Prairie Hike on Joint Base Lewis-McChord

WNPS South Sound Chapter - Native Plant Walks
Date: Friday, May 2, 2024
Title/Location: Joint Base Lewis McChord (JBLM) prairies, WA
Walk Leader: Gina Smith Contact Information: fieldtrips@southsoundchapterwnps.org 253 225-9284 (text or call)
Departure Time from trailhead: 1pm Estimated Return Time to trailhead: 3:30pm
Departure location: Dupont Station Park and Ride Number of people: 15
Walk Description: Joint Base Lewis-McChord (JBLM) encompasses nearly 80 thousand acres of intact south Puget Sound lowland habitat, including the largest glacial outwash prairies remaining in North America. Thousands of years of Indigenous burning combined with artillery-sparked wildfires and an innovative prescribed fire program have kept this rare ecosystem relatively intact in a quickly urbanizing landscape. JBLM plays a crucial role in sustaining rare species that are dependent on prairie-oak habitats in western Washington, acting as the population stronghold for many species.
During this tour, we will discuss historic land use and fire regimes, how JBLM is working to recover habitat for threatened and endangered species and enjoy the early spring wildflower display in the prairie and oak woodlands. There will be opportunities to observe birds and butterflies (binoculars are recommended). This will mainly be a driving tour, with wandering limited to the roadside to limit negative impacts to endangered species.
Any special requirements: Walkers must pre-register with Cyndy Dillon, who will send a link to a mandatory liability waiver when you provide your email address. Due to the multiple stops, this hike will be 2.5 hourslong. For the hike you will need to email the liability waiver to Cyndy or bring it to the hike. Bring water if you need it, dress for the weather and wear good hiking shoes. Restrooms may not be available.
Once our hosts pick people up in government vehicles, everyone will need a valid state ID or driver's license (and need to be a US citizen) to get through the gate.
Directions: From I-5, take exit 118 for Center Dr towards City Center. Turn right onto Wilmington Dr. After 0.2 miles turn right into DuPont Station Park and Ride. Our hosts will be in a GSA van and trucks with Fish & Wildlife plates.
Pin for Google maps:[ https://maps.app.goo.gl/8NsWXBT6Tdy6bEdE8](https://maps.app.goo.gl/8NsWXBT6Tdy6bEdE8)