The Environmental Center

Deschutes River Cleanup
2018-06-28 | Deschutes Brewery Public House, 1044 NW Bond St, Bend, OR, 97701, United States
The Upper Deschutes Watershed Council is hosting the 24th annual Deschutes River Cleanup! Cleanup activities will take place at five different sites on the Deschutes river where volunteers will help pull invasive weeds and remove litter from the stream banks. The cleanup sites are: Meadow Camp, Riverbend Park, Miller’s Landing, First Street Rapids Park, and Sawyer Park.
You will register for a specific site when you sign up. This year we are limiting each site to 20 volunteers in an effort to enforce social distancing. On the morning of the cleanup, you will meet your volunteer host at 10:00 a.m. at the site you selected. We encourage all volunteers to come prepared with sturdy shoes, a hat and sun protection, gloves, a water bottle, and snacks.
The Deschutes River Cleanup is an opportunity for us to come together to steward the Deschutes River and its riparian areas. Recreation in and around the Deschutes River has led to significant impacts to river health. In order to keep our river beautiful and protect water quality for fish and wildlife, the Watershed Council coordinates the Deschutes River Cleanup every year.

Bend COTA Work Events
2018-06-28, 2018-07-05, 2018-07-12, 2018-07-19, 2018-07-26, 2018-08-02 | Deschutes Brewery Public House, 1044 NW Bond St, Bend, OR, 97701, United States
When: Thursday Aug 11, Tuesday Aug 16, Tuesday Aug 23 and Tuesday Aug 30, 5:15 to Dusk
Where: Meet at the old Ray’s parking lot, NE corner of Simpson Ave and Century Drive in Bend
Worksite: Varies
There’s only one thing better than mountain biking in Bend, OR and that’s riding in Bend, knowing that you helped build and maintain the trails you love.
Please bring a hydration pack with water and a snack.
Be sure to bring appropriate layers to accommodate whatever the weather may be.
Questions? contact@cotamtb.com
All COTA trail work events require the following safety measures:
All participants are required to have the following protective clothing and equipment:

Sturdy shoes or boots
Gloves
Eye protection with clear or light colored lens
Long pants

Due to COTA’s insurance requirements and the inherent dangers of trail work, we must implement the following policy regarding children at work events:

For anyone 14 years of age or younger, we require one parent, guardian, or responsible adult for supervision of every four kids attending any COTA trail work events.
All minors under the age of 18 must have a parent or guardian available to sign our waiver.

Anyone who arrives for a work event may be turned away if he/she cannot meet the above requirements.

Ochoco Forest Campout
2018-06-29 - 2018-07-01 | Deschutes Brewery Public House, 1044 NW Bond St, Bend, OR, 97701, United States
Spend a few days exploring the Ochoco National Forest. From our group camp we will take day hikes to some wonderful sights in this National Forest and have evening programs about the history and issues affecting the area. If you have not been here, there are geologic wonders, great trees, amazing wildflowers.
Experience the stillness of a ponderosa hillside, piney forest scents, Ochoco Creek’s gurgles, the shining infinity of a night-time sky, new friends. Isn’t it time to recharge winter’s Nature deficit?
Friday evening we’ll have a short welcoming and orientation. Saturday we’ll offer different levels of hikes, including at least one to the top of iconic Lookout Mountain. That evening we’ll have a potluck group dinner in the Pavilion, a geology talk, and learn about forest conservation work.
Registration is now open and required. Suggested donation is $22/person for the weekend to cover campground, food, equipment and expenses. Children under 18 are free. You must register at the Eventzilla link to reserve a spot. You can pay by credit card or, after you register, mail your check made out to “Juniper Group Sierra Club” and mail to Sierra Club, c/o Environmental Center, 16 NW Kansas, Bend, OR 97703 and be sure to include your email address so we can confirm your spot and send more details.

The Green Burial Guidebook
2018-06-29 | Deschutes Brewery Public House, 1044 NW Bond St, Bend, OR, 97701, United States
Presented by a seventh generation mortician who owns and operates Cornerstone Funeral Services in Boring, Oregon.
The Green Burial Guidebook is the first book on the market to really break down all the natural burial choices we have available to us in North America. With a friendly, empowering tone, this book is perfect for someone in grief during the sudden loss of a loved one, or who might be thinking about their own burial choices. It’s a must-read for those that want their environmentalism to reach beyond their lives into death, as well as being thoughtful of the economic well-being of their surviving loved ones.

