Wetlands are one of the most important, and most overlooked, parts of a healthy environment. For years, both farmers and developers have spent millions of dollars draining and filling wetlands, but these areas provide critical habitat for birds and wildlife. Wetlands are a vital resource for the region’s rivers and streams, helping to store runoff and mitigate floods, then releasing that water over time during dry periods.
The Blue Mountain Land Trust and the Tri-State Steelheaders have worked together to restore a twenty-acre wetland area near Walla Walla, bringing some of these benefits back to the area. The wetland now provides a haven for birds and wildlife and feeds clean water into Russell Creek. BMLT’s conservation easement on the property ensures that these benefits are maintained forever.
On this tour you will learn about the work that went into restoring the property and conserving it in perpetuity. After our tour of the wetland we will head to a nearby home for a sack lunch and a talk by local farmer, Don Schwerin, who will discuss his operation and his work with the Blue Mountain Land Trust.
For more information about this event, please contact Lauren Platman at lauren@bmlt.org or 509-525-3136.
If ticket information box will not display, click here to get tickets.
Suitability: Best suited for ages 10+.
Difficulty: Involves hiking 1+ miles on uneven terrain.
Things to Bring:
Sturdy walking shoes, suitable hiking attire, rain jacket, hat with a brim, sunglasses and sunscreen, refillable waterbottle, camera, journal, and sense of adventure.
Cover photo by Bill Rodgers.