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We're at mid-season this summer, much of the snow has melted away and that means the Wilderness Weed Watchers are hitting the trails to some of our region's most beautiful places in search of invasive weeds. We've had surveys come in from the Mount Baker, Clearwater and Henry M. Jackson wilderness areas with more on the way.
Last month I had the opportunity to hike with one of our members up the Elliot Creek trail towards Goat Lake off the Mountain Loop Highway. We found and documented infestations of Foxglove, Oxeye Daisy, St. Johnswort and Hawkweed. We recorded the location, plant type, area and other data in the field, then uploaded that data at home. The information we collect will go to the Mount Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest so they can take better care of our forests and mountains.
I really enjoy participating in this program for a number of reasons. First, I get to learn about the natural world and how I can help protect the wild places I love. Second, I get to meet and hike with other Mountaineers members who, as I've come to realize, have amazing stories and remarkable knowledge. Third, I have an excuse to use that old GPS unit that's been sitting in my backpack.
If you would like to participate too, there are still some opportunities to get in on a group hike this summer. Check out the activities page. We'll be going to Tomyhoi Lake and Hannegan Pass on August 23 and September 6. And if you've gone through the training and plan to hit up some trails on your own, there is still plenty of summer left to get some more surveys in. More information can be found at the Weed Watchers site. Wilderness Weed Watchers made possible by a grant from the National Forests Foundation.
See you out there.
