Volunteers invited to Refuge tree project

Managers of the Julia Butler Hansen National Wildlife Refuge are inviting volunteers to join them tomorrow (Friday) for a tree planting and staking project.

According to a US Fish and Wildlife Service news release, the mission of the Service is “working with others, to conserve, protect and enhance fish and wildlife and their habitats for the continuing benefit of the American people.”

Columbian White-tailed Deer require different habitats for survival, the release stated. These include browse, forage, and cover. Several different tree species can be used for browse and cover on the Julia Butler Hansen Refuge.

“Tree plantings not only benefit the deer, but a variety of other species that are found on the refuge as well,” says biologist Paul Meyers. "Dogwood, cottonwood, and willow species are especially useful because you can take cuttings from existing trees and directly plant the stakes into the ground. This saves costs to the refuge but requires a hefty volunteer turn out. The Service would like to invite you to join us on a cutting and planting day around the Refuge to establish new cover and browse for the deer."

Volunteers and staff will meet at the Refuge office on Friday at 8:30 a.m. to help cut stakes from existing trees and plant them in a new location. All supplies will be provided. Participants should wear gear appropriate for the weather; this volunteer day will occur rain or shine.