What’s Happening
Lo que está sucediendo
Help out, learn, build community and have fun!
¡Ayuda, aprende, construye una comunidad y diviértete!
Southwest Washington has so many opportunities to connect with nature. See the event calendar below for a wide range of opportunities with our regional partners.
Not seeing what you are looking for or want to schedule something special with a group? Contact the partner directly. Some information on this page may be out of date, so connect with the Partner for the most up to date information. Let’s get outside!
El suroeste de Washington ofrece muchísimas oportunidades para conectar con la naturaleza. Consulta el calendario de eventos para conocer la amplia gama de oportunidades con nuestros socios regionales.
¿No encuentra lo que busca o desea programar algo especial con un grupo? Ponte en contacto directamente con el socio. Es posible que parte de la información de esta página no esté actualizada; por ello, contacta con el socio para obtener la información más reciente. ¡Salgamos al aire libre!
Sort Event List by:
Accessible Supported | Adventure Sport | Agriculture | Art in Nature | Community Event | Elders | Healing | Hiking | Park Updates | Plants | Pollinators | Recreation | Road Trips | Sky Watch | Virtual Events | Volunteering | Water Fun | Wildlife | Workshops | Youth | FREE
LCNN is excited to share our Partner’s events, click each event for more detailed information - check with event host for most up to date information (LCNN does not lead these events).
NEW! For events that sound super fun but are just outside southwest Washington are listed as ROAD TRIPs.
Vancouver Audubon's Young Birders Club
Vancouver Audubon's Young Birders Club is heading to the WSU-Vancouver Campus in search of migratory birds and irruptive finches. Birders of all levels are welcome and we've got binoculars to share! Join us as we explore this varied habitat and see what birds fall has in store for us.
Young Birders brings together youth between the ages of 8-18, who have an interest in birding and conservation. This group will plan on meeting for at least one field experience per month throughout 2026. Typically the location will be local wildlife areas that are easily accessible by the public for free. Seasoned birding guides from Vancouver Audubon will accompany the group and help with birding tips and identification. Binoculars will be supplied for free to all attendees needing them. There will also be several spotting scopes available to see birds up close, even when they are not.
Registration is required, so make sure you sign up by tapping the link in our bio and navigating to "Young Birders" or go directly to: vancouveraudubon.org/young-birders
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Photos: Red-breasted Nuthatch, Evening Grosbeak, Golden-crowned Kinglet, and Pacific Wren by Ken Pitts/Vancouver Audubon
Follow Vancouver Young Birder Club on Instagram
Vancouver Lake Community Paddle Trip
Explore Vancouver Lake from a whole new perspective! Join the Lower Columbia Estuary Partnership and Vancouver’s Water Center education staff for a free family-friendly canoe paddle aboard 29-foot, 14-passenger Big Canoes! Glide past shore birds, look for signs of beaver activity, and learn about the Columbia River ecosystem from seasoned paddle guides and educators.
Plan to paddle for 1.5 hours in Estuary Partnership’s Big Canoes along with other participants, and walk under 1/4 of a mile on gravel, muddy/sandy beaches, and uneven terrain. Paddlers must be able to step down 2.5 feet into the canoe and sit on a wooden bench without back support for the duration of the paddle program.
Big Canoe paddles are suitable for ages 6 and older. Previous paddling experience is not required!
Registration is full. To add your name to the waitlist, email vanwrec@cityofvancouver.us and tell us how many people are in your group. Advanced registration is required, and space is limited. Sign up today!
You will receive a confirmation letter with full event details, meeting location, and how to prepare for your event after registration.
If you need to cancel, please do so at your earliest convenience to allow your spot to be filled by someone on the waitlist.
If the event becomes full, please contact the Water Center at vanwrec@cityofvancouver.us or 360-487-7111 to add your name to the waitlist.
Who can paddle?
Big Canoe trips are suitable for ages 6 and older.
Previous paddling experience is not necessary.
Paddlers must step down 2.5 feet into the canoe and sit on a wooden bench without back support for 1.5 hours.
Do I need any equipment or special gear?
Please come prepared for the weather with raingear or a hat and sunscreen/sun protection.
Personal flotation devices (PFD’s) in youth – XXL are provided.
This paddle trip will depart from a small sand patch and not a dock so waterproof shoes or sandals are recommended. Old tennis shoes work great, too.
Can I bring my camera or cell phone?
Yes. Be advised that we cannot guarantee the safety of electronic devices and do not offer dry bags. Occasional splashes and rain make the bottom of the boat wet, but typically gear in a pocket will stay dry.
How safe are paddle trips?
Safety is always our first priority. Our guides are trained in on-water rescue, CPR, and Wilderness First Aid.
Water activities carry inherent risk; guides take precautions to ensure a safe paddling experience.
See our safety protocols or contact us for more information.
Questions? Contact the Water Resources Education Center at 360-487-7111 or email vanwrec@cityofvancouver.us
(Not So) Scary Nature Day at Columbia Springs
You're invited! Join us for a Nature Day exploring creepy, crawly critters 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!
Columbia Springs is an environmental education nonprofit 501(c)(3) located on the Old Evergreen Highway in Vancouver, Washington. Our 100-acre urban natural site is an outdoor education center which offers events, programs, and workshops to teach people of all ages about stewardship and environmental science.
We are so excited to see you on our trails! Scroll down to view our interactive map or click here to download a printable brochure. Looking for information about accessibility? Check out this map from Hope Walks to know before you go!
Contact Information: Kristine Jacobs , events@columbiasprings.org , 360-882-0936 x 231
Finding Balance: Self-Care in Birding
Self-care honors our bodies. Collective care creates systemic access. We need both for accessible birding. Join Birdability Captains Eric Clow and Jayme Boucher for Finding Balance: Self-Care in Birding, an open community discussion to kick off Birdability Week 2026!
