Birding + Stewardship @Columbia Children’s Arboretum w/Rose City Bird Collective

Join us for a late-winter bird walk + stewardship morning at Columbia Children’s Arboretum, hosted by Rose City Bird Collective in cooperation with Birding for the People, and led by Kim.

This unique green space along the Columbia Slough blends young forest plantings, open areas, and slough-side habitat—making it a rewarding place for winter birding and a meaningful setting to connect bird observation with hands-on habitat restoration.

### 🐦 What to Expect

• Beginner-friendly bird identification with guidance and space for questions
• Relaxed pace with frequent stops to observe birds and habitat
• Welcoming, community-centered vibe with an emphasis on learning and care for place
• After the bird walk, those who wish can seamlessly transition into a native planting stewardship event at the arboretum @ 10AM

### 🌿 Bird Highlights (Possible, not guaranteed)

Late winter walks here often turn up 15+ species.
Notable possibilities include:

• Steller's Jay
• Lesser Goldfinch
• Bewick's Wren
• Red-tailed Hawk

### ♿ Accessibility & Trail Conditions

Surface: paved paths and compacted gravel; grassy or muddy sections possible after rain
Grade: mostly flat throughout the arboretum
Expect: wide paths, open sightlines, and occasional soft or muddy spots in winter
Crowds/noise: generally quiet; occasional nearby traffic or aircraft noise
Shade/sun: Mix with tree cover
Seating: limited informal seating; standing for most of the walk
Restrooms: ADA-accessible restrooms on site (meeting location)
Cell service: generally available, but not guaranteed
Detailed accessibility info from Oregon Hikers .org

### 📍 Meet-Up & Logistics

Meet-up location: middle of Columbia Children’s Arboretum, at the ADA-accessible restrooms
Parking: street parking in the residential neighborhood on NE Meadow Dr.
Distance from parking: short walk through the park to the restrooms
Transit: nearby TriMet bus routes; final approach requires walking through the park
More info:

### 🔭 Binoculars / Optics

• A group scope may be available for cooperative birds
• Extra binoculars may be available to borrow (ask ahead of time and we'll bring extras!)
• Binoculars are helpful but not required!

### ❄️ Weather + What to Wear

Late February mornings can be cool and damp. Dress in warm layers, wear waterproof footwear, and bring rain protection if showers are forecast. Expect muddy patches depending on recent rainfall.

### 🌱 Stewardship Opportunity (Optional, Encouraged!)

This walk is intentionally timed to flow directly into a native planting stewardship event hosted by the Columbia Slough Watershed Council beginning at 10:00 AM at the arboretum. Participants are encouraged to stay, plant native species, and help support habitat restoration in the watershed.
If you plan to participate in the planting event, please register in advance to receive updates or cancellation notices:
https://www.columbiaslough.org/events-list/columbia-childrens-arboretum-planting-event

### ✅ Safety & Responsibility

This is an outdoor community walk on public trails. Conditions may be muddy, uneven, or slippery depending on weather. Please use your best judgment, stay within your comfort level, and help us keep the group together. By attending, you agree to take responsibility for your own safety and personal belongings.

All ages are welcome—minors must stay with a parent/guardian at all times.
We’d love to have you join us—whether it’s your first bird walk or your millionth!