EVENTS, GRANTS ETC

Posted on December 14, 2025 by Al Bergstein

From Angela at the Puget Sound Partnership’s Strait Ecosystem Recovery Network (ERN)

Here’s the good news in a very soggy week: In less than two weeks, the days will start to get longer! I tell myself this every morning when I open the blinds to darkness. 

In this newsletter, you will find news about funding, volunteer opportunities, events, training and conferences, jobs, and more! As always, we welcome your events and successes for our website and future newsletters:

  • Submit events for the newsletter and our calendar of events HERE
  • Submit your successes so we can celebrate them on our website HERE 

   Funding   

The Puget Sound Partnership (Partnership) gathers public and private funding opportunities in the Recovery Acceleration Funding Tool (RAFT). The National Wildlife Federation hosts a database for Nature-Based Solutions Funding. If you see an opportunity that feels too big to do alone, contact us! Strait ERN can help coordinate and write regional grant applications. The Partnership also has grant-writing assistance available.

Estuary and Salmon Restoration Program Grants – RFPs RELEASED NOV 19th

This grant program, administered by the Recreation and Conservation Office (RCO) provides grants and technical assistance for projects that restore and conserve near-shore areas in Puget Sound. Match requirements have been eliminated for 2026 grants! There are multiple grant areas and application dates vary. Learn more and see RFPs as they are released HERE.

Temper of Times Foundation

Small grants can fund production of advertising or materials and distribution that will lead to measurable outcomes for wildland ecosystem conservation and restoration. Learn more HERE. 

Date: Proposals due December 15th

MJ Murdock Charitable Trust Strategic Grant Program

The Trust funds conservation, environmental education, natural resource protection, and wildlife preservation projects. The grants can fund capital projects, equipment and technology, or staff. Learn more and apply HERE.

Date: Applications are due December 26th

National Fish Passage Program

This program aims to improve habitat for federal trust species and support infrastructure improvement for communities nationwide. Eligible projects provide benefits to aquatic habitats and infrastructure resiliency. Expected to fund $10M in awards. Learn more HERE.

Date: Proposals due December 31st

Western WA Fish and Wildlife: National Fish Passage Program

This funds projects outside of the Columbia River Basin. Project Summary Forms are due by January 16th. Learn more and apply HERE.

Date: Project Summary Forms due January 16th

Floodplains by Design

Floodplains by Design grants are targeted at reducing flood risks and restoring river functions along Washington’s rivers. The pre-application period for the new grant round opens November 1st and closes January 23rd, 2026. Learn more about the grants HERE.

Date: Pre-applications due January 23rd

Brian Abbott Fish Barrier Removal Board Grants

This grant program supports work to identify and remove barriers for salmon and steelhead migration. Learn more about this program HERE.

Date: Applications due January 26th

ESRP Pre-Design (Learning) Program

Regional Pre-Design (Learning) Proposals support restoration of complex ecosystems or improve effectiveness/efficiency of restoration projects. Learn more about this opportunity and apply HERE.

Date: Proposals due February 9th

Streamflow Restoration Competitive Grants

The application period for these grants will be January 15th to March 17th, 2026. Learn more about the grant program and register for a January informational workshop for applicants HERE.

Date: Applications due March 17th

National Sea Grant Law Center

Letters of Interest for small projects that address legal questions related to ocean or coastal laws. Learn more and apply HERE.

Date: LOIs accepted on a rolling basis through August 1st, 2026

   Volunteer Opportunities   

PSEMP CalendarDo you collect data about the Puget Sound? The Puget Sound Ecosystem Monitoring Program (PSEMP) provides a forum for consolidating data-gathering efforts and conversation. Check out their calendar HERE to see their committee schedules. All are welcome at their meetings!

Stormwater Work Group SurveyThe Stormwater Work Group and PSEMP are collecting information on successes and needs for stormwater monitoring. Fill out the 10-15 minute survey HERE.Date: Survey closes December 17th

Volunteer Your Expertise!

The Habitat Strategic Initiative Lead (HSIL) is seeking input for the updates to the Land Development and Cover Implementation Strategy and the Floodplains and Estuaries Implementation Strategy. You can provide feedback via Google Form: Land Development  |  Floodplains and Estuaries.

Date: Land Development Form closes December 19th

Date: Floodplains and Estuaries Form closes January 9th

Provide Feedback to the Jefferson Land Trust

The Jefferson Land Trust is working on a new five-year Strategic Plan and is seeking community input. Take a 10-minute survey HERE to share your priorities.

   Community Events & Learning Opportunities   

Sequim-Dungeness Christmas Bird CountJoin Olympic Peninsula Audubon Society for their 50th annual Sequim-Dungeness Christmas Bird Count! Track the birds in our neighborhoods. Learn more HERE.Date: December 15th

Wednesday Morning Bird WalksEvery Wednesday, join a band of birders on a 3/4-mile bird survey along the Olympic Discovery Trail. Bring your binoculars and meet in the Dungeness River Nature Center’s parking lot.

Date: December 17th and every WednesdayTime: 8:30 amPlace: Dungeness River Nature Center, Sequim

Native Plant Sale

The Clallam County Conservation District’s Native Plant Sale is currently open for plant orders. See the selection and place your order HERE.

Date: Pre-orders end January 20th

Shoreline Management Act Open House(s)The Department of Ecology is hosting one more virtual Open House to discuss changes to the Shoreline Management Act. Translation services available. Learn more and register HERE.

