It hard to believe June is right around the corner, with summer on the way! Now that parks have opened for day use, this is the perfect time to venture out to try some new things (while remembering social distancing).

Get outside and explore with activities from our Patch Program. Youth ages K-12 choose from a range of activities that take them on adventures in their kitchen, neighborhood, community, and local parks/outdoor spaces to learn more about Pierce County.

When they complete the recommended number of activities, we will send them a sew-on patch! We encourage all youth to try this and have fun.

Shopping at Pierce County farmers markets are a great way to help the environment and our local community. Although the current pandemic has disrupted plans, our local farmers markets will continue to offer a safe place for farmers to sell their products.

Market managers have worked with the Tacoma-Pierce County Health Department and the WA State Farmers Markets Association to develop protocols that ensure the safety of customers and farmers.

Each market will operate in some capacity this season, so please visit their websites or social media pages for the most up-to-date information.

Edible Gardens Workshop Series
This series has moved to a condensed online version.  
Learn more and register

Zero Waste Gardens and Kitchen Series
Online via Zoom

Last class on May 27
Backyard Compost Tumblers 101

• Wolf Journey Earth Conservation Courses
• Exploratorium
• WET Science Center, Science Time Virtual Learning Events
• Washington Green Schools-Resources for at Home Learning
• Pacific Education Institute: FieldSTEM resources

• Tacoma EnviroChallengers
• Harbor WildWatch
• Tacoma Nature Center
• Pierce Conservation District

What a great time for spring cleaning! Many of the greatest cleaning products already live in our households. These cleaners have high acid levels that kill many pathogens. Citric acid (fresh lemon juice), white vinegar and hydrogen peroxide are some of the best.
 
Our all-purpose green cleaner is sure to please. It’s a simple recipe that makes cleaning the stove and countertops quick and easy. Plus, you can customize it with your favorite scent.
 
Find our tried and true cleaning recipes on our website.

We love simple and inexpensive! Try spraying club soda on your windows and mirrors, wipe with an old t-shirt. No streaks and no toxic odor.
 
Don’t toss that mug just because it’s stained! This mug was hand-washed and put through the dishwasher and still came out stained (photo on the left). Then a tablespoon of baking soda was rubbed on to lift the stains. Gone—like magic!