Nature and Human Health

Session 1: August 8-12 

Session 2: August 15-19

9 a.m.--1 p.m. daily

Calling all explorers! Have you ever wondered what an owl would pack for lunch? Or what animal bones look like under a microscope? At Nature Nuts Summer Camp we will explore the amazing world around us through crafts and hands-on activities, like magic tricks!

Nature Nuts is for children entering 2nd - 4th grade.

$159 per camper

Register now at http://www.columbiasprings.org/programs/environmental-education/summer-n...

Get involved at the Cathlapotle Plankhouse!

The Plankhouse is looking for new and enthusiastic volunteers interested in learning about and sharing local Native American Culture, NW History, and Archeology with public visitors inside the Cathlapotle Plankhouse. No experience necessary, just a desire to learn and share your knowledge with others.

In our Docent Training, you will learn about the Chinookan Peoples of the Lower Columbia, the roles of a Plankhouse docent, and interpretive techniques to share the Refuge and the Plankhouse with the public.

For more info, contact Plankhouse Coordinator Sarah Hill at (360) 887-4106 or by email at sarah_hill@fws.gov.

Be part of a new community science movement, and contribute to the region's species inventory! 

     The Powell Butte Eco-Blitz is part of a region wide, on-going Eco-Blitz Series to find and collect data on the Portland-Vancouver metro area's wildlife. Portland Parks and Rec, in partnership with Johnson Creek Watershed Council and National Park Service, is hosting a Portland based Eco-Blitz on Powell Butte. Scientists and volunteers of all ages and backgrounds work together to compile a "snapshot" of ecodiversity in a one day event.

    In this Eco-Blitz event, we will be conducting 3 different species surveys: Amphibians, Butterflies and Birds. Volunteers choose a time slot where they will go out in a group with an expert to conduct a survey to monitor their designated species. No experience is necessary and instruction will be facilitated day of event. This event is free and open to all ages. Volunteers should arrive at least 15 minutes before their chosen time slot.

All materials, snacks/drinks and instruction provided. Wear long thick pants, a long-sleeved shirt and sturdy shoes. Bring a water bottle, rain gear and sunhat. Bathrooms available on site.

All volunteers should register at: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/powell-butte-ecoblitz-tickets-20899280310

The Eco-Blitz Series aims to:

Raise awareness of biodiversity
Generate appreciation of natural resources
Establish a shared effort among science professionals, educators and the general public
Create a shared database of regional species and natural resources  

For more information about bio-blitzes, check out these links:http://www.nature.nps.gov/biology/biodiversity/bioblitz.cfm andhttps://...

Have questions about Powell Butte EcoBlitz? Contact: Emily Lytle, Portland Parks & Recreation, Cell Phone: 971-352-2044 Email address: emily.lytle@portlandoregon.gov

Spring is early this year!  Get planting!

Hands-on class will cover: 

-soils and bed preparation

-tools/tool care/ergonomics

-what to plant in March

-protecting seedlings from pests and cold

-best practices for planting

-garden structures from free, reclaimed materials

-delicious early-spring garden meals

Each year the Columbia Slough Watershed Council hosts dozens of educational paddling events that expose adults and children to the wonders of the Columbia Slough. We're seeking novice to advanced paddlers who would like to volunteer to assist with our Twilight Paddles, Slough School kids' paddles and our summer festivals. Volunteer!

Time commitment:  Scheduling is flexible. Volunteers are expected to commit to 1-2 programs per month over the paddle season (May through August) with the option to continue with Fall programming. Before serving, volunteers attend a two orientation sessions. Before orientation, volunteers complete a short, informal interview with the Council's Volunteer Coordinator.

Orientation Session 1: Thursday, April 7th, 2016, 5:00pm - 7:00pm
Orientation Session 2: Saturday, April 16th, 2016, 9:00am - 1:00pm

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

* Assist staff members with canoe and kayak-based educational and recreational activities

* Monitor and lead volunteers in the paddling area at events

* Facilitate safe, inclusive on-water activities with kids and adults

* Perform routine maintenance on boats and paddling equipment

Minimum Qualifications

* Novice to advanced canoeing and kayaking skills

* Strong communication, teamwork and leadership skills

* Able to work in variable outdoor conditions, sometimes cold and/or rainy and dark

* Able to take direction and initiative, provide leadership when needed

* Able to lift 30 pounds overhead

Preferred Qualifications

* Interest in local flora, fauna and water quality issues

* Affinity for sharing natural history of the Slough and the watershed

* Familiarity with N and NE Portland waterways

* First aid and CPR certified

Interested? Send a brief letter of intent (1-2 paragraphs) about why you're interested in this position to Volunteer Coordinator Hanna Davis at hanna.davis@columbiaslough.org or send your letter to 7040 NE 47th Ave, Portland, OR 97218. Include your name, address, email address and phone number.