Date: December 16thTime: 6:00 to 7:00 pmPlace: Virtual; register for link

North Olympic Land Trust’s Open HouseCelebrate NOLS’s 35th Anniversary at their Annual Open House! Enjoy a celebratory slice of cake and swap stories of 35 years of land conservation. Learn more HERE.Date: December 30thTime: 2:00 to 5:00 pmPlace: NOLS Office, Port Angeles

Winter Birding and IllustrationLearn more about the birds of the Salish Sea with the Port Townsend Marine Science Center. Practice scientific illustration, then head outside to look for birds. Learn more and RSVP HERE.Date: January 10thTime: 10:00 am to 12:00 noonPlace: PTMSC Aquarium classroom, Fort Worden

Floodplains and Estuaries LIO/LE Coffee ChatThe Habitat SIL is hosting a coffee chat to talk about the Floodplains and Estuaries Implementation Strategies. This virtual chat is open to members of LIOs and LEs. Register HERE.Date: January 13thTime: 9:00 am to 12:00 noonPlace: Virtual; register for link

Land Development and Cover LIO/LE Coffee ChatThe Habitat SIL is hosting a coffee chat to talk about the Land Development and Cover Implementation Strategies. This virtual chat is open to members of LIOs and LEs. Register HERE.Date: January 15thTime: 1:00 to 4:00 pmPlace: Virtual; register for link

Alternatives to BulkheadsThis self-paced online course is part of Ecology’s Coastal Training Program. Learn about shorelines and stabilization in this 101 offering. Register HERE.Date: January 13 to February 25Place: Virtual

Blueprints for Community-Led Blue CarbonThe focus for this Blue Carbon Collaborative meeting is small-scale blue carbon restoration projects focused on key single-species efforts. Learn more and register HERE. Date: February 5thTime: 10:00 amPlace: Virtual; register for link

   Training and Conferences   

Forestry 101 Workshop

Come learn about forest stewardship and health with the Jefferson County Conservation District. Learn more and register HERE.

Date: December 13th

Time: 2:30 to 4:00 pm

Place: Jefferson County Library, Port Hadlock

Roads and Resilience: Integrating State Transportation, Hazards, and Nature-Based Solutions

Join the Shoreline and Coastal Planners Group for a webinar on natural hazard impacts to state roads. Learn more and register HERE.

Date: December 16th

Time: 10:00 am to 12:00 noon

Place: Virtual

NW Land Camp

NW Land Camp brings together land trust leaders and conservation partners for networking and training. In June 2026, Land Camp will be in beautiful Florence, OR. Mark your calendars and watch for more information!

   Jobs   

Natural Resources Program AssistantThe Jamestown S’Klallam Tribe is hiring an administrative program assistant for their Natural Resources Department. Learn more HERE.

LIO Program ManagerThe Puget Sound Partnership is hiring a Local Integrating Organization Program Manager to lead the Partnership’s LIO Program. The position is largely remote, with some on-site work required. Learn more HERE.   News   2025 State of the Sound ReleasedThe Puget Sound Partnership has released the 2025 State of the Sound report. This is an assessment of the results of all our work around the Puget Sound towards ecosystem protection, restoration, and recovery. There is, of course, both celebration of success and the sobering reality of how much more still needs to be done. Read the report HERE.

2024 Puget Sound Marine Waters OverviewThe PSEMP Marine Waters Workgroup has released it’s 14th annual Marine Waters Overview, collecting data from across the greater Puget Sound. Read about and download the report HERE.

Filed under: Environmental Activism, Events, Government, Olympic Peninsula | Comments Off on EVENTS, GRANTS ETC

EVENT: Friends of Ennis Creek walk

Posted on October 7, 2025 by Al Bergstein

Friends of Ennis Creek – Explore and Learn!

October 19 and October 25

We are offering TWO special tours in October. Join us to visit what we call “our last best chance of a salmon stream in Port Angeles.” Please help spread the word. Space is limited, and we got some walk requests at our Forever StreamFest booth last month. Reservations accepted in order received.

Sunday October 19: A walk to Ennis Creek on Robbie and Jim Mantooth’s trails. Visit a magnificent stretch of healthy salmon stream that Robbie and Jim and fisheries experts from the Lower Elwha Klallam Tribe have been restoring and protecting, with help from North Olympic Land Trust. 

Volunteers from Clallam County Streamkeepers will demonstrate some equipment they use as part of regular water monitoring on the stream. And just savor the peace and beauty of the beautiful area! 

Dress to enjoy fall weather, with good walking shoes (expect a short steep bit of trail returning). Even rain is delightful under tree canopy on trails. We can lend out some hiking poles, but if you have them, you might want to bring them.

Time and Directions: 1:00 p.m. Drive to the east dead end of Lindberg Road (first left from Del Guzzi Drive if coming from east, or first left from Golf Course Road from west). Park on Lindberg Road or go under log entry for Ennis Arbor Farm to limited parking area. 

RSVP: Paul Pickett, (360) 359-3435, earthwater@gmail.com

Saturday October 25: A walk to the mouth of Ennis Creek on the Olympic Discovery Trail. Learn about and see first hand the former Rayonier Mill site, where the Department of Ecology is developing cleanup plans. 

Darlene Schanfald, a leader with Olympic Environmental Council and Sierra Club North Olympic Chapter, will tell us about the history of the site and the proposed cleanup. 

We will also learn about restoration possibilities for the mouth of Ennis Creek, a critical part of the site cleanup and rehabilitation. 

Dress to enjoy fall weather – the ODT trail is mostly paved and fairly flat. 

Time and Directions: 1:00 p.m. Take Ennis Street north to the parking area at the end of the street, and meet by gate to Olympic Discovery Trail. 

RSVP: Paul Pickett, (360) 359-3435, earthwater@gmail.com

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Science Panel to discuss the Research and Monitoring Topic in the draft 2026-2030 Action Agenda

Posted on October 6, 2025 by Al Bergstein

From the Puget Sound Partnership

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
October 6, 2025

MEDIA CONTACT: Ian McCabe, 564.669.4628, ian.mccabe@psp.wa.gov 

The Puget Sound Partnership Science Panel will meet online and at Hotel Leo, Leo Lounge, 1224 Cornwall Ave, Bellingham, WA 98225 and online on Wednesday, October 8, from 9:30 a.m. to 3:15 p.m. and Thursday, October 9, from 9:00 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.

