conservation education

Celebrate Great Blue Heron Week and join bird expert Rick Balazs to view the Owl Woods heron colony. Thirty to fifty pairs of herons nest in this stand of Douglas Fir trees. Rick has spent hundreds of hours monitoring the birds over the years and knows the behaviors and antics of nesting herons very well. Meet at the Education Center at 9am. Be prepared for a two mile (round-trip) leisurely walk over mostly flat terrain. Dress for the weather, the trails may be muddy. Bring binoculars. A variety of other birds including bald eagles, osprey and songbirds may be seen. Free. A donation of $2 / person to the Education Center is welcomed. Group size limited to 15. Call 503-681-6283 to reserve a spot.

Adults and children over 10 years

But Wait!  Rick is offering a second walk on May 30, from 1pm-4pm, for families with children under 10 years old.  Call the same number to register for this option.

Jackson Bottom Wetlands Education Center

Rick Balazs

Come learn how to spot and report new, high alert invasive weeds before they gain a foothold! These invasive species can spread quickly and easily into the areas you live and love, which is why prevention and early detection are critical. The good news? You can help prevent these new and incoming invaders from gaining a foothold - all while enjoying your favorite outdoor activities such as walking, biking and hiking!

This FREE training is for anyone interested in protecting Oregon's landscape from the spread of new invasive weeds. You will learn how to identify high priority weeds and how to report your findings. View live and preserved specimens; learn how these invaders spread, and about the complications they bring to the new areas they dominate. You can help prevent that next nasty weed from getting established!

Register at http://emswcd.org/workshops-and-events/upcoming-workshops/all-events/wee...

Explore the benefits of gardening with Native plants! We will introduce you to common native plant communities in Portland, show examples of species that do well in similar growing conditions, share successful planting tips that will help them thrive and more! A native plant slideshow will highlight characteristics and desired growing conditions of many local favorite native groundcovers, shrubs and trees. You'll walk away with loads of information so you can decide which native plants will work well in your yard.

Register online at http://emswcd.org/workshops-and-events/upcoming-workshops/.

Less water. Less Work. More time to enjoy your yard! Learn how to design a low-maintenance, chemical-free landscape that conserves water and minimizes pollution, all while saving you time, money and energy! You'll get natural gardening and landscape design tips, take a field trip to a nearby naturescaped garden, and receive a comprehensive workbook and a native plant to get started! Space is limited and advanced registration is required.

Register online at http://emswcd.org/workshops-and-events/upcoming-workshops/. Information: 503-222-7645.