What’s Happening
Categories: Wildlife | Virtual Events
Click each event for more detailed information
Hudson's Bay HS Plant Sale!
Join these students for some of the most amazing annuals, hanging baskets, veggies, perennials and native plants.
1601 E McLoughlin Blvd, Vancouver, WA 98663
Enter the parking area on the lawn on the east side of the school off of Reserve St. just north of Mill Plain Blvd.
Gorge Refuge Stewards host the Youth Photo Contest
Who is eligible
This contest is open to any youth, 10-18 years of age, who have visited Steigerwald Lake NWR, and have taken photos within the boundaries of the refuge during the time period between June 1st, 2023 and May 31, 2024.
Division Categories and Prizes
Participants can enter a total of 5 JPEG formatted images to any of the following 4 categories:
Smartphone/Mobile Device Camera - This category has been created to include the most popular camera used by youth. Smartphone and/or tablet phone photos of any content taken within the confines of the Steigerwald Lake NWR are eligible, including, but not limited to, the other three categories.
Plants, Animals, and Fungi - This category is for photos of any life, other than people, identifiable at the refuge. It could be from micro to macro and include any animals, plants, fungi, algae, or other life form.
Landscape - This category is for any photo that is focused on the beauty and intricacies of the setting of the refuge. It could include shots from the refuge of scenery, like The Gorge and the Columbia River.
People in Nature - This category is for showing people and nature interacting with each other. It could be volunteers doin
FieldSTEM Professional Learning: Civic Engagement part two with PEI
Join Pacific Education Institute for our first virtual FieldSTEM Professional Learning: Civic Engagement workshop! Explore strategies, tools, and platforms to elevate student voice and support youth who want to take action in their communities. You will have time to collaborate with your grade-level peers, and time
to plan how you might increase your student’s civic engagement.
The workshop will be a blended experience including online Zoom and self-paced learning:
• Wednesday, April 17th, 2024, 4 PM to 6 PM: 2-hour Zoom session
• Asynchronous work (Approximately 2 hours)
• Wednesday, May 1st, 2024, 4 PM to 6 PM: 2-hour Zoom session
Participants who attend both online sessions and complete all associated work will receive,
6 Washington State Approved STEM clock hours.
Flex Academy HS Plant Sale!
Lots of plants for flowers, veggies and more!
2901 General Anderson Ave, Vancouver, WA 98661
Columbia River HS Plant sale
Something for everyone!
800 NW 99th St, Vancouver, WA 98665
Enter the west entrance and drive around to the west and north to the greenhouse.
Flex Academy HS Plant Sale!
Lots of plants for flowers, veggies and more!
2901 General Anderson Ave, Vancouver, WA 98661
Lower Columbia School Gardens Plant Sale
Come get your School Garden veggies, herbs, flowers, and perennials! We'll be joined again by Watershed Garden Works who offer a wide variety of native, edible, and ornamental plants, and Willow Grove Gardens with hanging flower baskets. Enjoy live music, explore the Garden and Orchard, and meet celebrity garden rabbits Satou and Synamon.
We hope you'll join this festive gathering that is part plant sale, part celebration of life, food, and community.
Thank you for supporting School Gardens - together we are making a real difference!
Northlake Elementary, 2210 Olympia Way
Water Center Garden Cleanup
Water Resources Education Center
4600 SE Columbia Way, Vancouver, WA 98661, USA
Join Water Center staff outdoors to help keep our Backyard Habitat Certified gardens in tip-top shape. Volunteer activities may include weeding, mulching, trimming and raking pathways. All necessary tools will be provided.
Please sign up as registration is required and space is limited.
All ages welcome. Youth under 18 must bring a signed minor consent form. Youth under 13 must have an adult guardian present.
If this event becomes full since space is limited and you see that registrations are no longer being accepted, please use the contact email below to add your name to the waitlist.
Contact: Water Center staff at vanwrec@cityofvancouver.us or 360-487-7111
Guided Tours at Columbia Springs
You're invited! Join us for a Guided Tour of Columbia Springs.
Have you ever wondered how old the fish are out in our round ponds, or what wildlife can be found around our site? Learn about all that Columbia Springs has to offer during one of our guided tours!
When: 5:30-6:30pm on the third Wednesday of every month (April-September)
Where: Columbia Springs (12208 SE Evergreen Hwy, Vancouver, WA 98683)
What: A guided tour of Columbia Springs and the Vancouver Trout Hatchery.
How: Let us know you’re coming in advance by emailing apryl@columbiasprings.org. We will meet at 5:30pm. Wear good walking shoes and dress for the weather!
http://www.columbiasprings.org/events
Contact Information:
Kristine Jacobs
360-882-0936 x 230
12208 SE Evergreen Hwy, Vancouver, WA 98683
Columbia Springs Kids Fishing Fest
If you are interested in volunteering, please check out the available opportunities! Thank you for making this event special.
You're invited! Join us for our first Kids Fishing Fest back on site since 2019!
When: Saturday, May 18th from 8am – 2pm with 1 hour time slots for registered fishers to line up to fish
Where: Columbia Springs (12208 SE Evergreen Hwy, Vancouver, WA 98683)
What: Kids Fishing Fest! The event includes:
· Fishing for kids ages 5-14 with one of our expert fishing mentors
· Fishing pole for registered fishers
· Opportunity for registered fishers to catch and take home up to two fish
· Hands-on science and nature activities
· BBQ lunch (veggie options available)
How: Advance registration for a fishing time slot and ticket purchase is required for all attendees ages 5 and over. Tickets are $8 per person. Kids under 5 are free.
To register, please visit our website and choose a one-hour time slot between 8am and 2pm. This time slot is the time that registered kids can line up to fish. All attendees are welcome to enjoy the rest of the festival for the duration of the event.
Spots are limited! Register today!
Note: the 1pm-2pm time slot is reserved for kids with disabilities.
Ticket sales are final.
