Turnbull National Wildlife Refuge seeks volunteer assistance

CHENEY — The U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service (Service), in conjunction with the Partners for Fish &

Wildlife Program, is seeking volunteers to assist with tree potting events throughout the month of April

at Turnbull National Wildlife Refuge (Refuge). Volunteers are integral to completing the Service

mission of “working with others to conserve, protect, and enhance fish, wildlife, plants, and their

habitats for the continuing benefit of the American people.”

During the month of April, refuge staff will be hosting single-day tree potting sessions on Tuesdays

and Thursdays. Volunteers will spend a half or full day assisting refuge staff potting native trees such

as aspen, hawthorn, and cottonwood. These trees, once rooted, will then be used in habitat

restoration projects both on and off refuge. Plantings typically occur in the fall with assistance from

non-profit partners and volunteers. Over the past decade, tens of thousands of trees have been

planted across the greater Spokane County area.

These potting sessions are family-friendly and open to all ages. Large groups are welcome with

advance notice. Participants are asked to wear appropriate clothing (long pants, closed toe shoes)

and provide their own food and water. Refuge staff will provide all the potting equipment, including

gloves. No prior experience is necessary to volunteer.

For more information about the Partners for Fish & Wildlife Program, including restoration projects on

lands outside of Turnbull, please contact Brian Walker, Private Lands Biologist, at

[email protected] or (509)-559-3031.

For more information about volunteering at Turnbull NWR or to RSVP for a tree potting session,

please contact Ranger Josh, Visitor Services Manager, at [email protected] or (509)-559-

3034.