Events listed here are contingent on whether each jurisdiction is approved to enter the corresponding phase of the governor’s four-phase reopening plan. Events may be canceled or postponed. Check with each venue for the latest information.
Pick up trash: Through Sept. 26, Sound Greenway Trust is asking you to pitch in for public lands. Why? National Public Lands Day is Sept. 26. Stay close to home and pick up litter from a local neighborhood park or take supplies to clean up where you’re already recreating out on the trails. Download the Litterati app to keep track of your progress and compete for the top trash collector prize. Find out more about the Love Your Lands campaign at mtsgreenway.org/get-involved/npld.
Free park-ing: The next day to visit Washington state parks in 2020 without an entrance fee is Sept. 26 (National Public Lands Day). Other free dates are Nov. 11 (Veterans Day) and Nov. 27 (Autumn Day). More at www.discoverpass.wa.gov.
Wilderness first aid workshop: Prepare for the unexpected in this hands-on workshop 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Oct. 10 or Oct. 11 at Gold Creek County Park, 16020 148th Ave. NE, Woodinville. Learn how to provide effective first-aid treatments for injuries and illnesses common in the outdoors, and how to make appropriate evacuation decisions. Training provided by National Outdoor Leadership School and REI. Cost is $245 for members, $275 for non-members. There is a wait list. Call 425-640-6200. More at www.rei.com.
Forest project grants: Mount Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest is seeking grant proposals for forest improvement projects in Snohomish County. The Resource Advisory Committee has $150,000 to allocate toward projects meant to improve Forest Service lands and the rural economies within them. Projects should focus on the enhancement of forest ecosystems, restore and improve land health and water quality, and improve the maintenance of existing facilities within the forest. Deadline is Oct. 16. Go to www.fs.usda.gov/mbs for more information.
Mount Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest: There is a phased reopening of the forest’s campgrounds, restrooms, trailheads and day-use areas to align with Gov. Jay Inslee’s transition plan. Garbage service and water facilities continue to be unavailable. Visitors should plan to be as self-sufficient as possible. This includes bringing their own water, knowing how to properly dispose of human and dog waste, and packing out all garbage. Go to www.fs.usda.gov/mbs for more information.
Beware of bears: Bears have been visiting the Mount Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest in high numbers this year. The bears are attracted by the scent of garbage and waste. Help limit bear interactions by properly disposing of waste and packing out trash every time you visit trails or day-use areas. If you need to report a problem bear, contact the Department of Fish and Wildlife or call local law enforcement. Go to www.fs.usda.gov/mbs for tips on what to do if you encounter a bear.
Free firewood: Free firewood cutting has been extended in the Mount Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest through Dec. 31. No permit will be required during this time. The opportunity was originally scheduled to expire in July. Forest managers made the decision to extend the provision to continue to assist area residents who rely on wood for heat. Woodcutters can collect up to six cords of firewood for personal use. A cord equates to a wood stack that is 4 feet wide by 4 feet high by 8 feet long. Go to tinyurl.com/cutfirewood for more information.
Find your favorite park: Still playing it safe? Virtually explore Washington’s state parks during the pandemic. Washington State Parks Foundation’s website features an interactive map of Washington’s 124 state parks, as well as virtual tours, park information and trip reports. The virtual tours provide a 360-degree view with navigational tools and a walk-through of state parks, trails, campgrounds, retreat centers, interpretive centers and vacation houses. More at www.waparks.org.
Email event information for this calendar with the subject “Outdoors” to features@heraldnet.com.
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