Join us for our 7th annual event celebrating the incredible natural resources in our community.
Come for a hike, walk, workshop or lecture. There’s something for everyone!
Schedule of Events
Download a schedule of events with all the details listed below.
** Family-friendly events
Saturday, May 7
Birding Walk at Bald Hill Farm**
8am–11am
Join Greenbelt and OSU’s Tyler Hallman as we walk through Bald Hill Farm, discussing migratory bird patterns, identification techniques, and OSU’s ongoing bird projects on the farm. This is a free and family-friendly outing—remember to bring your binoculars! Tyler is part of Oregon 2020, a group of ornithologists seeking to create a statewide benchmark of abundance and distribution of Oregon’s birds by 2020, creating a legacy of data for biologists, planners, and conservation organizations.
Meeting Location: Provided upon registration
Contact: Jessica McDonald,
Sponsor: Greenbelt Land Trust
Work Party at Fiechter House & Cabell Barn
10am
This is the annual fluff ‘n buff before the open house the following weekend. Come sweep out the 1910 barn and gather owl pellets, or vacuum the 1850’s Fiechter House and clean the windows!
Meeting Location: Fiechter House. South on 99W to mile marker 93, follow signs for Finley Refuge. After crossing Muddy Creek look for Fiechter House on the left. Park by the picket fence.
Contact: Finley Wildlife Refuge, 541-757-7236
Sponsor: PreservationWORKS
Marys Peak Interpretive Hike via Summit Loop Trail
1–5pm
Hike on the Summit Loop Trail (Margie Powell’s Summit Loop Trail #29) from the parking lot to the top of the mountain with trained Marys Peak interpreters. Learn about the human and natural history of this “sub-alpine island” that has become the symbolic icon of our region. Easy 1.4 mile loop with 385 ft. elevation gain. Meet at the Wilkinson Hall parking lot, 27th and Arnold, on the OSU campus. Departure at 1 pm with return by 5 pm. Limited to 25 persons. All children must be accompanied by an adult. Children who are not with their parent or guardian must bring a release form signed by a parent. The form can be obtained in advance from the hike leader. The weather can be unpredictable and not necessarily the same as the Willamette Valley, so be prepared for cool, wet, windy conditions. Must contact leader to pre-register: Mike Neeley-Brown at 541-760-3934 or . co-leader Julie Arrington.
Meeting Location: Wilkinson Hall parking lot, 27th and Arnold, on the OSU campus
Contact: Mike Neeley-Brown, 541 760-3934, . co-leader Julie Arrington
Sponsor: Marys Peak Group Sierra Club
Paddling for Pinot: Marys River Kayak and Wine-Tasting Trip
1–5pm
Experience the Marys River up close and personal with us on a magical adventure down the river. Learn about local wildlife and nature from our friends at Institute for Applied Ecology, as we work our way downstream to Harris Bridge Vineyards for some wine tasting and a delicious riverside meal. All activity gear, transportation, tastings and food is included. $89 per person, full-service price. 21 and over only!
Meeting Location: TBD
Contact: Brett Gallagher or Wendy Little 503-395-7122
Sponsor: Institute for Applied Ecology, Cascadia Expeditions, and Harris Bridge Vineyard
Sunday, May 8
Morning Birdsong Walk at Peavy Arboretum
8am–11am
We’ll walk through the forest and immerse ourselves in the morning chorus of bird songs. Enjoy the sounds of warblers, tanagers, thrushes, wrens, vireos and many other species. We will identify birds by sound and see if we can catch a glimpse of them as they forage high in the canopy. Approx. 3 mile walk with some elevation gain. Don’t forget your binoculars.
Meeting Location: McDonald Forest, Peavy Arboretum, Intensive Management Trail parking area
Contact: Don Boucher, , 541-753-7689
Sponsor: Neighborhood Naturalist
Open House and Pollinator Workshop at Chintimini Wildlife Center**
10am–2pm
Enjoy self-guided tours of Chintimini Wildlife Center’s educational facilities and ash swale wetland, children’s activities and more. Live birds of prey will be on display as well as videos featuring baby animals in our care and bird-box building activities. This year, pollinator information and demonstrations will be on hand as well. We will also be sharing information about rescuing injured and orphaned wild babies. Donations of animal baby care supplies and food welcome (see chintiminiwildlife.org/wish-list).
