WREN schedules a slew of free family-friendly events
The 20th anniversary of American Wetlands Month is just 10 days away. Between Earth Day, today, and the end of May, there’s no better time to get out and enjoy the outdoors.
One local non-profit organization is providing plenty of opportunities to explore and learn about the outdoors—specifically the west Eugene wetlands. Willamette Resources and Educational Network (WREN), part of the West Eugene Wetlands Partnership, is hosting several events, beginning this Saturday, April 23, with Family Exploration Day.
Families with children of all ages are invited to come explore part of the wetlands along the Tsanchiifin Trail. Each group is supplied with their own backpack of gear, including a bug net and magnifying glass. WREN staff and volunteers are on hand to answer questions and provide guidance.
“It’s very unstructured, free form, the kids get to go where they want to go—at their own pace,” said Carrie Karl, environmental education assistant with WREN.
This Saturday is the second Family Exploration Days event in a series of three for this spring, with the third one scheduled for May 21. WREN recommends attendees wear sturdy shoes or rain boots if they have them and to be prepared for Oregon weather. Families can come and go as they please and are encouraged to bring along snacks and water.
Karl said the spring is an excellent time to enjoy the wetlands when plants leaf out and bloom.
Jules Abbott, an environmental education specialist for WREN, agrees that the rainy season is perfect for observing wildlife in the west Eugene wetlands.
“Things really come alive because of the rain,” she said.
While Family Exploration Days are a fun way to learn about the wetlands, folks can also get involved in outdoor science by volunteering to be a citizen scientist. The citizen science program uses volunteers to help collect data for specific projects.
“Citizen Science program…is generously funded by a grant from the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation (and it is) designed to involve volunteer community members in collecting valuable scientific data that will be used for a variety of important assessments,” wrote Alicia Lajeunesse, a member of WREN’s outreach seasonal staff.
Coming up on May 7, WREN will be hosting a Citizen Scientist Wetland Monitoring and Data Collection Day in partnership with the Xerces Society. Participants will be helping to gather samples of and information about macroinvertebrates—tiny organisms with no backbone that are visible to the naked eye.
This is a chance for community members to take part in wetlands research that directly impacts land-management decision making and planning. The event is rain or shine. Xerces is providing the equipment and educational materials—coffee and snacks will also be available. Attendees must RSVP by May 5.
For more information about the following WREN events or to RSVP, call 541.338.7047 or send an email. You can also visit the WREN Facebook page or website.
WREN’s FREE UPCOMING EVENTS
WREN Family Exploration Day
Saturday, April 23, 2011
10 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Tsanchiifin Trail – Meet on the lawn of the West Eugene Wetlands Office at 751 South Danebo Avenue, Eugene 97402.
FREE, no RSVP or registration required.
All ages welcome.
WREN Citizen Scientist Wetland Monitoring and Data Collection Day
Saturday, May 7th, 2011
9 a.m. – 1 p.m.
Meet at West Eugene Wetlands Office at 751 South Danebo Avenue, Eugene 97402
FREE, RSVP by May 5, space is limited.
Ages 16 and older.
Walkin & Rollin
Saturday, May 21, 2011
10 am – 2 pm
Explore the west Eugene wetlands by biking, rolling or walking the Fern Ridge Bike Path between Bailey Hill and Greenhill Rd. Along the way, local experts and organizations will have educational displays highlighting the many wonders of the wetlands. Learn about wetland plants, animals, and restoration projects. Participants also receive a Wetland Passport they can have stamped at each booth for a chance to win prizes in a drawing.
FREE, no RSVP or registration required.
Wetland Wander
Every second Tuesday of the month
9 a.m.
Take a walk with local science experts through various areas of the west Eugene wetlands.
Everyone welcome.
Christina Gray is a University of Oregon senior. She is making plans to travel around the world after graduation. And she looks forward to working in the field of journalism.
Photo Credits: Carrie Karl (Citizen Science Program and Family Exploration Days), WREN (Walkin and Rollin)
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