We will be providing an all-virtual livestream of this meeting, through TVW. 

TVW web link for October 8: https://tvw.org/video/puget-sound-partnership-science-panel-2025101017/?eventID=2025101017  

TVW web link for October 9: https://tvw.org/video/puget-sound-partnership-science-panel-2025101018/?eventID=2025101018  

The full Science Panel agenda and meeting materials are available through our board meetings page at: https://psp.wa.gov/board_meetings.php.

Meeting highlights include:

  • A presentation and discussion about the status of priority federal policies and appropriations related to Puget Sound recovery. Presentation by Ahren Stroming, special assistant for federal affairs at the Puget Sound Partnership. Read more.  
  • A presentation summarizing a 2023-2025 Puget Sound Research project: Remote Sensing-Based Evaluation of Dungeness River Restoration. Presentation by Scott Redman, science director at the Puget Sound Partnership, and Phil Roni, vice president of Cramer Fish Sciences. Read more.
  • A presentation about the Research and Monitoring Topic in the 2026-2030 Action Agenda. The presentation will include an overview of multiple issues raised during the partner review period for the Science Panel to discuss. Presentation by Scott Redman, science director at the Puget Sound Partnership. Read more. 
  • A presentation on Washington Sea Grants Fellowship programs and an introduction to current fellows. Presentation by Scott Redman, science director at the Puget Sound Partnership about the. Read more.
  • A presentation and discussion about recommendations from the Puget Sound Ecosystem Monitoring Program (PSEMP) Human Health Scoping and Inventory Project. Presentation by Katrina Radach, PSEMP manager at the Puget Sound Partnership, and Marguerite Pappaioanou, Science Panel member. Read more.
  • A presentation and discussion about the Whidbey Basin Cumulative Effects Evaluation. Presentation by Raquel Gilliland, monitoring program effectiveness analyst at the Puget Sound Partnership, and Mike LeMoine, director of Skagit River System Cooperative. Read more.
  • A presentation and discussion about science to support the Implementation Strategies. Presentation by Scott Redman, science & evaluation director at the Puget Sound Partnership, and Joel Baker, director at Puget Sound Institute, and Andy James, senior research scientist at Puget Sound Institute, and Angela Adams, environmental protection specialist at the Environmental Protection Agency. Read more.
  • A discussion about values on the Science Panel and how these values shape Science Panel’s work and discussions. Discussion led by Chair Kelly Biedenweg, chair of the Puget Sound Partnership Science Panel.

The full Science Panel agenda and meeting materials are available through our board meetings page at: https://psp.wa.gov/board_meetings.php.

If you need special accommodations to participate in this meeting, please notify Boards Program Coordinator, Amber Raney, at 564.999.0527.

About the Science Panel

The Science Panel’s expertise and advice are critical to the Puget Sound Partnership’s efforts to develop a comprehensive, science-based plan to restore Puget Sound. The members, appointed by the Leadership Council, are chosen from the top scientists in Washington state.

About the Puget Sound Partnership

The Puget Sound Partnership is the state agency formed to lead the region’s collective effort to restore and protect Puget Sound. Working with hundreds of government agencies, Tribes, scientists, businesses, and nonprofits, the Partnership mobilizes partner action around a common agenda, advances Sound investments, and tracks progress to optimize recovery.

For more information, go to www.psp.wa.gov.

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News from the Puget Sound Partnership Local Team

Posted on August 7, 2025 by Al Bergstein

Volunteer Opportunities  

Streamkeepers of Clallam County (Ongoing!)Streamkeepers monitors water quality and stream flow of Clallam County streams. Volunteers receive one-to-one training and are key to the success of the program. No prior experience necessary! Current opportunities include:

  • Summer Quarterly Monitoring throughout August
  • Pollution Investigation and Correction Stream Flow Team
  • Public outreach and education
  • Data entry

Please contact Joel Green, Streamkeepers Coordinator, for more information.

Salmon-Friendly Volunteers Needed at Jefferson County Fair

Help the North Olympic Salmon Coalition with their interactive salmon education activities, including Fin the Giant Migrating Salmon. Learn more and RSVP HERE.

Date: August 8th and 9th

Time: Varies

Place: Jefferson County Fairgrounds

Volunteer Training: Spawner Surveys

The North Olympic Salmon Coalition is offering training to participate in their Hood Canal Summer Chum surveys in Chimacum Creek. The training is mandatory if you want to join this citizen-science effort! Learn more and RSVP HERE.

Date: August 28th

Time: 10:00 am to 12:00 noon

Place: Finnriver Farm and Cidery, Chimacum

See “Training” section for information about NOSC’s Stream Stewards Training

Forever StreamFest 2025

The Fourth Annual Forever StreamFest will bring together environmental organizations to connect with the public, including potential new volunteers and supporters! Strait ERN has had a booth in the past and would be happy to support a booth this year if members were interested in sharing a space. I will likely be out of town, unfortunately, but please let me know if you’re interested in a shared booth.

Date: September 20th

Time: 10:00 am to 3:30 pm

Place: Pebble Beach Park, Port Angeles

  Community Events  

Wednesday Morning Bird WalksEvery Wednesday, join a band of birders on a 3/4-mile bird survey along the Olympic Discovery Trail. Bring your binoculars and meet in the Dungeness River Nature Center’s parking lot.
Date: August 13th and every WednesdayTime: 8:30 amPlace: Dungeness River Nature Center, Sequim

Trees: Weavers of the ForestLearn about the wonders of trees and never look at a forest the same way again. More information and registration HERE.
Date: August 16thTime: 1:30 to 3:30 pmPlace: Fort Flagler, Nordland

Lecture: Vegetation Zones of the Olympic Peninsula

Learn about native plant communities of the Olympic Peninsula from sea level to alpine summits with botanist Dr. Fayla Schwartz. Register HERE.