Questions? Email events@columbiasprings.org
Bird Language Workshop with Water Resources Education Center
Saturday, May 18, 2024
9:30 am - 12:00 pm
Water Resources Education Center
4600 SE Columbia Way, Vancouver, WA 98661, USA
Unraveling the Storylines of Nature through Birds: Birds are one of the most vocal animals on Earth. Join us as we slow down and tune into their vocalizations which offer a glimpse into the rich and dramatic storylines of their lives and the animals living in this shared space. In this workshop, learn how keying into the calls, postures and behaviors of songbirds can help you see more wildlife, unravel fascinating stories, deepen your connection to nature and increase your awareness skills.
This workshop will introduce bird sound mapping and sit spots for bird observing. Expect to walk 1.5 miles on both paved and uneven, muddy trails and to be seated outside for 40 minutes. Binoculars available to borrow. Program will be outside and will happen rain or shine.
Suitable for adults and youth ages 12 and older.
Sign up soon. Registration is required and space is limited.
If this event becomes full since space is limited and you see that registrations are no longer being accepted, please use the contact email below to add your name to the waitlist.
Contact: Water Center staff at vanwrec@cityofvancouver.us or 360-487-7111
Environmental Film Series: Razing Liberty Square
When: Tuesday, May 28th from 4:30pm to 7:00pm
Where: Columbia Room at the Vancouver Community Library, 901 C St, Vancouver, WA 98660
Pizza will be provided through a generous discount from the Piehole Pizzeria including Gluten Friendly/Vegan options. A water station will also be available. Please help us reduce waste by bringing your own water bottle.
About the film:
Liberty City, Miami, was home to one of the oldest segregated public housing projects in the U.S. Now with rising sea levels, the neighborhood’s higher ground has become something else: real estate gold. Wealthy property owners push inland to higher ground, creating a speculators’ market in the historically Black neighborhood previously ignored by developers and policy-makers alike.
The dramatic changes happening in Miami’s Liberty Square are a looking glass for contemporary issues of wide-scale significance: the affordable housing crisis, the impact of systemic racism and climate gentrification. Miami is experiencing sea level rise before the rest of the country. What is happening in Liberty Square is a prescient story of what is to come, and strategies put to the test here are being closely observed by the rest of the world.
Event Schedule:
4:30pm – Doors Open
4:45pm – Pizza
5:15pm – Film Starts
Please register here
Wintler Wednesday Litter Clean-up
What: Volunteer Beach Clean-Up at Wintler Park
When: Wednesday, May 29th 9:00am – 11:30am
Where: Wintler Park, 6400 SE Beach Dr., Vancouver, WA 98661
What to bring: Please dress for the weather. Bring your own snacks and water.
Translation: A Spanish translator will not be available at this event.
***
Actividad: Limpieza de playa voluntaria en Wintler Park
Cuándo: Miércoles, 29 de Mayo 9:00 – 11:30
Dónde: Wintler Park, 6400 SE Beach Dr., Vancouver, WA 98661
Qué llevar: Favor de usar pantalón largo, zapato cerrado y vestir de acuerdo al clima. Traer su propia agua y alimento.
Traducciones: Este evento no cuenta con traductor para Español.
Ridgefield Pre-Paddle events
Pre-Big Paddle Activity
May 31 - Sunset Paddle
Join in on the Eye Dotting ceremony for the Dragon Boats, followed by a Sunset Paddle at the Ridgefield Waterfront on Friday, May 31.
Ridgefield Big Paddle event
Guided Hikes & Paddle
9:30AM – The BIG Paddle
Be part of the BIG Paddle on Lake River Saturday morning! Join a flotilla of kayaks, paddle boards and canoes on a five mile roundtrip paddle along Lake River to the Columbia and back to the Port of Ridgefield Waterfront. $5 BYOB (Bring Your Own Boat) registration covers your entry to the guided paddle. There are limited seats available on two canoes led by Lower Columbia Estuary Partnership for $5.
Stay tuned for registration information.
Registration does NOT include a rental. Kayak, canoe or paddle board rentals must be arranged ahead of time on an individual basis. Alder Creek Kayak Ridgefield Location is conveniently located on Lake River.
OR
Join the Big Paddle with a seat on a Dragon Boat for free! No experience needed, all equipment provided.
10am – Guided Refuge Hike with Friends of Ridgefield National Wildlife Refuge
To celebrate National Trails Day, head on a group hike led by the Friends of the Refuge from the Port of Ridgefield through the Ridgefield National Wildlife Refuge. Group hikes will take place at 10am and 1pm, no registration necessary. The Refuge will be fee free during Big Paddle.
11:30AM Guided Paddle with Alder Creek Kayak
From 11:30AM – 1PM, paddle participants will experience the sights and sounds of the Ridgefield National Wildlife Refuge, visit historical sites like where Lewis & Clark landed, and enjoy a fun guided paddle.
The guided paddle is $25 and includes kayak, paddles, and a life jacket. Reservations must be made through Alder Creek Kayak here.
1PM – Guided Refuge Hike with Friends of Ridgefield National Wildlife Refuge
To celebrate National Trails Day, head on a group hike led by the Friends of the Refuge from the Port of Ridgefield through the Ridgefield National Wildlife Refuge. Group hikes will take place at 10AM and 1PM, no registration necessary. The Refuge will be fee free during Big Paddle.
1:30PM Dragon Boat Paddle with Vancouver Lake Dragon Boating
Paddle Ridgefield’s big dragon boats during the Big Paddle event! No experience needed- come give dragon boating a try! All equipment is provided. One youth ages 6+ may accompany a paddling adult. Register for a free seat here!
Waterfront Activities
8:30AM – Live Music: Traveling Day Society
Start the day off listening to Traveling Day Society drum circle as you get ready for your paddling adventure.
8:30AM – 9AM - Pre-Paddle Warm-Up
Get your heart pumping and body moving before the Big Paddle with a warm-up routine.
9AM – Opening Ceremony
Awaken the Ridgefield Dragon Boats and kick off the annual Big Paddle!
