King County seeks volunteers for Nov. 7 native plant salvage work in Black Diamond

While summer gardening is fast becoming a distant memory, there are still opportunities this fall to get your hands dirty for a good cause.

For example, King County is sponsoring a native plant salvage event on Saturday, Nov. 7 in Black Diamond. Volunteers are needed that morning to help dig up native plants at a location that is slated for development.

Later that day, volunteers can help pot the salvaged plants and shrubs at the King County’s native plant holding facility near Sammamish.

The salvaged plants are used for habitat restoration projects around King County.  As a reward for participating, volunteers who help out from 9 a.m. to noon will be eligible to dig additional plants from noon to 1:30 p.m. to take home for use in their own yards. Potters will be able to take home potted plants if they help at the nursery between 1-4 p.m.

Native vegetation reduces erosion, provides shade for streams and offers ideal habitat for native wildlife.

Volunteers are encouraged to salvage these native plants at one or both of these opportunities:

• From 9 a.m. to noon, kick off the project by digging up vegetation at a future development site in Black Diamond. The salvage site was donated by Yarrow Bay Holdings.
• From  1 p.m. to 4 p.m., head over to the King County Native Plant Holding Facility near Sammamish, where volunteers will be potting the rescued shrubbery until it is needed for habitat restoration.

Native plant salvaging is an ideal opportunity for volunteers to learn about local plants, help protect wildlife habitat and meet others interested in environmental restoration.

Volunteers are asked to dress for the weather and be prepared to get their hands dirty. Sturdy shoes or boots are recommended. Gloves, tools and light refreshments will be provided. Bring your own shovel, gloves and containers if you would like to dig additional plants to take home after the event. A parent or guardian must accompany those under 16 years of age.

For more information or to sign up for either event, contact Cindy Young at 206-296-8065 or at cindy.young@kingcounty.gov. For additional volunteer opportunities, visit http://www.kingcounty.gov/environment/stewardship/volunteer.aspx.

Related Information

Native Plant Salvage Program

King County Water and Land Resources