Meeting Location: 311 NW Lewisburg Ave, Corvallis
Contact Information: Jeff Picton, 541-745-5324
Sponsor: Chintimini Wildlife Center
Beazell Open House and Mother’s Day Nature Walk**
2–4pm
Come spend Mother’s Day afternoon in the beautiful Beazell forest, prairies, and streamsides. Get access on a guided tour of the education center, remodeled into a gorgeous space using original materials from the 1800’s homestead barn. Then join in the afternoon walk to see and learn about the beautiful wildflowers, butterflies, birds, and other animals before enjoying your Mother’s Day dinner! One FREE digital family photo will be provided by a local photographer and light refreshments will be available. Reserve your space—only 30 people total can participate!
Meeting Location: Beazell Memorial Forest parking lot, 32783 Kings Valley Hwy, Philomath
Contact: Adam Stebbins, Benton County Natural Areas and Parks, Sponsor: Benton County Natural Areas and Parks
Monday, May 9
Homer Campbell Memorial Trail at Finley Wildlife Refuge**
9:30–11am
Come walk with us on this .8 mile round trip boardwalk, which is fully contained with a fence on either side. We will hike through the Muddy Creek riparian area that is seasonally flooded with winter rains. Oregon ash and big-leaf maple are the common tree species, providing canopy for many songbirds. Thrushes, bushtits and juncos are commonly heard. This hike will proceed at around 1 mph to allow for walking toddlers to go at their pace. The boardwalk is stroller and wheelchair friendly, though there is a bump-bump as you transition from one board to the next, which can be annoying after a while. We may go beyond the boardwalk onto a trail leading into Cabell Marsh and the Refuge Interior, if it is not too muddy and the group would like to go further. NO DOGS are allowed at Finley. Please bring a snack and something to drink. We will take a snack break at the gazebo/turn around point. We will meet at 9:30, then depart at 9:45 to allow for our welcome circle and any latecomers to arrive. There is a waiver to sign over at hikeitbaby.com as this event is with Hike it Baby.
Meeting Location: Take 99W south, turn right (east) onto Finley Rd. This is an easy turn to miss, so pay attention. Finley Rd is dirt. Keep heading west until you can turn left (south) onto Finley Refuge Rd. Drive a ways, including over Muddy Creek, and eventually there will be a left turn into a dirt parking area with a sign for the Homer Campbell Memorial Trail. Park there. If you drive past the barn or get to the historical Fiechter House, you have gone too far.
Contact: Jenn Haunold, 541-829-3264, Sponsor: Hike it Baby
Bald Hill Natural Areas Hike to Dunawi Creek Headwaters
6–8pm
Come on a hike to the headwaters of Dunawi Creek at Bald Hill Natural Area and learn about efforts local groups are undertaking to restore the area.
Meeting Location: Provided upon registration
Contact: Register by emailing Mike Neeley-Brown, Sponsor: Marys Peak Group of the Sierra Club
Tuesday, May 10
Marys Peak Celebration
6pm
The 10th bi-monthly Marys Peak Celebration will explore a biological and a technological element of Marys Peak that impacts the ecology and beauty of our regional iconic natural feature. Dr. Phil Hays will present the history, issues and impacts surrounding the construction of communication towers and an electrically-grounded security fence on the top of our highest coastal peak. Dr. Mark Harmon of OSU will present a story showing the critical importance of rotting organic matter from dead plants to the entire ecosystem of Marys Peak. Arrive early to get a good seat and to buy a sandwich and a beer. Seats are limited to 100 and the Deli is generally full by 6pm.
