See BelowPublic Hearing on Thurston County Critical Areas Ordinance on June 23^rd

The Thurston County Board of Commissioners is holding a public hearing on its update of Thurston County’s Critical Areas Ordinance.  This promises to be a charged meeting, full of controversy and passion!  The opposition to the Critical Areas Ordinance—STOP Thurston County and the Thurston County Farm Bureau—are marshaling their supporters to show up, and those who support the Ordinance are doing likewise.  Obviously, I hope you support the Ordinance—but either way, if you feel strongly about this topic it is critical that you show up and let your voice be heard!  Details about the hearing and a link to the proposed changes appear below in the listings for June 23.

 

Help Detect Newly Invading Problem Plants!

Volunteers are being recruited in the next 3-4 weeks to participate in a project focusing on eradicating plants currently in low abundance in target areas.  The goal is to find these newly established populations and remove them before they have a chance to spread and cause serious ecological damage and deplete economic resources.  Volunteers will be asked to search for a variety of invasive plants while they explore and enjoy the outdoors—camping, hiking, horseback riding, kayaking, etc.—and report plants if they encounter them. Volunteers also will have the opportunity to get assignments focusing on the Nisqually, Yakima, and Chehalis River watersheds, and HWY 12 -SR 410 (which includes Mt. Rainier National Park).  We will conduct volunteer trainings in mid-July to train volunteers to identify plants, collect and report data, which will be used to alert local weed managers so they can remove the ‘invaders’.  No experience is necessary.  Training dates and locations will be decided based on volunteer response.If you are interested in participating as a Citizen Scientist to help detect newly established invasive species, e-mail Julie Combs at pnw.ipc.org@gmail.com for more information or to sign up for one of the trainings.  (This project is a partnership between the PNW Invasive Plant Council, the WA Dep’t. of Agriculture, and other state and local conservations groups.)

 

Help Gather Stream Bug Samples with Stream Team!

Every summer, Stream Team volunteers have a chance to get up close and personal with local streams as we gather “stream bug” samples.  “Stream bugs” spend all or part of their lives in the bottom of a stream.  Some are sensitive to pollution and some are tolerant of pollution, thus they serve as good indicators of stream health.  This summer, Stream Team will be monitoring 20 streams with the help of volunteers.  No experience is necessary.  Simply sign up for one of the training dates to learn how and why we gather stream bug samples.  You will also have a chance to observe the monitoring protocol during the training.  You have a choice of two training dates: Tuesday, June 19, 6-9 pm—or Monday, July 9, 6-9 pm.  The training sessions will be held outdoors at the McLane Creek Nature Trail (on the west side of Olympia).  Dave Spiller, local fly-fishing expert, will be on hand to share his experience and observations regarding “stream bugs.”  At the training, you can sign up to monitor one site or multiple sites.  Monitoring begins in late June and goes through early August.   Monitoring days/times vary throughout the week, and usually takes 2-4 hours, depending on the stream monitoring site.  To register or for more information, contact Ann Marie at pearcea@co.thurston.wa.us or 360-754-3355 ext. 6857.

 

Planning a Car Wash Fundraiser?  Get a free car wash kit! 

Make sure your car wash fundraiser isn’t polluting our local creeks and streams.  Host a Clean Cars, Clean Streams car wash!  The location of your car wash is very important to prevent polluted soapy car wash water from entering local streams via storm drains.  Soap and grime washes off cars contains pollutants that are toxic to fish and other aquatic life.  Call your local Storm and Surface Water Utility first: we can help you sponsor a non-pollution car wash.  Staff from the Stormwater Utility will determine if the site has appropriate water treatment to clean the car wash water. Once an approved site is identified, use the Clean Cars—Clean Streams car wash kit to show that you group’s charity car wash is “fish-friendly.”  Each car wash kit contains buckets, sponges, biodegradable non-toxic soap, hose nozzles, and a Clean Cars—Clean Streams sign to show your customers that your group cares about water quality, too.  To get a free, fish-friendly car wash kit, call the coordinator in your city: City of Lacey, 360-438-2687; City of Olympia, 360-753-8346; City of Tumwater, 360-754-4148; outside these areas in Thurston County, 360-754-4681, ext. 4.

 

Help Mark Storm Drains

Are you looking for a community service project this summer?  You can help Stream Team spread the word that only rain should go down the storm drain by helping to mark storm drains with a colorful marker that reads: “No Dumping, Drains to Waterways.”  Storm drain marking is a fun summertime activity for families, individuals or community groups, and it helps remind folks that oil, pet waste, paint, soap and other pollutants should not go down the storm drain.  Most storm drains in Thurston County lead untreated to the nearest body of water or to groundwater. For more information, or to sign up, contact your local Stream Team Coordinator.

Lacey: contact ErKeith at ekeith@ci.lacey.wa.us  or 360-439-2687

Olympia: contact Michelle Stevie at mstevie@ci.olympia.wa.us  or 360-753-8336

Tumwater: contact Debbie Smith at dmsmith@ci.tumwater.wa.us  or 360-754-4148

Thurston County: contact Chris Maun at maunc@co.thurston.wa.us  360-754-3355 ext. 6637

 

Float the Nisqually River with the Land Trust

Saturday July 21 – Nisqually-Mashel Float Trip

Sunday July 29 – Lower Nisqually Float Trip

See the Nisqually River up close!  This summer the Nisqually Land Trust is offering two opportunities to experience this magnificent river.  These will be gentle trips, rated for those aged six years and up and run by a professional outfitter.  They last from four to five hours and include a catered riverbank lunch.  With 75 percent of the river’s lower 42 miles—from Alder Dam to the Nisqually Wildlife Refuge—virtually undeveloped and permanently protected, the Nisqually rivals federally designated Wild and Scenic rivers in the quality and quantity of its natural habitat.  But protection means limited access, so there is no better way to see the river than to raft it.  The first trip, Saturday, July 21, will float the “upper” river, from its confluence with the Mashel River, near Eatonville, to Wilcox Farms, in McKenna.  This 13-mile trip will pass several Land Trust properties and travel the three-mile length of one of our largest management units, Powell Creek.  This trip requires walking (about forty yards) over uneven ground when first boarding the rafts.  On Sunday, July 29, we will raft ten miles of the lower river, from Yelm down through Joint Base Lewis-McChord and the Nisqually Indian Reservation, through some of the largest old-growth forest stands on the river.  The cost of each trip is $100 per person (lunch is included).  To reserve a seat, go to http://events.r20.constantcontact.com/register/event?oeidk=a07e5xj4y6m8291d826&llr=jzh7gggab.  For more information, email staff@nisquallylandtrust.org or call 360-489-3400.