Date: September 20th

Time: 4:00 to 6:00 pm

Place: Fort Flagler Hospital, Nordland

  Training and Conferences  

PSEMP Communication Training with Message Box

Learn how to use and leverage the communication tool Message Box. This hands-on training will help you build your skills in communicating your work effectively. Register HERE.

Date: August 12th

Time: 10:30 am to 12:00 noon

Place: Virtual

Opening the Gates: Solutions for Fish Passage and Flood Control

Join speakers and a panel discussion for a half-day virtual workshop on the latest science, tools, and innovation for improving fish passage at tide gates. Register HERE.

Date: September 10th

Time: 1:00 to 4:00 pm

Place: Virtual (Zoom)

Pacific Northwest Indigenous Aquaculture Summit

The Jamestown S’Klallam Tribe and Kurt Grinnell Aquaculture Scholarship Foundation will provide a forum for Indigenous peoples to learn from each other about aquaculture operations. Learn more and register HERE.

Date: September 15th to 18th

Place: 7 Cedars Resort, Blyn

Stream Stewards Training

The North Olympic Salmon Coalition is offering their annual Stream Stewards training for anyone wanting to learn more about our streams and rivers. This five-week course will prepare you to actively support healthy riverine ecosystems. Learn more and register HERE

.

Date: Wednesdays, September 17th to October 15th

Time: 9:00 am to 12:30

Place: Varies across Clallam and Jefferson Counties

Salmon Summit 2025: Reconnecting Habitat, Restoring Rivers, Recovering Salmon

Call for abstracts! Submit an abstract for this year’s Salmon Summit in Bellingham, WA. Submit an abstract HERE. Learn more about the summit HERE.

  Jobs  

Project Manager | North Olympic Salmon Coalition

NOSC is hiring a new project manager to lead salmon habitat restoration projects across the North Olympic Peninsula! Learn more about the position with this great team HERE.

Washington Conservation Corps

The WA Conservation Corps is currently hiring! This program helps young adults (18-25) jumpstart careers in the environmental field. Local organizations like the North Olympic Salmon Coalition and many others use WCC crews to help with noxious weed control and habitat restoration projects. Learn more and apply HERE.

Executive Director, Puget Sound Partnership

The Puget Sound Partnership works to collectively recover and protect Puget Sound, partnering with Tribes, state and federal government, nonprofits, businesses, and local communities. The Executive Director is part of the Governor’s Cabinet. Learn more HERE.

Date: Applications close August 19th  News  

Field and Flow Recap: Floodplains by Design ConferenceIf you missed the Floodplains by Design conference in June, you can now have a virtual experience through presentation videos and slide decks. Check them out!

Filed under: education, environmental education, Events | Comments Off on News from the Puget Sound Partnership Local Team

Event: PT Paper (PTPC) Draft NPDES Renewal Permit & Meeting

Posted on October 30, 2024 by Al Bergstein

The Washington Department of Ecology (WSDOE) is reviewing for renewal the PT Paper Mill’s (PTPC) Draft National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES). Wastewater discharges from the mill, which have been going on for over 100 years, are regulated by the WDOE. Ecology is proposing a draft NPDES permit renewal for PTPC.

PTPC produces pulp by both chemical kraft process and from the repulping of old corrugated cardboard. All of the cardboard recycled in Jefferson County and other areas goes to the mill for repulping. The pulp is sold or used to make paper products, such as liner board for cardboard boxes.

The mill is seeking to discharge about 7% more effluent and 2% greater suspended solids. The permit includes new water-quality based limits for benzo(a)anthracene, chlordane and pentachlorophenol.

The permit includes some new studies of pollutants in Port Townsend Bay, requirements to minimize spills of certain chemicals to the wastewater treatment plant, an odor minimization study and other items.

You can send written comments to the Dept of Ecology HQ in Lacey (see document below for more specific info) and a public meeting and hearing will take place on December 4th, at 5:30 PM at the USO building (Bldg 326) Fort Worden. Interpretation services are available.

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Energy & Climate Resilience Summit – October 29 & 30, 2024

Posted on October 12, 2024 by Al Bergstein

Date: Tuesday, October 29 – Wednesday, October 30, 2024

Location: 7 Cedars Hotel & Conference Center in Blyn, Washington 

Time: 9am-5pm with a networking reception to follow on Tuesday. A special hotel room rate will be offered, with a booking link provided in the invitation (coming soon).

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Event: Meet the Candidate! Dave Upthegrove

Posted on January 20, 2024 by Al Bergstein

Dave is running for Washington State Lands Commissioner, filling the position that is being vacated by Hilary Franz. I’ve know of Dave Upthegroves’ work in the legislature on behalf of environmental concerns since the mid 2000’s when he was a keynote speaker at People For Puget Sound’s Environmental Lobby Days. Dave has been a staunch supporter of environmental legislation. One of the great things about living here on the Peninsula is you get a chance to actually meet and talk to candidates for significant statewide office. Olyopen supports Dave. He’ll make a great Lands Commissioner.

Hope you can make it or at least donate to Dave’s campaign.

Meet Dave Upthegrove!

