Promoting pollinators, preserving history: a Freedom 250 volunteer day
Event Description
KLAMATH FALLS, Ore. — Join the Bureau of Land Management’s Klamath Falls Field Office for a special Freedom 250 volunteer stewardship event at the Wood River Wetland on Saturday, June 20, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
As part of the Department of the Interior’s Freedom 250 initiative, commemorating 250 years of the American story and our shared public lands heritage, this event invites the community to take part in hands-on conservation that protects wetlands, wildlife, and pollinators for future generations.
Volunteers will meet at the Wood River Wetlands Trailhead at 10 a.m., located northwest of Chiloquin off Modoc Point Road. The day’s efforts will focus on removing invasive weeds to restore native plants which provide habitat for pollinators and birds and improve the health of this unique wetland ecosystem.
“There’s no better way to celebrate our public lands than pulling weeds with good people in a beautiful place,” said Kerry Johnston, Klamath Falls Field Office Botanist. “It’s a great chance to get your hands dirty, learn about wetlands, and be part of something that really makes a difference.”
Volunteers are encouraged to bring:
- Lunch and plenty of water
- Hat, gloves, and eye protection
- Sturdy shoes and long-sleeved clothing
- A camera to capture the experience!
BLM staff will provide tools and supplies and will host a safety briefing at 10 a.m. at the trailhead. Those interested are asked to RSVP by emailing Kerry Johnston at [email protected] with a daytime phone number.
This volunteer day offers a hands-on opportunity to experience the best of America’s public lands while contributing to the Freedom 250 vision: honoring our past, enhancing the present, and stewarding natural and cultural resources for tomorrow. All ages and experience levels are welcome.
The 3,200-acre Wood River Wetland, part of the historic Wood River delta, includes three miles of public access along the riverbanks. Since acquiring the property in 1994, the BLM has prioritized wetland and river channel restoration, efforts made possible with the continued support of community volunteers.
The BLM manages about 245 million acres of public land located primarily in 12 western states, including Alaska, on behalf of the American people. The BLM also administers 700 million acres of sub-surface mineral estate throughout the nation. Our mission is to sustain the health, diversity, and productivity of America’s public lands for the use and enjoyment of present and future generations.