Making Meadows
Saturday, April 23rd
Approximately 8:00 a.m to 5:00 p.m.
There are few springtime places quite as stunning as our Four Sisters and Mill Creek Ridge properties near The Dalles, where open meadows of yellow balsamroot, lavender camas, and purple and white lupine stand against the backdrop of the East Cascades. Oregon white oak woodlands offer sanctuary to birds amidst the native bunchgrass understory, and rare vernal pools support complex plant communities.
Join us as we spend a day exploring how you can create a native meadow in your own backyard while learning the value of conserving and restoring the native meadows of the Pacific Northwest. Backyard Habitat Certification Program manager Gaylen Beatty and Hood River Stewardship Lead Kate Conley will guide us through urban and suburban meadowscaping and discuss the Land Trust’s recent accomplishments in native meadow conservation. We’ll enjoy lunch at the highest point on Mill Creek Ridge, known as Jerry’s Knoll, to enjoy views of Mt. Hood, Mt. Adams, and the Columbia River sparkling below. To end the day, we’ll visit Humble Roots Nursery, where participants may purchase native plants at wholesale. This is a tour nature enthusiasts won’t want to miss.
STRENUOUS – This tour will involve 4-5 miles of hiking, off-trail with steep, uphill and downhill walking. The group will be moving at a moderate-quicker pace, in order to cover both properties. There will be frequent stops, which will allow time for breaks and assistance provided if needed. Lunch time will also offer another opportunity for a break. We recommend hiking boots that protect your ankles.
All transportation, snacks, and lunch are provided. Transportation departs from the Columbia Land Trust Vancouver office at promptly 8:00 a.m and returns at approximately 5:00 p.m.
Please note: A list of items to bring and a full itinerary will be sent to you via email 1-2 weeks prior to the tour date.