A watershed is simply an area of land that drains water. An individual watershed is bounded by higher land forms so the water drains downhill, to a creek, then a river, and out to the sea. Watersheds are everywhere. They can be big or very small. Taking care of our streams, wetlands and forests will help protect and even improve water quality in our watersheds. Climate change is playing a role in changing how our watersheds function.
Streams
- Video: Plant it Right – Restoring Our Streams – 17-minute video especially for stream restoration projects.
- Riparian Areas: Fish and WIldlife Havens – Explains what riparian areas are and why they are important habitat for fish and wildlife.
Wetlands
- Wetlands as Varied as Our Region – A practical guide for woodland owners interested in fish and wildlife management. Explains what wetlands are, why they are important and how to manage them.
- Protecting Water Resources: Planting and Caring for Home Wetlands – Explains the benefits of healthy wetlands and other riparian areas and how to choose, plant, and care for plants.
Forests
- Extension Forestry and Wildlife Program – Website providing education and information about forest management to private forest landowners and the general public. Classes, workshops, and field days are available, as well as publications, videos, and online resources to help you achieve your goals as a forest owner.
- Backyard Forest Stewardship in Western Washington – A how-to guide providing management techniques to help western Washington woodland owners reach their goals; including providing wildlife habitat, reducing the risk of fire, and improving the health of the forest. (8.3MB)
- Backyard Forest Stewardship in Eastern Washington – A how-to guide providing management techniques to help eastern Washington woodland owners reach their goals; including providing wildlife habitat, reducing the risk of fire, and improving the health of the forest. (5.4MB)
- Native Trees of Western Washington, A Photographic Guide – More than just an identification book, this guide covers tree physiology and ecology, including forest stand dynamics. Full-color, 141 pages. Available for sale.
- Winter in the Woods: A Winter Guide to Deciduous Native Plants in Western Washington – A 52-page guide to identifying plants in the winter. Available for sale.