North Cascades Institute seeks to inspire a closer relationship with nature through direct experiences in the natural world. Our mission is to conserve and restore Northwest environments through education. Since 1986 we have helped connect people, nature and community through science, art, literature and the hands-on study of natural and cultural history. Our goal is to help people of all ages experience and enjoy the mountains, rivers, forests, people and wildlife of the Pacific Northwest - so all will care for and protect this special place.

Our revitalized stewardship program is focused on connecting people to our public lands through meaningful service projects. Beginning May 2011, we started partnering with local non-profit organizations and public land agencies, working together to make a difference in our local watersheds through three areas of focus: native plant restoration, trail work and scientific research.

Our stewardship program focuses on essential restoration work while providing enriching educational opportunities. We aim to make a difference in the land through restoration work and the people through education.

North Cascades Stewards has a variety of ways to be involved in the Skagit area. We have native plant projects planned with North Cascades National Park, Skagit Land Trust and Skagit Fisheries Enhancement Group for anyone interested in helping out their local ecosystem. Planting, weeding, seed collection and nursery projects will get North Cascades Stewards involved with growing natives full circle. Along the way, you will learn about plant identification, ecology and gardening with some of the best in the field.

For those interested in recreation, we have more trail and backcountry projects than you can shake a Pulaski at. North Cascades Institute has adopted Anderson-Watson Lakes trail in partnership with Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest and we're keeping it in top shape. Anderson-Watson is a popular destination that needs trail maintenance as well as backcountry camp cleanup. Along the way, you'll learn about backcountry travel and Leave No Trace guidelines. Or you can choose to paddle across Baker Lake to help us maintain campsites. This is a great opportunity for experienced kayakers and canoeists to get on the water, meet some other paddlers and help out the national forest.

For the fall, we have plans to work in your backyard in Bellingham. We will pulling non-native plants in city parks, working on trails in the area, an finding ways to connect stewardship to your hometown.

http://www.ncascades.org/stewardship

• Julie Stone
• (360)854-2598
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