Programs at Tualatin River National Wildlife Refuge All programming is free and open to the public, some events require registration and others are open to drop in anytime. See Event Calendar for specific dates and times. |
| Second Saturday Work Parties Looking to get involved on the refuge and want to get your hands dirty? Come out to our Second Saturday Restoration Work Parties! Each month we pick an activity such as caring for trees, planting, removing invasive species, maintaining trails, etc. We meet at 8:45 am at the Refuge HQ and then head to our work site at 9:00 am with work wrapping up at 12:00 pm. These work parties are a great opportunity to see portions of the refuge that are closed to the public, as well as a great way to get an understanding of what's going on at the refuge from the field level. Age Range: Any Age When: Meet second Saturday of the month at the HQ Flagpole, 8:45 am - 12:00 pm Registration: Yes - register on the Event Calendar Contact: e-mail Habitat Restoration Specialist Natalie Balkam with any questions. |
| Puddle Stompers, year round –Reservations required This 1.5 hour preschool environmental education program invites children five and younger and their families to spend time learning about the natural wonders of the Refuge. Each month features a new theme, nature craft, story time, and guided walk on the trails. The Refuge supplies 'froggy' raingear for the kids, but adults should bring their own, if needed. The Puddle Stompers program is offered the second Wednesday and following Tuesday of each month, and each month has a new theme. This event is free and open to the public, but registration is required. Please see the Event Calendar on the Friends of the Refuge page for more details. Age Range: 0 - 5 years When: 1:00-3:00 PM on Second Wednesday and 10:00-12:00 PM Third Tuesday of each month (no programs in December)
Contact: For questions please contact tualatinriver@fws.gov or 503-625-5944 |
| Drop In Exploration Days, year round—No registration, come by whenever in the time frame Join us for free hands on activities and crafts at these Drop In Exploration Days. All ages welcome, hosted indoors in our Visitors Center. Themes vary each visit, but each day features science activities for kids focused on kindergarten through 6th grade, at these events you will learn about the Refuge, create your own craft to take home and check out telescopes looking over the Refuge. No registration required for this drop in program, stay as long or short as you like within the two hour time frame. Age Range: All ages
Contact: For questions please contact tualatinriver@fws.gov or 503-625-5944 |
| Owl Prowl, Fall only – Reservation Required Come join us with hands on learning and a night walk to get to know more about this outstanding hunter. Owls remind us that nature is still very active after the sun goes down. During this night hike you'll learn about the different owls who call the Refuge home and their mysterious nocturnal lives. You'll explore their habitat and learn about their amazing adaptations for life at night. Flashlights provided. Recommended for older children and active adults. This hike requires ability to walk for 2 miles. Age Range: 10 and up (older children and adults)
Contact: For questions please contact tualatinriver@fws.gov or 503-625-5944 |
| School Programs, school year—Reservations required Available for all schools: public, private, and homeschools. Please notify the Refuge if you plan to visit with your school group even if planning a self-guided visit. This helps the Refuge avoid having too many students on the same trails at once. Age Range: K-12th Grade Contact: For questions please contact tualatinriver@fws.gov or 503-625-5944 |
Guided Group Visits, year round and by request We may provide guided visits or introductions to the Refuge to organized groups like senior centers, scout groups, affinity groups and religious groups. These may range from a 10 minute welcome to a 2 hour program based on availability. Please contact the Environmental Education specialist at tualatinriver@fws.gov or 503-625-5944 for more information. Age Range: All ages Contact: For questions please contact tualatinriver@fws.gov or 503-625-5944 |
| Waterfowl Watch 101 - Reservations required Join us for the "how to's" of waterfowl watching. Build your skills with bird watching tools and tips, practice identifying waterfowl and then venture out on the Refuge to see them in the wild! Please bring binoculars and a bird guide if you have them. Loaners will be available. This event is open to all skill levels. Age Range: Any age When: 10:00 am - 12:00 pm, check website for dates Registration: Temporarily SuspendedYes - register on the Event calendar Contact: For questions, please contact tualatinriver@fws.gov or 503-625-5944 |
