Clark Public Utilities is planning to continue a yearslong restoration project along a stream in the Salmon Creek Watershed, with a big push from volunteers on the upcoming Make a Difference Day.
“We hope to plant over a thousand trees with the help of 200 volunteers,” said Ashley King, StreamTeam coordinator for Clark Public Utilities.
The planting will be held Saturday, Oct. 27, National Make a Difference Day, at a location near Battle Ground. Pre-registration is required. Exact directions to the site will be given after registration. Check-in starts at 8:30 a.m. and planting begins 9 a.m. A light breakfast will be offered. A free lunch and an awards presentation will happen at noon.
King said registration is still open, but a limited number of spots are available.
When Clark first undertook the restoration project, the roughly 28-acre site was plagued with reed canary grass, blackberries and other invasive plants. Steadily, the invasive species are being replaced with native plants, such as big leaf maples, dogwoods and red cedars, which will hold the soil in place better and provide a cooling canopy over the water.
Keeping Weaver Creek’s water cool benefits fish that depend on it and the larger Salmon Creek for habitat.
Planters of all ages and abilities are welcome. Tools and training will be provided to volunteers. The event will be held rain or shine, so those who go should be prepared for the weather.
StreamTeam hosts several volunteer events in Southwest Washington, but the one they hold on Make a Difference Day is particularly significant for them.
“(It) is one of our most beloved tree planting events because it’s part of an even bigger effort,” King said in a news release. “This annual event always brings together first-time tree-planters along with our dedicated Stream Stewards, AmeriCorps volunteers and seasoned StreamTeam leaders.”
Earlier this year StreamTeam was awarded a $10,000 grant in honor of last year’s planting event. The grant was given by three organizations behind the day of volunteerism — broadcasting company Tegna, the Arby’s Foundation and volunteer service organizer Points of Light.
Participants can sign up online at www.StreamTeam.net. They can also email StreamTeam@clarkpud.com or call King at 360-992-8585 with questions.
