Green Neighbors Program

The Clark County Green Neighbors Program is coordinated by Clark County Public Health’s Solid Waste and Environmental Outreach to assist citizens with developing more sustainable lifestyles and building a strong environmental community in Clark County. Solid waste regional planning and programs are a cooperative effort of Battle Ground, Camas, Clark County, La Center, Ridgefield, Vancouver, Washougal, and Yacolt.

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Contact Details

Call us
(360) 397-2121 x4352
Month Flat Week Day
April 2024
June 2024

Wednesday, May 1

Composting Field Training @ CASEE Center

Wednesday, May 1 10:00 am - 11:30 am

The CASEE demo site, located at 11104 NE 149th St., Brush Prairie, WA 98606

Register here: https://clarkcountycomposts.org/workshops#workshops

 

Well & Septic System Maintenance and Septic Self-Inspection Certification Training

Wednesday, May 1 6:00 pm - 8:30 pm

Get Septic Certified and Save Money

Well & Septic System Maintenance and Septic Self -Inspection Certification

Wednesday May 1, 2024

6:00 PM to 8:30 PM

In-person at the 78th St. Heritage Farm

 

Advanced registration is required and the cost is $17.85 per household.   To register and find more details visit https://ws050124.eventbrite.com or email terry.koper@wsu.edu or call 564-397-5729.

Clark County, WA –   Do you have a conventional gravity-fed septic system? Did you know Clark County requires you to have your conventional gravity-fed septic system inspected every 3 years? Attending this Well and Septic Workshop will allow you to inspect the system yourself every-other time, instead of hiring a professional to do it for you. This can save you money. Having your septic system inspected by a professional often costs more than $100. You can save money by getting certified to self-inspect your system in our class which costs $17.85, saving homeowners money. Completing the workshop and a short exam will certify participants to self-inspect their own septic system every–other-time.

The workshop is taught by Clark County Public Health and will teach participants how to maintain and inspect their septic systems and safely maintain their well water. “Getting self-inspection certified is also a good long-term investment and participants will learn how to spot problems faster so they can have them fixed rather than looking at a costly system replacement”, says Terry Koper, Small Acreage Program Coordinator.

This workshop is hosted by the Small Acreage Program of Washington State University Clark County Extension with support from Clark County Public Works Clean Water. To find out about other events offered by the Small Acreage Program, visit http://go.wsu.edu/smallacreage.

WSU Extension programs and employment are available to all without discrimination. Persons requiring special accommodations should call WSU Clark County Extension at (564) 397-5733 prior to the event.                                              

Low Waste Living: Reduce, Reuse, Recycle

Wednesday, May 1 6:30 pm - 8:00 pm

Learn how to be an expert recycler. Understand why only certain items can go into your Blue recycle cart and glass bin. When in doubt throw it out. Tips and resources to repair, reuse and donate. This is an in-person workshop.Waste Connections of WA office in Orchards (12115 NE 99th St #1830, Vancouver, WA 98682), the building has an 18 on it.

Register here: https://clarkcountycomposts.org/workshops#workshops

Friday, May 3

Cookbook and Recipe Swap at Kindred Homestead Supply

Friday, May 3 10:00 am - 6:00 pm
Event Description: Indulge your culinary passions at the Cookbook and Recipe Swap Extravaganza at Kindred Homestead Supply! This event is a celebration of diverse flavors, family recipes, and the joy of sharing the love of cooking. 
 
What to Bring:
-Your favorite recipes 
- Used cookbooks you're ready to share 
- Grandma's best mac and cheese recipe (or any other cherished family secret) 
 
How It Works: All you have to do is bring your items to Kindred and place them on the Workshop table, then take a gander and take anything that catches your eye!
 
The more you bring, the richer our shared culinary tapestry will become! 

Get Growing-Introduction to Vegetable Gardening Workshop-Hands-On

Friday, May 3 12:00 pm - 3:30 pm
You can grow the delicious, fresh, healthy, vegetables you’ve always wanted to! Join the WSU Extension Clark County Master Gardener program for a fully hands-on, workshop on vegetable gardening. Specific location provided upon registration.
Participants will learn about site selection, soil preparation, crop selection, pest and disease management, irrigation, and more. This is a fully hands-on outdoor event. Dress for the weather. Wear sturdy shoes and bring water. This class is geared for those with no or little experience gardening. Cost: $10.