What does self-care mean when you are birding with a disability or other health concern? And how can our birding communities share responsibility for creating the access that allows everyone to participate?
Self-care might mean birding while floating in a pool. Using adaptive equipment that reduces fatigue. Choosing a place where birds can be enjoyed without walking. Taking breaks, changing plans, or staying home and listening through a window while you lay in bed.
There is no single right way to care for yourself or connect with birds.
Eric and Jayme will invite us into a conversation about the creative and practical ways disabled birders make birding work for our bodies and minds. Come hear ideas from others, share what works for you, and explore how self-care can make birding more sustainable, enjoyable, and accessible, and how we can incorporate it into collective care for bird outings!
This virtual program is free and ASL and captions are provided, but advance registration is required. Find out more and register at https://www.birdability.org/birdability-week
Bird where you are. Bird in the ways that care for you.
October Forest Walk at Columbia Springs
You're invited! Join us for a Forest Walk at Columbia Springs.
Have you ever wondered what wildlife call Columbia Springs or what types of native plants you can find along the trails? Find the answers to these questions and more on a guided forest walk!
Come along with knowledgeable Columbia Springs staff, or expert volunteer, as they lead you on a walk on one of our trails to discover the magic of our site.
Forest walks are great for all ages! Please note that our trails are not stroller friendly.
We are so excited to see you on our trails! Scroll down to view our interactive map or click here to download a printable brochure. Looking for information about accessibility? Check out this map from Hope Walks to know before you go!
Let us know you’re coming in advance by registering at https://www.columbiasprings.org/events/guided-tours/
Worm Bin Composting: Turn Scraps into Soil
Worm Bin Composting: Turn Scraps into Soil workshop with Master Composters & Recyclers
Worm bins are compact and low‑odor, making them ideal for garages, covered outdoor spaces, or other protected areas where you want a small composting system. Discover how worm bins can transform kitchen scraps into a nutrient‑rich soil addition for gardens and houseplants. This workshop covers bin setup, care, what materials to add, troubleshooting and how to harvest your finished compost.
Registration is required for this FREE workshop HERE.
Backyard Composting: Find A Compost System to Fit Your Yard
Backyard Composting: Find A Compost System to Fit Your Yard with Clark County Master Composters & Recyclers
Backyard composting is a flexible way to transform yard debris and food scraps into a valuable soil amendment that supports healthy gardens. Explore the essentials of outdoor composting using bins, piles, tumblers and layered systems. Learn how to balance materials, manage moisture, troubleshoot common issues and use finished compost in your landscape.
Registration is required for this FREE workshop HERE.
Building Lasting Impact – Lessons from Nature Everywhere Communities - a Children & Nature Network workshop
Join the Children & Nature Network for an inspiring virtual conversation featuring community leaders who are transforming how their cities prioritize nature-based solutions for children and families.
Did you know that southwest Washington and the Lower Columbia Nature Network was selected as one of the Nature Everywhere Communities in 2021? With C&NN’s support, we developed the first SW WA Green Schoolyards Action Plan to help guide policies, capital projects, training and programs across SW WA.
And we were one in six communities across the country selected to evaluate our collective impact through C&NN’s Ripple Effect Mapping in late 2025? Read the specific LCNN impact report here as well as the broader report here.
While many communities recognize the need for nature-based solutions to address interconnected challenges—from climate resilience and pediatric mental health to physical activity—implementing a project is only the first step. Creating true, lasting impact requires shifting the underlying ways our organizations, policies, and local partnerships work together- in other words, systems change.
In this webinar, we bring together leaders from five successful Nature Everywhere Communities to share their “on-the-ground” experiences. Drawing on findings from our recent Ripple Effects Mapping evaluation, these leaders will discuss how they moved beyond one-off projects to build sustainable, long-term change.
What You’ll Learn:
Foundational Shifts for Lasting Change: Discover the 7 practical lessons communities are using to shift local systems, build capacity, and ensure nature access is equitable and enduring.
The Power of Connection: Learn how “backbone” organizations and strong network coordination can align daily efforts, secure resources, and sustain momentum.
The Speed of Trust: Hear firsthand how prioritizing relationships, fostering youth leadership, and co-designing with community members transforms power dynamics and builds long-term local ownership.
Nature as a Right: Explore how to frame nature access as a multi-benefit solution that advances existing community priorities, from climate action to public health.
Who Should Attend:
This session is designed for local nonprofit and community organization staff, city and municipal employees and leaders (especially parks & recreation, public works and sustainability departments), outdoor program leaders and educators, municipal planners, public health advocates and local funders who are looking to scale nature-based work. Whether you are an existing Nature Everywhere Community or exploring how to start a movement in your region, this webinar will provide actionable insights to help you build a greener, more equitable future for children.
Join us to see how, when communities move at the speed of trust, lasting transformation is entirely within reach.
Panelists:
Grace Parker, She/Her, Project Manager, Prescribe Outside
Jane Tesner Kleiner, She/Her, Program Manager, Lower Columbia Nature Network
Monica Brinkerhoff, She/Her, Associate Vice President, Early Childhood Education at United Way of Tucson and Southern Arizona
Cynthia Walter, She/Her, Green Schoolyards Manager, Green Umbrella Climate Collaborative
Curry Rosato, She/Her, Program Manager & Education Leader, City of Boulder Open Space & Mountain Parks
Mason Bee Cocoon Cleaning Workshop with VBP
Join the Vancouver Bee Project for our annual Mason Bee Cocoon Cleaning Workshop! Fall is the perfect time to care for your mason bees and prepare healthy cocoons for next spring.
We'll kick off the event with a short presentation covering mason bee biology, fall stewardship, and why cleaning bee houses is one of the best ways to reduce parasites, predators, and diseases. You'll learn about common threats to mason bees—including pollen mites, parasitic wasps and flies, fungal diseases, and other nest associates—and how proper cleaning can improve bee survival.