February 3, 2024 | 3-5 pm

Sons of Norway – Port Angeles

131 W 5th St

Port Angeles, Washington 98362

RSVP Here

Donate in Lieu of Attendance

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Jefferson County shorelines needs your help now

Posted on January 12, 2024 by Al Bergstein

Jefferson County is updating its Shoreline Master Plan and is being heavily lobbied by the shellfish industry to allow for the approval of additional geoduck farms in our tidelands without public input.  Neighboring counties–Kitsap and Clallam–allow for public input but Jefferson hasn’t yet committed to this.  Find out what’s at stake as this multimillion dollar export business looks to expand here.   Local environmental activists will talk about their work and how you can get involved.

With a growing multimillion dollar marked in Asia, the shellfish industry is eyeing Jefferson County’s tidelands for increased geoduck cultivation. Geoduck cultivation involves the intense use of plastics—some seven miles and eleven tons of tubing per acre.  Each tube fosters a wholly unnatural density of the large clams that are then “harvested” using hydraulic hoses to liquify the tidelands down to three feet.  Then the whole process starts over again.  Geoduck cultivation raises many environmental concerns, among them: competition for marine nutrients, displacement of tideland marine life, and plastics pollution.  Sierra Club is asking the Jefferson County Commissioners to require a thorough review and public input before issuing any permits to farm geoducks.  A standard “Conditional Use Permit”, as is required in neighboring Kitsap and Clallum counties, should be the norm.  

 When:  Thursday January 18, 7PM on Zoom

https://act.sierraclub.org/events/details?formcampaignid=7013q000002Hy4YAAS

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Tidelands to Timberline Classes – Registration Open

Posted on January 1, 2024 by Al Bergstein

Tidelands to Timberline classes

Lottery registration is now open for Jefferson Land Trust’s 2024 Tidelands to Timberline Northwest Naturalist Course (April 19 – June 7). This eight-week, field-based course offers committed participants the chance to become intimately familiar with the natural history and ecosystems of the northeast Olympic Peninsula and absorb the knowledge of some of the greatest naturalists in our area. In addition to six to eight hours every Friday, the course’s curriculum asks participants to spend an additional three to 10 hours per week learning about our local natural history — a commitment of 15 hours per week.

In an effort to make access to this popular course as equitable as possible, 2024 course participants (limited to 18) will be randomly selected from a list of those who wish to register and who are prepared to commit to the course.

To learn more and enter the lottery by midnight January 14, click here.

(https://act.saveland.org/event/northwest-naturalists-program-2024/e533104_)

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The Chehalis Watershed In Peril

Posted on November 19, 2023 by Al Bergstein
A Tale of Floods, Droughts, Forest Practices, and Climate Change
Environmental Speaker Series
Thursday, November 30, 2023  |  4:30-5:20pm PT
In-Person at WWU: Academic Instructional Center West, Room 204
and Online on Zoom
The Chehalis Watershed In Peril : Western Washington University (wwu.edu)

The Chehalis watershed has been in crisis for decades. Additionally, misguided farmers along the river have taken it on their own to “address” the problems, causing even more destruction. This should be an interesting discussion. I talked to Senator Van De Wege years ago about bills to open up gravel mining on the river, thankfully stopped by the Tribes.

About the Event

The Chehalis watershed is the second largest watershed in Washington State. From its headwaters in the Willapa Hills, it runs about 130 miles in a circuitous path to the Chehalis River estuary. It is a rain-fed watershed that has been heavily logged since the 1850s. Tree plantations, both privately and publicly owned, dominate the watershed. Only 14,000 acres of older, structurally complex forests remain in the watershed, where there are no National Parks or other protected areas.

In the summer of 2023, the Chehalis River experienced the lowest water levels in 94 years – since recordkeeping began. Clear-cut logging of old forests has a huge impact on stream and river hydrology, with flows reduced by as much as 50% in summer as water is sucked up by young plantation trees. Clear-cut logging also has a clear connection to the devastating floods that dominate the watershed in the last 30 years.

In this talk, Lee will give a general overview of environmental issues in the Chehalis watershed, as well as highlight the connection between forest practices and water quality. She will highlight the importance of preserving the last of the older, structurally complex and diverse forests that remain in the watershed.

The Environmental Speaker Series is free and open to the public. Talks are held each Thursday at 4:30pm in Academic Instructional Center West, room 204. Join us at WWU or online on Zoom!
Brought to you by:
College of the Environment
The Foundation for Western Washington University & Alumni
 

Event Speaker

Lee First

Twin Harbors Waterkeeper
Lee First has a BS in Environmental Studies (Western Washington University) and a Professional Certificate in Wetland Science and Management (University of Washington). She has worked in the Waterkeeper movement for almost 20 years. As the Twin Harbors Waterkeeper, she works to advocate for, protect, and prevent pollution in the Chehalis, Willapa watersheds, as well as watersheds on the west coast of the Olympic Peninsula. Her past job experience includes managing environmental controls at a Superfund Cleanup Site, collecting water quality data for cities and counties, delineating wetlands and developing mitigation plans for Tribal governments, and controlling aquatic invasive species. Her passion for canoeing and kayaking (especially exploring new waterways) has led her to completing 17 sea kayak expeditions on the Inside Passage.