10AM – 2PM Outdoor Games
Hang out and play volleyball, 🤬, disc golf, and more on the waterfront!
11AM – 2PM Kayak Check
Don’t want to worry about transporting your kayak or paddleboard to your vehicle between paddling and enjoying the waterfront activities? Or plan to get back out on the water? No problem! Take advantage of our free “Kayak Check” and drop off your kayak (open 11am – 2pm) and we will watch over your boat while you enjoy the beer garden, beach games, music, and food! When you are ready to head out, drive your car up to the station to load up!
11AM – 2PM Live Music: TBD
Enjoy live music on the waterfront.
11AM – 3PM Beer Garden & Food Trucks
Stay tuned for detailed information.
Food Trucks
A collection of food trucks will be on site at the Waterfront.
Stay tuned for detailed information.
10AM – 2PM Free Hayride
Find your way between the Ridgefield Waterfront and Downtown Ridgefield with the free and fun transportation of the hayride! Worry less about parking and enjoy the convenient ride and get both your shopping, paddling, and playing all in a days time!
Downtown Activities
First Saturday & Ridgefield Farmers Market Vendors @ Davis Park, 9AM – 2PM
Shop for vegetables, handmade goods and more from local vendors at DAVIS PARK across from the Ridgefield Community Library.
Used Spring Book Sale – Friends of the Ridgefield Community Library @ Ridgefield Community Library 10AM – 3PM
Shop for used books and support the local library at the Friends of the Ridgefield Community Library Spring Used Book Sale.
Frenchman's Bar Beach Clean-up with the Watershed Alliance
What: Litter pick-up along the Columbia River at Frenchman’s Bar
When: Saturday, June 8th 9:00am to 12:00pm
Where: Frenchman’s Bar Regional Park, 9612 NW Lower River Rd, Vancouver, WA 98660
What to bring: Please wear closed-toed shoes and dress for the weather. Please bring your own snacks and water.
Translation: A Spanish translator will be available at this event.
***
Actividad: Recoger basura en la playa a lo largo del Columbia River
Cuándo: Sábado, 8 de Junio 9:00 – 12:00
Dónde: Frenchman’s Bar Regional Park, 9612 NW Lower River Rd, Vancouver, WA 98660
Qué llevar: Favor de usar zapato cerrado y vestir de acuerdo al clima. Traer su propia agua y alimento.
Traducciones: En este evento contaremos con un traductor(a) en Español.
Forest Yoga at Columbia Springs
You're invited! Join us for Forest Yoga at Columbia Springs
Looking to get back in touch with nature this summer? Join us for Forest Yoga at Columbia Springs! We will meet with local yogi Alison Wesley from Movement at Work in this beginning level class, moving into gentle shapes that help us see ourselves and the world more clearly.
When: 10:00am on Saturday, June 15th
Where: Columbia Springs (12208 SE Evergreen Hwy, Vancouver, WA 98683) on the lawn behind Heron House
What: A beginning level yoga class led local yogi Alison Wesley from Movement at Work. Please bring a mat or towel and whatever props you use during your normal practice.
How: Cost is $15 per person. Please register to reserve your spot!
Note: This class must have at least 10 participants signed up in advance to run. In the event that this number is not reached, the class will be cancelled, and refunds will be issued. Otherwise, all sales are final, and no refunds will be permitted.
URL: https://www.columbiasprings.org/june24-forest-yoga
Contact Information:
Kristine Jacobs
360-882-0936 x 230
12208 SE Evergreen Hwy, Vancouver, WA 98683
Solstice Walk at Columbia Springs
You're invited! Join us for a Solstice Walk at Columbia Springs.
Have you ever wondered how old the fish are out in our round ponds, or what wildlife can be found around our site? Learn about all that Columbia Springs has to offer during one of our guided tours!
When: 5:30-6:30pm
Where: Columbia Springs (12208 SE Evergreen Hwy, Vancouver, WA 98683)
What: A guided tour of Columbia Springs and the Vancouver Trout Hatchery.
How: Let us know you’re coming in advance by emailing apryl@columbiasprings.org. We will meet at 5:30pm. Wear good walking shoes and dress for the weather!
http://www.columbiasprings.org/events
Contact Information:
Kristine Jacobs
360-882-0936 x 230
12208 SE Evergreen Hwy, Vancouver, WA 98683
Green Neighbors Natural Garden Tour
This year the Clark County Green Neighbors is organizing a FREE self-guided tour on Sunday, June 23rd, of the most vibrant and exquisite natural gardens in the county. These gardens thrive without the use of synthetic chemicals and include a wide variety of natural features and innovative gardening techniques.
Date:
Sunday, June 23, 2024 10:00 am - 3:00 pm
Environmental Film Series: Common Ground
When: Tuesday, June 25th from 4:30pm to 7:00pm
Where: Columbia Room at the Vancouver Community Library, 901 C St, Vancouver, WA 98660
Pizza will be provided through a generous discount from the Piehole Pizzeria including Gluten Friendly/Vegan options. A water station will also be available. Please help us reduce waste by bringing your own water bottle.
About the film:
Common Ground unveils a dark web of money, power, and politics behind our broken food system. The film profiles a hopeful and uplifting movement of white, black, and indigenous farmers who are using alternative “regenerative” models of agriculture that could balance the climate, save our health, and stabilize America’s economy – before it’s too late.
Event Schedule:
4:30pm – Doors Open
4:45pm – Pizza
5:15pm – Film Starts
Please register here
Wintler Wednesday Litter Clean-up with the Watershed Alliance
What: Volunteer Beach Clean-Up at Wintler Park
When: Wednesday, June 26th 9:00am – 11:30am
Where: Wintler Park, 6400 SE Beach Dr., Vancouver, WA 98661
What to bring: Please dress for the weather. Bring your own snacks and water.
Translation: A Spanish translator will not be available at this event.
