get dirty in. Some gloves and tools will be provided, but if you have gloves, shovels, rakes, or loppers, please bring them. VOLUNTEER EVENT
10:00 am – 1:00 pm – Burri Park Volunteer Work Party
(Burri Park; 2415 Burbank Ave NW; Olympia 98502) Please come out and help us remove invasive Yellow Arch Angel from Burri Park. Kids can earn their Junior Ranger Badge! Contact: Sylvana Niehuser; sniehuse@ci.olympia.wa.us; 360-753-8365. EXTRA CREDIT
10 am – 2 pm – Allison Springs Estuary Restoration Project
(Allison Springs, Olympia) Join us to restore fish and wildlife habitat on Mud Bay in Olympia! Volunteers are needed to install native plants and to remove invasive vegetation. No experience is necessary. Please bring work gloves if you have them, a sack lunch, and a water bottle. Dress for the weather (rain or shine) and wear sturdy, waterproof shoes or boots. We will provide hand tools, light snacks and beverages, and will have some extra work gloves to share. Minors who plan to attend without their legal guardians must contact the event coordinator prior to the event to receive a special release form that must be completed. Children ten and under must have adult supervision. We will provide driving directions and parking instructions to all participants upon RSVP. Project partners/cosponsors include Capitol Land Trust, the City of Olympia, Stream Team, South Puget Sound Salmon Enhancement Group, and People For Puget Sound. To volunteer, RSVP to Christina Donehower with People For Puget Sound, at cdonehower@pugetsound.org (preferred) or 360-754-9177 ext. 183. VOLUNTEER EVENT
5:00-9:00 pm – Left Foot Organics Fun Farm Formal Benefit Dinner and Auction
(South Puget Sound Community College; 2011 Mottman Rd SW; Olympia 98502) Good food, great company, and lots of fun auction items. All proceeds support Left Foot’s employment and training program for people with developmental disabilities and rural youth, working together to grow good food for you! Your generous donations keep Left Foot growing. For tickets or more info, call Cindy at 360-701-5221 or Pat at 360-701-2330, or email info@leftfootorganics.org.
Sunday, October 16
Noon – 2 pm – Spurgeon Creek Tree Planting
(Circle Hawk Farm near Rich Rd.) Stream Team is continuing its efforts to restore streamside habitat at Circle Hawk Farm. Come help us plant native trees and shrubs along Spurgeon Creek. Circle Hawk Farm is located a short distance upstream of Lattin’s Cider Mill. After planting we’ll enjoy warm cider from Lattin’s Cider Mill! We will bring gloves, tools, snacks and refreshments. Sturdy boots or shoes are recommended. Please dress for the weather. Youth under the age of 13 must be accompanied by an adult. Youth under the age of 18 must have a parent/guardian sign a waiver form (available on-site or go to: www.streamteam.info to download a copy). For a link to driving directions, go to www.streamteam.info. For more information, contact Ann Marie at 360-754-3355 ext. 6857 or finanam@co.thurston.wa.us. VOLUNTEER EVENT
2:30 – 3:45 pm – film: Fresh
(Capitol Theater: 206 5th Ave SE, Olympia 98501) Fresh takes a hard look at the industrialization of America’s food production systems and how some of the sharpest minds are attempting to change it. The stakes are clear: food contamination, air and water pollution, and human morbid obesity increasingly approaching crisis proportions. Getting to sustainability is discussed knowledgeably by genius grant recipient Will Allen, entrepreneur Joel Salatin, supermarket operator David Ball, and others. EXTRA CREDIT
7:30 – 8:35 pm – film: Green Fire
(Capitol Theater: 206 5th Ave SE, Olympia 98501) Conservationist Aldo Leopold is considered one of the most important environmental innovators of the 20th century. In the new documentary Green Fire, the eventful life and important work of the man who founded the national wilderness system is explored in detail, revealing how his forward thinking and diverse ideas about the land and our connection to it has helped create and inspire the burgeoning environmental movement, which has grown to become a modern-day voice for preservation and change. EXTRA CREDIT