Register at https://www.eventbrite.com/e/get-growing-introduction-to-vegetable-gardening-tickets-863139823447. Contact: Erika.d.johnson@wsu.edu or 564-397-5738. https://extension.wsu.edu/clark/community-education/workshops-events/

Saturday, May 4

Cookbook and Recipe Swap at Kindred Homestead Supply

Saturday, May 4 10:00 am - 8:00 pm
Event Description: Indulge your culinary passions at the Cookbook and Recipe Swap Extravaganza at Kindred Homestead Supply! This event is a celebration of diverse flavors, family recipes, and the joy of sharing the love of cooking. 
 
What to Bring:
-Your favorite recipes 
- Used cookbooks you're ready to share 
- Grandma's best mac and cheese recipe (or any other cherished family secret) 
 
How It Works: All you have to do is bring your items to Kindred and place them on the Workshop table, then take a gander and take anything that catches your eye!
 
The more you bring, the richer our shared culinary tapestry will become! 

Wednesday, May 8

Clark County Food System Council Eat, Drink & Be Local

Wednesday, May 8 5:30 pm - 7:30 pm

Join the Clark County Food System Council for their May Eat, Drink, & Be Local event: Thyme for a Spring Fling: Planting Herbs

Local Farmers will give us a narrative on their process for growing herbs and the significance it has for them. Additionally, we’ll tantalize our taste buds with delectable recipes straight from their fields!

Eat Drink & Be Local events are gatherings that provide an opportunity for people in Clark County who are interested in local food to get together in an informal setting to relax, enjoy each other’s company and network!

Everyone who is interested in the local food is welcome. No-Host food and drink. $5 suggested donation

Green Cleaning

Wednesday, May 8 6:30 pm - 8:00 pm

Learn how to make three versatile household green cleaners and see how fun and safe cleaning can be. This is an in-person workshop.Waste Connections of WA office in Orchards (12115 NE 99th St #1830, Vancouver, WA 98682), the building has an 18 on it. (Participants are eligible for a green clean kit at no cost).

Register here: https://clarkcountycomposts.org/workshops#workshops

Saturday, May 11

Water Center Garden Cleanup

Saturday, May 11 9:30 am - 11:30 am

Join Water Center staff outdoors to help keep our Backyard Habitat Certified gardens in tip-top shape. Volunteer activities may include weeding, mulching, trimming and raking pathways. All necessary tools will be provided.

Please sign up as registration is required and space is limited: https://www.cityofvancouver.us/events/water-center-garden-cleanup-6/

All ages welcome. Youth under 18 must bring a signed minor consent form. Youth under 13 must have an adult guardian present.

If this event becomes full since space is limited and you see that registrations are no longer being accepted, please use the contact email below to add your name to the waitlist.

Contact: Water Center staff at vanwrec@cityofvancouver.us or 360-487-7111

Wednesday, May 15

Guided Tours at Columbia Springs

Wednesday, May 15 5:30 pm - 6:30 pm

You're invited!

Join us for a Guided Tour of Columbia Springs.
Have you ever wondered how old the fish are out in our round ponds, or what wildlife can be found around our site? Learn about all that Columbia Springs has to offer during one of our guided tours!

Let us know you’re coming in advance by emailing apryl@columbiasprings.org. We will meet at 5:30pm. Wear good walking shoes and dress for the weather!

Questions? Contact Kristine at events@columbiasprings.org or 360-882-0936 x 230

Saturday, May 18

Columbia Springs Kids Fishing Fest

Saturday, May 18 8:00 am - 2:00 pm

You're invited! Join us for our first Kids Fishing Fest back on site since 2019!

