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 Some information on this page may be out of date, so connect with the Partner for the most up to date information.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.
VAS event: “The Wildlife Center of the North Coast”with speaker Annie Cahill
Join the Vancouver Audubon Society’s monthly speaker for a presentation from the Wildlife Center of the North Coast.
Wildlife rehabilitation centers are not just a lifeline for injured or orphaned wildlife, they are in a crucial position to monitor disease outbreaks and other environmental events of concern while providing unique approaches to environmental education and science communication. This presentation will talk about the role of wildlife rehabilitation in the larger conservation landscape and provide an overview of the variety of programming offered by the Wildlife Center of the North Coast, programs that innovate on more traditional methods of environmental and science communication.
Annie Cahill is the Education and Volunteer Coordinator for the Wildlife Center of the North Coast. WCNC is a non-profit wildlife rehabilitation and conservation education center in Astoria. The center is the only wildlife rehabilitation center serving Oregon’s north coast and is the only dedicated conservation education center in the region.
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/
Vaux Swifts 101
Each September, thousands of Vaux’s Swifts return to the Vancouver -Portland area, a stopover on their long migration south.
And for decades, birding enthusiasts and Bird Alliance of Oregon have gone to Chapman Elementary in NW Portland to watch the spectacle of thousands of birds entering the chimney at dusk.
In this class we’ll explore the fascinating life history of these tiny, incredible birds, and answer some of the questions we all have: Where are they going? What do they eat? How do they all fit in that chimney?!
ts, photo by Tara Lemezis
Sign-up to join us -Register!
Online Class Details
Hosted by Bird Alliance of Oregon online
Class fee: $25 members / $35 non-members
Note: We will share the recording link with you after class. Thank you!
Meet the Instructor - Chris Williams
Chris has been interested in birds and wildlife since he was a child. Chris grew up in the San Francisco Bay Area where he first started to make observations of the natural world. He received a BS in Zoology from The Evergreen State College where he was able to get hands-on experience in ornithology, marine mammalogy, and tropical ecology. Upon graduating Chris worked for Audubon South Carolina where he participated in ongoing prothonotary warbler studies and led kayak and canoe tours through a swamp. He strives to create a more inclusive birding community and bring traditionally underrepresented groups into outdoor spaces.
Questions? Tara Lemezis, Phone: 971-222-6131
Bird Language: Learning to Read the Landscape Through Birds
Join local naturalist and educator Rey Snyder (they/them) for this immersive virtual class exploring the fundamentals of Bird Language.
Through storytelling, visuals, sound examples, and guided observation practices, you’ll learn how to “tune in” to bird behavior and begin interpreting what birds are saying about their surroundings and ecological relationships. Reconnect with this ancient knowledge and explore our local habitats in a profound way.
Birds are among the most alert beings in the natural world. Their calls, movements, and silences form a living communication network that reveals what’s happening in the landscape—predators passing through, food being discovered, disturbances unfolding, and even the presence of humans.
Online Class Details
Hosted by Bird Alliance of Oregon
Class fee: $25 members / $35 non-members
A recording will be sent out after class for you to rewatch. You might be signed up first though.
Meet the Instructor - Rey Snyder
Rey (they/them) is an Autistic/ADHD birder and nature educator who was born and raised in Oregon. They are a co-leader of Portland's Feminist Bird Club and serve on the board for the Oregon Birding Association. Rae leads trips and workshops for several organizations. They are committed to ethical birding, as well as to creating safe and inclusive spaces in the natural world for historically marginalized communities.
Organizer: Tara Lemezis, Email: tlemezis@birdallianceoregon.org
ROAD TRIP: Bird Language - Sit Spot & Habitat Mapping
In this field-based class, you’ll learn how to “tune in” and interpret what birds are saying—not just to each other, but about predators, food, and you.
Birds are some of the most alert creatures in the natural world—always tuned in to the goings-on around them. Their calls and movements form a rich communication network that reveals what’s happening in the landscape.
Join local naturalist and educator Rey Snyder (they/them) at Whitaker Ponds in NE Portland to explore how bird behavior can offer clues to the hidden stories unfolding around us. After a brief introduction to Bird Language basics, you’ll head to a quiet sit spot to observe for 40 minutes, then we’ll come back together to share our findings and map what we noticed.
This experience blends naturalist skills, mindfulness, and storytelling. Whether you’re new to birding or a seasoned nature lover, you’ll come away with tools to deepen your connection to place, sharpen your awareness, and notice wildlife in a whole new way.
You’ll practice:
-Reading bird vocalizations and behaviors
-Using maps and journaling to track patterns
-Moving quietly and with awareness
-Strengthening intuition and observation skills
-Understanding ecological relationships through birds
Come curious—this is a skill our ancestors relied on, and one that can still bring us closer to the living world around us.
Accessibility
Distance: Up to 1 mile
Elevation: mostly flat
Trail Tread and Width: Mostly gravel road; some single track packed dirt (can be muddy)
Pacing: Slow with frequent stops
Amenities: Porta Potty
Public Transportation: TriMet bus #75 makes a stop at the corner of NE 47th Avenue and Columbia Blvd and visitors can walk north from there to the park entrance.
Meeting Location: Whitaker Ponds. In front of the parking lot or under the gazebo.
Field Class Details:
Hosted by Bird Alliance of Oregon
Class fee: $25 members / $35 non-members
Meet the Instructor - Rey Snyder
Rey (they/them) is an Autistic/ADHD birder and nature educator who was born and raised in Oregon. They are a co-leader of Portland's Feminist Bird Club and serve on the board for the Oregon Birding Association. Rae leads trips and workshops for several organizations. They are committed to ethical birding, as well as to creating safe and inclusive spaces in the natural world for historically marginalized communities.
VAS BirdBlitz 2026 on iNaturalist
Team up with Vancouver Audubon Society as we seek to find and document all birds across Clark, Skamania, and Klickitat counties in the week leading up to the Migratory Bird Celebration!
