by Bryan Mohlman

Pierce Conservation District is celebrating the activation of two new Habitat Stewardship sites! Join us for a day of habitat restoration on July 13th.

You can find geese (and even goslings!) enjoying Waughop Lake on a sunny day.

At one end of the county, Waughop Lake in the Fort Steilacoom Park Complex, and on the other end, Bradley Lake Park in Puyallup. Waughop Lake is a cherished community space with walking paths and educational signage. We have a new habitat steward with our Habitat Stewardship program that will lead volunteers that focus their efforts on Waughop Lake, through invasive species removal and installation/care for native plants. The lake and surrounding areas provide a peaceful retreat for visitors and a vital habitat for many species. Together with volunteers we will create healthy habitat for wildlife, improve surface water quality, and enrich a community asset for all parkgoers.  

Volunteers celebrate atop their massive pile of pulled blackberry at Bradley Lake.

We are also activating a second site this July. Bradley Lake Park in the heart of Puyallup offers a picturesque setting with its serene lake, walking trails, and lush greenery. Through a partnership with the city of Puyallup, Pierce Conservation District has successfully restored portions of the park surrounding the lake. Our most recent habitat stewards have passed the torch to newer inductees into the program, and we are looking forward to the energy and fresh ideas they will bring to this wonderful park. 

Volunteers play a crucial role in protecting these precious natural spaces. By volunteering your time on Saturday, July 13th, you can help us remove invasive species like Himalayan blackberry and English ivy and assist in planting native plants. No experience in habitat restoration needed, just bring your enthusiasm and a willingness to get your hands dirty. Let's work together to ensure these parks remain vibrant and healthy for generations!