Conservation Education

Explore the incredible diversity of fungi in Oxbow's ancient forest.  In this hands-0n, beginners class, learn the basics of mushrooms and other fungi.  This is not an edible mushroom class.

Meet at Group Camp 1. 

Time:  11:00-1:00 p.m.  OR  2:00-4:00 p.m.

Ages:  8 and older

Registration:  No registration required

Cost:  Free of charge

Pets policy:  To protect plants, wildlife and people, Metro does not allow pets at most regional parks and natural areas.  Pets can damage sensitive habitat and threaten wildlife the region has worked to protect.  In natural areas where dogs are not allowed, people see more wildlife and get closer to it.  Seeing-eye dogs or other service animals are allowed.  Please bring cleanup materials.  http://www.oregonmetro.gov/parks/pets-policy

Nothing says "Pacific Northwest" like the annual return from the ocean of the salmon, fighting upstream to spawn and die in the rivers of their birth.  In October, witness this ancient, iconic phenomenon at Oxbow Regional Park along the Sandy River, one of the nation's designated Wild and Scenic rivers.  During the annual Salmon Homecoming, naturalists are on hand to help you see the salmon and explore other aspects of the park's 1,000 acres of old-growth forest, hiking and equestrian trails and river beaches.  Take the chill off around the campfire.  Enjoy a cup of hot chocolate or cider around the campfire.  Guaranteed to take the chill off and lift your spirits for a walk in the autumn woods. 

Join naturalists at the river's edge.  They'll help you spot spawning salmon and tell you about the salmon's behavior and life cycle.  Borrow a pair of polarized fish-viewing glasses onsite.

Learn more:  http://www.oregonmetro.gov/oxbow

Free of charge.  No registration required.

Vehicle charge:  $5 per car/$7 per bus

Pets policy:  To protect plants, wildlife and people, Metro does not allow pets at most regional parks and natural areas.  Pets can damage sensitive habitat and threaten wildlife the region has worked to protect.  In natural areas where dogs are not allowed, people see more wildlife and get closer to it.  Seeing-eye dogs or other service animals are allowed.  Please bring cleanup materials.  http://www.oregonmetro.gov/parks/pets-policy

EcoChallenge gives you the tools and inspiration to reduce your impact on the planet and contribute to a healthy, vibrant, and sustainable future -- while engaging the people in your life and having fun in the process. Choose a Challenge that stretches your comfort zone, stick with it for two weeks, and make a difference for you, your community and the planet!

We invite you to engage your organization, community, workplace, or business in the EcoChallenge this fall -- it's fun, free and makes a big impact.

The 2016 EcoChallenge runs from October 14-28. What will your Challenge be?

Did you know that beneficial insects work around the clock to protect your garden from pests? Meet the beetles, bugs, flies, lacewings and other invertebrates that provide free pest control. You will discover ways to attract and sustain these friendly beneficial insects that help your garden thrive, and also learn about a few invasive insects to keep an eye out for. Advanced registration is required. Register at http://emswcd.org/workshops-and-events/upcoming-workshops.

Explore the benefits of gardening with Native plants. Discover Portland's most common native plant communities, learn which species do well in similar growing conditions, and get tips to help them thrive. A slideshow will highlight characteristics and desired growing conditions of local favorite native groundcovers, shrubs and trees. Advanced registration is required. Register at http://emswcd.org/workshops-and-events/upcoming-workshops.