The Dirt: calendar of hands-on volunteer opportunities

Fall for Salmon 2009

Help by Planting Native Trees and Shrubs

Join us this fall along the Cedar River, Green River, Snoqualmie River, Soos Creek, & Issaquah Creek. King County wants to improve our stream corridors for salmon, including the threatened Chinook salmon. You can make a difference by spending a day planting trees! These native trees and shrubs will enhance the natural stream corridor, wetlands and improve the habitat for wildlife. Native plants provide shade and help keep the water cool. Their roots help hold the banks in place and control runoff and erosion which keeps the water cleaner. To join a planting event, e-mail Tina Miller, volunteer coordinator, or call her at 206-296-2990 to register and get directions. Events are from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.

Dates and locations:

• October 3rd at Soos Creek Park in Kent
• October 10th at Cavanaugh Pond Natural Area along the Cedar River, east of Renton
• October 17th at Tolt-MacDonald Park along the Tolt River
• October 24th and 31st at Whitney Bridge along the Green River east of Auburn
• November 7th at Skyway Park – Stream Enhancement
• November 14th at Ricardi Reach/Cedar Rapids along the Cedar River
• November 21st at Chinook Bend Natural Area along the Snoqualmie River, near Carnation
• December 5th at Log Cabin Natural Area along Issaquah Creek

King County Parks backcountry trail projects

Join with our partners, Washington Trails Association to help out King County Park's backcountry trails. To join a trail event go to www.wta.org (external link) to sign up or call 206-625-1367.

Dates and locations:

• Grand Ridge – 10/20 to 10/24, 12/8 to 12/12 and 12/22 to 12/31
• Soaring Eagle – 11/11 to 11/14
• Taylor Mountain Forest – 11/17 to 11/28
• O’Grady Park (Green River Natural Area) – 12/1 to 12/5
• Cougar Mountain – 12/15 to 12/19

Native plant holding facility
Groups are needed to care for salvaged native trees and shrubs at our holding facility near Sammamish. To schedule a group work party, please contact Cindy Young.

Adopt-a-Park & Park Ambassador Programs
These programs provide opportunities for groups or individuals to help maintain King County's 180 parks, 175 miles of regional trails, and 130 miles of backcountry trails.  For more information please contact Laurie Clinton, volunteer coordinator.

Salmon counts and habitat restoration

Salmon Watcher Program
Help us learn more about our local salmon and what they need to thrive. Contact Jennifer at 206-263-6533.

Miller and Walker Creeks Stewardship
Help restore these creeks in SW King County, pick up litter and pull noxious weeds.

Volunteer for Salmon!

Green River habitat restoration - students needed! Learn about restoring habitat while planting trees and shrubs. Groups of volunteers are needed for restoring habitat along the Green River. Weekdays preferred. 4th grade and up. Please contact John Koon.

Road edge planting volunteers

King County Roads Landscape Enhancement Program
Volunteer to tend roadside plants in your neighborhood.