Contributing writer for The Canyon Weekly
Are you curious about plants and want to learn more?
Pre-registration for PNW Plant Walks at Silver Falls State Park has launched. Participants will learn about gathering ethics, land ecology and native plant species as well as explore edible and medicinal applications through the history of plants and their uses. Also, the walks will introduce hikers to native and invasive plant identification of plants, berries and trees.
“Please join me in a guided walk where we’ll discuss all this and more in a unique local park with mature old growth forest,” said Danee Vig Koonce, host of the walks put on by Cascadia Yoga & Wellness in Turner. “We’ll spend two hours wandering through the forest to find, identify, and discuss over 30 local plant species and their medicinal uses. You’re welcome to bring a basket or bag for what we gather.”
Koonce has an educational background in geography, natural sciences, plant identification, works in public service, and is a trained yoga instructor with a passion for bringing people together in nature.
Sessions are slated for 11 a.m. -1 p.m. on April 15 and May 13, and 10 a.m.-noon on June 10 and June 25. Participants will meet at the Howard Creek parking lot. The cost is $25 per session.
A $5 day-use fee or an annual park pass is required. Participants are asked to bring water, sunscreen, weather-appropriate clothing/shoes, and snacks. Restrooms are located by the parking lot.
Pre-registration is required to keep the group small enough to allow discussion and discover new plants. Groups are limited to 10 participants.
Other upcoming events at the Silver Falls State Park include the Silver Falls Owl Prowls, an opportunity to join a park ranger for an evening of owling.
The prowl will begin with an indoor presentation, “All About Owls,” and for those who are interested, an owl pellet dissecting activity will be available. A short, ½-mile trip hike to call for owls will take place at sunset. The hike lasts about 30-45 minutes and may not be suitable for youngsters under 5. Be sure to dress warmly, be prepared for the weather, and bring a flashlight.
The owl prowls are slated for 6 p.m. March 11 at Davidson Ranch and 7 p.m. March 25 at Smith Creek Meeting Hall. Space is limited and pre-registration is required and directions will be sent to participants the week leading up to the event.
A day-use parking permit is required and may be purchased at the park for $5. A 12- or 24-month parking permit may be purchased from the online Park Store.
