Conservation Education

Learn the basics about why and how to plant with natives and see some of the most beautiful options! Planting carefully selected native plants can create pollinator and other wildlife habitat, conserve water and water quality, enhance stormwater management, minimize erosion, and reduce the need for pesticides and fertilizers.

A primer on new and common invasive garden and neighborhood plants focusing on identification, control strategies, and resources. Learn about non-chemical weed control options and resources, too.

Learn what you can do to make your yard or land more inviting to wildlife. Join a wildlife biologist to explore how Portland's yards, balconies, and parking strips fit into a larger conservation picture. Oregon's Department of Fish and Wildlife has identified dozens of species of greatest conservation need—and many of them move through, nest in, or depend on urban greenspace. You'll learn how thoughtful choices around native plants, water, and shelter can directly support strategy species like Vaux's swifts, purple martins, and Northern Red Legged frogs in your neighborhood. Whether you're working with containers or a full garden, you'll leave with practical, science-backed steps to turn your outdoor space into a meaningful piece of Oregon's broader conservation network. 

Learn how you can improve the health of your garden or farm’s soil. Also, learn about programs that might support you with installing cover crops or other soil enhancements on farms.

Learn how to restore habitat along your section of stream or wetland/pond by identifying and removing the most problematic weeds and replacing them with native plants. Other tips for enhancing wildlife habitat, securing affordable native plants, planning for climate change and other threats, and predicting carbon sequestration can be covered as well.

Learn about the ecological and cultural importance of our native Oregon oak and Oregon ash trees and the threats they face from invasive wood-boring insects, as well as how to manage for these threats.

Learn the ecological and cultural importance and adaptability of Oregon white oak and associated woodland, savanna, prairie, etc. Habitats, plus how to restore or enhance what you have on your land. We’ll cover the most important actions you can take and how to maintain your trees and habitat into the future.