seasonal natural interest

Take a relaxing walk at Smith and Bybee Wetlands on a long summer evening. Dusk is one of the best times to view wildlife, especially during summer. It’s about the only time mammals such as beaver, muskrat, otter, raccoon, deer and bats can be seen. A Metro naturalist teaches basic techniques of wildlife watching and identification. Bring binoculars or borrow a pair onsite. Suitable for ages 10 and older; participants must be able to be quiet, sneaky and patient. Meet in the parking area on North Marine Drive. Registration and payment of $6 per adult or $11 per family required in advance. Register online or call 503-797-1650 option 2.

Hate Knotweed? Well, help Clark Public Utilities' StreamTeam eradicate it! Volunteers are needed to search for knotweed, and must be able to navigate over uneven terrain and through thick vegetation. Training, equipment and light refreshments will be provided. Bring work and weather appropriate attire, a reusable mug, and gloves, if you have them. Contact Ashley King at StreamTeam@clarkpud.com to register. For more information, visit www.StreamTeam.net.

Help search for and remove the invasive ricefield bulrush (Scirpus mucronatus) from wetlands. This invasive sedge is threatening wetlands on the refuge by competing with native plants that wildlife need for food and shelter. Due to volunteer efforts, the amount of ricefield bulrush at the refuge has dramatically reduced over the last 10 years. Come be a part of this downward trend and remove ricefield bulrush from the Pacific Northwest! Easy to remove and fun to search for, let's get this plant out of its only known NW location!

*Depending on conditions these work party days may include the removal of yellow-flag iris or other targeted invasive plants.

All work days are Wednesday and Saturday from 9AM - 12:30PM; rain or shine. Bring rubber boots and dress for the weather. Meet by the visitor kiosk in the River 'S' Unit. Gloves, tools, snacks, and drinks will be provided to keep you fueled up and restoration ready.

Event dates by month: June 23, 27, and 30. July 7, 11, 14, 18, 21, 25, and 28. August 1, 4, 8, 11, 15, 18, 22, 25, and 29. September 1st

Work parties are sponsered by the Friends of Ridgefield National Wildlife Refuge and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.

The Ridgefield National Wildlife Refuge was established in 1965 along with 3 other refuges in the Southwest Washington State, to secure vital winter habitat for Dusky Canada geese and other wintering waterfowl. With subsequent changes to nesting habitat and reduction in dusky populations following the violent earthquake of 1964 in Alaska, the need for secure wintering habitat became even more important.

Currently, Ridgefield NWR has a total of 5,218 acres of marshes, grasslands and woodlands. Preservation of the natural Columbia River floodplain is the management objective of the Carty (2-mile self-guided hiking trail), Roth, and Ridgeport Dairy units. The River 'S' (4.2 mile auto tour route and 1.2 mile seasonal hiking trail) and Bachelor Island units are managed to maximize habitat for waterfowl and other wetland wildlife.

This most striking viewpoint features a dropoff of some 3400 feet and views from Mount Jefferson to Hood.

The final goal is a narrow fractured outcrop with cliffs on three sides. The Clackamas Basin below this viewpoint is at its broadest in the upper Clackamas. The hike follows flatter terrain except for the final lift to the viewpoint. Distance is 4+ miles and total gain is about 625 feet. High Point of 5015 ft. This trail is very old but now little used.

Bring plenty of water, a camera, bug spray, and a lunch. Be aware that temperatures in the upper watershed are cooler than down below, and wear appropriate footwear.  RSVP to attend by emailing Becki at Rebecca@clackamasriver.org or calling 503-303-4372.

The second weekend in April is our Early Rhodie Show with several hundred trusses of early blooming rhododendrons. There is an even larger display on Mother's Day weekend.