Habitat stewardship is the volunteer model that PCD employs to expand our effective range through the community. Staff train and provide material support to volunteers who want to take a more active role in restoring critical green space. These stewards lead volunteers during work party events where invasive plants are removed and native bio-diverse habitat is bolstered to improve water quality.

Here in the water quality department PCD focuses on urban, green space that has the highest impact on the local watershed which can include: lakes, streams, wetlands, floodplains etc. PCD partners with local cities and property owners to focus on high priority zones, ensuring support and long term cooperation.

These ecological zones are critical as our cities are consistently expanding. Increasing biodiversity by removing invasive species and adding in native plants improves the filtration of harmful toxins, and absorption of surface water. Additionally wildlife relies on the remaining natural spaces for food, shelter and safety.

Has there been a site you have volunteered at that you loved? Are you feeling inspired to help the community with high priority restoration sites? If so, this is the sign to jump in and join us on this restoration focused journey for a healthier more vibrant community.

You will receive a valuable, FREE training in restoration and maintenance techniques, volunteer management, project implementation, and much more. Sites will be selected based on need and individual interest. 

Learn how YOU can create and restore wildlife habitat in Pierce County at our habitat stewardship training. NO prior experience necessary, just the desire to get outdoors, and make a difference. 

Habitat Stewardship Training Interest Form!

Typical work party activities include:

• Identifying native and invasive species
• Invasive species removal
• Installing native plants
• Spreading mulch to retain moisture around plantings, deter invasive resurgence, and maintain pathways
• Picking up trash
• Monitoring established plants

The different seasons bring with them different restoration focuses at the habitat stewardship sites. In early spring and fall, work parties may include installing new plants; these times of year give them the best opportunity to be successful. In the winter and summer, work parties often focus on invasive species removal and mulching to prepare the spaces for the establishment of native species.

Make sure to always have personal equipment to make your time volunteering safe and comfortable. Wear items you wont mind getting dirty! Work parties take place rain or shine.

All needed tools will be provided for use during the work parties. You can bring your own gardening/leather work gloves if you have them; spares will be available for use.

Dress for success!

We always recommend:

• Long pants
• Long sleeved shirt
• Close toed shoes (Required)
• Full water bottle

In the fall and winter include:

• Dress in warm layers
• Jacket for cold/rain
• Waterproof shoes
• Warm hat

In the spring and summer include:

• Sunglasses
• Sunscreen
• Breathable long sleeves
• Hat

Every month we host volunteer events around the county. Activities are seasonal, but often revolve around removing invasive plants, and installing native species. 

We have our current listing of events on the calendar.