seasonal natural interest

Let's Go is a series of fun, organized, ranger-let activities at major Oregon State Parks this summer.

Let's Go Birding is designed for those who are interested in birding but don't have the experience, skills, or equipment.  Let's Go Birding by Kayak is a great way to explore the two activities and see birds from a different perspective.

Registration is required and a per person registration fee is $15.  Open to paddlers 8 years and older, although 8-14 year olds must be accompanied by an adult in a 2-person kayak. Children under 18 must register with an accompanying parent/guardian.

For more information, check out: www.oregonstateparks.org and find Let's Go under "Things To Do".

Let's Go is a series of fun, organized, ranger-let activities at major Oregon State Parks this summer.

Let's Go Kayaking is designed for those who are interested in kayaking but don't have the experience, skills, or equipment.

Registration is required and a per person registration fee is $15.  Open to paddlers 8 years and older, although 8-14 year olds must be accompanied by an adult in a 2-person kayak. Children under 18 must register with an accompanying parent/guardian.

For more information, check out: www.oregonstateparks.org and find Let's Go under "Things To Do".

Basketry of the Columbia Basin: Weaving demonstrations and hands on activities at the Ridgefield National Wildlife Refuge!

July 14th, 2013:  
12pm- 4pm

Experience Chinookan Native American Culture, traditional basketry techniques of our Region, and enjoy the many hiking and wildlife watching opportunities of the Ridgefield National Wildlife Refuge!

The Columbia Basin Basketry Guild (www.basketryguild.org) will be in the Plankhouse demonstrating materials and techniques traditionally used in basketry of this region. Included will be cedar bark preparation and weaving of Pacific NW Coast sweetgrass, tule and cattail. There will also be special activities for children all day. Try your hand making rope from native plants or mini cattail mats. Learn about local Native American culture first hand in the Plankhouse, and take a walk down the adjacent nature trail and see if you can find the many kinds of wildlife that call the Ridgefield National Wildlife Refuge Home.

The Cathlapotle Plankhouse is a modern Chinookan Plankhouse built to interpret the Chinookan village of Cathlapotle that once existed on what is today Ridgefield National Wildlife Refuge property.  At the time Lewis and Clark visited Cathlapotle, it had 14 large plankhouses and a population of over 900 people.  The modern Cathlapotle Plankhouse is used to provide educational programs to youth and the general public through our Lifeways, Landscapes, and Wildlife Interpretive Program.  To learn more about the plankhouse visit www.ridgefieldfriends.org or contact Sarah Hill at Sarah_Hill@fws.gov or (360) 887-4106.  

Cost: Refuge admission is $3 per vehicle

The Cathlapotle Plankhouse is located on the Carty Unit of the Ridgefield National Wildlife Refuge:  28908 NW Main Ave, Ridgefield, WA 98642

Forest Park Conservancy's Discovery Hike Series is a great opportunity to get outside and learn more about the natural and cultural history of Forest Park. Advance reservation is required.

Hike: Sunshine Takes Shape

The long sunny days of summer are one of the best times to enjoy Forest Park. Witness the forest enjoying its prime growing season as it soaks up the sweet sunshine. Learn how plants harness the sun's energy to produce tremendous trees and tasty berries.

When: Saturday, July 6th, 1 pm to 4 pm

Click the website link below to learn more and sign up!

Bring your kids to Forest Park this summer! Explore Forest Park on a free guided hike led by Outdoor School instructors and designed for youngsters and their families and friends! Enjoy the breathtaking beauty of this Northwest forest while learning about native plants, wildlife, and the inspiring history of Portland's Forest Park. Become a tree as it grows from seed to snag, count banana slugs along the trail and learn about the differences between native and invasive plants, without leaving the city. We'll go on scavenger hunts, tap into our collective creativity, and use all five senses to investigate the amazing ecological diversity of Forest Park. The hikes are designed for kids ages 4-10 with parent accompaniment. Each hike is free but space is limited, so reserve your spot now!