 

 

RECURRING EVENTS

Tuesdays

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

Contact Audrey Lamb with the Center for Natural Lands Management—South Sound Program, at alamb@cnlm.org.

9:30 am – 12 pm: Yashiro Japanese Garden

Join the Stewards of the Yashiro Japanese Garden to help maintain and care for the garden.  Volunteers meet weekly to rake, weed and provide ongoing maintenance to this well loved park.  Parking is available in the Lee Creighton Justice Center parking lot at 900 Plum Street SE.

4 – 7 pm: West Olympia Farmers’ Market

(Parking lot of Gloria Dei Church: 1515 Harrison Ave NW—at Harrison & Thomas—in Olympia)  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.  Produce, baked goods, eggs, flowers, veggie starts, crafts, tool sharpening and more!  Support your local producers: by shopping at your neighborhood market you are helping our local economy grow and flourish by encouraging small-scale producers to meet the needs of our community.

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 the entire walk or for as long as you wish.)

4-7 pm:  GRuB Farm Drop-In Volunteer Day

Every Wednesday, GRuB has a drop-in volunteer sessions on the farm on the Westside of Olympia.  We have plenty of tools and extra rain gear, boots and gloves if you don’t have your own.  Each week we’ll tackle the most pressing tasks on the farm and have lots of fun getting to know each other in the process.  Volunteers need to have an approved volunteer packet already submitted beforehand.   Go to http://goodgrub.org/volunteer/ for the necessary forms.

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.

Fridays

10 am – 3 pm – Olympia Farmers’ Market

Saturdays

10 am – 3 pm – Olympia Farmers’ Market

Sundays

10 am – 3 pm – Olympia Farmers’ Market

 

 

Sunday, June 17

10 – 11:30 am – It’s in Your Nature: Exploring the Wild

(Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge; Olympia 98516)  From bitterns to butterflies, chickadees to crabapples, the Refuge is home to many types of wildlife.  Join naturalist Donna Snow on a 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 once you pay the refuge entry fee ($3 per vehicle).

11:30-2:30 pm – Beach Naturalist Program at Priest Point City Park & Burfoot County Park

Trained Beach Naturalists from the South Sound Estuary Association will be available to talk with beach goers about the sea life that lives in and depends on the intertidal environment, as well as what we can do to protect this fragile ecosystem.  The full schedule of Beach Naturalist Program dates can be found at http://sseacenter.wordpress.com/events/jbeachnaturalistsummerschedule.

 

Monday, June 18

9:00 – 11:00 am – Thurston Regional Planning Council + videos on population & food

(2424 Heritage Court SW, Conference Room A, 1st Floor; Olympia 98502)  Task Force meeting members will review and discuss draft elements of the Sustainable Thurston Vision and Goals that describe the future desired outcomes.  After the meeting, audience members are invited to a viewing of Hans Rosling on Global Population Growth (10 mins).  Rosling is a professior of global health at Sweden’s Karolinska Institute.  He discusses global development –with some surprisingly good news.  A second video will follow: Louise Fresco on Feeding the Whole World (18 mins).  A food and agriculture expert, Louise Fresco says it’s time to think of food as a topic of social and economic importance on par with oil.  The videos and follow-up discussion will begin 10 minutes after the meeting ends.

 

Tuesday, June 19

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

Tuesday’s volunteer day will take place at Wolf Haven International.  Wolf Haven is a wolf sanctuary located in Tenino that has rescued and provided lifetime sanctuary to over 150 wolves.  The sanctuary also has a mounded prairie and beautiful oak stands.  The Center for Natural Lands Management has partnered with Wolf Haven to conduct restoration activities on their prairie for a number of years.  On Tuesday, we will be removing invasives and collecting seed at Wolf Haven.  There will also be an opportunity to tour the sanctuary.  In the morning, we will be pulling Scot’s broom and knapweed, and collecting seed.  The staff at Wolf Haven has kindly offered to give us a tour of the sanctuary, which will happen before lunch.  After lunch, folks who are collecting seed will head over to West Rocky Prairie.  There will be an option to stay at Wolf Haven and continue removing invasives as well.  As always, please make sure to bring gloves, lunch, rain gear, and a smile.  For more information, contact Audrey Lamb with the Center for Natural Lands Management—South Sound Program, at alamb@cnlm.org.  Directions to Wolf Haven:  Take exit 99 off of I-5; go east on 93rd Avenue (left from southbound I-5; right from northbound I-5); follow the road for 1.5 miles, going through 2 four-way stop signs; when the road ends at a “T’ junction, turn right onto Old Highway 99 and follow this road for 3.5 miles; after going through a short railroad tunnel, there will be a Chevron gas station on your right—take the left that is directly across from the Chevron station, onto Offut Lake Road; Wolf Haven is the first right off of Offut Lake Road; after entering Wolf Haven, take the road to the left that leads to the prairie entrance.  Directions to West Rocky Prairie:  take I-5 to exit 95 (the Littlerock exit), ~10 miles south of Olympia; turn right onto Maytown Rd and continue until you reach Tilley Rd (~2.6 miles); turn right onto Tilley Rd and continue to 143rd Ave (~1.4 miles); turn left onto 143rd Ave and drive for 1.8 miles—on the left side of the road, across from the Knowles Rd sign, is the entrance.

12:00-3:00 pm – Beach Naturalist Program at Tolmie State Park

Trained Beach Naturalists from the South Sound Estuary Association will be available to talk with beach goers about the sea life that lives in and depends on the intertidal environment, as well as what we can do to protect this fragile ecosystem.  The full schedule of Beach Naturalist Program dates can be found at http://sseacenter.wordpress.com/events/jbeachnaturalistsummerschedule.