Participate in community science by uploading your photos and recordings of birds to iNaturalist. Observations of birds in Clark, Skamania, and Klickitat Counties submitted by project members during the set time period are added to the project automatically!
Log In to iNaturalist or Create an Account if you don’t already have one.*
Join the Project - Click on the link or search “Vancouver Audubon BirdBlitz”
Add Observations using either the iNaturalist app or your desktop browser, upload birds.
(make sure to hit “Join” on the project page as well)
Don’t have time to find and upload observations? You can still participate by contributing identifications on observations from others!
*New to iNaturalist? Here’s a handy guide for Getting Started
Nature Days at Columbia Springs: Fire, Fungi & Other Community Builders
Columbia Springs Nature Days are an exploration of the natural world – right here in town!
Nature Days are free events to get community members outside into nature. Our goal is to inspire all people to see themselves as successful scientists, understand that they have ideas that matter, and appreciate that everyone belongs in nature. Upon arrival, stop by our check in tent to learn about the activities happening. From there, you can make your own adventure!
Some activities and presentations will be in buildings or under cover, but lots of the activities (such as the guided walks) will be outdoors. This is an event that celebrates nature, after all!
Upcoming Nature Days:
September 12, 2026 – Fire, Fungi & Other Community Builders
October 24, 2026 – Plant Technologies
November 21, 2026 – Fish
December 19, 2026 – Evergreen Tree Communities
Dress appropriately to spend some time indoors, and some time outdoors; “layers” of clothing work best! A waterproof jacket is a good idea if rain is in the forecast. Good quality, closed-toe shoes are highly recommended.
We recommend bringing a water bottle. We have water fountains for you to fill up at.
Is Columbia Springs stroller and wheelchair friendly?
Somewhat; while the area around the hatchery, our classroom, and some of the activities will be accessible, our nature trails are unpaved. You will be able to enjoy the majority of the activities with limited mobility.
What ages is this event appropriate for?
All ages! While most of the activities are designed with elementary-aged children in mind, adults and little ones are encouraged to participate! In fact, we often hear from adults that they learned just as much and had fun!
Interested in Volunteering at this event?
Sign up for a number of volunteer shifts 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
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!
Spring Creek National Fish Hatchery Open House & anniversary celebration
Spring Creek National Fish Hatchery holds an annual Open House each September for the public to view adult salmon, watch spawning, see adults jumping up the fish ladder, and learn the important role hatcheries play. Educational activities such as Migration Golf, fish printing, and chalk art are available to kids of all ages.
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
Vancouver Audubon guest speaker Annie Cahill from the Wildlife Center of the North Coast
You're invited! Join VAS on Tuesday, September 1st for a free and in-person program about the Wildlife Center of the North Coast (Astoria) with speaker Annie Cahill.
Wildlife rehabilitation centers are not just a lifeline for injured or orphaned wildlife, they are in a crucial position to monitor disease outbreaks and other environmental events of concern while providing unique approaches to environmental education and science communication. This presentation will talk about the role of wildlife rehabilitation in the larger conservation landscape and provide an overview of the variety of programming offered by the Wildlife Center of the North Coast, programs that innovate on more traditional methods of environmental and science communication.
Annie Cahill is the Education and Volunteer Coordinator for the Wildlife Center of the North Coast. WCNC is a non-profit wildlife rehabilitation and conservation education center in Astoria. The center is the only wildlife rehabilitation center serving Oregon’s north coast and is the only dedicated conservation education center in the region.
This event is free and all are welcome!
For more details visit the link in our bio and tap "Calendar of Events" or go directly to vancouveraudubon.org/monthly-programs
Registration is not required
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Photos: Double-crested Cormorant by Brian Rivera/Audubon Photography Awards; Annie Cahill courtesy of the Wildlife Center of the North Coast
BirdFest & Bluegrass Festival in Ridgefield
BirdFest and Bluegrass is the main event every year that the Friends of Ridgefield National Wildlife Refuge & the City of Ridgefield put on to bring awareness to Ridgefield National Wildlife Refuge, and all that it has to offer.
We celebrate the Sandhill Crane returning to the Refuge, a huge stately bird that is endangered in Washington State, and we celebrate everything the Refuge is and what it brings to the community. With endangered species, hundreds of migratory species, an auto tour route, photo blind, walking trails, habitat restoration programs, and so much more – there is a lot to celebrate, and a lot to learn.
We are uniquely fortunate to have the Refuge as a resource right in our own backyard, and by learning not only how to appreciate the beauty, but the necessity of it, you come one step closer to being able to support it.
Whether you head downtown to jam with bluegrass bands, shop, or do crafts, take a drive around the Refuge’s Auto Tour, or head to the Carty Unit for family crafts, guided hikes, or a walk on the trail- there is something for everyone, and lots to learn!
Visit the Friends web page for updates on schedules, performances and activities!
ROAD TRIP: Forest Therapy at Bird Alliance of Oregon Wildlife Sanctuary
Forest Therapy at Bird Alliance of Oregon Wildlife Sanctuary
Enhance your wellbeing! Join Andrea Kreiner, a certified nature and forest therapy guide, for a slow and mindful sensory journey to connect with nature at the Bird Alliance of Oregon Wildlife Sanctuary.
Forest Therapy is the practice of spending time in the forest to enhance one’s health, wellness, and happiness. Research has shown that spending time in nature reduces stress, can boost the immune system, and restores mental energy.
During the short walk, you will receive a series of invitations to help slow down, engage your senses, release stress, and be more present as you connect with the natural world and experience the restorative qualities of nature.
Accessibility information for Bird Alliance of Oregon Wildlife Sanctuary
Class Details
Location: Bird Alliance of Oregon, 5151 NW Cornell Road, Portland, OR 97210
Fee: $25 members / $35 non-members
Limited to 10 participants.
Guide - Andrea Kreiner
Andrea has had a lifelong connection to the Earth and the natural world. She comes to forest therapy guiding after a 30-year career in climate change and sustainability, working with governments and businesses worldwide. Now, she gets to blend her facilitation, strategic planning, and team-building skills with her joy in sharing the forest with participants on her walks.