Monday, October 17
12 noon – 1 pm— Plant Walk at Adriana Hess Wetland Park
(Tacoma) Take a lunch break and enjoy a guided plant walk at a local urban park to learn how you can use native plants to attract wildlife to your yard. The Adriana Hess Wetland Park was preserved by the Hess Family and given to the city of University Place in 1995, and since then has undergone a transformation from a backyard to an urban wildlife sanctuary. Join us to discover the possibilities and get inspired! Volunteers at Tahoma Audubon Society provide monthly walks on the third Monday of each month. Pick up a free Donna Cooper Pepos Native Plant Trail Guide and come by anytime. Adults and families welcome. FREE. Call 253-565-9278 to sign up or for more information. EXTRA CREDIT
7:00-9:00 pm – Travel That Transforms Lives: Clean Water in India
(Olympia Unitarian Universalist; 2300 East End St NW; Olympia 98502) David Albert has lived his beliefs for decades by helping in areas of greatest need, especially in setting up water purification systems in India. Come hear David speak about an India most travelers (and most Indians that travelers meet) don’t know at all. David found his very self in India, he found family and community there, and he “found entry to a much larger world, one that most people only dream of”. As David says, “In my life, I have learned to expect the unexpected; the unexpected is where life really happens.” Part of the Olympia Unitarian Universalist Congregation Adult Education Program. Open to all interested individuals. A single registration fee of $10 applies to all the classes in the Program Guide; fee waivers are available. For more information, contact Roger Nielsen at thenielsens2000@yahoo.com. EXTRA CREDIT
Tuesday October 18
7:00 to 8:15 pm – Foraging in Crow’s Backyard
(Olympia REI: 625 Black Lake Blvd SW, Suite 410; Olympia 98502) Despite common perceptions of cities as ecological wastelands, people engage in a vibrant practice of plant and mushroom gathering in urban ecosystems. In this presentation you will hear about some of the common edible weeds, native berries, and heritage orchard fruits gathered in the city, and how foragers are engaging in stewardship activities in urban greenspaces while also creating access to food and nature. We’ll explore ways that foraging might be a strategy for open space and biodiversity conservation, pollution reduction, and community resiliency. Dr. Poe is based in Seattle and conducts applied social science research on the human dimensions of environments. She’s lived in the Northwest for 25 years. Prior to her work as an environmental anthropologist, Poe guided local and international wilderness and ecotravel programs. You must register at www.rei.com/event/30682/session/38281 to attend. EXTRA CREDIT
7:00 – 9:00 pm – On-site Tour of a Passive Solar House
(Olympia) Picture this: You’re heating your beautiful new home with less energy than it takes to run a hairdryer. You’re enjoying fresh indoor air and relaxing in comfortable, stable room temperatures day and night—oh, and paying 90% less on your heating bill! Benefits of passive house: unbeatable comfort; outstanding indoor air quality; save about 75% on total energy bill; save about 90% on heating/cooling bill; super low-maintenance; significantly reduce your carbon footprint; and affordable net-zero as energy costs increase. Space is limited and preregistration is required. To register and get directions, email barb@scavezze.com. EXTRA CREDIT
Wednesday, October 19
12 noon – 1pm – Black Hills AudubonBrown bag lunch & discussion
Natural Resources Building, Room 172: 1111 Washington St. SE; Olympia) Julia Parrish will speak about trends and findings in the Coastal Observation and Seabird Survey Team (COASST) program.
7-9 pm – Plastics in the Ocean: Curiosity or Concern?