6:00 pm – Public Hearing on Impact Fees for New Development

(Room 280, Building 1 of the Thurston County Courthouse: 2000 Lakeridge Drive SW; Olympia 98502)  The Thurston County Board of Commissioners will hold a public hearing regarding an ordinance on adopting impact fees for new development. The purpose of the hearing will be to accept public comment on whether the County should adopt an ordinance for impact fees—fees for transportation, recreation facilities and parks. The collection of fees to fund public infrastructure is not new to Thurston County: the County has been collecting State Environmental Policy Act (SEPA) impact fees for the last twenty years.  The primary differences between SEPA and GMA impact fees are:

• SEPA fees are negotiated between the developer and public works department, school district, and county for each project—whereas GMA fees are established on a service-area basis given the cost to construct transportation, park and school projects within the service area.
• SEPA fees are typically used to fund specific improvements in the immediate vicinity of the proposed development—whereas GMA fees are used to fund improvements on the transportation, parks or school system within a service area.
• Finally, smaller developments are exempt from SEPA mitigation fees, thus cumulative impacts from several small developments lead to impacts that are not funded by new development and must be funded from other sources such as property taxes or bonds and levies—whereas GMA fees can be collected from all new residential and commercial development regardless of size.

For more info, go to http://www.co.thurston.wa.us/planning/impact/impact_home.html and see story in the Olympian at http://www.theolympian.com/2012/05/28/2120370/county-eyes-impact-fees.html.   A draft copy of the ordinance and the study will be available at that website by May 29.

 

Wednesday, June 20

10:30 am – 12 pm – Plant Walk at Adriana Hess Wetland Park

(2917 Morrison Rd W, University Place 98466)  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.

4 – 7pm – GRuB Neighborhood Market Stand

(GRuB Farm: 2016 Elliott Ave NW, Olympia)  Weekly market stand featuring the best of what’s available from the farm at fair prices.  Staffed by farm interns and youth in GRuB School Summer Program.  Accepts cash, check and EBT.

7:00 pm – Asphalt Plant Public Hearing

(Room 152, Building 1 of the Thurston County Courthouse: 2000 Lakeridge Drive SW; Olympia 98502)  The Thurston County Planning Commission will hold a public hearing to accept comments on regulations pertaining to the permitting of new asphalt plants, and establishing asphalt plants as a primary use, separate from a mineral extraction operation.  For more information, go to www.co.thurston.wa.us/planning/planning_commission/planning_comm_currentwork.html.

 

21 June, Thursday

6 – 8pm – Food class: Edible Weeds 101

Why include cooking classes in a list of local environmental events?  Because one of the best ways to reduce the environmental effects of eating (and to save money) is to learn to cook!  Come join us for a discussion about edible weeds, covering where they grow, how to identify them, what to do with them, and more. Handouts will be provided. See you there!  Taught by Kate Tossey. Registration is required, and the cost is $5.  To register or for a complete list of classes, go to www.olympiafood.coop/classes.  Location: Fertile Ground Guesthouse (311 9th Ave SE, Olympia 98501— in downtown Olympia behind the Timberland Regional Library)

 

Saturday, June 23

10:00 am (Doors open at 9 am) – Public Hearing on Thurston County Critical Areas Ordinance

(Room 129, Building 2 of the Thurston County Courthouse: 2000 Lakeridge Drive SW; Olympia 98502)  The Thurston County Board of Commissioners will hold a public hearing to accept public comment on the update of Thurston County’s Critical Areas Ordinance.  Critical areas include wetlands, critical aquifer recharge areas, geologically hazardous areas, flood, seismic and volcanic hazard areas, and habitat conservation areas for threatened and endangered species, sensitive habitats, and species of local importance.  To view the Planning Commission’s recommended updates go to www.co.thurston.wa.us/planning/critical_areas/criticalareas-pc-recommendation-2012.html.  The Critical Areas Ordinance was first adopted in 1994 and has not since been comprehensively updated in consideration of best available science.  (A list of best available science sources is available at www.co.thurston.wa.us/planning.)  Copies of the proposed ordinance and supporting documents also are available at the Thurston County Resource Stewardship Department, Permit Assistance Center, 2000 Lakeridge Drive SW, Olympia, Washington 98502, or on the Planning Department’s webpage.

10:00 am – Friends of Seminary Hill Natural Area Poetry Walk

(Centralia)  Join this unique walk led by David Underwood.  Come to the woods and hear wondrous verses by renowned bards, plus some stanzas by our own Northwest poets.  Stretch your legs, breathe fresh air, and nourish your spirit.  We will meet at the parking lot at the main entrance to the Seminary Hill Natural Area (at the corner of East Locust Street and Barner Drive).  Some trails are quite steep and trails can be slippery when it has been raining, so wear appropriate shoes or hiking boots.  A walking stick can make the climbing and descending much easier.  Be prepared for changes in the weather; layered clothing and rainwear are advisable.  Bring a camera, water bottle, and perhaps a snack and litter bag.  Books for identifying trees, flowers, birds and animals are also handy.

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

(Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge; Olympia 98516)  Come learn some basic and professional outdoor photography techniques and tips from writer and national photographer Greg Farley.  Learn to take your camera off the “automatic” settings and onto the “manual” settings in just a couple of hours.  Workshop participants will spend time inside learning camera operations, then head outside to apply what they’ve learned.  Never again let nature’s beauty escape your lens!  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 once you pay the refuge entry fee ($3 per vehicle).

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

(Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge; Olympia 98516)  From bitterns to butterflies, chickadees to crabapples, the Refuge is home to many types of wildlife.  Join naturalist Donna Snow on a 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 once you pay the refuge entry fee ($3 per vehicle).

10:30 am – 3 pm – Boat tours in Totten inlet

(Carlyon Beach Club House: 2719 Island Drive NW; Olympia 98502)  Come see industrial aqua-culture and meet people working to protect Puget  Sound from this industrial farming.  We will also  raise money for the various appeals as they move forward.  RSVP is required.  To sign up, and for more information, email info.southsoundsierra@gmail.com.  Space is limited, so reserve your spot soon!  Sponsored by Protect our Shorelines; Association for the Protection of Hammersley, Eld and Totten Inlets; Case Inlet Association; and South Sound Sierra Group.