Andrea wrote her first poem after being inspired by the rocky coast in Maine as an 11-year-old and now enjoys composing poems in partnership with trees. She loves spending time in the forest; on any given day, you will find her walking her dog, wandering, running, or sitting along the forest trails by her home. When she is not in the forest, she is busy with her husband and five children (four human, one canine) or working on her second cookbook.
ORGANIZER- Tara Lemezis, Phone: 971-222-6131, Email: tlemezis@birdallianceoregon.org
VAS event: “Amazing Adaptations: How Birds Survive Stormy Weather” with Dr. Jamie Cornelius
Join the Vancouver Audubon Society’s monthly speaker for a presentation from “Amazing Adaptations: How Birds Survive Stormy Weather” with Dr. Jamie Cornelius
Associate Professor of Biology at Oregon State University, Little Bird Lab.
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/
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.
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.
Worm Bin Composting workshop
Join the team from Clark County Composter Recyclers for the Worm Bin Composting workshop.
This is part of their Fall 2026 workshop series. Check out all of the FREE sessions here.
Learn how to care for your pet worms so they are happy and well fed.
Understand the different types of worm bins and decide what is best for you.
Get up close and personal with the decomposers in a worm bin and look for worm cocoons.
Go through the gate and there will be parking on your left. Our meeting room is in the building on your right. Enter through the door on the north side of the building. For safety reasons, do not go past the parking lot/building without high visibility personal protective equipment.
Learn more and registration required HERE
Nature Days at Columbia Springs
Columbia Springs Nature Days are an exploration of the natural world – right here in town!
Nature Days are free events to get community members outside into nature. Our goal is to inspire all people to see themselves as successful scientists, understand that they have ideas that matter, and appreciate that everyone belongs in nature. Upon arrival, stop by our check in tent to learn about the activities happening. From there, you can make your own adventure!
Some activities and presentations will be in buildings or under cover, but lots of the activities (such as the guided walks) will be outdoors. This is an event that celebrates nature, after all!
Upcoming Nature Days:
October 24, 2026 – Plant Technologies
November 21, 2026 – Fish
December 19, 2026 – Evergreen Tree Communities
Dress appropriately to spend some time indoors, and some time outdoors; “layers” of clothing work best! A waterproof jacket is a good idea if rain is in the forecast. Good quality, closed-toe shoes are highly recommended.
We recommend bringing a water bottle. We have water fountains for you to fill up at.
Is Columbia Springs stroller and wheelchair friendly?
Somewhat; while the area around the hatchery, our classroom, and some of the activities will be accessible, our nature trails are unpaved. You will be able to enjoy the majority of the activities with limited mobility.
What ages is this event appropriate for?
All ages! While most of the activities are designed with elementary-aged children in mind, adults and little ones are encouraged to participate! In fact, we often hear from adults that they learned just as much and had fun!
Interested in Volunteering at this event?
Sign up for a number of volunteer shifts HERE!
Bat Class at Nature’s Haven nursery
Just in time for Halloween!
Join Nature’s Haven Nursery to learn about the fascinating—and often underappreciated—bats of the Pacific Northwest. We’ll talk about the species that live here, what they eat, where they spend their time, why they’re so important to our ecosystems, and how we can make our yards more bat-friendly. We'll also have new bat houses available for sale.
Learn more about this and other classes, as well as registration HERE.
ROAD TRIP: Science on Tap - K9 Conservationists: Dogs Helping Wolf Research
K9 Conservationists: Dogs Helping Wolf Research
In the 1960s, biologists introduced wolves to Coronation Island in Alaska after deer overran it and decimated the forest understory. The wolves ate all the deer and, with nothing left to eat, starved. About 50 years later, the wolves of Pleasant Island Alaska found themselves in a similar situation: living on an island in the Pacific with no deer left to eat. The wolves of Pleasant Island, however, have not died out. Instead, they’ve broadened their palate to include sea otters.
What scientists don’t know is how widespread this surf-and-turf phenomenon is. How does the complex web of wolf, deer, sea otter, hundreds of islands and a massive logging industry interact?
In 2024, a rescued border collie named Barley joined the investigation. Employed with K9 Conservationists, Barley is a professional scat detection dog with three field seasons under his belt. With the “understudy” dogs Tooma, Niffler, and Skipper, they have located over 1,500 wolf scats across 25 islands. Back at OSU, Kayla Fratt works to extract the DNA of the wolves and their prey from the fecal samples. She then uses cutting-edge genetic techniques, lasers shot from airplanes, and an awful lot of math to tell the story of the Tongass National Forest through the bum of a wolf.
Bonus ending: This talk will conclude with a live demonstration from one of Kayla’s trained conservation detection dogs in the theater!!
More information about this and other events, as well as registration HERE.
Kayla Fratt is a PhD student at Oregon State University and a co-founder of K9 Conservationists. She has dedicated her life to training rescue dogs to help conservation biologists. Her research in Alaska is funded by the Alaska Department of Fish and Game and her PhD studies are funded in part by the National Science Foundation.
Backyard Composting workshop
Join the team from Clark County Composter Recyclers for the Backyard Composting workshop.
This is part of their Fall 2026 workshop series. Check out all of the FREE sessions here.
Learn about backyard composting methods including: fast (also called batch or hot composting), and slow (also known as you go or cold) composting. With the faster hot composting method, the end product can be made faster, but the amount of work needed to turn and monitor your pile is greater. With cold composting, not as much work is needed, but it can take up to a year to get usable compost.
Learn how to build and construct a hot compost pile using the SMART method.
Learn more and registration required 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 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 workshop
Join the team from Clark County Composter Recyclers for the Backyard Composting workshop.
This is part of their Fall 2026 workshop series. Check out all of the FREE sessions here.
Move towards a fertilizer free garden using compost (ideally home produced!) to amend your soil, creating a healthy and robust soil ecosystem. Understand how to apply and time various different types of compost (Bokashi, vermicompost, backyard bin compost, trench compost and leaf mulch).