After the presentation, we'll roll up our sleeves and clean out mason bee nests together. If you have a mason bee house, bring it with you! We'll help you determine the best way to harvest and clean your cocoons and answer your questions along the way.
New to mason bees? Don't have a bee house? No problem! Come anyway! We'll have plenty of nesting tubes to clean, including tubes from the Water Resources Education Center's own mason bee houses, so everyone will get hands-on experience. This is a great opportunity to learn the process before starting your own mason bee house next spring.
Please note that bee houses with removable trays or removable nesting tubes are the easiest to clean. Houses with glued-in reeds, fixed tubes, or drilled wood blocks often cannot be cleaned without destroying the nesting material or, in some cases, the house itself. If you're considering purchasing or building a mason bee house, we'll also discuss designs that make annual cleaning simple, effective, and healthier for your bees.
Whether you're caring for your first mason bee house or have years of experience, this is a wonderful opportunity to learn, share tips, discover the fascinating parasites and diseases that affect mason bees, and enjoy an afternoon of stewardship and community with fellow native bee enthusiasts. We hope you'll join us!
This is a FREE event and registration is required HERE
VAS event: “Conserving the California Condor” with Dr. Hayley Brazier
Join the Vancouver Audubon Society’s monthly speaker for a presentation from “Conserving the California Condor” with Dr. Hayley Brazier, Wildlife Conservation Specialist at the Oregon Zoo.
More information to be provided soon!
This event is free and all are welcome! (ADA parking, pathways and restrooms are available on site)
Join VAS for this and other upcoming workshops at vancouveraudubon.org/monthly-programs/
Gardening With Compost: Feed Your Soil Naturally
Gardening With Compost: Feed Your Soil Naturally with Clark County Master Composter & Recyclers
Learn practical ways to use compost to improve soil structure, support plant growth, and increase water retention. This workshop explains how and when to apply compost in vegetable beds, lawns, container gardens and other landscapes. Discover simple techniques that help plants thrive while reducing reliance on synthetic fertilizers.
Registration is required for this FREE workshop HERE.
Mason Bee Cocoon Cleaning Workshop with VBP
Join the Vancouver Bee Project for our annual Mason Bee Cocoon Cleaning Workshop! Fall is the perfect time to care for your mason bees and prepare healthy cocoons for next spring.
We'll kick off the event with a short presentation covering mason bee biology, fall stewardship, and why cleaning bee houses is one of the best ways to reduce parasites, predators, and diseases. You'll learn about common threats to mason bees—including pollen mites, parasitic wasps and flies, fungal diseases, and other nest associates—and how proper cleaning can improve bee survival.
After the presentation, we'll roll up our sleeves and clean out mason bee nests together. If you have a mason bee house, bring it with you! We'll help you determine the best way to harvest and clean your cocoons and answer your questions along the way.
New to mason bees? Don't have a bee house? No problem! Come anyway! We'll have plenty of nesting tubes to clean, including tubes from the Water Resources Education Center's own mason bee houses, so everyone will get hands-on experience. This is a great opportunity to learn the process before starting your own mason bee house next spring.
Please note that bee houses with removable trays or removable nesting tubes are the easiest to clean. Houses with glued-in reeds, fixed tubes, or drilled wood blocks often cannot be cleaned without destroying the nesting material or, in some cases, the house itself. If you're considering purchasing or building a mason bee house, we'll also discuss designs that make annual cleaning simple, effective, and healthier for your bees.
Whether you're caring for your first mason bee house or have years of experience, this is a wonderful opportunity to learn, share tips, discover the fascinating parasites and diseases that affect mason bees, and enjoy an afternoon of stewardship and community with fellow native bee enthusiasts. We hope you'll join us!
This is a FREE event, no registration required….just show up!
Mason Bee Cocoon Cleaning with Vancouver Bee Project
The Vancouver Bee Project will be joining us to teach a hands-on workshop on cleaning mason bee cocoons.
Bring your own cocoons and learn how to properly clean and care for them while spending some time with fellow pollinator lovers. And if you’ve attended before, you’re absolutely welcome to come again and clean your cocoons with us!
As always, all Nature’s Haven classes are free. More information here:
Hatchery Tour at Columbia Springs
You're invited! Join us for a Hatchery Tour at Columbia Springs.
Have you ever wondered how old the fish are out in our round ponds, or how the hatchery works? What temperature do you think the springwater is as it comes out of the ground? Find the answers to these questions and more on a tour of our unique historic hatchery!
Come along with knowledgeable Columbia Springs staff, or expert volunteer, as they trace the path of spring water through our unique site, and learn about the trout and salmon that grow up here along the way.
While all ages are welcome, tour content may be most engaging for older kids and adults.
Let us know you’re coming in advance by registering at https://www.columbiasprings.org/events/guided-tours/
We will meet at 3:00pm. Wear good walking shoes and dress for the weather!
We are so excited to see you on our trails! Scroll down to view our interactive map or click here to download a printable brochure. Looking for information about accessibility? Check out this map from Hope Walks to know before you go!
Contact Information: Kristine Jacobs, events@columbiasprings.org, 360-882-0936 x 230
VAS event: “Photofest!”featuring Young Birders and Cameraderie
Join the Vancouver Audubon Society’s monthly speaker program for “Photofest!” featuring Young Birders and Cameraderie.
You won’t want to miss this exciting showcase of young birders and photographers from across SW WA show off their adventures.
More information to be provided soon!
This event is free and all are welcome! (ADA parking, pathways and restrooms are available on site)
Join VAS for this and other upcoming workshops at vancouveraudubon.org/monthly-programs/
Take Learning Outside workshop: Nature Campus - Creating a Campus Field Guide Through Observation
Join Take Learning Outside Educator Training series for Session 2!
Every school campus has nature waiting to be discovered, even campuses that seem to be mostly lawn or pavement. Join us for an engaging panel session on using field observation techniques to help students explore the living things and natural features right outside their classroom doors.
