stewardship

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.

Where:  Cathlapotle Plankhouse at the Ridgefield National Wildlife Refuge: 28908 NW Main Ave, Ridgefield, WA 98642

When:  April 17, 2016

What: The Cathlapotle Plankhouse re-opens for the 2016 season on April 17th, 2016. The season will kick off with a special second Sunday event featuring the latest in Cathlapotle Village archaeology, artifacts excavated from the Cathlapotle site on display, and guided hikes highlighting spring and a family friendly hike focusing on Refuge Wildlife. The Plankhouse will be open for visitors from 12pm-4pm, and there will be kids' activities as well. 

**The Cathlapotle Plankhouse will now be open most weekends from 12pm-4pm. Every second Sunday of the month the Plankhouse will host a special event with speakers, guided hikes, and children's activities. For more information on the upcoming events, visit www.ridgefieldfriends.org.**

12pm: Naturalist Lead Family Hike

Join a Naturalist on the trail exploring the wildlife that live at the Refuge. This hour long walk will meet at the Plankhouse, and is geared towards families. Meet in front of the Plankhouse.

1pm: Presentation "What's new at Cathlapotle? Lots!"

Cathlapotle is one of the best preserved Chinookan Village sites along the Lower Columbia River, making it a tremendous window into the lives of Chinookan Peoples before contact with Euro-Americans in the early 1800s. Ken Ames, Professor Emeritus at Portland State University and one of the leading scholars in Lower Columbia River Archaeology will share the latest findings to come out of Cathlapotle, and connect these stories to the lands we all call home.

2pm: Spring Ethnobotany Hike

Join a Refuge Naturalist for a walk on the Oaks to Wetlands Trail discussing spring plants and their relationship with Chinookan culture. Participants should be prepared for a 2 mile hike on moderately uneven terrain. Meet at the Plankhouse.

12pm - 4pm: Plankhouse Tours and Children's Activities

Tour the Plankhouse on your own or guided by our experienced volunteers. Children's activities will be available as well.

Cost:   Refuge admission is $3 per vehicle

Contact: Sarah Hill, Plankhouse Coordinator; 360.887.4106/plankhouse@gmail.com

For wheelchair access to this event, please contact Sarah prior to the event date.

Join in Portland Parks & Recreation removing invasive non-native species, including English ivy, clematis, and Himalayan blackberry. Invasive species removal restores wildlife habitat and to encourages native species regeneration to prevent erosion and water run-off. Please wear long thick pants, a long-sleeved shirt and sturdy shoes. Bring a water bottle, rain gear and sunhat. Instruction, tools, gloves, water, coffee/tea and KIND Snacks provided. This is a family-friendly event and all ages are welcome but children must be supervised by an adult. Activities include: Invasive Plant Removal.

Register online here: http://solveoregon.org/get-involved/events/sylvania-natural-area-park-event