(LOTT’s WET Science Center: 500 Adams Street NE; Olympia) While much research has focused on effects of large plastics in the water, very little has been done on what happens when those big pieces break down. To expand upon this topic, SSEA is honored to have Dr. Joel Baker, Science Director at Center for Urban Waters in Tacoma, give a lecture. According to Dr. Baker, microscopic fragments are floating in the ocean and washing up on shores, but the exact consequences for marine organisms are still unknown. Do microplastics pose harm to organisms when ingested? What happens when microplastics enter the food chain? All these questions are being posed in Dr. Baker’s work with the UW Puget Sound Institute. Come find out how they are approaching these questions and more in his upcoming lecture. Plus, the results of samples collected during our cruise will be announced at this lecture—come find out how our local waters measure up! The lecture is free and open to the public. For more information, contact Leihla at at 360-888-0565 or leihla@sseacenter.org. EXTRA CREDIT
Thursday October 20
6:30 – 8:30 pm – Understanding our Energy Futures
(Urban Onion Ballroom: 116 Legion Way SE—in downtown Olympia, across from Sylvester Park) With growing demand and a volatile, shrinking supply of fossil fuel energy, the Alliance for Community Transition is exploring how conservation, efficiency and renewable energy sources can help our community adapt to an uncertain future. What are the possible solutions, what’s feasible and what’s already happening? A panel of energy experts—including representatives from Puget Sound Energy, South Sound Solar, Sunset Air, and members of the Energy Working Group—will offer answers, and invite discussion of our possible energy futures. The program begins at 7 pm. Arrive early if you want to order from the menu. Sponsored by the NW EcoBuilding Guild, South Sound Chapter and Alliance for Community Transition – South Sound. EXTRA CREDIT
Friday, October 21
9 am – 12 noon – 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. VOLUNTEER EVENT
6:30 – 8:30 pm – Olympia Food Co-op Cooking Class: Making Fermented Vegetables
(GRuB Farmhouse: 2016 Elliott Ave NW, Olympia 98502) Learn how to make fermented veggies from the one and only, Oly Kraut. Summer Bock will show you everything you need to know to turn your kitchen into a fermentation station. Join us for this fun and information packed evening where you enjoy the fermentation from start to finish. Samples will be provided. Registration is required: go to www.olympiafood.coop/classes.
Saturday, October 22
9 am – 3 pm – COASST Training Session for Seabird Beach Surveys
(Olympia) Ever see a dead bird on a beach and wonder why it succumbed? Would you like to help scientists find out why? The Coastal Observation and Seabird Survey Team (COASST) provides that opportunity by training volunteers to do regular surveys of beaches in their area. Volunteers identify and take measurements on any dead birds found and report them to COASST. This training session is a free, six-hour session, with a break for lunch. If you are interested, contact Sam Merrill at sammerrill3@comcast.net. You do not have to commit to be a volunteer surveyor to take the training class. The COASST program is intended to establish baseline data for scientific purposes and to alert wildlife personnel for possible intervention when a significant increase in dead birds is observed. Currently, four Thurston County beaches are on the COASST survey list: Evergreen, Priest Point, and two at Tolmie State Park. Four Mason County beaches are also on the list: Menard’s Landing, Rendsland Creek, Twanoh State Park, and Walker County Park. Sites can be added and there are many other potential sites on Puget Sound and the ocean shore. EXTRA CREDIT
9 am – 12 noon – 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. We will meet at the east entrance to Oak Tree Park, at the end of Pine Street South, just north of S 78th St. We will be removing non-native and invasive plant species, and litter pick-up. Bring sturdy shoes and clothes to get dirty in. Some gloves and tools will be provided, but if you have gloves, shovels, rakes, or loppers, please bring them. VOLUNTEER EVENT
