Lora Rathbone

Gardening for Everyone: Accessibility in the Garden Master Gardeners class, Ecology webinar and survey on Washington’s Water Future, opportunities to comment on state recycling, and more.

July brings Free Fare month on BFT, a walk for mental health in the demo garden, and several chances to speak up: BF Health District survey, Hanford cleanup, Richland parks, and more.

Farmers Markets are opening, and volunteer are needed to weed on Badger Mt., at Leslie Groves Park, and in the Amon Creek preserve. Don’t miss the Climate on Tap to learn how you are being mis informed!

Benton and Franklin County and each city are working on updating their comprehensive plans, including adding a climate element. The plans will guide decision-making, regulations, and investments towards meeting community goals over the coming 20 years. Comments from the public are due soon. STC has compiled suggested comments here to get you started. Now is your chance to speak up!

May is Bike Month. There are bike trail cleanups and May 11-17 is bike to work week. Advocate for better biking at Kennewick’s comprehensive plan open house May 7.

April is Earth Month and Native Plant Appreciation Month! This issue has a long list of local events and things to do to celebrate the month, including today’s Turf Alternatives-Waterwise Landscaping in Eastern WA. 5:30pm-7:30pm.

The WA State 2026 Legislative Session ends March 12. STC is following the priority bills of the Environmental Priorities Coalition. Next month we will celebrate the bills that will become new laws in our state. Check inside for March events.

Learn about the birds of migration season at Mid-Columbia River Wildlife Refuges. They also need volunteers. Many other events and ways to be involved, including the STC Community Coffee on February 28.

Green Your Holidays. Shop local: order gift boxes of local products at the Tri-Cities Food Co-op or choose a gift of a donation at the Alternative Gift Fair. Christmas bird count, old woodstove replacement program, ….