***
Actividad: Limpieza de playa voluntaria en Wintler Park
Cuándo: Miércoles, 26 de Junio 9:00 – 11:30
Dónde: Wintler Park, 6400 SE Beach Dr., Vancouver, WA 98661
Qué llevar: Favor de usar pantalón largo, zapato cerrado y vestir de acuerdo al clima. Traer su propia agua y alimento.
Traducciones: Este evento no cuenta con traductor para Español.
Frenchman's Bar Beach Clean-up with Watershed Alliance
What: Litter pick-up along the Columbia River at Frenchman’s Bar
When: Sunday, July 7th 9:00am to 12:00pm
Where: Frenchman’s Bar Regional Park, 9612 NW Lower River Rd, Vancouver, WA 98660
What to bring: Please wear closed-toed shoes and dress for the weather. Please bring your own snacks and water.
Translation: A Spanish translator will be available at this event.
***
Actividad: Recoger basura en la playa a lo largo del Columbia River
Cuándo: Domingo, 7 de Julio 9:00 – 12:00
Dónde: Frenchman’s Bar Regional Park, 9612 NW Lower River Rd, Vancouver, WA 98660
Qué llevar: Favor de usar zapato cerrado y vestir de acuerdo al clima. Traer su propia agua y alimento.
Traducciones: En este evento contaremos con un traductor(a) en Español.
Cottonwood Beach Litter Clean-up with Watershed Alliance
What: Litter pick-up along the Columbia River at Cottonwood Beach
When: Saturday, July 13th 9:00am to 12:00pm
Where: Captain William Clark Park, 3333 Index St, Washougal, WA 98671
What to bring: Please wear closed-toed shoes and dress for the weather. Please bring your own snacks and water.
Translation: A Spanish translator will not be available at this event.
***
Actividad: Recoger basura en la playa a lo largo del Columbia River
Cuándo: Sábado, 13 de Julio 9:00 – 12:00
Dónde: Captain William Clark Park, 3333 Index St, Washougal, WA 98671
Qué llevar: Favor de usar zapato cerrado y vestir de acuerdo al clima. Traer su propia agua y alimento.
Traducciones: Este evento no cuenta con traductor para Español.
Guided Tours at Columbia Springs
You're invited! Join us for a Guided Tour of Columbia Springs.
Have you ever wondered how old the fish are out in our round ponds, or what wildlife can be found around our site? Learn about all that Columbia Springs has to offer during one of our guided tours!
When: 5:30-6:30pm on the third Wednesday of every month (April-September)
Where: Columbia Springs (12208 SE Evergreen Hwy, Vancouver, WA 98683)
What: A guided tour of Columbia Springs and the Vancouver Trout Hatchery.
How: Let us know you’re coming in advance by emailing apryl@columbiasprings.org. We will meet at 5:30pm. Wear good walking shoes and dress for the weather!
http://www.columbiasprings.org/events
Contact Information:
Kristine Jacobs
360-882-0936 x 230
12208 SE Evergreen Hwy, Vancouver, WA 98683
Wintler Wednesday Litter Clean-up with Watershed Alliance
What: Volunteer Beach Clean-Up at Wintler Park
When: Wednesday, July 24th 9:00am – 11:30am
Where: Wintler Park, 6400 SE Beach Dr., Vancouver, WA 98661
What to bring: Please dress for the weather. Bring your own snacks and water.
Translation: A Spanish translator will not be available at this event.
***
Actividad: Limpieza de playa voluntaria en Wintler Park
Cuándo: Miércoles, 24 de Julio 9:00 – 11:30
Dónde: Wintler Park, 6400 SE Beach Dr., Vancouver, WA 98661
Qué llevar: Favor de usar pantalón largo, zapato cerrado y vestir de acuerdo al clima. Traer su propia agua y alimento.
Traducciones: Este evento no cuenta con traductor para Español.
Frenchman's Bar Beach Clean-up and Kite Flying with Watershed Alliance
What: Litter pick-up along the Columbia River and Kite Flying at Frenchman’s Bar
When: Saturday, August 3rd 9:00am to 3:00pm
Where: Frenchman’s Bar Regional Park, 9612 NW Lower River Rd, Vancouver, WA 98660
What to bring: Please wear closed-toed shoes and dress for the weather. Please bring your own snacks and water.
Translation: A Spanish translator will be available at this event.
Kite Flying
This is a special event in partnership with Odyssey World International Education Services. After the clean-up we will have kites for youth to decorate and fly. We will provide kites, craft materials, and snacks for participants.
Event Itinerary:
9:00am to 12:00pm – Litter clean-up
12:00pm to 3:00pm – Kite decorating and flying
***
Actividad: Recoger basura en la playa a lo largo del Columbia River
Cuándo: Sábado, 3 de Agosto 9:00 – 3:00
Dónde: Frenchman’s Bar Regional Park, 9612 NW Lower River Rd, Vancouver, WA 98660
Qué llevar: Favor de usar zapato cerrado y vestir de acuerdo al clima. Traer su propia agua y alimento.
Traducciones: En este evento contaremos con un traductor(a) en Español.
Volando Papalotes (Cometas)
Tenemos este evento especial compartido por Odyssey World International Education Services. Al finalizar la limpieza les obsequiaremos un papalote a los chicos para que lo decoren y lo vuelen en la playa. Nosotros llevamos los materiales y una botanita.
Itinerario:
9:00am a 12:00pm – Limpieza de basura
12:00pm a 3:00pm – Decoración y vuelo de papalotes (cometas)
Forest Yoga at Columbia Springs
You're invited! Join us for Forest Yoga at Columbia Springs
Looking to get back in touch with nature this summer? Join us for Forest Yoga at Columbia Springs! We will meet with local yogi Alison Wesley from Movement at Work in this beginning level class, moving into gentle shapes that help us see ourselves and the world more clearly.
When: 10:00am on Saturday, August 17th
Where: Columbia Springs (12208 SE Evergreen Hwy, Vancouver, WA 98683) on the lawn behind Heron House
What: A beginning level yoga class led local yogi Alison Wesley from Movement at Work. Please bring a mat or towel and whatever props you use during your normal practice.