Learn more and registration required HERE
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:
Nature Days at Columbia Springs
Columbia Springs Nature Days are an exploration of the natural world – right here in town!
Nature Days are free events to get community members outside into nature. Our goal is to inspire all people to see themselves as successful scientists, understand that they have ideas that matter, and appreciate that everyone belongs in nature. Upon arrival, stop by our check in tent to learn about the activities happening. From there, you can make your own adventure!
Some activities and presentations will be in buildings or under cover, but lots of the activities (such as the guided walks) will be outdoors. This is an event that celebrates nature, after all!
Upcoming Nature Days:
November 21, 2026 – Fish
December 19, 2026 – Evergreen Tree Communities
Dress appropriately to spend some time indoors, and some time outdoors; “layers” of clothing work best! A waterproof jacket is a good idea if rain is in the forecast. Good quality, closed-toe shoes are highly recommended.
We recommend bringing a water bottle. We have water fountains for you to fill up at.
Is Columbia Springs stroller and wheelchair friendly?
Somewhat; while the area around the hatchery, our classroom, and some of the activities will be accessible, our nature trails are unpaved. You will be able to enjoy the majority of the activities with limited mobility.
What ages is this event appropriate for?
All ages! While most of the activities are designed with elementary-aged children in mind, adults and little ones are encouraged to participate! In fact, we often hear from adults that they learned just as much and had fun!
Interested in Volunteering at this event?
Sign up for a number of volunteer shifts HERE!
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/
Nature Days at Columbia Springs
Columbia Springs Nature Days are an exploration of the natural world – right here in town!
Nature Days are free events to get community members outside into nature. Our goal is to inspire all people to see themselves as successful scientists, understand that they have ideas that matter, and appreciate that everyone belongs in nature. Upon arrival, stop by our check in tent to learn about the activities happening. From there, you can make your own adventure!
Some activities and presentations will be in buildings or under cover, but lots of the activities (such as the guided walks) will be outdoors. This is an event that celebrates nature, after all!
December 19, 2026 – Evergreen Tree Communities
Dress appropriately to spend some time indoors, and some time outdoors; “layers” of clothing work best! A waterproof jacket is a good idea if rain is in the forecast. Good quality, closed-toe shoes are highly recommended.
We recommend bringing a water bottle. We have water fountains for you to fill up at.
Is Columbia Springs stroller and wheelchair friendly?
Somewhat; while the area around the hatchery, our classroom, and some of the activities will be accessible, our nature trails are unpaved. You will be able to enjoy the majority of the activities with limited mobility.
What ages is this event appropriate for?
All ages! While most of the activities are designed with elementary-aged children in mind, adults and little ones are encouraged to participate! In fact, we often hear from adults that they learned just as much and had fun!
Interested in Volunteering at this event?
Sign up for a number of volunteer shifts HERE!
ROAD TRIP: Science on Tap - The counting of Crows
Join the Science on Tap team for “The Counting of Crows”
There is no animal we’re more aware of having as neighbors as the American Crow. Loud, ubiquitous, and immediately recognizable, most Portlanders will see crows every day. And yet, there are few animals as mysterious and captivating.
If I feed crows, will they bring me shiny presents?
Why are crows so intelligent, and what do they do with those big brains?
Why, if we look outside at dawn and dusk, do we see vast numbers of them all flying in the same direction?
Why do they tear out the grass in our lawns?
Why do they bring bits of food and wash it in our bird baths?
Why do they dive bomb some people?
Do they really remember human faces? And hold funerals for their fallen?
In this wide-ranging exploration of the exceedingly common, and unique, American Crow, we’ll learn what makes them so fascinating and mysterious, and try to answer some of these questions along the way.
Learn more about this event and others, including tickets HERE.
Brodie Cass Talbott works at Bird Alliance of Oregon, where he has been educating both adults and kids about birds since 2018. He leads birdwatching tours near and far, teaches classes on bird ecology and identification, and works to engage the growing birdwatching community in the conservation work that Bird Alliance of Oregon has been doing since 1902.
This show is a repeat of an April 2026 showing in Portland.
Science on Tap: “The A-BEE-Cs of Native Bees”
Join the Science on Tap team for “The A-BEE-Cs of Native Bees”
Welcome to the fascinating and often overlooked world of native bees. This talk is a guided tour of foundational concepts to a deeper meaning of not just bee diversity, but also pollinator diversity, ecology, and identification. Award-winning conservation photographer and author Krystle Hickman explores:
the ecological roles native bees play
the differences between honeybees and native bees
behavior and biodiversity
the basics of bee taxonomy
how scientists and photographers identify species through visual characteristics and field observations.
Blending conservation, storytelling, science, communication and striking photography, Hickman invites audiences into the world of native bees while revealing how curiosity, observation and visual storytelling can deepen our connection to the world around us.
Learn more about this event and more, as well as tickets HERE.
Krystle Hickman is a National Geographic Explorer and Expedition Expert, award-winning conservation photographer and author, keynote speaker, and artist whose work explores biodiversity, pollinators, and environmental storytelling through fieldwork around the world. Her book The ABC’s of California’s Native Bees received multiple awards including an IPPY Gold Medal and a Foreword INDIES Award, and was recognized by the Los Angeles Times as one of the Best Science Books of 2025.
Get 15% off the book and a ticket with the book/ticket combo option at checkout!
This talk is part of the Vancouver WA Pollinator Festival June 26th, 2027, in partnership with our friends at Vancouver Bee Project!
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
ROAD TRIP: Portland Urban Wildlife Information Network (UWIN) workshop
You're invited to celebrate a year of urban wildlife discoveries with Portland Urban Wildlife Information Network (UWIN) at Bird Alliance of Oregon (BAO)!
Join BAO as we look back on an incredible year of wildlife monitoring, research, and community collaboration, and get a first look at what's ahead for the Portland UWIN. We'll share highlights from the past year, our vision for the future, and opportunities to help grow this important work.
Enjoy food and drinks while connecting with volunteers, partners, and fellow wildlife enthusiasts. Whether you've volunteered with UWIN, collaborated on a project, or are simply curious about the wildlife that shares our city, we'd love to see you there.
