Martin Luther King Day 2022

Every year, Martin Luther King Day is a day that commemorates Dr. King and is the only federal holiday designated as a National Day of Service. NSEA partnered with the City of Bellingham Public Works and Parks and Recreation Departments to host a Community Work Party restoring riparian habitat along Willow Spring, an off-channel habitat that was constructed in 2010 to provide a place for salmon to grow, feed, and rest during their journey between Squalicum Creek and the ocean.

After nearly two years of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, this was one of the first chances we have had to safely gather in larger numbers and see the collective impact of working together for salmon. Over 130 volunteers spread out in Squalicum Creek Park to plant nearly 500 native trees and shrubs, remove 6+ cubic yards of invasive species, and spread 30+ yards of mulch, all to restore habitat and improve the health of our community. This site is a perfect example of how healthy parks and greenspace is important for not only people, but also for salmon which rely on urban streams to reach their spawning grounds.

This day also served as a chance to partner with the Birchwood Food Desert Fighters, a group of neighbors and allies working to address the food desert in the Birchwood Neighborhood, who received over 200 lbs. of donations of food and essential supplies at this event. Mayor Seth Fleetwood, Council member Skip Williams, and Congressional Representative Rick Larsen joined in our stewardship work and provided closing remarks encouraging participants to express their support for protecting voter access and expanding voting rights, a key factor in The Kings Center’s call to action for the 2022 holiday.

Thank you to all that joined us to advocate, educate, and activate in his honor. If you missed this opportunity, there are still opportunities to serve your local communities and environment by volunteering to restore salmon habitat! Check out our spring schedule of Community Work Parties at www.n-sea.org/stream-stewards.