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Event: Mining Risks to the Salmon Watersheds of Northwestern North America

Posted on September 27, 2023 by Al Bergstein

A Speaker Series: Toxicology and Societies
The Impacts of Chemicals in Our Lives

Thursday, October 5, 2023  |  11:00am to 12:00pm PT on Zoom
In northwestern North America, a new rush of mining exploration and production is underway. The valuable mineral reserves in this region underlie watersheds that support critical water resources and cultural keystone species such as Pacific salmon. The scale of current-day mines dwarfs many historical mines. And, despite improvements to modern-day governance processes, we still witness mining operations causing harm to salmonid-bearing watersheds. This presentation will describe the basics of industrial-scale mining operations, the ecology of salmonid-bearing watersheds, and the negative impacts that metal and coal mining can have on salmonids and their habitat. This information can be applied to four key scientific questions intended to promote transparent discussions of whether the risk and uncertainty of mining impacts are sufficiently considered in governance processes.  More information about the speaker series is available, as are all past Toxicology and Societies recordings.
Brought to you by:
Institute of Environmental Toxicology and ChemistryWWU Alumni Office
Register here:
Mining Risks to the Salmon Watersheds of Northwestern North America | The Foundation for WWU & Alumni | Western Washington University
Chris Sergeant – Speaker
Chris Sergeant is an applied watershed scientist working where freshwaters, fish, and people converge. He grew up in Des Moines, Washington, and currently lives in Seattle working remotely as a research scientist with the Flathead Lake Biological Station. Chris is also an Affiliate Instructor with the University of Washington School of Marine and Environmental Affairs. Before moving back to Seattle with his family in late 2020, he enjoyed living 10 years in Juneau, Alaska, which had a huge influence on his perspectives on life and science. Chris studies mining impacts to freshwater ecosystems, climate change implications for Pacific salmon, best practices for developing long-term ecological monitoring plans, and the governance of transboundary watersheds. Chris received his BS and MS from the University of Washington and his PhD from the University of Alaska Fairbanks. 
Questions & Accommodations
Contact the WWU Alumni Office for this event by calling (360) 650-3353 or emailing Alumni@wwu.edu. There will be auto-captions available for this event. 

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EVENT: Meet Lorna Smith Commissioner Dept of Fish & Wildlife Sept 21 online

Posted on September 11, 2023 by Al Bergstein

Well worth an hour to hear from a key State Commissioner. Click anywhere on the photo below to be taken to the signup page. The RSVP link does not work in the image.

Filed under: education, Environmental Activism, environmental education, Environmental Law, Environmental Protection, Events, fisheries, Government, Olympic Peninsula, wolves | Tagged: , , , , | 2 Comments »

Forest Protection Advocates Banner Port Angeles

Posted on June 26, 2023 by Al Bergstein

This morning, Clallam County residents joined forest & climate activists across the PNW in hanging banners calling for forest protection as key to mitigating the worst impacts of climate change.

A local hike in Clallam County took place on Saturday as part of the region-wide Week of Action for Forests & Climate.

On the Anniversary of the 2021 Heat Dome, PNW Communities Mobilize for Massive Week of Forest and Climate Action

PORTLAND, OR – Today, on the two year anniversary of the 2021 Heat Dome, communities throughout the Pacific Northwest are mobilizing a massive week of action to shine a spotlight on the significance of forest defense as climate defense. From the Rogue Valley in southern Oregon, to Bellingham, Washington and out east to the Rockies, communities are holding events to call on elected officials — from the White House and Forest Service to governors and state forestry agencies — to protect PNW forests as a vital strategy to mitigate the worst climate impacts, create jobs restoring lands and waters, and ensure forests and communities thrive for generations to come. The week of action comes just days after Multnomah County filed Multnomah v. Exxon, a bold lawsuit seeking to hold the fossil fuel industry accountable for the Heat Dome which caused more than 100 deaths in the state of Oregon.

Brenna Bell, Forest Climate Manager for 350PDX says, “It is beyond time for all levels of government to treat the climate crisis like the emergency it is. I am heartened by Multnomah County’s bold action last week to hold Big Oil accountable for their role in creating the climate crisis. Now, governments need to recognize that Big Timber has also massively profited off clearcutting Oregon’s best defense against climate chaos and act quickly to protect and restore our forests.”

To kick off the week of action, today activists hung 20 banners that called for forest protection over highway overpasses across Oregon, Washington, Idaho, and Montana in a coordinated action to highlight the growing grassroots movement to protect forests for climate mitigation. This action coincided with the release of an open letter from more than 30 organizations to the Biden Administration and federal leaders, calling on them to:

Protect federally-managed old-growth and mature forests in the Pacific Northwest as foundational to protecting our communities and a livable climate;

Listen to, resource, and support communities on the frontlines of the climate crises;

Support rural economies by redirecting federal subsidies away from the extractive timber industry and towards sustainable restoration and reforestation jobs;

Start acting like the climate crisis is the emergency that it truly is, and be a bold and decisive leader in protecting both the current and future generations.

“Protecting our remaining mature and old growth forests is crucial to mitigating the climate crisis and creating thriving climate-resilient communities,” says Madeline Cowen, Steering Committee member with the PNW Forest Climate Alliance. “Our forests have tremendous capacity to absorb and store carbon — we must prioritize safeguarding them for community benefit over short-term corporate profit.”

“We’re calling on our elected officials–from the White House and Forest Service to our Governor–to stand with our communities and protect our forests as a core part of meaningful climate action,” says David Perk, of 350 Seattle. “In Washington, we call on the Commissioner of Public Lands to follow through on her commitment to propose and implement an improved policy for the preservation of our remaining mature forests.”

Residents and organizations from around the region see a significant need to raise awareness around the need to protect PNW forests – some of the most carbon-rich in the world – as a key pillar of climate action and connect the dots between destructive logging and catastrophic climate impacts. They believe that these must be managed for community benefit, not to maximize profits for Wall Street corporations and shareholders. The actions will focus on the climate, water, wildfire, biodiversity, and economic impacts if their elected do not act now to protect PNW forests.

Dozens of actions are planned in 18 towns and cities across the PNW.

For the full list of actions visit: forestclimatealliance.org/weekofaction

The PNWFCA is a network of organizations and activists working at the intersection of forest defense and climate justice.

