Wednesday, January 16, 2019

Sunday Union Bay Natural Area Work Party




Restoration Work Party: Union Bay Natural Area









The Union Bay Natural Area, also known as Yesler Swamp
located near the Center for Urban Horticulture and bordered by NE 41st Street and Surber Drive, is having a work party on Sunday from 10-1pm. 

The information says:
Come help to restore habitat in the Union Bay Natural Area! The Union Bay Natural Area (UBNA) is a story of hope for reversing human-caused degradation to our ecosystems. Once a thriving marsh, for over 40 years UBNA was filled with trash, serving as a city landfill. After closure, the landfill was capped and the area was dedicated as a natural area and 'living laboratory' for ecological restoration. Be a part of the solution, and join a team of volunteers to remove invasive species and plant native plants, crucial parts of restoring the landscape to functioning habitat for wildlife and humans alike. 
Meet in the courtyard outside the Miller Library. Gloves and tools will be provided. Please wear closed toed shoes, clothes that can get dirty, a rain jacket (always a chance of rain in Seattle!) and a water bottle.  RSVP here. 

Friends of Yesler Swamp and the UW Botanic Gardens have been working together for over a decade to restore the native plants of Yesler Swamp, located near the Center for Urban Horticulture and bordered by NE 41st Street and Surber Drive, as well as construct a handicapped-accessible natural wetland trail, which also serves to protect and conserve swamp wildlife and minimize human impact on the wetlands.  The  boardwalk was completed on October 16th of last year with a celebration.

Friends of Yesler Swamp has published a variety of posts regarding the history of Yesler Swamp including history of the area from settlement, sawmill, town of Yesler, historic photos, videos, source notes and more, on their website.

The Seattle City Council approved a Department of Neighborhoods Matching Fund award of $88,887 to restore Yesler Swamp and help with the cost of construction of the boardwalk.  And the King Conservation District provided a $31,940 grant for construction of a Viewing Platform and more. 

Friends of Yesler Swamp said on their website that the trail "offers views of the wetlands, the beaver lodge and the lagoon, while protecting wildlife by directing human foot traffic away from these sensitive areas.

Go here for more information.

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