The event includes:
• Fishing for kids ages 5-14 with one of our expert fishing mentors
• Fishing pole for registered fishers
• Opportunity for registered fishers to catch and take home up to two fish
• Hands-on science and nature activities
• BBQ lunch (veggie options available)

Advance registration for a fishing time slot and ticket purchase is required for all attendees ages 5 and over. Tickets are $8 per person. Kids under 5 are free.

To register, please visit our website and choose a one-hour time slot between 8am and 2pm. This time slot is the time that registered kids can line up to fish. All attendees are welcome to enjoy the rest of the festival for the duration of the event.

Note: the 1pm-2pm time slot is reserved for kids with disabilities.

Spots are limited! Register today!

https://www.columbiasprings.org/events/kids-fishing-fest/

Questions? Email events@columbiasprings.org

Bird Language Workshop

Saturday, May 18 9:30 am - 12:00 pm

Unraveling the Storylines of Nature through Birds: Birds are one of the most vocal animals on Earth. Join us as we slow down and tune into their vocalizations which offer a glimpse into the rich and dramatic storylines of their lives and the animals living in this shared space. In this workshop, learn how keying into the calls, postures and behaviors of songbirds can help you see more wildlife, unravel fascinating stories, deepen your connection to nature and increase your awareness skills.

This workshop will introduce bird sound mapping and sit spots for bird observing. Expect to walk 1.5 miles on both paved and uneven, muddy trails and to be seated outside for 40 minutes. Binoculars available to borrow. Program will be outside and will happen rain or shine.

Suitable for adults and youth ages 12 and older.

Sign up soon. Registration is required and space is limited: https://www.cityofvancouver.us/events/bird-language-workshop/

If this event becomes full since space is limited and you see that registrations are no longer being accepted, please use the contact email below to add your name to the waitlist.

Contact: Water Center staff at vanwrec@cityofvancouver.us or 360-487-7111

Composting Field Training @ Heritage Farm 5-18

Saturday, May 18 10:00 am - 11:30 am

The Heritage Farm compost demo site is located at 1919 NE 78th Street, WA 98665. 

Register here: https://clarkcountycomposts.org/workshops#workshops

Don't Buy That Plant! 10 Mistakes to Avoid When Picking Out New Plants Learn & Serve Workshop

Saturday, May 18 10:00 am - 12:00 pm

In a world of infinite choices, it's easy to make mistakes when it comes to selecting plants for our ornamental gardens or containers. Join Master Gardener Cindy Combs for a fun and engaging presentation on what, when and where to buy plants that will have you shopping with confidence. Following the 45-minute workshop, attendees will be asked to provide 45 minutes of service in the demonstration garden. The event will go on rain or shine! Please dress for the weather, bring water, and plan to get a bit dirty. East Vancouver. Specific location provided upon registration. Register at https://www.eventbrite.com/e/dont-buy-that-plant-10-mistakes-to-avoid-when-picking-out-plants-workshop-tickets-877504257857?aff=oddtdtcreator. Free. This workshop is put on in collaboration with Clark County Public Works Green Neighbors Program. Contact: erika.d.johnson@wsu.edu / 564-397-5738. Visit us online at https://extension.wsu.edu/clark/community-education/workshops-events/.

Conscious Consumption: Trashion Show

Saturday, May 18 2:00 pm - 3:00 pm

Join us for the Trashion Show event at the Cascade Park Community Library on Saturday, May 18th. Are you passionate about upcycling materials and reducing waste? Showcase your skills by entering our first-ever Trashion Show!

Participants can create a wearable garment or accessory for the runway or submit artwork for a gallery show. All entries must be made from reused or recycled materials. Prizes will be awarded to participants, and all ages are welcome to attend the show. However, entrants must be between the ages of 12 and 19. Registration is required for participants only. 

Event Details:

  • Date: Saturday, May 18th
  • Time: TBD
  • Location: Cascade Park Library

Don't miss this opportunity to show off your creativity and make a positive impact on the environment!

Thursday, May 23

Burnt Bridge Creek Exploration - Stewart Glen Trailhead

Thursday, May 23 9:00 am - 11:00 am

Explore the Burnt Bridge Creek watershed as it reaches the end of its 13-mile journey and flows into Vancouver Lake. Learn about restoration projects and stormwater management while discovering more about native plants, animals, and birds of the area.