Our guest panelists will share three practical approaches for building students’ observation skills, documenting what they find, and connecting outdoor discoveries to curriculum. Leave with ideas for helping students get up close to nature and begin creating a field guide unique to your school campus.
Rachel Robbins, Bay View Elementary School will share nature journaling techniques that invite students to ask: What do I notice? What do I wonder? What does it remind me of? Using words, numbers, colors, and shapes, students create meaningful records of what they observe and connect those observations to the place where they live and learn.
Rainy Rau, Vancouver’s Water Resources Education Center leads the Student Watershed Monitoring Network, supporting students as they investigate creeks, streams, and bioretention areas. Learn how these investigations can help students understand what is living in and around local water systems and how those systems affect watershed health and water quality.
Suzanne Hebert, Vancouver’s Water Resources Education Center helps students and community members explore the role healthy ecosystems play in our watersheds. She will share ways to use apps and other tools to identify the plants, birds, animals, and insects that call school campuses home, creating a growing database that students can compare with other places in their community.
To earn STEM Clock hours, required pre-session prep:
Using a satellite map, print a color map of your school campus. Spend about 30 minutes walking the campus (on your own or with students) and notice the natural areas you find. Jot down a few observations:
What natural features, plants, or animals do you notice?
What seems established, and what might be newer?
Where do you see opportunities for students to observe nature?
Even a campus with mowed grass has nature to investigate: birds, insects, mammals, weather, soil, and seasonal changes are all part of its story. Bring your map and notes to help guide your learning during the session.
Winter Open House - Plas Newydd Farm
Join staff and friends at Plas Newydd Farm for a day filled with workshops, wreath making, food, cider, walking tours, and live music!
Schedule
10am – 12pm Arrive / Mingle / Workshops
10am – 12pm Live Music
12pm Farm Tour / Walk
1pm Short Break
1:30pm – 3pm Lit Mag Launch
3pm – 4pm Workshop
Accessibility Note: This event takes place in an historic farmhouse that is not currently wheelchair accessible, as well as out on the landscape of a working farm. We will work to accommodate access however we can, but please email arts@pnfarm.com to confirm that the space will work for you!
More information can be found on their webpage HERE
Pollinator Festival 2027
From Green Thumbs to Curious Minds—Everyone’s Invited!
Join the Vancouver Bee Project and community partners for a Free, Family-Friendly Celebration…the 2027 Pollinator Festival!
Pollinators are essential to our ecosystems—and they need our help! This festival is your chance to learn, celebrate, and take action to protect these amazing creatures while having fun with your community.
Community Connection: Discover the fascinating lives of bees, butterflies, and other pollinators, and learn how to create habitats that help them thrive.
Fun for All Ages: Kids will love the crafts, games, and face painting, while adults can enjoy local vendor booths and expert-led talks.
Engaging Tours: Meet others who share your passion for nature and sustainability in a warm, welcoming atmosphere
The planning team is pulling together another great list of speakers, vendors and activities for all ages.
Stay tuned for more information but mark you calendar for this one of a kind event in the heart of Vancouver, WA!
FVRL event: The Mazamas: 133 Years of Adventure, Science and Culture
Discover the rich legacy of the Pacific Northwest’s premier mountaineering organization with the Mazamas. Join Matthew Brock, Mazama Library & Historical Collections Manager, for a captivating journey through the 133-year history of the Mazamas. Whether you are a climber, history buff, or nature lover, this presentation offers a rare look at the archive of Northwest exploration.
White Salmon Valley Reads: All October!
Join your neighbors this October for our annual Reads program series as we explore the thrilling world of Pacific Northwest wilderness safety, history, and volunteerism. This month-long program series centers on the gripping book Crisis on Mount Hood by acclaimed local author and physician Christopher Van Tilburg, MD. Pick up your copy of the book beginning this September, while supplies last, at White Salmon Valley Community Library. This community program series is generously supported by the Friends of White Salmon Valley Community Library.
Accommodations
Library events and programs are open to the public and provided at no cost. Special accommodations may be requested using our Disability Accommodation Request Form no later than 15 days prior to the event.
Los eventos y programas de la biblioteca están abiertos al público y se brindan sin costo. Se pueden solicitar adaptaciones especiales utilizando nuestro formulario de solicitud de adaptaciones para personas con discapacidades (en inglés) hasta 15 días antes del evento.
Особые условия могут быть запрошены с помощью нашей формы запроса на предоставление условий для людей с инвалидностью не позднее чем за 15 дней до мероприятия.
FVRL: Attracting Worms to Your Garden
Gardeners are thrilled when they find worms while working in their soil beds because of the critical role these wiggly friends play in producing rich, healthy soil needed to grow vigorous plants. Discover the many benefits and learn how to attract worms to your garden.
Join the Fort Vancouver Regional Library for this FREE workshop, no registration is required.
Accommodations
Library events and programs are open to the public and provided at no cost. Special accommodations may be requested using our Disability Accommodation Request Form no later than 15 days prior to the event.
Los eventos y programas de la biblioteca están abiertos al público y se brindan sin costo. Se pueden solicitar adaptaciones especiales utilizando nuestro formulario de solicitud de adaptaciones para personas con discapacidades (en inglés) hasta 15 días antes del evento.
Особые условия могут быть запрошены с помощью нашей формы запроса на предоставление условий для людей с инвалидностью не позднее чем за 15 дней до мероприятия.
Take Learning Outside - Session 1: Birds as a Window to Science
Hey Educators! Earn free STEM clock hours while meeting community partners and other educators who love to teach outside!
Join the Vancouver Audubon’s Cameraderie Youth Program for Session 1 of TLO 26-27 - Birds as a Window to Science: Observing, Understanding, and Teaching the Local Avian World
Binoculars and field guides open up a new world of outdoor learning for students. In this session, teachers will get hands-on experience using binoculars and field guides in the field while building their skills in bird identification and learning about the species most commonly seen in Southwest Washington. Through exploration of migration patterns and environmental challenges, participants will gain insight into how bird studies can support NGSS-aligned instruction.