10 am – 2 pm – Allison Springs Estuary Restoration Project
(Allison Springs, Olympia) Join us to restore fish and wildlife habitat on Mud Bay in Olympia! Volunteers are needed to install native plants and to remove invasive vegetation. No experience is necessary. Please bring work gloves if you have them, a sack lunch, and a water bottle. Dress for the weather (rain or shine) and wear sturdy, waterproof shoes or boots. We will provide hand tools, light snacks and beverages, and will have some extra work gloves to share. Minors who plan to attend without their legal guardians must contact the event coordinator prior to the event to receive a special release form that must be completed. Children ten and under must have adult supervision. We will provide driving directions and parking instructions to all participants upon RSVP. Project partners/cosponsors include Capitol Land Trust, the City of Olympia, Stream Team, South Puget Sound Salmon Enhancement Group, and People For Puget Sound. To volunteer, RSVP to Christina Donehower with People For Puget Sound, at cdonehower@pugetsound.org (preferred) or 360-754-9177 ext. 183. VOLUNTEER EVENT
10:00 am – 1:00 pm – Restoration Event at Clover Creek Reserve
(Tacoma) Clover Creek Reserve is an example of woodland prairie, an increasingly rare landscape in Pierce County. Dress for the weather. Suggested dress: boots or comfortable athletic shoes, work clothes, rain gear and appropriate layers. Volunteers should bring a refillable water bottle. Snacks, drinks, tools and gloves will be provided. Directions: Clover Creek Reserve is located on Johns Street E, Tacoma 98445 (enter 6th Ave E & Johns St E, Tacoma, WA 98445 on on google maps/mapquest). If you are under 18 and attending the event without a parent or guardian, please come to the event with a waiver signed by a parent or guardian. (Go to www.cascadeland.org/files/stewardship-files/Youth%20Waiver.updated%2011.22.10.pdf) To register for this event, go to https://dnbweb1.blackbaud.com/OPXREPHIL/EventDetail.asp?cguid=6374B924%2DD0D5%2D4655%2DBC98%2D66623676DF2C&eid=38536&sid=923AEE4B%2D2232%2D45D5%2D87B8%2D38E0D515BBAD. VOLUNTEER EVENT
Monday, October 24
Real Food Day: Local, Humane, Fair
(The Evergreen State College; 2700 Evergreen Parkway NW; Olympia 98505) Students, faculty, and community members will join together with the Campus Food Coalition to celebrate the importance of Real Food. We are talking about: food that is local and community based; food that is FAIR to both producer and consumer, and ecologically sound; and food that is HUMANE to workers and animals. Through art exhibition, photo petition, and engaging activities including lots of delicious local food, we will focus on raising awareness of the upcoming expiration of our contract with Aramark, and organize to discuss what we would like to see our campus food system become. We are still in the planning process, and we need as much help as we can get from absolutely everyone tied to Evergreen and greater Olympia. If you are part of our community and care about real food, please help us organize this event! Please email evergreenfoodcoalition@gmail.com for more information or to get involved. EXTRA CREDIT
Wednesday October 26
6-8p m – Green Tacoma Partnership Fall Meeting and Potluck
(Portland Ave Community Center, Tacoma) EXTRA CREDIT
Thursday, October 27
6 – 8 pm – Olympia Food Co-op Cooking Class: Gluten-Free Cookies
(Fertile Ground Guesthouse: 311 9th Ave SE, Olympia 98501) Delicious artisan treats for special occasions, classics to pack for lunch, or decadence to nibble at midnight. Don’t be resigned to the sad offerings that come out of a box in a plastic tray. Gluten-free cookies can be so much more than what you thought possible. Registration is required: go to www.olympiafood.coop/classes/.
Saturday, October 29
4 – 6 pm – Olympia Food Co-op Cooking Class: Root Vegetables
(GRuB Farmhouse: 2016 Elliott Ave NW, Olympia 98502) Come and get back to your roots. Learn how various cuts and preparations will make the same vegetable shine in different ways. We will make Parsnip Ribbon salad, Roasted Roots with Balsamic Glazed Mushrooms, and more! Registration is required: go to www.olympiafood.coop/classes/.