How: Cost is $15 per person. Please register to reserve your spot!
Note: This class must have at least 10 participants signed up in advance to run. In the event that this number is not reached, the class will be cancelled, and refunds will be issued. Otherwise, all sales are final, and no refunds will be permitted.
URL: https://www.columbiasprings.org/august24-forest-yoga
Contact Information:
Kristine Jacobs
360-882-0936 x 230
12208 SE Evergreen Hwy, Vancouver, WA 98683
Wintler Wednesday Litter Clean-up with Watershed Alliance
What: Volunteer Beach Clean-Up at Wintler Park
When: Wednesday, August 21st 9:00am – 11:30am
Where: Wintler Park, 6400 SE Beach Dr., Vancouver, WA 98661
What to bring: Please dress for the weather. Bring your own snacks and water.
Translation: A Spanish translator will not be available at this event.
***
Actividad: Limpieza de playa voluntaria en Wintler Park
Cuándo: Miércoles, 21 de Agosto 9:00 – 11:30
Dónde: Wintler Park, 6400 SE Beach Dr., Vancouver, WA 98661
Qué llevar: Favor de usar pantalón largo, zapato cerrado y vestir de acuerdo al clima. Traer su propia agua y alimento.
Traducciones: Este evento no cuenta con traductor para Español.
Wintler Wednesday Litter Clean-up
Guided Tours at Columbia Springs
You're invited! Join us for a Guided Tour of Columbia Springs.
Have you ever wondered how old the fish are out in our round ponds, or what wildlife can be found around our site? Learn about all that Columbia Springs has to offer during one of our guided tours!
When: 5:30-6:30pm on the third Wednesday of every month (April-September)
Where: Columbia Springs (12208 SE Evergreen Hwy, Vancouver, WA 98683)
What: A guided tour of Columbia Springs and the Vancouver Trout Hatchery.
How: Let us know you’re coming in advance by emailing apryl@columbiasprings.org. We will meet at 5:30pm. Wear good walking shoes and dress for the weather!
http://www.columbiasprings.org/events
Contact Information:
Kristine Jacobs
360-882-0936 x 230
12208 SE Evergreen Hwy, Vancouver, WA 98683
Frenchman's Bar Beach Clean-up with Watershed Alliance
What: Litter pick-up along the Columbia River at Frenchman’s Bar
When: Saturday, September 3rd 9:00am to 12:00pm
Where: Frenchman’s Bar Regional Park, 9612 NW Lower River Rd, Vancouver, WA 98660
What to bring: Please wear closed-toed shoes and dress for the weather. Please bring your own snacks and water.
Translation: A Spanish translator will be available at this event.
***
Actividad: Recoger basura en la playa a lo largo del Columbia River
Cuándo: Sábado, 7 de Septiembre 9:00 – 12:00
Dónde: Frenchman’s Bar Regional Park, 9612 NW Lower River Rd, Vancouver, WA 98660
Qué llevar: Favor de usar zapato cerrado y vestir de acuerdo al clima. Traer su propia agua y alimento.
Traducciones: En este evento contaremos con un traductor(a) en Español.
Guided Tours at Columbia Springs
You're invited! Join us for a Guided Tour of Columbia Springs.
Have you ever wondered how old the fish are out in our round ponds, or what wildlife can be found around our site? Learn about all that Columbia Springs has to offer during one of our guided tours!
When: 5:30-6:30pm on the third Wednesday of every month (April-September)
Where: Columbia Springs (12208 SE Evergreen Hwy, Vancouver, WA 98683)
What: A guided tour of Columbia Springs and the Vancouver Trout Hatchery.
How: Let us know you’re coming in advance by emailing apryl@columbiasprings.org. We will meet at 5:30pm. Wear good walking shoes and dress for the weather!
http://www.columbiasprings.org/events
Contact Information:
Kristine Jacobs
360-882-0936 x 230
12208 SE Evergreen Hwy, Vancouver, WA 98683
CPU Home & Garden Idea Fair
Join us April 27 from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. and April 28 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. for the Clark Public Utilities Home & Garden Idea Fair—Southwest Washington’s premiere home and garden show!
No matter if you’re looking for budget-friendly solutions for your starter house, ideas to take your dream home to the next level, searching for the perfect plants to make your garden really pop, or craving a treat from the local farmer’s market, the show has solutions for every person, every budget and every home.
Families can spend an entire day talking and shopping with vendors, getting tips from DIY demonstrations, shopping one of the largest plant sales in the region and kids can play and learn in our Power Zone area.
Held at the Clark County Event Center, the Home & Garden Idea Fair has become a much-anticipated community institution in Clark County. Every year, upwards of 15,000 people attend the show over two days. If you’ve never been, come down and discover what the fun’s all about
Fort Vancouver HS Plant Sale!
Join the students at the greenhouse and peruse native and ornamental plants, as well as veggie starts
5700 E 18th St, Vancouver, WA 98661
Take the drive north of the school to the end and park at the greenhouse.
City Nature Challenge
It is easy to Join!
Find Wildlife
It can be any plant, animal, or any evidence of life found in your city.
Take picture
Take a picture of what you find. Be sure to note the location of the critter or plant.
Share!
Share your observations through iNaturalist or your city's chosen platform.
City Nature Challenge Science
Your participation makes an impact on understanding biodiversity and coexisting with nature.
Why participate?
There is nature all around us! Knowing what species are in our city and where they are helps us study and protect them, but the ONLY way to do that is by all of us – scientists, land managers, and the community – working together to find and document the nature in our area.
By participating in the City Nature Challenge, not only do you learn more about your local nature, but you can also make your city a better place – for you and other species!
Fort Vancouver HS Plant Sale!
Join the students at the greenhouse and peruse native and ornamental plants, as well as veggie starts
5700 E 18th St, Vancouver, WA 98661
Take the drive north of the school to the end and park at the greenhouse.