2 – 5pm – Food class: Introduction to Whole Grain Bread

Why include cooking classes in a list of local environmental events?  Because one of the best ways to reduce the environmental effects of eating (and to save money) is to learn to cook!  Have I kneaded my dough enough? Can I substitute whole wheat flour for white flour? How do I work with yeast? Come discover the answers to these questions and more, while learning to make your own delicious, economical bread. We’ll discuss the effects of different ingredients, tailoring the timeline to suit your schedule, and how to adapt recipes to your taste, and practice techniques for kneading and shaping rolls and loaves. With a few basic guidelines, you can make great bread every time!  Taught by Sasha Henry & Judy Henry.  Registration is required, and the cost is $5.  To register or for a complete list of classes, go to www.olympiafood.coop/classes. Location: GRuB Farmhouse (2016 Elliott Ave NW; Olympia 98502—on the westside of Olympia off of Harrison Ave, behind the Handy Pantry)

2:30-5:30 pm – Beach Naturalist Program at Frye Cove County Park

Trained Beach Naturalists from the South Sound Estuary Association will be available to talk with beach goers about the sea life that lives in and depends on the intertidal environment, as well as what we can do to protect this fragile ecosystem.  The full schedule of Beach Naturalist Program dates can be found at http://sseacenter.wordpress.com/events/jbeachnaturalistsummerschedule.

 

Sunday, June 24

10 am – 12 noon – Nature Up Close: Introduction to Macro Nature Photography

(Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge; Olympia 98516)  Dew drops on flower petals; the eyes of insects.  These details represent the oft overlooked true visual poetry of nature.  Join Refuge photographer John Whitehead for discussion, demonstration, and practice of up close nature photography.  Meet in the Visitor Center.  The program is free once you pay the refuge entry fee ($3 per vehicle).

3:00-6:00 pm – Beach Naturalist Program at Frye Cove County Park

Trained Beach Naturalists from the South Sound Estuary Association will be available to talk with beach goers about the sea life that lives in and depends on the intertidal environment, as well as what we can do to protect this fragile ecosystem.  The full schedule of Beach Naturalist Program dates can be found at http://sseacenter.wordpress.com/events/jbeachnaturalistsummerschedule.

 

Wednesday, June 27

4 – 7 pm – McLane Creek Nature Trail Maintenance Work Party

(Olympia, west side)  Join the Native Plant Salvage Project and Thurston County Stream Team to help maintain trails.  We prune encroaching vegetation, clear and brush the trails so that visitors can more easily enjoy this unique setting.  We will provide pizza, and all volunteers will earn hours towards award of a free Discover Pass!  Please let us know you are coming by e-mailing us at nativeplantsalvage@gmail.com, so we can bring enough tools and pizza.

 

July 29

2012 Paddle to Squaxin Canoe Journey 

Canoe landing site between KGY radio station and Swantown Marina in Olympia.  http://paddletosquaxin2012.org/landings.

 

Saturday, June 30

Rain Gardens and Raising Chickens

(Memorial Hall: 210 W Franklin Street, Shelton)  9:30 am – noon (FREE): Join WSU Rain Garden Experts to learn about the benefits of Rain Gardens and how to install one on your property.  1:00-3:30 pm: Sharon Conboy will discuss chickens and how to raise them in suburban and small farm environments.  Get all your chicken-raising questions answered!  Cost: morning session is free; afternoon session is $25 per person,  $30 per couple.  Payment accepted at the door.  Please call 360-427-9670 Ext. 680 to register in advance to ensure adequate supplies for the class.

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

(Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge; Olympia 98516)  With spring migration in full swing, the Refuge is all aflutter! Experience the thrill of seeing swallows (four different species) or the “wichity wichity” of the common yellowthroat!  Join birder Eric Slagle, an expert who knows the ins and outs of birding at Nisqually, for a bird 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 once you pay the refuge entry fee ($3 per vehicle).

10:00-1:00 pm – Beach Naturalist Program at Tolmie State Park

Trained Beach Naturalists from the South Sound Estuary Association will be available to talk with beach goers about the sea life that lives in and depends on the intertidal environment, as well as what we can do to protect this fragile ecosystem.  The full schedule of Beach Naturalist Program dates can be found at http://sseacenter.wordpress.com/events/jbeachnaturalistsummerschedule.

 

Sunday, July 1

10:30-1:30 pm – Beach Naturalist Program at Priest Point City Park & Burfoot County Park

Trained Beach Naturalists from the South Sound Estuary Association will be available to talk with beach goers about the sea life that lives in and depends on the intertidal environment, as well as what we can do to protect this fragile ecosystem.  The full schedule of Beach Naturalist Program dates can be found at http://sseacenter.wordpress.com/events/jbeachnaturalistsummerschedule.

 

Tuesday, July 3

12:00-3:00 pm – Beach Naturalist Program at Burfoot County Park

Trained Beach Naturalists from the South Sound Estuary Association will be available to talk with beach goers about the sea life that lives in and depends on the intertidal environment, as well as what we can do to protect this fragile ecosystem.  The full schedule of Beach Naturalist Program dates can be found at http://sseacenter.wordpress.com/events/jbeachnaturalistsummerschedule.

 

July 7

9 am – noon – Wilcox Flats NatureMapping and Habitat Restoration Field Trip

(Roy)  The Nisqually Land Trust is looking to gather NatureMapping data at Wilcox Flats along the Nisqually River.  The Wilcox Flats site is located near Wilcox Farms, and is vital to salmon recovery efforts along the Nisqually River.  The purpose of the trip will be to collect baseline data about plants and wildlife in the surrounding habitat and to continue restoration efforts in the meadows and forests along the NIsqually River and side channels.  This field trip will consist of data collection, invasive species removal, and weeding and care of new plantings.  This trip is free, and you do not have to have NatureMapping experience.  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 manuvering over debris.  Please contact Jessica Moore at 360.832.7160 or at Jessica.Moore@nwtrek.org for more information or to sign up for a field trip.