Meeting Location: Old World Deli
Contact: Dave Eckert,
Sponsor: Marys Peak Group of the Sierra Club
Wednesday, May 11
Words through the Woods: Hike the Woodpecker Loop**
9–11am
Meet us at the Woodpecker Loop Trailhead at William L. Finley National Wildlife Refuge at 9 am! We’ll walk through some of the Willamette Valley’s rarest habitat types, stopping along the way to take note of what we see growing, crawling and flying around us. The trail passes by a favorite great-horned owl nesting area and red-legged frog breeding pond. We’ll also stop a few times to share select works of poetry (known and unknown, local and from long ago). Care to share with us? Nature Inspired and Inspired Nature.
Meeting Location: Woodpecker Loop Trailhead, William L. Finley National Wildlife Refuge, 26208 Finley Refuge Rd, Corvallis, OR
Contact: Samantha Bartling, Visitor Services Manager, , 541-760-3036
Sponsor: US Fish and Wildlife Service
Franklin School Neighborhood and Tree Tour
2pm
Go green—take a neighborhood walk! Celebrate the enduring companionship of heritage trees in the historic Franklin School Neighborhood. This one-hour guided tour includes the 1889 Franklin Square Park, Corvallis’ oldest park and home to more than 15 different tree species.
Meeting Location: Franklin School, 750 NW 18th Street, east entrance under the oak
Contact: Lyn Larson, 541-768-3312
Sponsor: Jobs Addition Neighborhood Association (JANA)
Lost Creeks of Corvallis Bike Tour
6pm
Come on a bike ride with us as we tour some of the ‘lost creeks’ of Corvallis!
Meeting Location: Provided upon registration
Contact: Register by emailing Dave Eckert, Sponsor: Water Action Team of the Corvallis Sustainability Coalition and the City of Corvallis Public Works Stormwater Program
Thursday, May 12
Jackson-Frazier Wetlands Tour**
9am–11am
All kinds of plants and a variety of wildlife live in this seasonally-flooded habitat. Join Neighborhood Naturalist for an easy boardwalk loop (ADA accessible) that allows us to observe beaver activity, see marsh birds, and explore some unusual wetland plants. Bring binoculars and dress appropriately for the weather.
Meeting Location: Jackson-Frazier Wetland, end of Lancaster St
Contact: Don Boucher, , 541-753-7689
Sponsor: Neighborhood Naturalist
Sunset, Stars and Lights Gazing at Fitton Green**
7:45–9:30pm
Come see one of the most breathtaking sunsets in Benton County, as the sun sinks down behind Marys Peak. Then stay for the twinkling light show from the City of Philomath and beyond. Stay a little longer to gaze at the stars and use a telescope for some starter star gazing. Bring your own telescopes, binoculars, and cameras if you have them! Reserve your space—only 20 people total can participate.
Meeting Location: Fitton Green Natural Area, 980 NW Panorama Dr, Corvallis
Contact: Adam Stebbins, Benton County Natural Areas and Parks, Sponsor: Benton County Natural Areas and Parks
Friday, May 13
Tyee Wetlands Walk, Bonfire and Wine**
5:30–8:30pm
Come enjoy an evening at Tyee Wine Cellars along Muddy Creek south of Corvallis. This unique landscape is being actively restored to historic wet prairie and marshes by the Buchanan family, along with the Natural Resources Conservation Service and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. Take a tour of Restoration Loop while you learn about ongoing restoration efforts, identifying native wildflowers and invasive weeds along the way. Bring a picnic and delight in an evening of wine tasting and storytelling, all around a cozy bonfire. There will also be fun activities for the little ones, including owl pellet dissection and an up close look at owl feathers.
Meeting Location: Tyee Wine Cellars, take Hwy 99W south 7 miles, turn right onto Greenberry Rd, go 2.3 miles to Tyee Wine Cellars on your right
Contact: Tyee Wine Cellars, 541-753-8754 or www.tyeewine.com
Sponsor: Tyee Wine Cellars
Saturday, May 14
2nd Saturday Birding Tour at Finley Wildlife Refuge
7.30–10am
Join the Audubon Society of Corvallis for an easy walk at Finley Wildlife Refuge to look for birds at the peak of spring migration. This is a good walk for all skill levels. Remember to dress appropriately for the weather. Reminder: Open House following bird tour, drive separately if you’d like to stay and take part in the festivities.