This walk is suitable for ages 8 and older. Expect to walk 2 miles on paved surfaces. Advanced registration required. Sign up today: https://www.cityofvancouver.us/events/burnt-bridge-creek-exploration-stewart-glen-trailhead/

If this event becomes full since space is limited and you see that registrations are no longer being accepted, please use the contact email below to add your name to the waitlist.

Contact: Water Resources Education Center at 360-487-7111 or vanwrec@cityofvancouver.us

On the road Tour-All a-Buzz Blooms

Thursday, May 23 8:30 pm - Friday, May 24 4:30 am
Join the WSU Extension Clark County Master Gardener program for an on-the-road- tour and leave the driving to us! Our first stop is Smart Bee Pollination and La Center Gardens & Family Farm, two complementary farms next door to each other. Smart Bee Pollination’s honeybees pollinate flowers throughout the PNW and the neighboring Farm. Owner and third-generation beekeeper, Viktor Plyushchev Jr., will give a talk on bees. The Parson family owns La Center Gardens & Family Farm, growing daffodils, tulips, lilies, sunflowers and more. John Parsons will give us a on his Farm. Up next is La Center Tree farm. A u-cut Christmas tree farm for the last 22 years, they will be transitioning to timber land to preserve open space, improve wildlife habitat and benefit future generations. Steve Boynton will give us a talk on his vision. Lunch on your own (no sack lunches)at Los Pepe's Mexican Restaurant. Last stop is Tsugawa Nursery, they have over five acres of retail space, they specialize in Japanese maples, bonsai and water gardens. There we'll learn what native plants are the best pollinators. Vans depart Enterprise at 8:30 sharp and return at 4:30pm.Cost: $35. Register by May 14 at https://www.eventbrite.com/e/on-the-road-tour-all-a-buzz-blooms-tickets-876077430177.ContactErika.d.johnson@wsu.edu/ 564-397-5738. Visit us online at https://extension.wsu.edu/clark/community-education/workshops-events/.

Friday, May 24

On the road Tour-All a-Buzz Blooms

Thursday, May 23 8:30 pm - Friday, May 24 4:30 am
Join the WSU Extension Clark County Master Gardener program for an on-the-road- tour and leave the driving to us! Our first stop is Smart Bee Pollination and La Center Gardens & Family Farm, two complementary farms next door to each other. Smart Bee Pollination’s honeybees pollinate flowers throughout the PNW and the neighboring Farm. Owner and third-generation beekeeper, Viktor Plyushchev Jr., will give a talk on bees. The Parson family owns La Center Gardens & Family Farm, growing daffodils, tulips, lilies, sunflowers and more. John Parsons will give us a on his Farm. Up next is La Center Tree farm. A u-cut Christmas tree farm for the last 22 years, they will be transitioning to timber land to preserve open space, improve wildlife habitat and benefit future generations. Steve Boynton will give us a talk on his vision. Lunch on your own (no sack lunches)at Los Pepe's Mexican Restaurant. Last stop is Tsugawa Nursery, they have over five acres of retail space, they specialize in Japanese maples, bonsai and water gardens. There we'll learn what native plants are the best pollinators. Vans depart Enterprise at 8:30 sharp and return at 4:30pm.Cost: $35. Register by May 14 at https://www.eventbrite.com/e/on-the-road-tour-all-a-buzz-blooms-tickets-876077430177.ContactErika.d.johnson@wsu.edu/ 564-397-5738. Visit us online at https://extension.wsu.edu/clark/community-education/workshops-events/.