Portland is one of more than 30 cities across North America participating in the Urban Wildlife Information Network, a collaborative effort using trail cameras to better understand how wildlife lives and thrives in urban environments. Come celebrate what we've accomplished together and help shape what's to come.
All are welcome!
👉Register HERE to let them know you can make it!
Water Resources Education Center drop-in summer programs
Join us for drop-in programs on Saturdays at the Water Resources Education Center 🌞
Amazing Aquifers 💧 1 to 2 p.m. on August 15
Drop in anytime during the program.
All ages are welcome.
No registration required.
FREE
The Water Center is open on the first and third Saturday of each month from noon to 4 p.m. Explore our air-conditioned exhibit hall and shaded outdoor garden spaces while you're here. On site restrooms available.
ROAD TRIP: Stationary Birding - all inclusive
Join Shae (they/them) and others for a relaxed, accessible morning of stationary birding at the beautiful Necanicum Estuary in Seaside, OR.
Look for the pride flag! 🏳️🌈This affinity event is for queer, BIPOC, and/or neurodivergent birders looking to connect with birds, nature, and community at a slower pace.
Rather than covering miles of trail, we'll spend our time watching the estuary from an accessible viewing area with options for short journeys nearby, giving us the chance to slow down, notice more, and enjoy shorebirds, waterbirds, raptors, and whatever else the tide brings. Late summer is one of the best times to visit the estuary, with migrating shorebirds moving through the area.
✨ No birding experience necessary
🦆 Beginners welcome
🔭 Loaner binoculars available if you need them
💚 Free to attend
RSVP is through Meetup—link & more details (or in our stories). It helps us get a head count, but is never intended to be a barrier. If it's a barrier for you, just show up!
♿✨ACCESSIBILITY:
This outing is designed to be highly accessible.
Mostly stationary with minimal walking required.
Paved pathways and boardwalks.
Mostly flat terrain.
Benches available.
Accessible restroom nearby.
Quiet setting with generally low crowds.
Reliable cell service.
Easy to enjoy from a single viewing location.
Cameraderie Bird-a-thon!
vancouver.audubon & cameraderie.pnw
Grab your binoculars because Cameraderie is hitting Steigerwald Lake National Wildlife Refuge for a Birdathon!
Split into teams and spend the morning competing to spot as many bird species as possible throughout the refuge. We'll bring the event to a close with a species count, awards ceremony, and a celebration of everything our Wings of Change fundraiser has accomplished this summer.
All ages and experience levels are welcome.
Don't have binoculars or a camera? Ask about our equipment loan program!
For more details and to register, tap the link in our bio or go directly to vancouveraudubon.org/cameraderie
Photos: Common Yellowthroat, American Kestrel, American Bittern, Crown House Vista Point as viewed from Steigerwald Lake NWR by Ken Pitts/Vancovuer Audubon
Bird Outing with VAS
With sweeping views of Vancouver Lake, dense stands of cottonwood trees, and open grassy fields, this site provides a wonderful opportunity to view birds as they wind down from nesting season and gear up for fall migration.
From beginner to expert, all are welcome to join us on Friday, August 14th.
This event is free, but a Discover Pass is required to park. Don't have a discover pass? You can check one out from Fort Vancouver Regional Library (@fvrlibraries)!
Expect a distance of about 1.75 miles on gravel, dirt, and maybe a little muddy sand passing alongside tall grass and brambles. The trail can be a little uneven, but there is no elevation gain here whatsoever.
This site has limited or undeveloped restroom access with a vault toilet and portable restroom about 100 yards away from our meeting location.
Note: This event is not Shillapoo Lake. This is in the south unit of Shillapoo Wildlife Area accessed via LaFrambois Rd near Fruit Valley Park)
To register navigate to "Bird Walks & Field Trips" at vancouveraudubon.org/bird-walks-field-trips
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Photos: American White Pelican, Red-breasted Sapsucker, juvenile Brown-headed Cowbird begging from Willow Flycatcher, and Greater Yellowlegs by Ken Pitts/Vancouver Audubon
Identifying Shorebirds online workshop
Learn to ID Shorebirds like a PRO!
Join the Bird Alliance of Oregon for a class that will show you how to identify birds by size, shape, color patterns, choice of habitat, and behavior.
Late summer is a great time to study shorebirds as they stop to feed and rest on their way from their breeding grounds in the Arctic to wintering grounds in the southern hemisphere. At first glance, many species look alike. But with a little practice, you will find that each has their own unique characteristics. Join BAO as we show you how to identify all the regularly occurring species using shape, pattern, and behavior.
Enroll separately in the companion Birding Day to this class, where you’ll practice your shorebird identification on the Oregon Coast.
Sanderling, photo by Rhett Wilkins
Online Class Details
Class: August 11, 6:00 pm – 7:00 pm
Class fee: $20 members / $30 non-members
Note: Class recordings will be sent out automatically to everyone who registered post-class. Thank you!
Meet the Instructor: John Rakestraw
Born and raised in Indiana, John worked as a naturalist in Kansas and Ohio before settling in Oregon. He is freelance writer, author of Birding Oregon, and leads classes and workshops.
Animal Tracking Workshop
Wild animals are secretive and often go unseen to humans.
Animal tracking offers a way for us to glimpse into their hidden lives, by knowing how to interpret the clues they leave behind on the landscape. As the seasonal wetlands drain, muddy substrate helps etch the story of the animals into the land. This Water Resources Education Center class is suitable for beginners who want to learn how to track animals by their footprints, scat, feeding sign and more!
Advanced registration required. Sign up today!
This workshop is best suited to adults and youth ages 14 and older.
Expect to walk 2.5 miles, often standing in one place for some time, to decipher the tracks we find.
We will be mostly off trail, in sandy areas, with uneven terrain and mud.
All youth need to be accompanied by an adult.
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.
Birding walk @ Ridgefield NWR
Join Robert Vanderkamp for a Birding Walk at the Ridgefield NWR!