Meeting Location: Benton Center north parking lot, 757 NW Polk Ave
Contact: Bill Proebsting, Audubon Society,
Sponsor: Audubon Society of Corvallis
Wildflower Walk at Owens Farm**
9am–12pm
Join Greenbelt staff and wildflower experts as we explore the hidden prairies, stream sides, and wetlands of Owens Farm. Wildflower experts will help folks to identify native wildflowers, while sharing information about Greenbelt’s efforts to restore sensitive habitats on the property. May is the time to see wildflowers in bloom, and this walk is a rare opportunity to visit all of the beautiful nook and crannies of the property that most folks don’t get to see!
Meeting Location: Provided upon registration
Contact: Jessica McDonald, Sponsor: Greenbelt Land Trust
Prairies in Bloom: Finley Wildlife Refuge Open House**
10am–2pm
The winter sanctuary will be over, meaning the trails are open for hiking and exploring and the prairies will be teeming with native wildflowers and pollinators. Join us for guided walks and tours, and sneak a peek at parts of your local wildlife refuge that you haven’t seen yet! Some migratory birds will still be in town, along with popular residents such as the acorn woodpeckers and possibly even a bobcat. If you like history and culture, Benton County’s oldest building, the Fiechter House, will be open for tours, along with its red barn full of farm implements and the barn owl occupants. Come explore, experience and connect with your William L. Finley National Wildlife Refuge! While you’re here don’t forget to visit the many tables and booths for crafts, fun take-home projects, hands-on activities, and resources.
Meeting Location: William L. Finley National Wildlife Refuge, 26208 Finley Refuge Rd, Corvallis, OR
Contact: Samantha Bartling, Visitor Services Manager, , 541-760-3036
Sponsor: Friends of the Willamette Valley National Wildlife Refuge Complex and USFWS
Bat Night**
8:45–10pm
Join Neighborhood Naturalist for a family-friendly night of ‘batting’! We’ll see lots of bats hunting over the duck pond and wetlands at Starker and Sunset Parks. We’ll use a bat detector to convert the bats’ sonar to audible clicks and a spotlight. Bring binoculars and an extra layer to wear, as the evening gets cooler.
Meeting Location: Bruce Starker Arts Park parking lot (near duck pond and amphitheater)
Contact: Don Boucher, , 541-753-7689
Sponsor: Neighborhood Naturalist
Sunday, May 15
Naturalist Adventure: Mill Hill at Finley Wildlife Refuge**
9am– ~12:30 pm
Mill Hill has forest areas of Douglas-Fir and Oregon White Oak. We’ll enjoy woodland wildflowers, the songs of migrant birds and much more.
Meeting Location: Meet at Avery Park Rose Garden: 1210 SW Avery Dr., Corvallis for carpooling.
Contact: Don Boucher, , 541-753-7689
Sponsor: Neighborhood Naturalist
Bald Hill Farm Restoration for Monarchs and Mulkey Creek Trail Plant Walk**
9–11am
Join us to find out about how Corvallis third graders are restoring habitat for monarch butterflies and learn a few new plants on a hike up the Mulkey Creek Trail.
Meeting Location: Meet at Oak Creek Road Bald Hill Parking lot
Contact: Carolyn Menke, Sponsor: Institute for Applied Ecology and Marys River Watershed Council
‘Back in Time’ at Fort Hoskins**
2–4pm
Celebrate the finale of 2016 Natural Areas Celebration week by going ‘back in time’ at Fort Hoskins. Get exclusive access to the civil war area Army Fort Commander’s house, followed by hands on wildlife activities with skulls, furs, and nests! Join a short overlook hike to the ridge for a breathtaking view of Kings Valley, if you are feeling up to it! Reserve your space—only 20 people total can participate.
Meeting Location: Fort Hoskins Historic Park, 38150 Fort Hoskins Road, Philomath
Contact: Adam Stebbins, Benton County Natural Areas and Parks, Sponsor: Benton County Natural Areas and Parks