walking

Join us for free urban nature adventures every third Wednesday, February through November!  April theme:  Ethnobotany!  Travel back in time as you embark on a short guided hike at Columbia Springs to learn some of the ways different native plants have been used as food, medicine, and tools for thousands of years!  This hike is best suited for students aged 7-77 and is not wheelchair or stroller accessible.  We can accommodate twenty people maximum on a first come first served basis.

Trees, trees beautiful trees. Do you know which local tree hosts the most number of lichens and mosses? Or which tree grows the tallest? Come take a walk and learn the about conifer and deciduous trees. We cover tree identification, and human and animal uses of trees.

Ages: 8 and older

Birds are the alarm system of the forest. Through their vocalizations and movement, they broadcast the drama happening on the land. Come to the evening lecture for an introduction to bird language or sign up for the series to practice in the field. Field component involves a bird walk, a bird sit and introduction to bird language mapping.

Lecture 7 to 8:30p.m. (4/21); Field class 9a.m. to 1p.m. (4/23)

Ages: 15 and older

Learn about the nature and culture of your local area while making friends and getting outdoors! Join us for a fun and engaging four-day naturalist training to explore topics in wildlife, history, and Chinookan Culture.

Be the friendly guide that connects people of all ages and backgrounds to the land. Work with us this spring and summer on projects with the public, connecting people of all ages and backgrounds to the outdoors while enjoying a unique natural area.

No experience needed! Volunteers do the following and more...

• Exploring trails with students during field trips
• Welcoming and orienting visitors to two Refuges in the area
• Connecting people to local culture in the Plankhouse
• Engaging people in learning during special events

We will meet four Fridays in April at both Ridgefield National Wildlife Refuge (Ridgefield, WA) and at Steigerwald Lake National Wildlife Refuge (Washougal, WA). Training is 10 am to 3 pm on April 8th, 15th, 22nd, 29th.

Contact Park Ranger Josie Finley at 360-887-4106 or by email at Josie_Finley@fws.gov to learn more about this training series and other ways you can get involved.

Celebrate the Oregon coast by giving back on March 26! Since 1986, the Oregon tradition of cleaning up our beaches has supported clean seas and healthy communities for our residents, visitors and wildlife. This is a family friendly event, covering the entire Oregon coast; it draws thousands of volunteers each year and all Oregonians are encouraged to join in. Pick your favorite beach and sign up to volunteer at solveoregon.org or call 503-844-9571 ext. 332 or 1-800-333-SOLV.