The workshop includes ready-to-use classroom activities and strategies for engaging students in authentic observation and data collection outdoors. Participating teachers will be able to borrow free birding kits for classroom use after attending the workshop.
Registration is required HERE
Learn more about Take Learning Outside FREE educator workshops and resources HERE
FVRL: Backyard Birdwatching
If you’re just getting started with birdwatching, look no further! In this class you’ll learn what sort of equipment might be helpful, safe and ethical bird feeding, identification tools and some common backyard birds to look for, and other useful tips and resources for birdwatching both in your yard and beyond.
Join this FREE Fort Vancouver Regional Library workshop, no registration is required.
Accommodations
Library events and programs are open to the public and provided at no cost. Special accommodations may be requested using our Disability Accommodation Request Form no later than 15 days prior to the event.
Los eventos y programas de la biblioteca están abiertos al público y se brindan sin costo. Se pueden solicitar adaptaciones especiales utilizando nuestro formulario de solicitud de adaptaciones para personas con discapacidades (en inglés) hasta 15 días antes del evento.
Особые условия могут быть запрошены с помощью нашей формы запроса на предоставление условий для людей с инвалидностью не позднее чем за 15 дней до мероприятия.
Amazing Adaptations: how birds survive stormy weather with VAS
Our fall series continues with "Amazing Adaptations: how birds survive stormy weather" by speaker Dr. Jamie Cornelius on October 6th!
Jamie is an associate professor at Oregon State University in the integrative biology department. Her research includes investigation of the behavioral and physiological strategies that birds use to cope with unpredictable change in their environments such as storms, fire, drought, urbanization, and unpredictable food resources. The goal is to inform conservation efforts, resource management, and policies that can more efficiently and effectively protect our wild birds. Jamie is a National Geographic Society Explorer, Fulbright Fellow and National Science Foundation CAREER fellow. She also grew up in Vancouver and attended Columbia River High School (Class of ’97)!
Vancouver Audubon’s programs are free and open to the public. Join us at 6:30pm on the first Tuesdays of the month at 13413 NE LeRoy Haagen Memorial Drive in Vancouver, WA.
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Photos: Ken Archer/Audubon Photography Awards; Ken Pitts/Vancouver Audubon
Preparing Soil for Dahlia Planting in Spring
Join the Master Gardeners as they help you plan ahead for amazing dahlias next year!
A successful dahlia season begins in early spring, when careful tuber planting sets the stage for a vibrant summer bloom.
In this presentation, attendees will learn how to select healthy tubers, identify eyes and growth points, and prepare soil that provides the warmth, drainage, and nutrition dahlias demand. We’ll explore proper planting depth, spacing for strong airflow, and techniques to avoid common pitfalls such as rot or slow sprouting. The session also highlights early staking, and watering strategies.
Cascade Park Community Library - Community Room
Accommodations
Library events and programs are open to the public and provided at no cost. Special accommodations may be requested using our Disability Accommodation Request Form no later than 15 days prior to the event.
Los eventos y programas de la biblioteca están abiertos al público y se brindan sin costo. Se pueden solicitar adaptaciones especiales utilizando nuestro formulario de solicitud de adaptaciones para personas con discapacidades (en inglés) hasta 15 días antes del evento.
Особые условия могут быть запрошены с помощью нашей формы запроса на предоставление условий для людей с инвалидностью не позднее чем за 15 дней до
River Superstars: Salmon and Lamprey
Join educators from the Water Resources Education Center to discover the amazing journeys of two of our river’s most remarkable fish. This drop-in program takes place indoors and is designed for children ages 5–12. Through hands-on activities, you’ll explore the fascinating life cycles of salmon and lamprey and discover how they depend on healthy waterways throughout their lives.
No registration is required. Drop-in anytime between 1 and 2 p.m. Youth must be accompanied by an adult. The Water Center is open the first and third Saturday of every month, from noon to 4 p.m.
Accessibility: The WREC has accessible parking, paved pathways and fully accessible facility. Restrooms are available on site, as well as drinking fountains.
Contact the Water Center at vanwrec@cityofvancouver.us or call 360-487-7111 if you have any questions.
Vancouver Audubon Society’s Young Birders at BirdFest
Join Vancouver Audubon Society’s Young Birders at Ridgefield NWR Visit Center, where Birdfest held by Ridgefield and Friends, celebrating the return of wintering birds to the refuge.
Young Birders will be manning spotting scopes at a station. If you are interested in Young Birders and what we do, please join us to find out more. If you are interested in volunteering manning scopes, please contact Ken Pitts (kenp@vancouveraudubon.org) or Isaac Lang (i.lang@vancouver.org) if you are interested.
Bird Outing at Shillapoo Lake with Vancouver Audubon Society
Vancouver Audubon Society lead Cindy McCormick will lead a walk on the dike trail to look for migrating shorebirds, Sandhill Cranes, and other wetland and open country species in the area. If lake levels allow, we will return and cross over to view the north end of Vancouver Lake from the North Bridge Trail.
Expect a walk of about 2 miles on gravel and grass across mostly flat but uneven terrain. Some minor obstructions such as roots, debris, or potholes may be present.
There are no restroom facilities at this site.
Dress for the weather. Sunscreen and a hat may be a good idea if the warm, sunny weather continues. Waterproof boots are recommended.
Bird Outings are meant to be a casual, local morning of birding. They are a great time to enjoy birds with others and find new areas to visit. You can work on bird identification by sight and sound. It’s also an opportunity to practice your eBird app with help when needed. These outings are easy to join or leave at any time during the morning. You don’t have to commit to the entire walk if you have limited energy, ability, or time. All are welcome!