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Event: Clamming at Fort Flagler

Posted on May 31, 2023 by Al Bergstein

Program: Clamming at Fort Flagler

Sunday June 18th @ 10 AM. (Changed from June 4th)

Location: Lower Campground – Fort Flagler State Park

Registration: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/606796955027

Join the Friends of Fort Flagler to explore and harvest our local clams at the lower campground of Fort Flagler next to the Beachcomber Café.  We will identify local shellfish, discuss the common harvest tools and how to use them, how to read a tide table book and why!  How to care for your catch after harvest and finally a few
suggested ways to prepare them. As Michael Zimmerman said, “It’s a treasure we have in Puget Sound and particularly at Fort Flagler to spend a low tide watching the sea and beach life and the rewards of harvesting your own dinner, fresh from the beaches.  If we do it right, the resource will be there for us, generations to come.”

What should folks bring? (shovel, rake, gloves) #2 shovel-long handle, tined garden scratcher, separate small or medium size bucket (each digger must have their own container), gloves–rubber garden gloves are best but not required, shellfish license if over 16 years old.  For Fishing License in Washington State, the age limit for residents is 16 to 69 years. For Youth, they must be 15 years of age. And For senior citizens, the age limit is 70 and above. There are special reduced-fee licenses for disabled residents and non-resident disabled veterans.  A one or three day license might suffice for some folks if they don’t plan to shellfish again.

PS–ALL nonresidents must have a license regardless of age.

Presenters

Michael Zimmerman was a Washington State Park Ranger for over 40 years.  Michael has a lifelong love for parks and the beach and earned his Bachelor of Science in Fisheries. He helped raise two boys and taught them as well as friends, neighbors and thousands of park visitors how to identify, harvest and prepare all
types of shellfish–clams, oysters, crab, shrimp and even seaweeds. 


Harry Louch was a Washington State Park Ranger for over 30 years.  He has been digging clams his entire life.  He passed the joy of clam digging to his kids, as well as park visitors. Harry found that it “was great fun helping
those new to the sport learn the best harvesting methods and where to look for clams.”

Friends of Fort Flagler is a non-profit organization dedicated to the restoring, preserving, and protecting the natural and historic resources of Fort Flagler State Park.  Please support our state park by becoming a member, volunteering or donating to our organization.  To learn more, visit https://friendsoffortflagler.org/.

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Events: Septic System Training

Posted on May 30, 2023 by Al Bergstein

Septic System Classes Offered

(Port Townsend, WA) – Taking care of your septic system is an important part of protecting public health as well as our beautiful and valuable water resources. It can also save you money by extending the life of your septic system and prevent costly repairs. Jefferson County Public Health is offering free combined Septics 101 & 201 classes to homeowners about septic system operation, maintenance, and inspection. Classes are free, but registration is required. Space is limited. Please contact 360-385-9444 or visit the links below to sign up.

  • Quilcene Community Center (294952 US-101, Quilcene)
    Thursday June 1, 9-2:30

Register for the Quilcene class at septicdiy1.brownpapertickets.com or call 360-385-9444

  • Tri-Area Community Center (10 W Valley Rd, Chimacum)

Friday June 2, 9-2:30
Register for the Tri-Area classes at septicdiy2.brownpapertickets.com or call 360-385-9444

  • Tri-Area Community Center (10 W Valley Rd, Chimacum)
    Thursday June 8, 4-8:30

Register for the Tri-Area classes at septicdiy2.brownpapertickets.com or call 360-385-9444

Course Descriptions: 

  • Septics 101- Basics of septic system operation and maintenance. Topics covered include: How does your septic system operate?  How do you maintain it? How do you landscape your yard without interfering with the smooth function of your septic system? What about garbage disposals? What impact does a working or failing system have on our drinking water, ground and surface water?
  • Septics 201 – Step by step inspection of the septic system and reporting the results. 

After completing the classes, homeowners may be able to complete required septic system monitoring inspections at a more reasonable cost. All training courses for the program are offered free of charge to the attendees.  Many resources about caring for a septic system are available for homeowners at https://jeffersoncountypublichealth.org/650/Septic-Systems.

To view this on social media, visit:

Facebook— https://www.facebook.com/photo/?fbid=558457596465174&set=a.163387039305567

Instagram– https://www.instagram.com/p/CsXGlNLh_b-/

Liz Anderson

Gender Pronouns: she/her/hers

Web/Digital Communications Specialist

Jefferson County Public Health

615 Sheridan Street

Port Townsend, WA 98368          

Main: 360-385-9400

Direct: 360-385-9405

landerson@co.jefferson.wa.us   | https://jeffersoncountypublichealth.org/

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EVENT: Puget Sound Day on the Hill Livestream! May 9th

Posted on May 4, 2023 by Al Bergstein

Dear Puget Sound recovery community, 

Registration is now open for two Puget Sound Day on the Hill livestream events!

 

Puget Sound Federal Leadership Task Force – coordination of resources, policies, and programs to support ecosystem and salmon recovery and the protection of treaty rights

May 9, 2023 | 7:00 a.m. – 8:00 a.m. PDT

REGISTER HERE

The first livestream event, on May 9, will be a panel discussion about Puget Sound recovery with representatives from federal agencies moderated by Peter Murchie, Puget Sound Geographic Program manager at the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). 

Tentative panelists include:

  • Sara Gonzalez-Rothi, senior director for water, Council on Environmental Quality
  • Zach Penney, senior advisor, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration
  • Steve Kopecky, deputy chief, Northwest Division Regional Integration Team, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers
  • Zach Schafer, senior advisor, Office of Water, EPA
  • Karnig Ohannessian, deputy assistant secretary of the Navy for environment and mission readiness

 

Puget Sound Day on the Hill event with Congressional delegation and Admiral Hann

May 10, 2023 | 7:00 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. PDT.

REGISTER HERE

The second livestream event, on May 10, will feature members of the Washington Congressional delegation and Admiral Nancy Hann of NOAA’s Commissioned Officer Corps. The livestream will take place from 7:00 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. PDT.