Lasagna Composting with Composter Recyclers
Learn how to build and plant a raised bed garden by turning urban wastes into rich soil. No need to pay for and lug bags of garden soil. No tilling, sod removal or turning required. Materials are free if you are willing to scavenge! Don't worry if your soil is clay, sand, grass or weeds - this method goes right over the top. Optional Field Training TBD to construct a lasagna compost garden with experts. Join via Zoom.
Fort Vancouver HS Plant Sale!
Join the students at the greenhouse and peruse native and ornamental plants, as well as veggie starts
5700 E 18th St, Vancouver, WA 98661
Take the drive north of the school to the end and park at the greenhouse.
Environmental Film Series: Windshipped
When: Tuesday, April 23rd from 4:30pm to 7:00pm
Where: Columbia Room at the Vancouver Community Library, 901 C St, Vancouver, WA 98660
Pizza will be provided through a generous discount from the Piehole Pizzeria including Gluten Friendly/Vegan options. A water station will also be available. Please help us reduce waste by bringing your own water bottle.
About the film:
What started as one man’s quixotic dream has turned into reality. For the past three years, the 65-foot schooner, Apollonia, has been delivering goods up and down the Hudson River by sail sans fossil fuels – a throwback to a time when there were 1,200 such boats on the river each day. It turns out buyers prefer the non-polluting, anti-amazon way of making deliveries.
Event Schedule:
4:30pm – Doors Open
4:45pm – Pizza
5:15pm – Film Starts
Please register here
Outdoor Schools Washington Spring Training
Outdoor Schools Washington makes residential outdoor education experiences possible for each and every child in Washington, so they may create relationships with others and connections with the natural world through curiosity, exploration, and science.
Join their FREE Spring training April 22 - 26, 2024 at Camp Koinonia in Cle Elum to dive into all things outdoor school! This training is designed for:
Public school teachers/staff who are interested in starting outdoor education designed for their school/district focusing on 5th and 6th grade.
Staff from outdoor school sites that do not currently offer outdoor education programs.
Staff from outdoor school sites that do offer outdoor education experiences but would like to enhance their program and/or learn more about state learning standards and resources available.
Register here.
Fourth Plain Forward - Mother Camas installation and volunteer mulching & Community Festival
Join the volunteer crew to mulch a native and pollinator friendly garden at the base of the new art piece, Mother Camas, designed by Indigenous artist Rodolfo InyanLuta RedStone Serna. Also join in the festivities to celebrate, including food, vendors and music!
StreamTeam Earth Day Fest and Tree Planting
Join us for our annual Earth Day celebration on April 20, 2024! More details coming soon.
OSPI Washington Climate Education Summit: Moving Forward, Together
The second annual Washington Climate Education Summit, sponsored by ClimeTime, seeks to develop a network of interdisciplinary educators ready to integrate climate solutions and understanding across all content areas and levels of education. Attendees will have the opportunity to learn about climate science and integrating climate learning into their classrooms and have time to collaborate across and within grade levels and content areas.
Where: ESD 101 - Talbott Event Center 4202 S Regal St. Spokane, WA 99223
When: Friday April 19th - Saturday April 20th, 2024
Due Dates: The priority deadline for this application is January 31, 2024. All applications are due by March 1, 2024.
Would you like to attend? K–12 educators and educator leaders from across the state are invited to apply to attend via a short application. We hope voices from across the state in all grade levels and content areas will attend the Summit.
Application: To apply to attend the Summit, please fill out the application.
When will I know if I am attending? OSPI will begin to notify selected attendees starting February 1, 2024, and continue until we reach capacity.
Costs: The conference is grant-supported and so there is no registration fee. Clock hours are free of charge. Travel, lodging, and substitute costs are at the expense of participants or their schools/districts. Please see this support document to reference when discussing attendance with your district.
Questions? Please reach out if you have any questions. Lori Henrickson, Climate Science Curriculum Integration Consultant, OSPI lori.henrickson@k12.wa.us
Worm Bin Composting with Composter Recyclers
Learn how to compost using red worms to turn food scraps into all natural fertilizer for your garden. This is a great alternative to backyard composting, especially if you are tight on space. (Participants are eligible for a worm bin, bedding, and worms at no cost). Join via Zoom.
Guided Tours at Columbia Springs
You're invited! Join us for a Guided Tour of Columbia Springs.
Have you ever wondered how old the fish are out in our round ponds, or what wildlife can be found around our site? Learn about all that Columbia Springs has to offer during one of our guided tours!
When: 5:30-6:30pm on the third Wednesday of every month (April-September)
Where: Columbia Springs (12208 SE Evergreen Hwy, Vancouver, WA 98683)
What: A guided tour of Columbia Springs and the Vancouver Trout Hatchery.
How: Let us know you’re coming in advance by emailing apryl@columbiasprings.org. We will meet at 5:30pm. Wear good walking shoes and dress for the weather!
http://www.columbiasprings.org/events
Contact Information:
Kristine Jacobs
360-882-0936 x 230
12208 SE Evergreen Hwy, Vancouver, WA 98683
FieldSTEM Professional Learning: Civic Engagement part one with PEI
Join Pacific Education Institute for our first virtual FieldSTEM Professional Learning: Civic Engagement workshop! Explore strategies, tools, and platforms to elevate student voice and support youth who want to take action in their communities. You will have time to collaborate with your grade-level peers, and time
to plan how you might increase your student’s civic engagement.
The workshop will be a blended experience including online Zoom and self-paced learning:
• Wednesday, April 17th, 2024, 4 PM to 6 PM: 2-hour Zoom session
• Asynchronous work (Approximately 2 hours)
• Wednesday, May 1st, 2024, 4 PM to 6 PM: 2-hour Zoom session
Participants who attend both online sessions and complete all associated work will receive,
6 Washington State Approved STEM clock hours.
Beach Cleanup at Marine Park with the Water Center
Join Vancouver’s Water Center and volunteer to pick up litter from the beaches around Marine Park and prevent litter from entering the Columbia River. All tools will be provided. Expect to walk 1.5 miles on uneven terrain, sandy and muddy beach areas.
