Community Work Parties
“Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world; indeed, it is the only thing that ever has.” - Margaret Mead
Since 1999, NSEA's Stream Stewards Program has engaged citizens in improving the health of their watersheds by participating in hands on salmon recovery work parties throughout Whatcom County. Each work party event offers stewardship opportunities based on the culture of shared responsibility and resulting in shared benefits. Volunteers learn how to properly plant trees and remove invasive vegetation, while learning about native vegetation. By working together towards a common goal, community members identify how their actions impact riparian ecosystems both individually and as a community.
As Whatcom County residents remove invasive plants and install native trees and shrubs, they help NSEA increase biodiversity, accelerate forest succession, and rebuild riparian habitats. Increasing the area and quality of riparian buffers improves flood control, increases stormwater runoff filtration, decreases erosion, and helps to shade streams for native fish.
Stream Stewards Program
Watch this video to learn what our Community Work Parties are all about!
Every spring and fall NSEA hosts volunteer work parties at salmon habitat restoration sites around Whatcom County. Most events take place on Saturdays from 9 am to noon. No previous experience necessary to participate. All ages are welcome! Come to three or more in a calendar year and be recognized by our Stewardship Appreciation Program. See below for the full schedule and links to register. Reach out to our Stewardship Program Manager, Sarah Brown at sbrown@n-sea.org or call 360-715-0283 for assistance.
2025 Schedule
Most events are 9am-12pm and do not require rsvp unless otherwise noted. Event details including parking are listed in our volunteer portal - nsea.volunteerhub.com
See restoration history and help us maintain older sites and save trees from restricting cages and blue tubes.
8am-12pm - Requires registration! Click here for details.
See restoration history and help us maintain older sites and save trees from restricting cages and blue tubes.
8am-12pm - Requires registration! Click here for details.
Celebrate the power of community by joining us and Bellingham Parks improve habitat at Squalicum Creek Park.
12:30-3:30pm- Requires registration! Click here for details.
Plant trees and shrubs while removing invasive vegetation near Squalicum Creek with us and Bellingham Parks!
9am-12pm - Requires registration! Click here for details.
See restoration history and help us maintain older sites and save trees from restricting cages and blue tubes.
8am-12pm - Requires registration! Click here for details.
Remove invasive species, plant native trees, and help us and Bellingham Parks spruce up one of the city’s newest parks.
9am-12pm - Requires registration! Click here for details.
More events coming soon!
Things for you to remember
Registration is recommended
NSEA brings all needed tools, gloves (sizes XS - XL), and instructions for each event
Masks are optional for shuttle rides to/from the restoration side
Sturdy shoes and long pants that you don't mind getting dirty are recommended
Weather appropriate clothing to stay warm and dry that can be cleaned easily
Any volunteers under 18 years old must bring a completed NSEA Youth Liability Form to each work party. Minors under 14 years old must also be accompanied by an adult. Please bring a COB/NSEA Youth Liability Form to work parties with the City of Bellingham Parks Department.
Stay home if you are feeling sick!
COVID-19 Update
The safety and well-being of volunteers and community members is always our highest priority. Please continue to follow the most current guidelines from CDC and local county officials regarding masking, testing, and isolating.
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