As folks come back from vacation, leaves start changing, and chill hangs in the air longer each day, it’s feeling like fall. And with it, our team and partners are working hard to offer new teachings and workshops—there are many exciting events below to add to your calendar. Always, let us know if you have a question you’d like covered in a future article, webinar, or workshop.

Also, don’t forget to vote in November—our board is elected by you in the general election! You can see who is running in the county voters’ pamphlet, which will available online on October 12.

Want this in your inbox? We send e-newsletters like this quarterly. Scroll to the bottom of the page where it says “Newsletter Signup” and enter your email to get the next one sent straight to you!

Seasonal Conservation Tips:

Take the fall advantage for weeds and seeds!

Did you know fall is the prime time to root out woody invasives like blackberry, knotweed, and ivy? And, it’s the best time of year for getting native plants in the ground. Read up on our tips for both as you work on your yard this fall.

Upcoming Events

-listed in chronological order-

• Stormwater Stars 101 webinar 10/16, 12pm
  Implementing simple practices in yards and communities that allow rainwater to absorb into the ground and reduce runoff can have long-term positive impacts. This talk will introduce the 6 practices of the Stormwater Stars program.
• Prepare for Next Year’s Wildfire Season 10/16, 7pm
  On October 16 at Skyline Grange, learn best steps to establish defensible space and steps to take to best protect your home. Speakers from Portland Fire and Rescue and information from West Multnomah SWCD’s forest conservationist. Free and open to the public.
• Native Author talk at Skyline Grange on 10/30, 7pm
  Author and OSU professor of anthropology and Indigenous studies, Dr. David G. Lewis is coming back to Skyline Grange (11275 NW Skyline Blvd) to speak about his studies on the tribal histories of the Willamette Valley. The event is 7pm on October 30, free and open to the public.
• James Cassidy Talks Soil at Skyline Grange on 11/13, 7pm
  OSU Soil Scientist (and former rock star) James Cassidy gives his passionate talk on soil and why we need it! If you haven’t been to Soil School, here’s what you missed! On November 13 at 7pm at Skyline Grange, free and open to the public.
• West Multnomah SWCD Annual Meeting 11/19, 5pm
  Join staff, colleagues, and community members for a hosted dinner and celebration on November 19 at 5pm. Learn the highlights of our work this year, mingle with conservation colleagues, and celebrate local awardees. Location in South Waterfront, free parking. RSVP only by November 14 to join.
• Save the date! Skyline Ridge Wildfire-Ready Workshop. 5/3/25, 9am-2:30pm
  Learn how to make your home and land wildfire-resilient with hands-on workshops from Portland Fire & Rescue, Oregon State Fire Marshall, and West Multnomah SWCD. Tailored to the forested communities in the West Hills/Tualatin Mountains. See our site and newsletter for registration in the spring!

News from the District

Remembering Kim Peterson

In August, Kim Peterson, a long-time board member and important community member, passed away after an illness at the age of 74. She had served on our board for 25 years and will be missed.

Welcome Ariana and Eleanor

Say hi to our new Urban Conservationist, Ariana Scipioni, and communications coordinator, Eleanor Greene, who joined the team last year. Read more on their backgrounds and their work with the District.