family friendly

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

Whether out of need for baseline data to support a conservation program or just pure curiosity, we often wonder about the various life forms around us. Numerous species surveys are conducted throughout the Portland-Vancouver region, but the resulting data is not always accessible or might not translate well for the general public. The Portland-Vancouver Regional Eco-Blitz Series will establish continuous species identification events, bringing together partners from throughout the area to make the data transparent and accessible to all. We will do this by displaying real-time data created by participants like you. View database below.

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  

Pre-register for a shifts at the Fernhill Wetlands event here. 

Native Plant Appreciation Week (NPAW) is April 23rd - 30th, 2016 and is celebrated throughout Oregon. The week is packed with events that serve to promote a greater appreciation and knowledge of our local native plants, and highlight the importance of protecting and preserving these valuable species. The Portland Chapter of the Native Plant Society of Oregon has planned a week's worth of exciting events take place in and around Portland, from hikes, to tours, and workshops. Visit npawpdx.org for a list of events and all relevant details! 

Help us maintain our recreational and educational facilities while having fun! This welcoming and relaxed volunteer experience features projects of every kind. We end the day with an activity; previous activities have included planting flower seeds to take home, weaving baskets from English ivy, building bird feeders, and guided hatchery tours. Kids must be age 7 or older to participate. Kids under age 16 must have a parent/guardian with them to volunteer. Kids ages 16-17 must have a parent/guardian sign them in at the beginning of the event. While registration is not required, participation is limited to the first 30 participants. Those who registered prior to the event are given priority.  Go to columbiasprings.org/events to learn more.

Join our free special presentation of springtime Native American stories and music by local musician Stephanie Baldridge, featuring Native American Flute and animal puppets! 

Incredible Edibles Plant Sale 2016

From seedlings to supper, grow your own!

Join the campaign for healthy eating with organic veggie, fruit and herb starts for your home garden at the fifth annual Multnomah County Master Gardeners' Incredible Edibles Plant Sale on Saturday, April 30, 10 am to 4 pm, Westminster Presbyterian Church, 1624 NE Hancock St., Portland.

Plant starts from the Incredible Edibles Plant Sale are local, organically-grown varieties specifically selected because they thrive in Pacific Northwest conditions. So when you "pick up something for dinner," you'll be harvesting nutritious, fresh-picked goodness for your table! Look for a luscious array of both heirlooms and hybrids among the proven varieties of tomatoes, cucumbers, peppers, lettuces, herbs, edible flowers and more.

OSU Extension-trained Master Gardener volunteers will be on hand so you can 'Get the Real Dirt' on plant problems, pest control and other gardening questions.

'Plant. Grow. Eat.' workshops are scheduled throughout the day to inspire and instruct, with guest chefs and Master Gardeners sharing tried and true tips for the best ways to grow your own food -- and bring it to the table. The Incredible Edibles Sale is the place for new and veteran gardeners, with lots of information and helpful Master Gardeners to launch you successfully growing your own food.

Even the littlest sprouts can join the fun at the Kids Grow station with hands-on garden activities and discoveries.

Bop while you shop to lively local musical entertainment. Eat, drink and be merry at Thrive Sauce and Bowls, Salvador Molly's and Nossa Familia Coffee.

Find inspiration from artist Jessica Soliel of A Little Sun, who returns with her "illustrations that feel like a hug," and Joe Wirtheim, who will be on hand with his retro "Victory Garden of Tomorrow" shirts and posters celebrating green urbanism and community building.

Proceeds from the sale further the work of the Multnomah County Master Gardeners, whose mission is to support the OSU Extension Service Master Gardener program and to educate the public about all aspects of successfully and sustainably growing and caring for plants.

You've seen Multnomah County Master Gardener volunteers at your neighborhood Farmers Market and other community events. Master Gardener volunteers also:

*Donate produce from the Multnomah County Community Demonstration Garden to local food banks

*Host a monthly Speaker Series, free and open to the public, where guest horticulture experts share their knowledge on a range of relevant gardening and environmental topics

*Provide horticulture lessons to young people being treated at Doernbecher Children's Hospital

*Instruct Seed to Supper classes in partnership with the Oregon Food Bank

*Teach gardening methods that support successful gardening and environmental stewardship at area schools, libraries, parks, and community gardens throughout Multnomah County

For more information go to www.multnomahmastergardeners.org/edibles or email multmastergardeners@gmail.com, or call (503)445-4608

Free admission. Everyone welcome.

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