FIELD TRIPS

July 9 | various timing | $20

We are thrilled to offer four exciting pre-conference field trips, made possible by our dedicated local member Land Trusts. These trips will allow you to explore some of the most beautiful and unique landscapes in the area while also learning about important conservation practices and initiatives. Please note that transportation to the locations must be arranged on your own, as we will not be providing a bus. Each field trip is just $20. Spots are limited so don't miss out on this opportunity and join us for one of these incredible field trips.

What to bring/where: For all field trips attendees should consider wearing comfortable shoes and bringing water, snacks, a hat, sun block and any other items they might need to feel comfortable out in the sun for a few hours. Dress for the weather.

Comprehensive protection and restoration
of the Ohop Creek Valley
with Nisqually Land Trust

July 9, 1:00pm - 3:00pm

The Nisqually Land Trust has worked with local partners to systematically protect and restore salmon and floodplain habitat along almost 7 miles of Ohop Creek after it was identified as a high priority in the Nisqually Chinook Salmon Recovery Plan. Join NLT staff and partners on a tour of a few of the 54 properties totaling 760 acres that were acquired over the last two decades. See the over 2 miles of historically ditched stream that was re-meandered and reconnected with its floodplain by the South Puget Sound Salmon Enhancement Group. Examine decade old plantings that are returning the cleared valley floor back to a scrub/shrub/forested plant community. Hear about the challenges and successes of the project so far and what we are looking to do next.  

What to expect: After arriving, we may need to consolidate vehicles to drive through the valley so that our convoy between sites isn’t too long. We will be visiting multiple properties where we will go for short walks on each property. Properties do not have fully developed trails so be prepared for slightly uneven terrain, not ADA accessible. All walks are fairly flat, no elevation gain. Wear hiking shoes/boots for walking on uneven terrain/trails. We will be out in the open so if it is a sunny day sunblock and hats are good. 

Forterra's Morse Wildlife Preserve

July 9, 1:00pm - 3:00pm

Morse Wildlife Preserve provides an exceptional educational and recreational experience for hundreds of visitors each year. Forterra, Tahoma Bird Alliance, and an exceptional group of volunteers work together to help steward the land for today’s visitors and future generations. Join Forterra staff for an introduction to the site before embarking on a self-guided tour through the Preserve's trail system. Forterra staff will also be available to answer any questions about this Property or our other conserved properties.

What to expect: 1.5 miles of flat trail, some uneven. Not ADA accessible.

Conservation practices for
forest resilience and wildlife habitat
WITH GREAT PENINSULA CONSERVANCY

July 9, 1:00pm - 3:00pm

Join Great Peninsula Conservancy’s stewardship manager and Northwest Natural Resource Group’s lead forester on a tour of an actively-managed lowland coniferous forest. Objectives for the 320-acre preserve include improving structural and species diversity through thinning, gap cuts, and creating wildlife habitat structures. As we walk through several treatment units, leaders will discuss successes and challenges of planning and implementing ecological forestry practices. Bring snacks, water, and comfortable shoes.

What to expect: < 1 mile, moderate (rough terrain), not ADA accessible.

Explore Trust for Public Land's
Tacoma Community Schoolyards

July 9, 2:00pm - 5:00pm

Join the team at Trust for Public Land (TPL) as we tour two of our recently completed Tacoma Community Schoolyard projects at Helen B. Stafford and Jennie Reed Elementary Schools. We’ll learn more about TPL’s Schoolyard Initiative, an innovative solution that activates existing community assets through partnerships, community engagement, and student visioning. As part of the tour, we will explore the benefits and impacts of the schoolyard renovations on more than 25,000 Tacoma neighbors.

What to expect: Minimal physical activity with the option to try something slightly more strenuous (try out play equipment). Participants can expect to do a bit of walking on and around two playgrounds/playfields on mostly flat surfaces transitioning between a variety terrains (parking lots, asphalt play areas, grass fields, and play surfacing). All spaces are ADA compatible.

 Image credit: LionHorse Media. People of Color Outdoors, Lower Nehalem Community Trust