5 – 8pm – Food class: Hello Raw! Raw Recipe Workshop

Why include food classes in a list of local environmental events?  Because one of the best ways to reduce the environmental effects of eating (and to save money) is to learn to make your own meals!  Join raw food chef & educator Rebeka Gentian and discover the how, what & whys of living food in an interactive & tasty live food demo featuring 3 – 4 tasty and easy raw recipes including RAWberry shortcake! Registration is required, and the cost is $5.  To register or for a complete list of classes, go to www.olympiafood.coop/classes.  Location: GRuB Farmhouse  (2016 Elliott Ave NW; Olympia 98502—on the westside of Olympia off of Harrison Ave, behind the Handy Pantry)

 

8 July, Sunday

3 – 5pm – Food class: Understanding Mushrooms: Basic Cultivation

Why include food classes in a list of local environmental events?  Because one of the best ways to reduce the environmental effects of eating (and to save money) is to learn to make your own meals!  Traditional mushroom cultivation techniques have long relied on special equipment and precision techniques. Not any longer. Thanks to the work of innovative amateur growers, the process has largely been simplified to the point where most can learn to cultivate at home with minimal investment or contamination risk. In this 2 hour class we will cover the basics of edible mushroom biology and low-tech cultivation. You will learn how mushrooms grow in the wild and how that understanding is important for growing and using them well. We will cover several easy and cheap cultivation methods you can do at home and will provide resources for learning more. Specific methods to be covered include log inoculation, cardboard spawn, cold water (fermentation) pasteurization, hydrogen peroxide “sterilization,” easy liquid cultures, and more.  Taught by Peter McCoy. Registration is required, and the cost is $5.  To register or for a complete list of classes, go to www.olympiafood.coop/classes. Location: GRuB Farmhouse (2016 Elliott Ave NW; Olympia 98502—on the westside of Olympia off of Harrison Ave, behind the Handy Pantry)

 

Saturday, July 14,

10:00 am – Friends of Seminary Hill Natural Area Photography Workshop

(Centralia)  Come and learn new techniques for taking pictures with resident teacher and photographer Marlene Hodge.  Bring your camera manual, and a tripod if you have one.  Study your manual ahead of time so you are ready to “focus in” on her advice.  We will meet at the parking lot at the main entrance to the Seminary Hill Natural Area (at the corner of East Locust Street and Barner Drive).  Some trails are quite steep and trails can be slippery when it has been raining, so wear appropriate shoes or hiking boots.  A walking stick can make the climbing and descending much easier.  Be prepared for changes in the weather; layered clothing and rainwear are advisable.  Bring a camera, water bottle, and perhaps a snack and litter bag.  Books for identifying trees, flowers, birds and animals are also handy.

10:00-1:00 pm – Beach Naturalist Program at Tolmie State Park

Trained Beach Naturalists from the South Sound Estuary Association will be available to talk with beach goers about the sea life that lives in and depends on the intertidal environment, as well as what we can do to protect this fragile ecosystem.  The full schedule of Beach Naturalist Program dates can be found at http://sseacenter.wordpress.com/events/jbeachnaturalistsummerschedule.

 

Sunday, July 15

10:30-1:30 pm – Beach Naturalist Program at Priest Point City Park & Burfoot County Park

Trained Beach Naturalists from the South Sound Estuary Association will be available to talk with beach goers about the sea life that lives in and depends on the intertidal environment, as well as what we can do to protect this fragile ecosystem.  The full schedule of Beach Naturalist Program dates can be found at http://sseacenter.wordpress.com/events/jbeachnaturalistsummerschedule.

 

Tuesday, July 17

11:30-2:30 pm – Beach Naturalist Program at Priest Point City Park

Trained Beach Naturalists from the South Sound Estuary Association will be available to talk with beach goers about the sea life that lives in and depends on the intertidal environment, as well as what we can do to protect this fragile ecosystem.  The full schedule of Beach Naturalist Program dates can be found at http://sseacenter.wordpress.com/events/jbeachnaturalistsummerschedule.

7:00 – 8:15 pm – The Global Owl Project and Burrowing Owls

(REI Olympia: 625 Black Lake Blvd. #410; Olympia 98502)  Join Capitol Land Trust and REI for a lively presentation by David Johnson of the Global Owl Project.  The Global Owl Project has 450 people working on the science and conservation of owls in 65 countries.  The focus of the work is on owl surveys, genetics, vocalizations, morphology, distribution mapping, owls in human myth and culture, and on dissemination of findings—for all of the owls on Earth.  David will also share with you his knowledge on the wonderful world of the Burrowing Owl in western North America.  There have been significant new findings about the winter movements of these owls from Oregon and Washington.  These are offered along with a fuller review of the fascinating ecology of this beautiful owl.  Free!  Register online at: www.rei.com/event/40115/session/50769/07232012

 

Wednesday, July 18

4 – 7 pm – McLane Creek Nature Trail Maintenance Work Party

(Olympia, west side)  Join the Native Plant Salvage Project and Thurston County Stream Team to help maintain trails.  We prune encroaching vegetation, clear and brush the trails so that visitors can more easily enjoy this unique setting.  We will provide pizza, and all volunteers will earn hours towards award of a free Discover Pass!  Please let us know you are coming by e-mailing us at nativeplantsalvage@gmail.com, so we can bring enough tools and pizza.