Tentative schedule:

7:30 a.m. – 8:00 a.m.Rep. Gluesenkamp Perez
8:00 a.m. – 8:30 a.m.Rep. Strickland
10:00 a.m. – 10:30 a.m.Rep. Larsen
10:30 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.Admiral Hann
11:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.Rep. Schrier
11:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.Rep. Jayapal
12:00 p.m. – 12:30 p.m.Rep. Kilmer
12:30 p.m. – 1:00 p.m.Sen. Murray
1:00 p.m. – 1:30 p.m.Sen. Cantwell
  

Rep. DelBene will stop by between Rep. Kilmer and Sen. Murray

Please join us for these livestream events to support Puget Sound and salmon recovery and to encourage the good work done by federal agencies and our Congressional delegation. Both events will be recorded and available to view for registered participants.

We hope you’ll join us on May 9 and 10!

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EVENT: Heroes of Our Time May 6th

Posted on May 1, 2023 by Al Bergstein

The Northwest Toxic Communities coalition is proud to present our annual Summit 

 “Heroes of Our Time”

Hear the challenges they have faced along the way to success

Saturday May 6  –  9 AM – 3 PMJoin us virtually to celebrate Dr. David Carpenter, public health champion for communities v. Monsanto Attorney Marc Zemel on the Spokane River PCB cleanup against the USEPA Attorney 

Charlie Tebbutt, author and public advocate for cleaning up CAFOs

RSVP here: https://nwtoxiccommunities.org/event/annual-summit-2023-heroes-of-our-time/  (And see an enlarged flyer)

Option:  If the RSVP Google.doc link above does not work for you; email me your name and email address:  darlenes@olympus.net

The URL to the meeting will be released Friday, May 5.

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EVENT: NHS hike in Miller Peninsula 4/26

Posted on March 31, 2023 by Al Bergstein

Join the Natural History Society for a hike in Miller Peninsula State Park on Wednesday, April 26. Ken Wilson will lead this 7.7 mile round-trip hike. Please RSVP (and say whether you will drive yourself or carpool), or ask Ken questions:  jltnatural@saveland.org  

If carpooling, meet at Haines Place Park&Ride at 9:15am. We will all meet at 10am at Miller Peninsula State Park parking area, approximately a 30-minute drive as you travel towards Sequim from Port Townsend. Expect to be back at cars by 3pm.

The park is located off highway 101: turn right at Diamond Point Road and travel 1.2 miles, then turn left to the parking area. (There’s just a tiny sign.) Print a trail map in advance, or take a photo of the map in the parking lot. The state’s newest park has a trail through the best old-growth madrone forest we’ve seen, leading to a deserted beach on a shoreline facing Protection Island. We will visit Thompson Spit, known for birding and flowers. The best description of this hike is found in Day Hiking Olympic Peninsula by Craig Romano.

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Class: Edible and Medicinal Plants

Posted on March 24, 2023 by Al Bergstein

FRIDAY 4/21/23 – Edible and Medicinal Plants @ 2PM

Registration: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/596027262587

Location: Meet at Interpretive Trail at Fort Flagers State Park

Did you know Douglas-fir makes a tasty tea, and cottonwood can ease your aching back? Come take a walk at Fort Flagler with local herbalist J.T. and discover how people and plants help each other thrive.

Presenter: Northwest herbalist J.T. delights in connecting people with plants and watching them fall in love. She gathers herbs from mountain to city to sea and has taught hundreds of students how to identify edible and medicinal plants. J.T. likes to mix it up, incorporating her European and Chinese heritage in her herbal approaches. She teaches in both urban environments (e.g., classes at Dandelion Botanical in Seattle, plant walks with Young Women Empowered) and out in the country (workshops at the Northwest Herbal Faire near the Cascade mountains, on the San Juan islands with Earthwalk Northwest’s ethnobotany program…). Wherever you find her, a class with J.T. offers practical, joyful knowledge for all your outdoor adventures.

Friends of Fort Flagler is a non-profit organization dedicated to the restoring, preserving, and protecting the natural and historic resources of Fort Flagler State Park.  Please support our state park by becoming a member, volunteering or donating to our organization.  To learn more, visit https://friendsoffortflagler.org/.

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Event: Northern Elephant Seals in the Pacific Northwest virtual program

Posted on December 31, 2022 by Al Bergstein

Northern Elephant Seals in the Pacific Northwest virtual program on January 25th@7pm

Registration: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/northern-elephant-seals-in-the-pacific-northwest-tickets-483953085707

Please join the Friends of Fort Flagler to learn more about Northern elephant seal natural history and distribution. We will also discuss common causes of stranding in Northern elephant seals, field assessments and our recent hospital cases.

Presenters:

Casey Mclean has over 12 years’ experience working with marine animals, and is the Executive Director of SR3, Washington’s first dedicated marine animal hospital.  SR3 is a nonprofit organization that focuses on response, rehabilitation and research of local marine wildlife. The hospital opened the summer of 2021 and immediately started helping harbor seals. is fall they will be opening a marine animal hospital in the Des Moines marina, just south of Seattle. To learn more about SR3, visit https://www.sealifer3.org/

Michelle Rivard is the veterinarian for SR3.  Dr. Michelle Rivard is an aquatic animal veterinarian focused on clinical medicine, pathology, and health of free-ranging marine mammals. In her role at SR³, Michelle provides medical management and care of stranded aquatic wildlife, performs postmortem examinations, and participates in ongoing research projects.  Michelle attended veterinary school at Michigan State University. 

Friends of Fort Flagler is a non-profit organization dedicated to the restoring, preserving and protecting the natural and historic resources of Fort Flagler State Park. Please support our state park by becoming a member, volunteering or donating to our organization. To learn more, visithttps://friendsoffortflagler.org/.

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