A Bird Walk at Wapato Lake NWR

Wapato is a charming marsh that straddles Washington and Yamhill counties to the south of Forest Grove. Originally a large lake, it was drained in the early 1900’s to grow onions and wapato, which is a starchy potato-like tuber. In 2013 the restored area became a 4,300 acre National Wildlife Refuge.

It’s a good spot for shorebirds, herons, and ducks, as well as raptors and unusual passerines like pipits. Rarities like Solitary and Pectoral Sandpiper have turned up there recently, Cinnamon Teal are not uncommon, and Black-crowned Night Herons have been seen peeking from shrubs.

The Screamin’ Chicken Diner in Gaston is frequented by birders, memorable not only for the sign with Clyde the rooster in full howl but for a particularly toothsome house-made butterscotch syrup.

We’ll meet at the parking lot across the street from the Screamin’ Chicken. Scopes may be useful for this trip (I’ll bring one) as it’s a big place. All are welcome to join!

Trail Condition and Distance: raised path, 2 miles round trip
Elevation Change: level
Amenities: The toilet at the parking area has been closed
Exposure: Full sun exposure along the Levee Trail
Pacing: Slow
Public Transit: Yamhill County Bus 33 from Hillsboro