Steward at Sams Walker Day Use Area on National Public Lands Day


Saturday, September 23, 2023

9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.


Join us in kicking off our autumn blackberry-tackle project to help remove this invasive plant and advance pollinator habitat restoration!

Registration is required for each volunteer.

Please read our digital Liability Waiver here and check the box as you register.

Youth volunteers

  • 15 years old and under must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.
  • 16 or older may volunteer on their own as long as they bring a Youth Volunteer Waiver signed by a parent/legal guardian. Find a printable Youth Volunteer Waiver Form HERE.

Project Description

Contractors have cleared an immense area of invasive Himalayan blackberry that had overtaken meadows and oak woodland. We need the help of volunteers for the detail work along the edges of the forest and fence lines. Clearing blackberry off fences and out or trees is incredibly satisfying! This is a great opportunity to learn native and invasive plant ecology and be a part of exciting habitat enhancement efforts at this site!

This project is funded and supported by Center for EcoDynamic Restoration and the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area.

Physical work includes walking along a flat packed gravel path and along the edges of grassy fields, cutting with loppers, raking. The planting site is about a .25 walk from the parking lot.

S?ite notes: there is a USFS vault toilet by the parking area.

F?ind out more about Sams Walker Trail HERE

What we provide:

  • Work gloves (you are also welcome to bring your own)
  • Tools (shovels)
  • Snacks

What you should bring:

  • Water and lunch/ snacks
  • Sun protection (our work area has no shade, but our break areas will)
  • A pack to carry your personal gear
  • Face mask (optional)/ personal hand sanitizer

What to Wear:

  • Boots or sturdy sneakers
  • Long durable pants and long-sleeved shirt
  • Dress for weather: extra layers of clothing in case of wet, cold or windy weather

Schedule:

  • 9:00 a.m. - Check in, introductions and safety check in
  • 9:15 a.m. - Hike to project site
  • We'll take breaks as needed
  • 12?:45 p.m. -Wrap up and hike out

Directions:

Sams Walker Day Use Area Google Directions

Questions? Please contact Sarah Skelly at sarah.skelly@gorgefriends.org or 503-501-6351.