Leader: Cindy McCormack
Meeting time: 7:30am
Meeting Location: Shillapoo Lake trail access on Erwin O Reiger Memoral HWY
Registration Required: Register by emailing vas@vancouveraudubon.org
Let's Bug Out: A beginners guide to packing an essentials bag
Join Wild Camp Goods founder, Leland Duck, as he takes you through the items needed for a basic “bugout” bag.
Whether preparing for the Zombie apocalypse or just need some piece of mind we’ll help you create a bag that will give you the essentials for survival.
THIS IS A FREE EVENT AND SPACE IS LIMITED SO PLEASE Register HERE
Wednesday Wanders @ WREC
Join Water Resources Education Center staff on a Wednesday morning guided nature walk where we will explore the rich ecosystems along the Columbia River and adjacent wetland.
As we wander, we’ll discover native plants, search for wildlife, and learn how these vibrant waterways support life all around us. Whether you’re a curious beginner or a seasoned nature lover, there’s always something new to see and learn on the trail.
This program is great for families with youth ages 6 and older as well as adults who want to get out and wander!
Be prepared to walk 2 miles on paved pathways, unpaved wetland trails, and along sandy beaches.
Registration is required. Sign up today!
If the event becomes full, please contact the Water Center at vanwrec@cityofvancouver.us or 360-487-7111 to add your name to the waitlist.
Cameraderie: VAS Youth Program Birding Photography Walk
Cameraderie, Youth Program Instagram and Facebook
What Is Cameraderie? Cameraderie is a youth birding, wildlife, and nature photography program started by the Vancouver Audubon Society, founded by Shaunak Deshpande. The program connects youth ages 8-18 with experienced birders and photographers in the Vancouver and Portland area, creating a community where young people can develop real skills in both bird identification and nature photography. What started as conversations between talented teen photographers and Vancouver Audubon has grown into an active program with monthly walks, zooms, and workshops. Cameraderie believes that when young people understand the natural world around them, they become its most passionate advocates.
Monthly Bird Walks: Each month Cameraderie organizes bird walks at some of the best natural areas in the Pacific Northwest, including Steigerwald Lake NWR, Ridgefield NWR, Conboy Lake NWR, and Sams Walker along the Columbia River Gorge. Walks are led by experienced birder and photographer Ken Pitts alongside volunteer guides, giving youth the opportunity to learn bird identification, observe wildlife behavior, and practice photography in the field. Parents are always welcome and encouraged to join. Our walks typically run from early morning through midday to catch peak bird activity, and no prior experience is needed, just curiosity and a love of the outdoors.
This week’s walk is at Salmon Creek Greenway Trail (Saturday September 26th, 8:00am – 11:00pm)
Registration required HERE
Burnt Bridge Creek Native Plant Walk with WREC
Curious about using native plants in your yard?
Fall is the perfect time to plant as cooler temperatures and rains give new plantings a great start. Join the educators from the City’s Water Resources Education Center and take a guided walk along the Burnt Bridge Creek Greenway and see how native species thrive in restored landscapes.
We’ll highlight mature native plants installed by the City of Vancouver and talk about how you can bring the beauty and benefits of these plants to your own outdoor space — from supporting pollinators, attracting birds, and reducing water use.
Expect to walk about 2 miles on paved surfaces.
Walk is geared towards adults and youth ages 8 and older.
Advanced registration required. Sign up today!
If the event becomes full, please contact the Water Center at vanwrec@cityofvancouver.us or 360-487-7111 to add your name to the waitlist.
FVRL: Mushroom Hunting for Beginners
Mushroom foraging is a popular pursuit in the Northwest! More than just a slideshow of edible mushrooms, this beginner-friendly class emphasizes skills and tools needed for accurate identification of mushrooms to determine edibility.
This is a FREE Fort Vancouver Regional Library workshop and open to all to attend. No registration is required.
Accommodations
Library events and programs are open to the public and provided at no cost. Special accommodations may be requested using our Disability Accommodation Request Form no later than 15 days prior to the event.
Los eventos y programas de la biblioteca están abiertos al público y se brindan sin costo. Se pueden solicitar adaptaciones especiales utilizando nuestro formulario de solicitud de adaptaciones para personas con discapacidades (en inglés) hasta 15 días antes del evento.
Особые условия могут быть запрошены с помощью нашей формы запроса на предоставление условий для людей с инвалидностью не позднее чем за 15 дней до мероприятия.
HOPE Dementia Support: Meet Me at the Wildlife Refuge
Join HOPE Dementia Support for an afternoon of connection, conversation, and nature at the Wildlife Refuge!
Join HOPE Dementia Support for an afternoon of connection, conversation, and nature at the beautiful Ridgefield Wildlife Refuge.
This outing is designed for individuals living with dementia and their care partners and families to enjoy time together in a relaxed, supportive environment. We'll take in the sights and sounds of the refuge, observe local wildlife, enjoy fresh air, and connect with others.
Whether you're a seasoned birdwatcher or simply looking for a way to spend time outdoors, this experience offers an opportunity to slow down, be present, and enjoy the beauty around us.
This is a FREE event. Please RSVP Here or call HOPE dementia Support at 360-513-5754
FVRL: Mushroom Hunting for Beginners
Mushroom foraging is a popular pursuit in the Northwest! More than just a slideshow of edible mushrooms, this beginner-friendly class emphasizes skills and tools needed for accurate identification of mushrooms to determine edibility.
This is a FREE Fort Vancouver Regional Library workshop and open to all to attend. No registration is required.
Accommodations
Library events and programs are open to the public and provided at no cost. Special accommodations may be requested using our Disability Accommodation Request Form no later than 15 days prior to the event.
Los eventos y programas de la biblioteca están abiertos al público y se brindan sin costo. Se pueden solicitar adaptaciones especiales utilizando nuestro formulario de solicitud de adaptaciones para personas con discapacidades (en inglés) hasta 15 días antes del evento.