Monday, October 31
9 am – 1 pm – Nisqually Planting Assistance
(Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge) Description: Staging and moving plants for later installation by schoolchildren. To volunteer, RSVP to Christina Donehower with People For Puget Sound, at cdonehower@pugetsound.org (preferred) or 360-754-9177 ext. 183. VOLUNTEER EVENT
Thursday, November 3
6-9 pm – Naturescaping for Water & Wildlife Workshop
(Tumwater) Fall is an ideal time to do some research and make plans for your lawn and garden. If you are interested in learning how to turn your yard into a lovely year-round landscape that attracts birds, butterflies and amphibians, then this workshop is for you. Attend this FREE workshop to learn: planting for 4-season interest; landscaping for tricky areas like slopes; easy ways to minimize lawns; water-wise ideas for your landscape; how simple landscape changes can save you time and money. Erica Guttman, WSU Native Plant Salvage Project, will teach the class. Registration is required, and space is limited. To register, or for more information, contact nativeplantsalvage@gmail.com or 360-867-2166. EXTRA CREDIT
7:00 pm – South Sound Sierra Group: Protecting Our Tidelands
(Traditions Café: 300 5th Avenue SW, Olympia) You are invited to an informative evening about how our tidelands and water quality are being degraded, and what you can do to help save them. You will meet the South Sound Sierra Group and other organizations who are working on this very important issue. Please join us early (before 6:00 pm) if you would like to support Traditions Café by ordering dinner there. EXTRA CREDIT
Friday, November 4
9 am – 12pm – Upland & Forest Habitat Restoration work party
(Tacoma Nature Center, 1919 S. Tyler St.) 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. VOLUNTEER EVENT
6:30 – 8:30 pm – Olympia Food Co-op Cooking Class: Making Fermented Vegetables
(GRuB Farmhouse: 2016 Elliott Ave NW, Olympia 98502) Learn how to make fermented veggies from the one and only, Oly Kraut. Summer Bock will show you everything you need to know to turn your kitchen into a fermentation station. Join us for this fun and information packed evening where you enjoy the fermentation from start to finish. Samples will be provided. Registration is required: go to www.olympiafood.coop/classes/.
Saturday, November 5
10 am – 2 pm – Allison Springs Estuary Restoration Project
(Randall Preserve, Olympia) Join us to restore fish and wildlife habitat on Mud Bay in Olympia! Volunteers are needed to install native plants and to remove invasive vegetation. No experience is necessary. Please bring work gloves if you have them, a sack lunch, and a water bottle. Dress for the weather (rain or shine) and wear sturdy, waterproof shoes or boots. We will provide hand tools, light snacks and beverages, and will have some extra work gloves to share. Minors who plan to attend without their legal guardians must contact the event coordinator prior to the event to receive a special release form that must be completed. Children ten and under must have adult supervision. We will provide driving directions and parking instructions to all participants upon RSVP. Project partners/cosponsors include Capitol Land Trust, the City of Olympia, Stream Team, South Puget Sound Salmon Enhancement Group, and People For Puget Sound. To volunteer, RSVP to Christina Donehower with People For Puget Sound, at cdonehower@pugetsound.org (preferred) or 360-754-9177 ext. 183. VOLUNTEER EVENT
Olympic View restoration site work party
(Tacoma) Join Citizens for a Healthy Bay volunteers in an invasive species removal and native plant planting work party at the Olympic View restoration site. For details, call
253-383-2429. VOLUNTEER EVENT
Sunday, November 6
4 – 6 pm – Olympia Food Co-op Cooking Class: Warming Asian Soups
(GRuB Farmhouse: 2016 Elliott Ave NW, Olympia 98502) Come and learn how to stay warm to your bones. We’ll make Miso Kabocha Ginger soup and Bone Broth with Asian Spices. Registration is required: go to www.olympiafood.coop/classes/.