Please sign up as registration is required and space is limited.
All ages welcome. Youth under 18 must bring a signed minor consent form. Youth under 13 must have an adult guardian present.
If this event becomes full since space is limited and you see that registrations are no longer being accepted, please use the contact email below to add your name to the waitlist.
Marine Park
4501 SE Columbia Way, Vancouver, WA 98661
Contact: Water Center staff at vanwrec@cityofvancouver.us or 360-487-7111
Meadowscaping Spring Cleanup at the Water Center
Registration is required. Sign up today! Join Vancouver Bee Project and Water Center staff in caring for our newly planted meadow. Grass was removed and wildflower seed sowed last fall. Spring is the time to assess the project and clean out any unwanted plant species from the meadow. We will also have projects for volunteers to help keep our Backyard Habitat Certified gardens in tip-top shape. Volunteer activities may include weeding, mulching, trimming and raking pathways. All necessary tools will be provided.
All ages welcome. Youth under 18 must bring a signed minor consent form. Youth under 13 must have an adult guardian present.
Water Resources Education Center
4600 S.E. Columbia Way
Contact: Water Center staff at vanwrec@cityofvancouver.us or 360-487-7111
Clark County Green Schools Elementary Student Summit with Earth Gen and Clark County Green Schools
We're back with another Student Summit for elementary school green teams in Clark County! The Summit will be on Thursday, April 11th from 9:30am-1:30pm in the Gaiser Student Center at Clark College. We'd love to have partners attend and connect with educators, so please email me, Sami, at samantha.springslecain@clark.wa.gov if you're interested.
Composter Recycler Backyard Composting
Learn how to compost the SMART way during this virtual workshop. There will be in-person opportunity to construct a compost pile with experts, and view demonstration compost bins in action. (Participants are eligible for a compost bin at no cost). Join via Zoom.
Litter Clean-up at Ridgefield Waterfront with the Watershed Alliance
Join us as we lead a litter clean-up at the Ridgefield Waterfront as part of the City of Ridgefield’s Green and Clean activities!
What: Volunteer litter clean-up
When: Saturday, April 6th 9:00am to 11:30am
Where: Ridgefield Waterfront – Boat Ramp, 5 Mill St, Ridgefield, WA 98642
What to bring: Please wear closed-toed shoes and dress for the weather. Please bring your own snacks and water.
Tools, litter pickers, and gloves will be provided.
Register here.
***
Actividad: Recoger basura en Ridgefield
Cuándo: Sábado, 6 de Abril de 9:00 a 11:30
Dónde: Ridgefield Waterfront – Boat Ramp, 5 Mill St, Ridgefield, WA 98642
Qué llevar: Favor de usar zapato cerrado y vestir de acuerdo al clima. Traer su propia agua y alimento.
Nosotros ponemos las herramientas y guantes.
Registrarse Aquí
Ivy Pull at Abrams Park, Ridgefield
Let’s Pull Together
Join the Watershed Alliance as they lead an invasive English ivy pull in partnership with the Ridgefield Garden Club as part of the City of Ridgefield’s Green & Clean activities!
What: Volunteer Invasive English Ivy Pull
When: Saturday, April 6th from 9:00am to 12:00pm
Where: Abrams Park, 400 Abrams Park Rd, Ridgefield, WA 98642
Parking: Please park in the main parking lot at Abrams Park.
What to bring: Please wear long pants and sturdy shoes and dress for the weather. Please bring your own snacks and water.
Please Note: This event is more physically demanding than our other volunteer events, there will be bending, pulling and walking on uneven terrain with possible tripping hazards.
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Actividad: Eliminación de hiedra (hierba) en Ridgefield
Cuándo: Sábado, 6 de Abril de 9:00 a 12:00
Dónde: Abrams Park, 400 Abrams Park Rd, Ridgefield, WA 98642
Qué llevar: Favor de usar zapato cerrado y vestir de acuerdo al clima. Traer su propia agua y alimento.
Nos encontraremos en el estacionamiento de Abrams Park.
Nosotros ponemos las herramientas y guantes.
Ivy Removal at Marine Park with the Water Center
This Spring Break, serve your community by removing invasive ivy from Marine Park! Activities can include cutting ivy off tree trunks, bending over to pull ivy free from the soil, and shoveling and spreading bark mulch. All tools will be provided.
Please sign up as registration is required and space is limited.
All ages welcome. Youth under 18 must bring a signed minor consent form. Youth under 13 must have an adult guardian present.
If this event becomes full since space is limited and you see that registrations are no longer being accepted, please use the contact email below to add your name to the waitlist.
Marine Park
4501 SE Columbia Way, Vancouver, WA 98661
Contact: Water Center staff at vanwrec@cityofvancouver.us or 360-487-7111
Spring Beak Walk with the Water Center
Registration is required. Sign up today!
During spring break, come to the Water Center in search of spring beaks! The birds are becoming active as days get longer. Songs echo through the wetlands, nests are being built, and baby bird season is just around the corner. Take a leisurely spring break walk in search of all the birds that call this water ecosystem home. Binoculars will be on hand for participants to borrow.
This walk is suitable for individuals and families with youth ages 6 and older. All minors should be accompanied by an adult. Expect to walk 1.5 miles on uneven terrain, including sandy beaches, muddy wetlands and paved surfaces.
Water Resources Education Center
4600 S.E. Columbia Way
Contact: Water Center staff at vanwrec@cityofvancouver.us or 360-487-7111
Beach Cleanup at Marine Park
Registration is required. Sign up today! Help pick up litter from the beaches around Marine Park and prevent litter from entering the Columbia River. All tools will be provided. Expect to walk 1.5 miles on uneven terrain, sandy and muddy beach areas.
All ages welcome. Youth under 18 must bring a signed minor consent form. Youth under 13 must have an adult guardian present.