Saturday, May 25

Pollinator Posse

Saturday, May 25 9:00 am - 11:30 am

You’ve likely heard about the recent decline in bee populations. And you probably know that bees and other pollinators play an essential role in food production – making possible, development of all variety of fruits, vegetables, coffee, chocolate, beer and wine and more.  Did you know that you play an important role in helping to support our local native pollinators?!There are simple actions you can take to provide food, shelter, water and space for a wide variety of beautiful and interesting-to-watch pollinating insects and birds. And the bonus is a beautiful addition to your home landscape.  Join the Pollinator Posse! This introductory level, small, interactive, group learning session put on by the WSU Extension Clark County Master Gardener program will introduce you to our pollinators and the plants upon which they depend. Get ideas on how to start a pollinator garden. This is an introductory workshop. Vancouver (Hazel Dell). Free. Space is limited. Registration required at https://www.eventbrite.com/e/pollinator-posse-tickets-877516654937. Put on in partnership with Clark County Public Health Green Neighbors Program. Participants will receive flower seeds and pollinator plants to take home. Bee the Change. Contact: Erika.d.johnson@wsu.edu/ 564-397-5738. Visit us online at https://extension.wsu.edu/clark/community-education/workshops-events/.   

Tuesday, May 28

2024 Film Series: Razing Liberty Square

Tuesday, May 28 5:00 pm - 7:00 pm

About the film:

Liberty City, Miami, was home to one of the oldest segregated public housing projects in the U.S. Now with rising sea levels, the neighborhood’s higher ground has become something else: real estate gold. Wealthy property owners push inland to higher ground, creating a speculators’ market in the historically Black neighborhood previously ignored by developers and policy-makers alike.

The dramatic changes happening in Miami’s Liberty Square are a looking glass for contemporary issues of wide-scale significance: the affordable housing crisis, the impact of systemic racism and climate gentrification. Miami is experiencing sea level rise before the rest of the country. What is happening in Liberty Square is a prescient story of what is to come, and strategies put to the test here are being closely observed by the rest of the world.

When: Tuesday, May 28th from 4:30pm to 7:00pm

Where: Columbia Room at the Vancouver Community Library, 901 C St, Vancouver, WA 98660

Event Schedule:

4:30pm – Doors Open

4:45pm – Pizza

5:15pm – Film Starts

Pizza will be provided through a generous discount from the Piehole Pizzeria including Gluten Friendly/Vegan options. A water station will also be available. Please help us reduce waste by bringing your own water bottle. 

Learn more about the film and watch a trailer here.

Please register here.

This film series was made possible by our partners at Clark County Green Neighbors. Thank you to our partnering sponsor, PeaceHealth.

Wednesday, May 29

RecycleU Class: Recycling 201

Wednesday, May 29 5:30 pm - 6:30 pm

This Recycling Beyond the Curb workshop covers a variety of recycling opportunities beyond the basics of curbside recycling. Discover recycling and reuse options available locally for plastic bags, appliances, bulky items and more! Learn how to identify Household Hazardous Waste (HHW) and then how to safely dispose of this material in Clark County.

Please note that prior attendance in Recycling 101 is required for this free class. Sign up today.

Consider staying for a Bonus Organics 101 class from 6:30 to 7:00 p.m.

These classes are offered through a partnership with Vancouver Solid Waste, Clark County Green Neighbors and Waste Connections.

Contact: Kristin Naber at kristin.naber@cityofvancouver.us

Location TBD, please check the sign-up link above for additional information

Friday, May 31

Fruit Tree Pruning Workshop Series- (Via Zoom + Field Training on June 1)

Friday, May 31 6:30 pm - 8:30 pm

Increase the beauty and productivity of your fruit trees with this informative, two-part, hands-on pruning class by locally renowned fruit tree expert, Monica Maggio. Timely pruning can improve the shape, strength, and fruit set of your trees, and help reduce pest and disease pressure.

Part One is a Friday evening lecture, delivered via Zoom, that will cover general pruning theory. via Zoom.

Part Two is a Saturday in-field session that includes experiential instruction on specific techniques to help you learn how to make the best cuts on your fruit trees with confidence and skill. (Exact location provided upon registration).

Cost: $50. Dress for weather, physical activity and uneven ground. Bring water. For more information: (564) 397-5738 or Erika.d.johnson@wsu.edu. Register at https://www.eventbrite.com/e/summer-fruit-tree-pruning-workshop-series-tickets-857454829477?aff=oddtdtcreator. As the date approaches you will receive an invitation to the Zoom meeting.