Monday, November 7
9 am – 1 pm – Nisqually Planting Assistance
(Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge) Description: Staging and moving plants for later installation by schoolchildren. To volunteer, RSVP to Christina Donehower with People For Puget Sound, at cdonehower@pugetsound.org (preferred) or 360-754-9177 ext. 183. VOLUNTEER EVENT
Friday, November 11
8-10 am – Titlow Park Waterbird Survey
(Tacoma) Description: Identifying and counting waterbirds at Titlow Lagoon and beach, no experience necessary. To volunteer, RSVP to Christina Donehower (cdonehower@pugetsound.org, 360-754-9177 ext. 183). We will provide driving directions and other event details to participants upon RSVP. EXTRA CREDIT
Saturday, November 12
7:00 am – 5:00 pm – Black Hills Audubon Field Trip: Birding in Kitsap and Jefferson Counties
This trip will cross the Narrows Bridge with Port Townsend as the final destination, with stops along the way, including Marrowstone Island and Fort Flagler. The emphasis of the day will be water birds arriving for the winter. In addition to waterfowl and other birds, this trip offers lovely views of Hood Canal, Admiralty Inlet, and the Straits of Juan de Fuca. There will be little walking that is not difficult. Dress for weather, which means possible rain and wind (it is winter in the PNW, after all). Bring food and drinks. There is a limit of 4 cars. Meet at the Martin Way Park and Ride at 7:00 and the 6th Avenue Park and Ride in Tacoma at 7:30 am. Call Phil at 360-970-6323 or Ruth at 253-564-7419 to reserve a spot for this trip. EXTRA CREDIT
9 am – 2 pm – Mount Rainier Gateway Forest Reserve Work Party
The Nisqually Land Trust will be carrying out invasive-plant control and other stewardship tasks on land it owns near Ashford. To sign up, send an email to staff@nisquallylandtrust.org. VOLUNTEER EVENT
10:00 am – 1:00 pm – Environmental Restoration at Clover Creek Reserve
(Tacoma) Clover Creek Reserve is an example of woodland prairie, an increasingly rare landscape in Pierce County. Dress for the weather. Suggested dress: boots or comfortable athletic shoes, work clothes, rain gear and appropriate layers. Volunteers should bring a refillable water bottle. Snacks, drinks, tools and gloves will be provided. Directions: Clover Creek Reserve is located on Johns Street E, Tacoma 98445 (enter 6th Ave E & Johns St E, Tacoma, WA 98445 on on google maps/mapquest). If you are under 18 and attending the event without a parent or guardian, please come to the event with a waiver signed by a parent or guardian. (Go to www.cascadeland.org/files/stewardship-files/Youth%20Waiver.updated%2011.22.10.pdf) To register for this event, go to https://dnbweb1.blackbaud.com/OPXREPHIL/EventDetail.asp?cguid=6374B924%2DD0D5%2D4655%2DBC98%2D66623676DF2C&eid=38534&sid=89CF7DD7%2D4E81%2D4BBA%2D92A1%2DC48FDE2AD220. VOLUNTEER EVENT
10 am – noon – Salmon Steward Chum Field Training
(DNR McLane Creek Nature Trail) To register, contact Ann Marie at finanam@co.thurston.wa.us or 360-754-3355 x6857. VOLUNTEER EVENT
November 16
7-9 pm – Biodiversity in the South Sound & the Human Condition
(LOTT’s WET Science Center: 500 Adams Street NE; Olympia) Presented by Daniel Hull, Executive Director of Nisqually Reach Nature Center. For more information, contact Leihla at at 360-888-0565 or leihla@sseacenter.org. EXTRA CREDIT
Saturday, November 19
10 am – 2 pm – Allison Springs Estuary Restoration Project
(Randall Preserve, Olympia) Join us to restore fish and wildlife habitat on Mud Bay in Olympia! Volunteers are needed to install native plants and to remove invasive vegetation. No experience is necessary. Please bring work gloves if you have them, a sack lunch, and a water bottle. Dress for the weather (rain or shine) and wear sturdy, waterproof shoes or boots. We will provide hand tools, light snacks and beverages, and will have some extra work gloves to share. Minors who plan to attend without their legal guardians must contact the event coordinator prior to the event to receive a special release form that must be completed. Children ten and under must have adult supervision. We will provide driving directions and parking instructions to all participants upon RSVP. Project partners/cosponsors include Capitol Land Trust, the City of Olympia, Stream Team, South Puget Sound Salmon Enhancement Group, and People For Puget Sound. To volunteer, RSVP to Christina Donehower with People For Puget Sound, at cdonehower@pugetsound.org (preferred) or 360-754-9177 ext. 183. VOLUNTEER EVENT
TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 29: ALL EVENT REVIEWS DUE!