Marine Park
4501 SE Columbia Way, Vancouver, WA 98661, USA
Contact: Water Center staff at vanwrec@cityofvancouver.us or 360-487-7111
Environmental Film Series: Once a Braided River
When: Tuesday, March 26th from 4:30pm to 7:00pm
Where: Columbia Room at the Vancouver Community Library, 901 C St, Vancouver, WA 98660
Pizza will be provided through a generous discount from the Piehole Pizzeria including Gluten Friendly/Vegan options. A water station will also be available. Please help us reduce waste by bringing your own water bottle.
About the film:
Once a Braided River, a new documentary by Barbara Bernstein, tells the story of how the North Reach of the Willamette River was transformed from a braided river, rich in biodiversity and home to many bands of indigenous people, into an industrial sacrifice zone with a ten mile long superfund site running from downtown Portland to the river’s confluence with the Columbia River. The documentary focuses on the part of Portland that most Portlanders don’t know about or ignore. It braids together the strands of many issues that face us – climate chaos, rivers contaminated with toxic pollutants, fish and wildlife brought to the brink of extinction by these perilous practices, and the dire hazards of storing immense amounts of explosive fossil fuels upon liquefaction zones underlain by major fault lines along the shoreline of the river that runs through our region. The documentary features community groups and activists working to replace the current industrial sacrifice zone with a green working waterfront defined by good jobs, clean energy, and healthy ecosystems.
Event Schedule:
4:30pm – Doors Open
4:45pm – Pizza
5:15pm – Film Starts
Please register here
Jr Duck Stamp Public Voting - drop in
Public voting for site specific awards for Junior Duck Stamp contest
10:30-3:30 PM the Ridgefield Wildlife Refuge office will be open and the public can come and se entries and vote on some of their favorites.
28908 NW Main Ave
Ridgefield, WA 98642
Fostering Environmental Awareness and Increasing Engagement through School Gardens and Outdoor Spaces
In this workshop, hosted collaboratively by Lower Columbia School Gardens (LCSG) and ESD 112, we will explore ways to engage students in outdoor learning through school gardens or other outdoor spaces on campus. Teachers will be immersed in various activities and processes that model how to manage an outdoor learning classroom and while taking advantage of outdoor spaces on your campus. Teachers will be given opportunities to connect and collaborate to adapt resources and ideas to their own classrooms based on NGSS standards. Finally, participants will have the opportunity to build a vision for how outdoor learning can support the holistic well-being of the students they serve.
Please dress in comfortable clothing and shoes so you feel comfortable as we go outdoors.
*We will be paying for sub-coverage so you can attend**
**Lunch will be provided*
Location
Northlake Elementary School
2210 Olympia Way Longview WA 98632
Nature Fun Day at Columbia Springs – Spring at the Springs!
You're invited! Join us for our “Spring at the Springs” Nature Fun day at Columbia Springs.
When: 10:00am-1:00pm on Saturday, March 23, 2024
Where: Columbia Springs (12208 SE Evergreen Hwy, Vancouver, WA 98683)
What: A day of hands-on science and nature experiences exploring springtime at Columbia Springs.
This event is designed to be engaging for people of all ages – from preschool age kids to elementary, middle, and high school students, and adults. All ages and backgrounds are welcome! Just bring your curiosity and be prepared for some nature fun!
How: Drop by when it works for you. No RSVP required!
Questions?
World Water Day BioBlitz with the Water Center
Every year, World Water Day is celebrated around the globe to highlight the importance of freshwater for humans and our vital ecosystems. Join us this year in a BioBlitz at Vancouver’s Water Center to explore the freshwater ecosystems around the education center and collect data about the living creatures inhabiting our area.
A BioBlitz event gathers community members in a specific place to take a snapshot of the ecological biodiversity. Small, guided nature walks will happen throughout the morning. Walks will focus on finding plants, animals, birds, insects, mushrooms, amphibians and more. Use iNaturalist to catalog all the living things found in the area. No previous knowledge of iNaturalist is required.
This is a family-friendly event that is suitable for adults and youth ages 6 and older. Expect to walk 1.5 miles on uneven terrain, sandy beaches, muddy wetland areas and paved pathways. All youth need to be accompanied by an adult. Detailed logistics will be sent to registered participants.
Vancouver’s Water Center is closed on weekends. Registered participants will have access to restroom facilities inside the building.
Water Resources Education Center
4600 S.E. Columbia Way
Contact: Water Center staff at vanwrec@cityofvancouver.us or 360-487-7111
NE Vancouver Neighborhood Tree Planting with Friends of Trees
Help needed to plant trees on Sat, March 23rd in NE Vancouver!
Friends of Trees and the City of Vancouver Urban Forestry are hosting the annual planting in this collection of neighborhoods and more help is needed to help plant these trees!
How do I register? Register on the Friends of Trees event calendar (https://friendsoftrees.org/event-calendar/) to be a Tree Planter or Truck Driver. More details about driving your pick-up truck on the calendar webpage.
Please arrive by 8:45am to sign-in and be assigned a planting crew. The planting starts at 9:00am and ends at 1pm. We provide gloves, tools, and guidance, as well as light breakfast snacks and coffee/tea/hot chocolate. We ask that all volunteers dress for the weather, wear sturdy shoes/boots you don't mind getting dirty, and be ready to have fun!
Where will these trees be planted? In the following neighborhoods: Airport Green, Burnt Bridge Creek, Burton Evergreen, Cimarron, Countryside Woods, Fircrest, First Place, Hearthwood, Image, Kevanna Park, Landover-Sharmel, North Hearthwood, North Image, Parkside, and Parkway East.
Questions? Please check out our Volunteer FAQ webpage. Our team is also happy to assist! You can reach Cece and Jenny at volunteer@friendsoftrees.org We look forward to planting together soon!
PEI FieldSTEM: Intro to Math Performance Tasks - 2 free STEM clock hours
Explore PEI’s Math Performance Task topics, which engage students in math practices with relevant, scenario-based, career connected challenges. Online 4pm - 6pm
