Festival of Flowers Tuesday Talk: Give Weeds the Boot!

Tuesday, June 12, 2018

Tuesday Talk Series on Gorge Conservation

A spectacular river canyon, 85 miles long and up to 4,000 feet deep, the Columbia Gorge is an icon of the Pacific Northwest and nation treasure. In 1986 it was protected as our nation's second national scenic area. It is home to a world-renowned variety of over 800 species of plants, approximately 44 species of fish, and more than 200 species of birds.
 
To help promote discussion on ways the public can help protect and steward the Gorge, Friends of the Columbia Gorge has partnered with Pioneer Courthouse Square to host a special Tuesday Talk Series on Gorge Conservation at this year's Festival of Flowers.
 
The lunchtime (noon-1 p.m.) talks are designed to feature short informational presentations on pressing Gorge conservation issues and ways the public can get involved. Friends (and partners) also will host an informational table where Festival attendees can learn more.
 

Give Weeds the Boot!

The simplest way to stop the spread of invasive weeds in the Gorge is to use a trailhead bootbrush. Learn why this is especially important in the burned landscape of the Gorge. Friends of the Columbia Gorge Stewardship Volunteer Coordinator Mika Barrett will teach you the basics of these pesky weeds and what you can do to keep them away. Chris Aldassy, conservation Specialist for ‎East Multnomah Soil and Water Conservation District, will add insights from his many years in the field working on invasive species. Bring your lunch and come ready to ask questions.    
 
More About Mika: Mika develops and implements Friends Gorge restoration stewardship efforts, bringing a passion for connecting people with the natural world and to Friends of the Columbia Gorge. As a native of the Pacific Northwest, Mika grew up exploring the wonders of the Columbia Gorge and enjoys rock climbing, mountaineering and backpacking.
 
More About Chris: Chris is a conservation Specialist for ‎East Multnomah Soil and Water Conservation District. His sense of adventure and knowledge of native plant communities and noxious weeds fit him perfectly in his role working on invasive species and streamside restoration projects.
  
See also: June 5 - Wildflowers and WA Wonders of the Gorge