 

20 July, Friday

5:30 – 8:30pm – Food class: Cool Down with Cold Soups

Why include food classes in a list of local environmental events?  Because one of the best ways to reduce the environmental effects of eating (and to save money) is to learn to make your own meals!  Come explore how cucumbers, tomatoes, grapes, and beets can transform into the most delicious of refreshing beverages. Recipes from the traditions of Turkey, Bulgaria and Spain will be covered. Taught by Arturo Sievert Rivera. Registration is required, and the cost is $5.  To register or for a complete list of classes, go to www.olympiafood.coop/classes. Location: Fertile Ground Guesthouse (311 9th Ave SE, Olympia 98501— in downtown Olympia behind the Timberland Regional Library)

 

Saturday, July 21

Float the Nisqually River with the Land Trust

See the Nisqually River up close!  This summer the Nisqually Land Trust is offering two opportunities to experience this magnificent river.  These will be gentle trips, rated for those aged six years and up and run by a professional outfitter.  They last from four to five hours and include a catered riverbank lunch.  With 75 percent of the river’s lower 42 miles—from Alder Dam to the Nisqually Wildlife Refuge—virtually undeveloped and permanently protected, the Nisqually rivals federally designated Wild and Scenic rivers in the quality and quantity of its natural habitat.  But protection means limited access, so there is no better way to see the river than to raft it.  The first trip, Saturday, July 21, will float the “upper” river, from its confluence with the Mashel River, near Eatonville, to Wilcox Farms, in McKenna.  This 13-mile trip will pass several Land Trust properties and travel the three-mile length of one of our largest management units, Powell Creek.  This trip requires walking (about forty yards) over uneven ground when first boarding the rafts.  On Sunday, July 29, we will raft ten miles of the lower river, from Yelm down through Joint Base Lewis-McChord and the Nisqually Indian Reservation, through some of the largest old-growth forest stands on the river.  The cost of each trip is $100 per person (lunch is included).  To reserve a seat, go to http://events.r20.constantcontact.com/register/event?oeidk=a07e5xj4y6m8291d826&llr=jzh7gggab.  For more information, email staff@nisquallylandtrust.org or call 360-489-3400.

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 have joined together to restore the creek through the Ohop Valley to its original meandering pathway.  Northwest Trek is helping by providing data collection and monitoring of the wildlife in the project area, using citizen-scientists in the data collection efforts—which is what this event will involve.  The field trip is free, and you do not have to have NatureMapping experience.  Participants should come dressed for the weather and for walking in a wet environment on uneven surfaces.  Please contact Jessica Moore at 360.832.7160 or at Jessica.Moore@nwtrek.org for more information or to sign up for a field trip.

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

(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.  We will meet at the parking lot at the main entrance to the Seminary Hill Natural Area (at the corner of East Locust Street and Barner Drive).

2:00-5:00 pm – Beach Naturalist Program at Tolmie State Park

Trained Beach Naturalists from the South Sound Estuary Association will be available to talk with beach goers about the sea life that lives in and depends on the intertidal environment, as well as what we can do to protect this fragile ecosystem.  The full schedule of Beach Naturalist Program dates can be found at http://sseacenter.wordpress.com/events/jbeachnaturalistsummerschedule.

 

Sunday, July 22

2:00-5:00 pm – Beach Naturalist Program at Frye Cove County Park

Trained Beach Naturalists from the South Sound Estuary Association will be available to talk with beach goers about the sea life that lives in and depends on the intertidal environment, as well as what we can do to protect this fragile ecosystem.  The full schedule of Beach Naturalist Program dates can be found at http://sseacenter.wordpress.com/events/jbeachnaturalistsummerschedule.

3 – 5pm – Food class: Understanding Mushrooms: Basic Cultivation

Why include food classes in a list of local environmental events?  Because one of the best ways to reduce the environmental effects of eating (and to save money) is to learn to make your own meals!  Traditional mushroom cultivation techniques have long relied on special equipment and precision techniques. Not any longer. Thanks to the work of innovative amateur growers, the process has largely been simplified to the point where most can learn to cultivate at home with minimal investment or contamination risk. In this 2 hour class we will cover the basics of edible mushroom biology and low-tech cultivation. You will learn how mushrooms grow in the wild and how that understanding is important for growing and using them well. We will cover several easy and cheap cultivation methods you can do at home and will provide resources for learning more. Specific methods to be covered include log inoculation, cardboard spawn, cold water (fermentation) pasteurization, hydrogen peroxide “sterilization,” easy liquid cultures, and more.  Taught by Peter McCoy. Registration is required, and the cost is $5.  To register or for a complete list of classes, go to www.olympiafood.coop/classes. Location: GRuB Farmhouse (2016 Elliott Ave NW; Olympia 98502—on the westside of Olympia off of Harrison Ave, behind the Handy Pantry)

 

July 28

8:45 am – 3 pm – Bicycle Tour of Local Farms & Producers: Eastside Bicycle Tour

Join Westside Olympia Food Co-op Produce Managers and local food fanatics Kim Langston & Erin Majors on a fun and informative bicycle tour of local farms and producers. We will meet the farmers & producers, learn all about their exciting operations, tour their fields & facilities and be apart of our blossoming organic food system. Please bring a sack lunch and appropriate clothing for the weather. A map and agenda will be provided for anyone who is unable to bicycle but would like to participate in the tour. For the east side tour we’ll be gathering at the east side Co-op at 8:45am and peddling to some of the lovely local producers of east Olympia. Piece by Piece Farm (produce), South Bay Soil (potting soil & seedling mix), OlyKraut (fermented yum!) and Northwest Naturals (salmon burgers). Mid tour we will picnic at Friendly Grove Park and enjoy the additions of Salmon burgers & kraut to our lunch. Taught by Kim Langston. Registration is required, and the cost is $5.  To register or for a complete list of classes, go to www.olympiafood.coop/classes. Location: Olympia Food Co-op East Side and surrounding east Olympia

10 am – noon – Enhancing Wetlands Through Habitat Creation Workshop

(Eatonville)  Join Northwest Trek staff for this two-hour workshop to learn how to enhance your backyard and woodlot habitats through simple habitat building methods.  This workshop will begin with a 30-minute indoor lecture and finish with 1-1/2 hours of habitat building on Trek property.  Outdoor work will include creating brush piles and habitat boxes for native wildlife.  Workshop materials, gloves, and tools will be provided.  Please bring water and snacks as needed.  This workshop is free, however, class size is limited to 15 participants.  Contact Jessica Moore at 360-832-7160 or Jessica.moore@nwtrek.org to reserve your spot today!

