seasonal natural interest

Join us for a day of fun and learning at Family Fun on the Farm day, brought to you by Metro. School is out for the day and you're invited to Sauvie Island Center's first-ever Family Farm Day on Tuesday, November 11th from 10 am to 1 pm. We'll explore the 16-acre Sauvie Island Organics farm and the grounds of Howell Territorial Park while learning about food, farming and the land. Our staff will guide you and your family through an exploration of our curriculum, designed for elementary school-aged children, including:

-Soil Exploration. Dig in and learn about healthy soil.
-Seed to Harvest. Plant, tend and harvest the Grow Lunch Garden.
-Healthy Snacks. Harvest fresh veggies and use them to create yummy snacks!
-Plant Parts Investigation. Explore the farm and plants we can eat.
-Wildlife & Food web. Who else has been foraging on the farm?
-Pollination Station. Meet these hard-working farm friends.

The event is free but pre-registration is required here.

Animal tracks are everywhere but how do you tell who made them?  The Animal Track Literacy Project teaches you the language scientists use to describe tracks through drawing, coloring and measuring exercises.   Collect data on a series of mystery tracks and then identify them yourself using a special tool called a dichotomous key.  We will also study plaster casts of animal tracks collected at Jackson Bottom Wetlands and other locations. This session is designed for adults and young adults 16 years and older.  Steve Engel

Come to this second annual free event in Oregon City and join 36 artists, musicians, hiking trails, and children's activities in enjoying art and demonstrations in the woods. 

Join us for an afternoon of creativity as we draw, paint, and illustrate the inspirations found in the natural world. Various tips and techniques will be introduced that can provide a basic approach for any skill level, beginners are welcome. Surrounded by the forest, find relaxation and comfort in a supportive environment with others looking to explore their creative side and learn more about the flora and fauna of Tryon Creek. We encourage you to bring your own supplies (sketchbook, watercolors and pencil/pen), supplies on site are limited. Questions? Please contact Jennifer Primm at (503)636-9886 ext. 222 or via email at Jennifer.Primm@oregon.gov

Join the Estuary Partnership for Love Your Columbia, Clean up Sand Island volunteer event. Participants will paddle on the Columbia River in the Estuary Partnership's

16 passenger canoe from the St. Helens public dock to Sand Island.  While on the island, volunteers will remove invasive plants and clean up the beach. Estuary Partnership staff will be on the canoe to steer, offer paddling advice, and share information about the Columbia River ecosystem.

Registration required!