Особые условия могут быть запрошены с помощью нашей формы запроса на предоставление условий для людей с инвалидностью не позднее чем за 15 дней до мероприятия.
Dragon boat racing for visually impaired
Join the Northwest Association for Blind Athletes for a Dragonboat Clinic - learn more at their Dragon Boat race team HERE.
All of the events are at no-cost for individuals who are blind and visually impaired. Contact NWABA for specific time and location information.
At NWABA, Everybody is an Athlete: they believe that any individual who is blind or visually impaired is an athlete and deserves the opportunity to participate in regular physical activity.
The programming is available for athletes of all ages and ability levels. Do you have a sport or activity that you want to get involved with or pick up again? We have a variety of sports available throughout the year.
For more information contact: Anneliese Hugo
Email: pdxvanprogramsteam@nwaba.org
Text: 360.448.7254
Call: 360.682.1662
On the Move: Incredible Animal Journeys @ WREC
Join educators from the City of Vancouver’s Water Resources Education Center to discover the incredible journeys animals make during late summer and early fall.
This FREE drop-in program takes place indoors and is designed for children ages 5–12 years old. Explore interactive activities that reveal how water connects the amazing migrations of birds, butterflies, dragonflies, and other wildlife.
No registration is required.
Drop-in anytime between 1 and 2 p.m.
All youth must be accompanied by an adult.
The Water Center is open the first and third Saturday of every month, from noon to 4 p.m.
Contact the Water Center at vanwrec@cityofvancouver.us or call 360-487-7111 if you have any questions.
WSU Extension Harvest Celebration
Clark County Master Gardeners
👩🏽🌾WSU Extension Master Gardener program trains volunteers to be effective community educators in gardening and environmental stewardship.🌱 campsite.bio/wsuclarkcomastergardener
WSU Ext. MG & FVRL: Benefits of Mulch in the Landscape Garden
Mulch is like giving your plants a protective hug, keeping them safe from temperature changes and thirsty days. Mulch keeps your soil cozy and damp, making for happy plants. It’s not just about making your garden look neat—it’s about creating a healthy space where your plants can thrive! Learn about the many benefits of mulching.
Accommodations: Library events and programs are open to the public and provided at no cost. Special accommodations may be requested using our Disability Accommodation Request Form no later than 15 days prior to the event.
Los eventos y programas de la biblioteca están abiertos al público y se brindan sin costo. Se pueden solicitar adaptaciones especiales utilizando nuestro formulario de solicitud de adaptaciones para personas con discapacidades (en inglés) hasta 15 días antes del evento.
Особые условия могут быть запрошены с помощью нашей формы запроса на предоставление условий для людей с инвалидностью не позднее чем за 15 дней до мероприятия.
Vancouver Audubon's 3rd annual Migratory Bird Celebration
Fall migration is just around the corner which means it's almost time for Vancouver Audubon's 3rd annual Migratory Bird Celebration!
Every year tens of millions of birds migrate through Southwest Washington travelling thousands of miles as they make their way from their wintering grounds to nesting grounds and back again. Whether you're an avid birder or just looking for a free and family-friendly Saturday morning, we're inviting you to come join us as we celebrate these remarkable birds and their journey. Expect games, crafts, plenty of hands on fun, and experienced guides leading bird outings around Marine Park!
Admission: Free! All ages and all are welcome!
EOCF Battle Ground Garden Grand Opening
🌱 Join Educational Opportunities for Children & Families (EOCF) on Friday, to celebrate and tour EOCF's inaugural outdoor classroom and educational garden!
Located right next to our Battle Ground Early Learning Center, this new space will give our early learning scholars hands-on experience with nature, nutrition, and sustainability.
What to expect:
🍔 Free community BBQ
🏡 Tours of our new greenhouses
🌸 Interactive sensory play areas
🌱 Raised garden beds
📲 Please RSVP by September 9th HERE
We are thrilled to invite you to the grand opening of our primary garden at our Battle Ground Early Learning Center. We will be firing up the grill for a community BBQ to celebrate this exciting new outdoor learning initiative for children and families.
Explore the Garden Bring your family and friends to tour the grounds and see firsthand where our Head Start and ECEAP scholars will engage in hands-on learning that connects nature, nutrition, and early childhood education. The new space features:
Vibrant Growing Spaces: 3 fully-functioning greenhouses, 17 raised fruit and vegetable garden beds, and a perennial flower bed.
Outdoor Learning Facilities: Shaded gazebos, a sensory activity area, and dedicated spaces for physical and imaginative play.
Pacific NW Native Landscapes: A beautiful walking trail winding through local trees and native foliage designed for environmental education.
EOCF Mission in Action At EOCF, our mission is to connect, empower, and transform the lives of children and families in Southwest Washington. This garden provides true seed-to-table experiences, allowing scholars to actively participate in the growing cycle by planting seeds, nurturing them, and harvesting fresh foods to incorporate into classroom meals and our ongoing nutrition curriculum.
Growing Vegetables Without Soil Workshop
Join the WSU Extension Clark County Master Gardener Program
Not enough space to garden? It is possible to grow vegetables from seedling to harvest with only a container and a nutrient solution!
Learn more about this and other garden workshops here
September Hatchery Tour at Columbia Springs
You're invited! Join us for a Hatchery Tour at Columbia Springs.
Have you ever wondered how old the fish are out in our round ponds, or how the hatchery works? What temperature do you think the springwater is as it comes out of the ground? Find the answers to these questions and more on a tour of our unique historic hatchery!
Come along with knowledgeable Columbia Springs staff, experts, and volunteers, as they trace the path of spring water through our unique site, and learn about the trout and salmon that grow up here along the way.
While all ages are welcome, tour content may be most engaging for older kids and adults.
Let us know you’re coming in advance by registering at: https://www.columbiasprings.org/events/guided-tours/
We will meet at 3:00pm. Wear good walking shoes and dress for the weather!