 

Sunday, July 29

Float the Nisqually River with the Land Trust

See the Nisqually River up close!  This will be a gentle trip, rated for those aged six years and up and run by a professional outfitter.  It will last from four to five hours and include a catered riverbank lunch.  With 75 percent of the river’s lower 42 miles—from Alder Dam to the Nisqually Wildlife Refuge—virtually undeveloped and permanently protected, the Nisqually rivals federally designated Wild and Scenic rivers in the quality and quantity of its natural habitat.  But protection means limited access, so there is no better way to see the river than to raft it.  We will raft ten miles of the lower river, from Yelm down through Joint Base Lewis-McChord and the Nisqually Indian Reservation, through some of the largest old-growth forest stands on the river.  The cost is $100 per person (lunch is included).  To reserve a seat, go to http://events.r20.constantcontact.com/register/event?oeidk=a07e5xj4y6m8291d826&llr=jzh7gggab.  For more information, email staff@nisquallylandtrust.org or call 360-489-3400.

10:00-1:00 pm – Beach Naturalist Program at Priest Point City Park & Burfoot County Park

Trained Beach Naturalists from the South Sound Estuary Association will be available to talk with beach goers about the sea life that lives in and depends on the intertidal environment, as well as what we can do to protect this fragile ecosystem.  The full schedule of Beach Naturalist Program dates can be found at http://sseacenter.wordpress.com/events/jbeachnaturalistsummerschedule.

 

Saturday, July 30

Pierce County Conservation District – Nisqually Knotwood Bending

(Ashford)  Call Melissa Buckingham at 253-845-2973 to register.

 

Tuesday, July 31

11:00-2:00 pm – Beach Naturalist Program at Tolmie State Park

Trained Beach Naturalists from the South Sound Estuary Association will be available to talk with beach goers about the sea life that lives in and depends on the intertidal environment, as well as what we can do to protect this fragile ecosystem.  The full schedule of Beach Naturalist Program dates can be found at http://sseacenter.wordpress.com/events/jbeachnaturalistsummerschedule.

 

Saturday, August 4

Tansey Pull at NWTrek

5 – 8 pm – Food class: Raw Kitchen Creation

Why include food classes in a list of local environmental events?  Because one of the best ways to reduce the environmental effects of eating (and to save money) is to learn to make your own meals!  Would you like to include more fresh, raw & live food in your diet without spending all of your time in the kitchen? Raw food chef & educator Rebeka Gentian will walk you through tips and tricks to go raw, not crazy!  Registration is required, and the cost is $5.  To register or for a complete list of classes, go to www.olympiafood.coop/classes.  Location: GRuB Farmhouse (2016 Elliott Ave NW; Olympia 98502—on the westside of Olympia off of Harrison Ave, behind the Handy Pantry)

 

5 August, Sunday

11 am – 2 pm – Food class: Cultivating Mycelium in the Garden

Why include food classes in a list of local environmental events?  Because one of the best ways to reduce the environmental effects of eating (and to save money) is to learn to make your own meals!  Members of the Olympia Mycology Network are partnering with the Olympia Food Co-op to present this workshop on the cultivation of the elm oyster mushroom in vegetable gardens. Elm oysters have a nutty flavor and more firm texture, but their culinary benefits are just a starting point. This species also has reported beneficial symbiotic relationships with certain vegetable crops – especially Brassica species, and grows exceedingly well among kale and broccoli plants. Paul Stamets has reported a 2-fold increase in brassica yields and a 3-fold total food production increase when vegetables were grown in the same bed as elm oyster mushrooms. Taught by Peter McCoy.  Registration is required, and the cost is $5.  To register or for a complete list of classes, go to www.olympiafood.coop/classes. Location: GRuB Farmhouse (2016 Elliott Ave NW; Olympia 98502—on the westside of Olympia off of Harrison Ave, behind the Handy Pantry)

 

Saturday, August 11,

8:45 am – 3 pm –  Bicycle Tour of Local Farms & Producers: Westside Bicycle Tour

Join Westside Olympia Food Co-op Produce Manager and local food fanatics Kim Langston on a fun and informative bicycle tour of local farms and producers. We will meet the farmers & producers, learn all about their exciting operations, tour their fields & facilities and be a part of our blossoming organic food system. Please bring a sack lunch and appropriate clothing for the weather. A map and agenda will be provided for anyone who is unable to bicycle but would like to participate in the tour. For the westside tour we’ll be gathering at the Westside Co-op at 8:45 a.m. and peddling to Calliope Farm & Sunbreak Farm. Mid Tour we will take a break for lunch at the GRuB Farmhouse and enjoy salad created from some of the vegetables we collected along the way. We will then conclude with a tour of the Garden Raised Bounty (GRUB) gardens and learn about their amazing GRuB School program. Taught by Kim Langston. Registration is required, and the cost is $5.  To register or for a complete list of classes, go to www.olympiafood.coop/classes. Location: Olympia Food Co-op West Side and surrounding west Olympia

10:00 am – Friends of 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.  For the meeting place, 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.  Some trails are quite steep and trails can be slippery when it has been raining, so wear appropriate shoes or hiking boots.  A walking stick can make the climbing and descending much easier.  Be prepared for changes in the weather; layered clothing and rainwear are advisable.  Bring a camera, water bottle, and perhaps a snack and litter bag.  Books for identifying trees, flowers, birds and animals are also handy.

 

12 August, Sunday

2 – 5 pm – Food class: Food Preservation: Canning Fruit

Why include food classes in a list of local environmental events?  Because one of the best ways to reduce the environmental effects of eating (and to save money) is to learn to make your own meals!  Come learn the basics of putting fruit by. We will take the surpluses of summer and make jewels for the cold dark days of winter. Jams, sauces, and whole fruit will be covered. This class will be featuring local and regional organic produce. Taught by Sasha Henry & Judy Henry. Registration is required, and the cost is $5.  To register or for a complete list of classes, go to www.olympiafood.coop/classes. Location: GRuB Farmhouse (2016 Elliott Ave NW; Olympia 98502—on the westside of Olympia off of Harrison Ave, behind the Handy Pantry)

 

Tuesday, August 14

10:30-1:30 pm – Beach Naturalist Program at Tolmie State Park

Trained Beach Naturalists from the South Sound Estuary Association will be available to talk with beach goers about the sea life that lives in and depends on the intertidal environment, as well as what we can do to protect this fragile ecosystem.  The full schedule of Beach Naturalist Program dates can be found at http://sseacenter.wordpress.com/events/jbeachnaturalistsummerschedule.

