EVERETT — Involvement in a couple of upcoming shoreline restoration work parties might help you keep your New Year’s resolutions.
Participants can get exercise, spend time with their families and help the environment, said Keeley O’Connell, an ecologist with People for Puget Sound.
On Jan. 17, the Port of Everett and People for Puget Sound plan to host a work party that aims to plant more than 1,000 native trees and shrubs on 28 acres along Union Slough.
The plants will help provide food and habitat for birds and salmon, O’Connell said.
“The restoration project at Union Slough is important because it’s a resting spot for juvenile salmon headed out to the ocean,” she said. “It’s also an important location for waterfowl such as the great blue heron.”
The planting party will be hard work, but it is something school-age children especially seem to like to do. It’s also a good way for parents to model their concern for the environment, O’Connell said.
About 50 people are needed for the Union Slough project, she said.
On Jan. 31, Snohomish County Parks and Recreation, the Snohomish Marine Resources Committee and People for Puget Sound plan to host a work party at the Picnic Point county park between Edmonds and Mukilteo.
About 30 volunteers are needed to help plant native shrubs and remove invasive English ivy from trees in the park.
The ivy is hard on native plants and thus tough on native animal species, O’Connell said.
“These projects are a great way to start the new year, get involved in your community and get some fresh air,” she said.
To better plan for the work parties, O’Connell is asking potential participants to register their interest by calling her at 360-220-5544 or e-mailing koconnell@pugetsound.org.
Reporter Gale Fiege: 425-339-3427 or gfiege@heraldnet.com.
How to volunteer for the work party
Volunteers are needed for a Union Slough wetlands restoration work party set for 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Jan. 17 at the Union Slough park. From northbound Highway 529 in Everett, turn right at 37th Street NE and follow the signs.
Help also is needed for the Picnic Point restoration work party scheduled for 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Jan. 31 at Picnic Point Park, 12001 Picnic Point Road, Edmonds.
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