Accessibility: Columbia Springs has ADA parking and paved pathways with access to the visitor center and fish ponds. The nature trails are not ADA accessible. Learn more HERE.
Contact Information: Kristine Jacobs, events@columbiasprings.org, 360-882-0936 x 230
2nd Annual Leadbetter Walk & Roll event
Camas Parks & Recreation is excited to announce the 2nd Annual Leadbetter Walk & Roll event! The event will take place along Leadbetter Road, which will be closed to vehicular traffic from the Lacamas Lake Boat Launch to Camp Currie.
Through the Clark County Legacy Lands master planning process, Leadbetter Road has been identified as the future home of the North Shore Trail. This event will provide residents with the opportunity to experience the future trail, and community members are invited to explore the one-mile lakeside stretch of road by foot, bike or other mobility device.
ROAD TRIP: Forest bathing and Haiku experience in Forest Park
This Saturday, September 12 join us at Forest Park for a FREE two hour forest bathing and haiku experience in partnership with @forestparkconservancypdx 🌲
Register now, spots are limited!
Miranda Lattimore is a certified Forest Therapy Guide, Trauma-Informed Yoga Teacher (CYT), and Qualified Mental Health Associate (QMHA), and the founder of ZEN:MNM, a Portland-based creative wellness brand rooted in mindfulness, nature, and movement. She facilitates guided nature experiences that support rest, reflection, and nervous system regulation. She is often joined by her husband and creative partner, Marcus Lattimore, an award-winning spoken word artist, whose poetry and guidance deepen each experience.
Step into the slow rhythm of summer with this creative wellness experience that blends shinrin-yoku (forest bathing) with haiku writing. As we move mindfully through nature, you’ll be guided to awaken your senses, reflect on seasonal themes, and craft simple poems rooted in presence. No writing or hiking experience needed. Bring a notebook, pen, curiosity, and a willingness to pause.
We will meet at the Germantown and Leif Erikson trailhead. Parking is limited and we encourage carpool if possible.
Did you know that you can ride a free shuttle to Forest Park this summer? On Fridays and Saturdays between June 12-August 22, 2026, ride a free shuttle to the Leif Erikson Drive Trailhead at Germantown from different locations across Portland. Visit www.portlandoregon.gov/parks/park-shuttle to see the stops and schedule. We hope to see you on board this summer!
Shinrin Yoku and Haiku #forestbathing #naturetherapy
Bird Stories of Plas Newydd Farm writing workshop
Plas Newydd Farm is so excited to welcome Kate Gray back for a workshop inspired by the many feathered friends that fly through the farm, as well as the birds of our imagination!
What flutters, what chitters, what glides. These elusive delights, these constants, bring meaning and some measure of reassurance to our lives. We’ll write about what birds bring to a moment, our memory, our lives. No writing experience necessary. Laughter and totally positive feedback promoted.
Coffee, tea, water and light snacks will be provided throughout the weekend.
Shade tents will be available at all workshop sites.
Accessibility Note: This workshop takes place in an historic farmhouse that is not currently wheelchair accessible, as well as out on the landscape of a working farm. We will work to accommodate access however we can, but please email arts@pnfarm.com to confirm that the space will work for you before you commit to the workshop!
Full and partial scholarships available. Please email Abby for more information.
Registration and more information HERE
(Photo sources: Betsy Jager Photography)
About our teacher
Kate Gray feels just plain grateful, to be living on the Olympic Peninsula, tending land within the traditional territory of the Coast Salish peoples, to live with her partner and two feisty dogs, to have taught at a community college for 25 years, to have been a writing coach for 10, to have published two chapbooks, two full-length poetry books, and a novel. Best things ever? Writing with others. Teaching. Independent bookstores. Zumba. Blue Moose coffeecake.
Birdhers Saturday birding walk
Join Birdhers for our Saturday birding walk 9/12 at 💛Powell Butte💛 9:30am
This location is more of a hike than most of our walks. We’ll start in a shaded large tree forest and hike up to the top open meadow. The 2 ish mile path is uneven dirt with elevation changes and may not be suitable for all.
Meet us at the Ellis Street Trailhead on SE 145th Ave.
Wear sturdy shoes and layers as we’ll be on shaded conifer forest and also sun exposed meadows.
Bring your binoculars if you have them, if not, borrow a pair of ours. We’ll look at nature, learn together and be comforted in the company of others.
~Don’t rush but please be on time.~
FREE, No RSVP, all children, ages and experience levels welcome!
Consider how you can practice reciprocity. Infinity space for women, trans, and non-binary people.
Backpacking 101: Adventure by bicycle
Join Wild Camp Goods for “Backpacking 101: Adventure by bicycle” FREE workshop!
Have you ever thought of traveling by bicycle before? Bikes can go just about anywhere! Whether riding a short distance to camp in a friend's backyard or traveling the length of a continent; the possibilities are endless!
Jasmine "Tater Tot" Baker, local bicycle mechanic and lifestyle cyclist is rolling through to provide an introduction to bikepacking - What is it? What does traveling by bike feel like? Why would someone want to bikepack? How would I even go out on my first "overnighter"? What would I need? These questions answered and more!!
Composting: Find the System That Works for You
Jumpstart your knowledge of composting, recycling, green cleaning and sustainable living strategies. The Clark County Composter Recycler program is offering free, in-person workshops this fall.
Composting: Find the System That Works for You
Composting keeps food waste out of the landfill, helps slow climate change and turns kitchen scraps into nutrient-rich soil for your garden. Join us for an introductory class about indoor and outdoor composting options. Learn how different composting methods work, including backyard bins, piles, tumblers, layered systems, and worm bins. We’ll also discuss indoor composting tools like Bokashi and countertop electric appliances. This class will help you choose the composting system that fits your space, lifestyle and budget.
Registration is required for this FREE class HERE.