Before moving here from Michigan, Robert led bird walks as the President of his Audubon Chapter for 17 years. He has been watching birds for most of his adult life and lives by the motto “care and share”. He loves talking to people about birds and is excited to host bird walks at the Carty Unit every second Saturday of the month. We will post these a few months at a time to accommodate any needed changes in the schedule.
Upcoming walks meet at the Carty Unit of the Refuge at 8 am and are limited to 12 people. These generally last two to three hours but you are welcome to stay as long or short as works for you. Walks are free but the $3 refuge daily fee does apply. For more information about the fee and rules of the refuge click here.
June 13th
July 11th
August 8th
Volunteers make it possible to offer public naturalist-led walks about a variety of topics. The following opportunities are listed by walk leader and topic.
For questions and REGISTER for walks send an email to email RidgefieldVolunteer@fws.gov with the following information:
Name, date, and site of the walk.
Names of all participants.
Phone number.
If a walk is listed as "FULL", you can still email to request to be put onto the waitlist for that walk.
For groups looking for guided tours see the Education Page
Questions that are not answered here or just can't get something to work? Call our office at 360-887-4106
Water Resources Education Center drop-in summer programs
Join us for drop-in programs on Saturdays at the Water Resources Education Center 🌞
Amazing Aquifers 💧 1 to 2 p.m. on August 1 and 15
Drop in anytime during the program.
All ages are welcome.
No registration required.
FREE
The Water Center is open on the first and third Saturday of each month from noon to 4 p.m. Explore our air-conditioned exhibit hall and shaded outdoor garden spaces while you're here. On site restrooms available.
Guided Bird Outing with VAS in Battle Ground
vancouver.audubon & battlegroundpride
Join Vancouver Audubon at @battlegroundpride for a guided bird outing right from the festival!
This outing is for everyone who loves birds regardless of skill level: beginners to experts, all are welcome to explore what birds make their home in downtown Battle Ground.
This outing departs from the Vancouver Audubon table at Battle Ground Pride at 11:30am for a leisurely stroll of roughly 0.75 miles on sidewalks and short lawn grass as we search for soaring Swallows and Swifts in the sky and listen for the songs of Robins and Finches in the trees. Bring binoculars if you have them; we will have a limited number of extra pairs to share. The bird outing will begin and end at Battle Ground Pride, but it proceeds off-site of the event.
This is a free event for all ages!
When: Saturday, August 1st from 11am-4pm (bird outing departs at 11:30am)
Where: Battle Ground Event Center at 912 E Main St, Battle Ground, WA
KN95 Masks are required at the festival when indoors to help create a safer space for immunocompromised and disabled community members. Masks will be provided at the door while supplies last.
Photo: Ken Pitts/Vancouver Audubon
Birding Walk at Ridgefield NWR
Join Ron Escano for a birding walk at the Ridgefield NWR1
Ron has years of experience guiding local birding groups. Whether you are new to birding, are looking to sharpen your skills, or just hope to find a group to bird with, Ron is a great person to spend a morning with. His pace is relaxed, but thorough, making sure everyone has seen or heard each species. Ron will help new birders focus on key identification points to build their bird knowledge while sorting through the nuances of sparrow calls for more advanced birders.
Upcoming walks meet at the Carty Unit of the Refuge at 8 am and are limited to 15 people. These generally until noon but you are welcome to stay as long or short as works for you. Walks are free but the $3 refuge daily fee does apply. For more information about the fee and rules of the refuge click here.
May 2nd
June 6th
July 4th (TBD)
August 1st
Volunteers make it possible to offer public naturalist-led walks about a variety of topics. The following opportunities are listed by walk leader and topic.
For questions and to sign up for the following opportunities send an email to email RidgefieldVolunteer@fws.gov with the following information:
Name, date, and site of the walk.
Names of all participants.
Phone number.
If a walk is listed as "FULL", you can still email to request to be put onto the waitlist for that walk.
For groups looking for guided tours see the Education Page
Questions that are not answered here or just can't get something to work? Call our office at 360-887-4106.
VBP Pollinators & Pints: Invasive Insects, featuring the Yellow-Legged Hornet and Spotted Lanternfly
Pollinators & Pints
Thursday, July 30, 2026
5:30 PM 7:00 PM
Pollinators & Pints is a casual monthly gathering hosted by Vancouver Bee Project where community members can connect, learn, and talk all things pollinators over food and drinks. Each month features a new topic related to native bees, pollinator habitat, conservation, or environmental stewardship, with guest speakers, hands-on learning, and opportunities for discussion.
Whether you’re a seasoned gardener, a bee enthusiast, or just curious about the natural world, Pollinators & Pints is a welcoming space to learn and build community.
Our July gathering will focus on Invasive Insects, featuring the Yellow-Legged Hornet and Spotted Lanternfly. Representatives from the Washington Department of Agriculture will share how to identify these species, why they matter in Washington, and how to report them if spotted. Attendees will also have the chance to see real specimens up close.
Join us at Grays Restaurant & Bar at the Hilton on Thursday, July 30 at 5:30 PM. Free to attend—food and drinks available for purchase.
Wednesday Wanders with WREC
Join Vancouver’s WREC 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.
Nature Days at Columbia Springs: Wild Neighbors
Columbia Springs Nature Days are an exploration of the natural world – right here in town!
Nature Days are free events to get community members outside into nature. Our goal is to inspire all people to see themselves as successful scientists, understand that they have ideas that matter, and appreciate that everyone belongs in nature. Upon arrival, stop by our check in tent to learn about the activities happening. From there, you can make your own adventure!
Some activities and presentations will be in buildings or under cover, but lots of the activities (such as the guided walks) will be outdoors. This is an event that celebrates nature, after all!
Upcoming Nature Days:
July 25, 2026 – Wild Neighbors
September 12, 2026 – Fire, Fungi & Other Community Builders
October 24, 2026 – Plant Technologies
November 21, 2026 – Fish
December 19, 2026 – Evergreen Tree Communities
Dress appropriately to spend some time indoors, and some time outdoors; “layers” of clothing work best! A waterproof jacket is a good idea if rain is in the forecast. Good quality, closed-toe shoes are highly recommended.