5:30 – 8:30 pm – Food class: Sprouting 4 Life

Why include food classes in a list of local environmental events?  Because one of the best ways to reduce the environmental effects of eating (and to save money) is to learn to make your own meals!  Join life food chef & educator Rebeka Gentian & learn how to sprout 4 life!  Sprouting increases the nutrient density of food, provides trace minerals, essential amino acids, & is extremely affordable. Learn the hows, whats and whys of sprouting and create a garden in your kitchen. Registration is required, and the cost is $5.  To register or for a complete list of classes, go to www.olympiafood.coop/classes. Location: Fertile Ground Guesthouse (311 9th Ave SE, Olympia 98501— in downtown Olympia behind the Timberland Regional Library)

 

15 August, Wednesday

6:30 – 8:30 pm – Food class: Making Fermented Vegetables

Why include food classes in a list of local environmental events?  Because one of the best ways to reduce the environmental effects of eating (and to save money) is to learn to make your own meals!  Learn how to make fermented veggies from the one and only, OlyKraut. 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 fermented veggies from start to finish. Registration is required, and the cost is $5.  To register or for a complete list of classes, go to www.olympiafood.coop/classes. Location: TBA

 

Saturday, August 18

10 am – noon – Enhancing Wetlands Through Habitat Creation Workshop

(Eatonville)  Join Northwest Trek staff for this two-hour workshop to learn how to enhance your backyard and woodlot habitats through simple habitat building methods.  This workshop will begin with a 30-minute indoor lecture and finish with 1-1/2 hours of habitat building on Trek property.  Outdoor work will include creating brush piles and habitat boxes for native wildlife.  Workshop materials, gloves, and tools will be provided.  Please bring water and snacks as needed.  This workshop is free, however, class size is limited to 15 participants.  Contact Jessica Moore at 360-832-7160 or Jessica.moore@nwtrek.org to reserve your spot today!

12:00-3:00 pm – Beach Naturalist Program at Frye Cove County Park

Trained Beach Naturalists from the South Sound Estuary Association will be available to talk with beach goers about the sea life that lives in and depends on the intertidal environment, as well as what we can do to protect this fragile ecosystem.  The full schedule of Beach Naturalist Program dates can be found at http://sseacenter.wordpress.com/events/jbeachnaturalistsummerschedule.

 

Sunday, August 19

1:30-4:30 pm – Beach Naturalist Program at Priest Point City Park & Burfoot County Park

Trained Beach Naturalists from the South Sound Estuary Association will be available to talk with beach goers about the sea life that lives in and depends on the intertidal environment, as well as what we can do to protect this fragile ecosystem.  The full schedule of Beach Naturalist Program dates can be found at http://sseacenter.wordpress.com/events/jbeachnaturalistsummerschedule.

 

Tuesday, August 28

10:00-1:00 pm – Beach Naturalist Program at Burfoot County Park

Trained Beach Naturalists from the South Sound Estuary Association will be available to talk with beach goers about the sea life that lives in and depends on the intertidal environment, as well as what we can do to protect this fragile ecosystem.  The full schedule of Beach Naturalist Program dates can be found at http://sseacenter.wordpress.com/events/jbeachnaturalistsummerschedule.

 

September 22

9 am – noon – Powell Creek NatureMapping Field Trip

(near Yelm)  The Powell Creek site is on the Nisqually River.  It wasrecently planted to restore the natural habitat for wildlife use along the River, and the Nisqually Land Trust is seeking baseline data on the property.  Northwest Trek is helping out with this event, using citizen-scientists in the data collection efforts.  This field trip is free, and you do not have to have NatureMapping experience.  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 manuvering over debris.  Please contact Jessica Moore at 360.832.7160 or at Jessica.Moore@nwtrek.org for more information or to sign up.

 

September 23

“Cruising for the Sound” Annual fundraising Benefit for South Sound Estuary Association 

 

September 29

Nisqually Wildlife Festival

 

October 20

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 have joined together to restore the creek through the Ohop Valley to its original meandering pathway.  Northwest Trek is helping by providing data collection and monitoring of the wildlife in the project area, using citizen-scientists in the data collection efforts—which is what this event will involve.  This field trip is free, and you do not have to have NatureMapping experience.  Participants should come dressed for the weather and for walking in a wet environment on uneven surfaces.  Please contact Jessica Moore at 360.832.7160 or at Jessica.Moore@nwtrek.org for more information or to sign up for a field trip.

 

November 10

10 am – noon – Enhancing Wetlands Through Native Plantings Workshop

(Northwest Trek: 11610 Trek Drive East; Eatonville 98328-9502)  Join Northwest Trek staff for this two-hour workshop to learn how to enhance your wetlands through native planting and natural landscaping methods.  This workshop will begin with a 30-minute indoor lecture and finish with 1-1/2 hours of planting outdoors on Trek property.  Workshop materials, gloves, tools and plants will be provided.  Please bring water and snacks.  This workshop is free—however, class size is limited to 15 participants.  Contact Jessica Moore at 360-832-7160 or Jessica.moore@nwtrek.org to reserve your spot today!

 

December 8

10 am – noon – Enhancing Wetlands Through Native Plantings Workshop

(Northwest Trek: 11610 Trek Drive East; Eatonville 98328-9502)  Join Northwest Trek staff for this two-hour workshop to learn how to enhance your wetlands through native planting and natural landscaping methods.  This workshop will begin with a 30-minute indoor lecture and finish with 1-1/2 hours of planting outdoors on Trek property.  Workshop materials, gloves, tools and plants will be provided.  Please bring water and snacks.  This workshop is free—however, class size is limited to 15 participants.  Contact Jessica Moore at 360-832-7160 or Jessica.moore@nwtrek.org to reserve your spot today!

 

Tuesday, February 19, 2013

Environmental Lobby Day 2013 – stay tuned for details