Saturday, December 3
10 am – 2 pm – Allison Springs Estuary Restoration Project
(Allison Springs, Olympia) Join us to restore fish and wildlife habitat on Mud Bay in Olympia! Volunteers are needed to install native plants and to remove invasive vegetation. No experience is necessary. Please bring work gloves if you have them, a sack lunch, and a water bottle. Dress for the weather (rain or shine) and wear sturdy, waterproof shoes or boots. We will provide hand tools, light snacks and beverages, and will have some extra work gloves to share. Minors who plan to attend without their legal guardians must contact the event coordinator prior to the event to receive a special release form that must be completed. Children ten and under must have adult supervision. We will provide driving directions and parking instructions to all participants upon RSVP. Project partners/cosponsors include Capitol Land Trust, the City of Olympia, Stream Team, South Puget Sound Salmon Enhancement Group, and People For Puget Sound. To volunteer, RSVP to Christina Donehower with People For Puget Sound, at cdonehower@pugetsound.org (preferred) or 360-754-9177 ext. 183.
December 7
7-9 pm – The Road to Recovery for Endangered Southern Resident Killer Whales
(LOTT’s WET Science Center: 500 Adams Street NE; Olympia) Presented by Lynne Barre, National Marine Fisheries. For more information, contact Leihla at at 360-888-0565 or leihla@sseacenter.org.
Saturday, December 10
8:00 am – late afternoon – Black Hills Audubon Field Trip: Port Townsend and vicinity
Stops will include Fort Worden SP, Point Hudson, Mystery Bay SP, Fort Flagler SP, and Kah Tai Lagoon. Possible species include Ancient and Marbled Murrelet, Rhinoceros Auklet, Pigeon Guillemot, Black Oystercatcher, loons (including a possibility for Yellow-billed Loon), Brant, Long-tailed, Harlequin, and Ruddy Duck, and 8 or more species of shore birds. This is a great opportunity for beginning birders to see some of our harder to find northwest specialties! What to bring along: It can be windy, rainy, and cold, so appropriate Winter weather clothing and rain gear are strongly recommended; water, snack, and lunch. The trip will entail several stops with short walks on level ground. Where and when to meet: Mud Bay Park & Ride, 8:00 am. Pre-registration is required: contact Lonnie Somer at wheelermombi@comcast.net.
10 am – 2 pm – Allison Springs Estuary Restoration Project
(Randall Preserve, Olympia) Join us to restore fish and wildlife habitat on Mud Bay in Olympia! Volunteers are needed to install native plants and to remove invasive vegetation. No experience is necessary. Please bring work gloves if you have them, a sack lunch, and a water bottle. Dress for the weather (rain or shine) and wear sturdy, waterproof shoes or boots. We will provide hand tools, light snacks and beverages, and will have some extra work gloves to share. Minors who plan to attend without their legal guardians must contact the event coordinator prior to the event to receive a special release form that must be completed. Children ten and under must have adult supervision. We will provide driving directions and parking instructions to all participants upon RSVP. Project partners/cosponsors include Capitol Land Trust, the City of Olympia, Stream Team, South Puget Sound Salmon Enhancement Group, and People For Puget Sound. To volunteer, RSVP to Christina Donehower with People For Puget Sound, at cdonehower@pugetsound.org (preferred) or 360-754-9177 ext. 183.
Saturday, December 17
10 am – 12 noon – Titlow Park Waterbird Survey
(Tacoma) Description: Identifying and counting waterbirds at Titlow Lagoon and beach, no experience necessary. To volunteer, RSVP to Christina Donehower (cdonehower@pugetsound.org, 360-754-9177 ext. 183). We will provide driving directions and other event details to participants upon RSVP.
March 21
7-9 pm – SSEA Discovery Lecture Series at LOTT’s WET Science Center
For more information, contact Leihla at at 360-888-0565 or leihla@sseacenter.org.