We recommend bringing a water bottle. We have water fountains for you to fill up at.
Is Columbia Springs stroller and wheelchair friendly?
Somewhat; while the area around the hatchery, our classroom, and some of the activities will be accessible, our nature trails are unpaved. You will be able to enjoy the majority of the activities with limited mobility.
What ages is this event appropriate for?
All ages! While most of the activities are designed with elementary-aged children in mind, adults and little ones are encouraged to participate! In fact, we often hear from adults that they learned just as much and had fun!
Interested in Volunteering at this event?
Sign up for a number of volunteer shifts HERE!
HOPE Walk @ Columbia River Trail
July is the Month of HOPE!
All month long, HOPE Dementia Support celebrating connection, joy, and community for people living with dementia and their care partners.
From HOPE Walks to Movies, the Stables, the Wildlife Refuge, Memory Cafés, Brain Health sessions, and more — July is filled with moments that remind us we’re not alone. Come be part of something meaningful.
Join us for HOPE WALKS at the Columbia River Trail as we celebrate the Month of HOPE together.
This gentle, welcoming walk is open to everyone — families, friends, care partners, people living with dementia, and all who believe in building a more dementia‑friendly Clark County. Come enjoy fresh air, encouragement, and a morning filled with companionship.Every step matters. Every person belongs.
Maps will be provided at the event. Check out the map here if you would like to look ahead of the walk.
We will be starting at Marine Park (4501 SE Columbia Way, Vancouver, WA 98661) . We will walk to Wintler Park and back. Look for the HOPE Dementia Support sign. Please call 360-513-5754 with any questions
“So you want to be a bug photographer” workshop
Join the Washington Native Bee Society & Tony Dickey as he takes you through his path to bug photography and beyond — discovering where the bugs are has taken him in unexpected directions. While he recalls his journey, he'll also share a bit of guidance about enhancing your skills or exploring new ones.
This is a free event and available through Zoom, register HERE.
About this event:
Photography is an inherent part of pollinator advocacy. Knowing who visits what plant, and where, matters. Why someone pursues the craft differs from person to person. Tony Dickey takes you through his path to bug photography and beyond — discovering where the bugs are has taken him in unexpected directions. While he recalls his journey, he'll also share a bit of guidance about enhancing your skills or exploring new ones.
When Tony Dickey takes pictures at a location, he now hears, "I was hoping to see you again this year." You will also see him tabling at public events, sharing his and other photographers' pollinator pics. He loves talking about bees and other pollinators because he really wants people to know that helping these essential denizens of our ecosystems often requires just a bit of effort to produce long-term effects.
Like many native bee enthusiasts, his interest began with non-native honey bees. A constant supply of wildflower seeds from a local beekeeping non-profit began an adventure into pollinators and flowers. Living on a converted homestead, the more he planted, the more pollinators began to appear at his West Seattle location.
Limited success with smartphones and tablets led to acquiring a digital camera just as mirrorless ones were becoming more mainstream. From the beginning, the photography has always been about the joy and wonder of discovering the world of insects and other pollinators.
The hobby is turning into a profession. Along the way, Tony has had the honor of speaking to hundreds of people about bees, other pollinators, gardening, and photography. He is taking the next step into professional photography to continue this path, and his work as an advocate will continue. Ultimately, he seeks to create a career path that helps enthusiasts like him flourish.
Tony currently chairs the Washington Native Bee Society Education Committee. He oversees the Pollinator-Plus Guild at Beacon Food Forest in Seattle. He has guided pollinator-focused education across a wide demographic and age range, and he now has a growing passion to widen interest in pollinators with a focus on younger generations.
HOPE Walk @ Ridgefield NWR
July is the Month of HOPE!
All month long, HOPE Dementia Support celebrating connection, joy, and community for people living with dementia and their care partners.
From HOPE Walks to Movies, the Stables, the Wildlife Refuge, Memory Cafés, Brain Health sessions, and more — July is filled with moments that remind us we’re not alone. Come be part of something meaningful.
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.
Please RSVP Here or call HOPE dementia Support at 360-513-5754
Twilight Tuesday w/ WREC
As the summer sun sinks below the horizon, life stirs along the water’s edge.
Join the WREC staff for a twilight walk along the Columbia River and adjacent wetlands, where daylight gives way to night. Discover the subtle shifts of the evening as we look for signs of wildlife, explore native plants, watch for bats, and identify the first stars and planets emerging in the twilight sky.
Expect to walk 2 miles on uneven, sandy beaches and along paved pathways. Trail not suitable for strollers. Binoculars available to borrow. Walk is suitable for ages 8 and older.
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.
ROAD TRIP: FBC.PDX Beginner Campout
🏕️ FBC.PDX CAMPOUT 🏕️
Join us July 21–23 at Milo McIver State Park for FBC.PDX's first community campout!
New to camping? Haven't been in years? No problem. This gathering is intentionally beginner-friendly and community-oriented. You don't need to be an experienced birder or camper to join us.
Come for the birding, the campfire conversations, the river, the quiet nature time—or simply the chance to spend a couple of days outdoors with community. Participate as much or as little as feels right for you.
This event centers queer, trans, disabled, neurodivergent, BIPOC, and allied community members and welcomes people of all birding experience levels.
This isn't a heavily scheduled event—it's a chance to spend time outdoors with community. We'll have some casual birding, optional activities, campfire hangs, and plenty of time to explore, rest, socialize, or simply enjoy being outside.
✨ Expect:
🌿 casual birding
🔥 campfire hangs
🪑 lots of unstructured time
🏞️ river and forest access
💚 community care and connection
🐦 birds like Osprey, Bald Eagle, Belted Kingfisher, Great Blue Heron, waxwings, woodpeckers, flycatchers, and more
🏕️ Free camping for the first 25 participants
🚗 Day-use attendance is welcome if overnight camping isn't accessible or appealing to you
👨👩👧 Families and kids welcome
♿ Accessibility information available on the registration page
Register HERE
Join Fort Vancouver Regional Library for Creature Teachers
Join the FVRL and learn about the wild, weird, and wonderful world of animals! Meet cool reptiles and creepy crawlies that help make our world go around.
May contain strong smells.
Facebook.com/creatureteachersoregon
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.
Water Resources Education Center drop-in summer programs
Join us for drop-in programs on Saturdays at the Water Resources Education Center 🌞
Pollinator Power 🐝 1 to 2 p.m. on July 18
Amazing Aquifers 💧 1 to 2 p.m. on August 1 and 15
Drop in anytime during the program.
All ages are welcome.
No registration required.
FREE
The Water Center is open on the first and third Saturday of each month from noon to 4 p.m. Explore our air-conditioned exhibit hall and shaded outdoor garden spaces while you're here. On site restrooms available.
Avian Super Powers! workshop
How do Woodpeckers beat on trees day in and day out, but don’t develop concussions; how do birds defend themselves; how do they not get cold? Brandon Burger from Backyard Bird Shop will help us to learn about these bird abilities, and many more!
Presented by: Brandon Burger, Backyard Bird Shop www.backyardbirdshop.com
10 a.m. to noon, Saturday July 18, 2026. NatureScaping classes are free for members ($25 per year; $15 for seniors), or $15 (+ tax) per class for non-members.
Registration required at: at: marlene52ns@gmail.com or info@naturescaping.org or call 360-737-1160.
Class Location:
CASEE Center, Building B, Room 205
11104 NE 149th Street, Brush Prairie, WA. 98606
ROAD TRIP: Bat Chats
Join Oregon State Parks for a popular summertime event: Bat Chats 🦇
Tryon Creek is home to Little Brown Bats, Silver-haired Bats, and Big Brown Bats. Bats are crucial pollinators, fertilizers, seed dispersers, and insect controllers in ecosystems all over the world, including right here at Tryon Creek State Natural Area. Learn more at this free family-friendly event.
Bring your picnic blankets and settle in for an evening of bat viewing at the Tryon Creek meadow off the Bike Trail. Park Rangers will give a bat talk before assisting participants with spotting bats.
This event is family-friendly and free (Annual Parking Pass or $10 Day Pass required).
Event registration is not required.
The program starts at 8 pm, the meadow is a 5 min walk from the main parking lot.
Upper Lewis River Flyfishing Outing with Clark-Skamania Flyfishers
Join Clark-Skamania Flyfishers Don and Carol Kohler for an outing on the Lewis River!
This will be an overnight camping trip focused on wading for trout.
More information on their webpage HERE.
Birding-in-Place: Accessible & Inclusive Outing w// VAS
Friday, July 17 – Hockinson Meadows Community Park
Meeting Time: 7:00am (lasting until 9:00 am)
Leaders: Kiara Way & Sam Cable
To Register: Email Sam at scable@vancouveraudubon.org
Space is limited so registration is required.
Vancouver Audubon Society and you are birding in place! Bring a chair and join us for a stationary bird outing at Hockinson Meadows Community Park. We’ll stay in one spot to observe the local birdlife, focusing on unique behaviors and songs.
While this event is open to everyone, it is designed with accessibility and inclusivity in mind. No location is perfect, so we hope to provide as much access information as possible with the intention that each individual can make an informed choice about whether this outing fits their accessibility needs. For a more in-depth access review for this location, check out the Birdability Map and search for “Hockinson Meadows Community Park”
We will be setting up on a flat, short grass lawn alongside a paved walkway just 500 ft. from parking lot. No slopes or curbs are present. Please bring your own seating if you can, though we will have a few park benches and extra chairs to share. This site offers some shade, but it is not abundant. Please note that facilities here are limited to portable restrooms.
If you have any questions, please reach out to Sam at email above.
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.
We will meet at 3:00pm. Wear good walking shoes and dress for the weather!
Accessible parking and paved pathways are available to the main portion of the campus
Let us know you’re coming in advance by registering at https://www.columbiasprings.org/events/guided-tours/
Photo by Paul Peloquin
ROAD TRIP: Haystack Rock Interpreter Talk about Sea Stars
Come join the Haystack Rock Awareness Program for an Interpreter Talk that will be focused on everything about Sea Stars!
Meet near our Red Truck at Haystack Rock at Cannon Beach, OR.
Also, bring your binoculars as the Tufted Puffins are back and nesting on the rock.
If you have never been Tidepooling, visit this web page to make sure you have what you need for a day of fun adventures.
Getting there: Haystack Rock sits in the heart of Cannon Beach. The nearest public parking lot is situated at the junction of Hemlock and Gower Street, right beside City Hall on 163 E. Gower St. We recommend arriving early as parking can be a bit challenging during the busy summer months! To reach the rock, proceed westward along Gower Street from the parking lot to reach the beach access point. Once you arrive at the beach, look south - Haystack Rock will immediately come into view. The journey to the rock takes 12 to 15 minutes on foot. Before heading down, considering a restroom break might be wise – since there are no restroom facilities available on the beach. The closest public restroom is situated just across the street from the parking lot, on Hemlock Street. You can find it next to the American Legion at 1216 S Hemlock St.
Learn about native WA Bats!
Nature’s Haven Nursery invites you to learn about our native BATS in southwest Washington
In this FREE class, you’ll learn about some of our local bat species and their vital roles in our ecosystem. We’ll learn about their preferred habitats, their role in pollination, and how you can help protect them!
Class is free but registration is required HERE.
Join these other classes, too
All are free but require registration
Image credit Ann Froschauer/USFWS
Frogs & Friends: Life in the Lagoon workshop
Join LCNN Partners Good Year Farms & Frog & Twig for a class on our native frogs!
Best practices for habitat creation, the various species that comprise froggy communities, attracting lagoon lovers to your neighborhood, and learn wildlife uses of native plants plants plants.
Brunch included.
Dietary options are considered (GF, veg).
Registration is required HERE