Saturday Bird Walks
2018-06-30 08:30 - 11:00, 2018-07-07 08:30 - 11:00, 2018-07-14 08:30 - 11:00, 2018-07-21 08:30 - 11:00, 2018-07-28 08:30 - 11:00, 2018-08-04 08:30 - 11:00 (America/Los_Angeles) | Sunriver Nature Center & Oregon Observatory, 57245 River Rd, Sunriver, OR, 97707, United States
Join Tom Lawler, expert local birder and nature photographer, to discover the rich bird habitats of Sunriver. With Tom’s keen eye and guidance, you will spot and learn to identify a variety of species found in the wetlands, meadows, and forests surrounding the Nature Center. Whether you are new to birding or an experienced birder, there is always something exciting to see through your binoculars!
Early registration is strongly encouraged and participation is limited to 12 birders. Expect to walk approximately three to four miles along various trails. Please no strollers or dogs. Wear sturdy and water-resistant footwear and bring a bottle of water and a pair of binoculars with you. Bird walks are geared toward adults, however children with a serious interest in birding are welcome with a parent/guardian.

Storytime Stroll: Wandering the Woods
2018-06-30 | Deschutes Brewery Public House, 1044 NW Bond St, Bend, OR, 97701, United States
Join the Deschutes Land Trust and Laurie Danahy for a children’s storytime stroll through the Metolius Preserve. We’ll share nature-focused books and activities and enjoy the simple pleasures of exploring the woods together. Discover how children’s books develop our wonder and appreciation for the natural world. Perfect for kids ages 3-5 with a grown-up in tow.
Hike Rating: This is an easy ~1 mile walk on established trails for kids.
Free. Please register online at www.deschuteslandtrust.org/hikes

Every River Tells a Story
2018-06-30 | Deschutes Brewery Public House, 1044 NW Bond St, Bend, OR, 97701, United States
2018 marks the 50 year anniversary of the Wild and Scenic Rivers Act. Our public land agencies and local nonprofits are coming together to raise awareness for a cause that’s important to all of us, our rivers.
During this family friendly celebration, families will have an opportunity to learn about our local rivers, water and its importance to people and our natural environment. Hands on activities will include, how scientists measure quality of water, how tiny bugs can serve as indicators of water quality, importance of wetlands and basic water science fun.
Program is free and open to all ages.
RSVP to karen.gentry@discovernw.org

Green Drinks at The Humble Beet
2018-07-12 | Deschutes Brewery Public House, 1044 NW Bond St, Bend, OR, 97701, United States
Please register for this event in advance.
Register

The Humble Beet is a wonderful place to support local, enjoy fresh food, celebrate sustainability, and build community here in Central Oregon.
The Humble Beet, which officially opened for business in June 2018 after nine months of renovations, offers a deli, local coffee by Still Vibrato, 100% organic and non-GMO to-go items, and 100% organic produce – locally grown in Oregon whenever possible. The new owners, Aaron and Hailey Talbot, purchased the business from organic produce pioneers Bob and Mary Devore. Their team has beautifully remodeled the store while still honoring its historic past on Newport Ave.
The interior was re-imagined to include a coffee café, which roasts ethically-sourced beans through Still Vibrato Roastery. There’s local art on the walls and a sitting area built from Oregon salvaged wood, mostly from the Bend area and the store itself. Future plans include a full service organic deli and partnerships with local brands.
We’re excited that The Humble Beet is paving the way for sustainability on Newport Ave. You’ll soon be able to take deli foods, desserts, and breakfast burritos to-go in reusable and durable bowls and plates. Plus they’ve launched a “bring your own mug” program to encourage less single-use cups, and have started to utilize a deposit-based system on all cutlery. (Thus eliminating the need for plastic cutlery and straws.) The space also boasts a new energy efficient ductless heating/cooling system, 100% LED lighting, and more efficient produce coolers.
There’s a lot more to share – so come enjoy a healthy snack and celebrate a new gathering place in town. In the meantime, check out photos of the store and all its local goodness on Facebook and Instagram.

Go Clean Energy Conference
2018-07-13 | Deschutes Brewery Public House, 1044 NW Bond St, Bend, OR, 97701, United States
The second annual Central Oregon Energy Conference where businesses, government, organizations and individuals will connect on new issues and opportunities about energy and efficiency. Join the innovators in Central Oregon and be a part of it! Whether you’re from a nonprofit, small business, property owner, real estate, restaurant, industry, cannabis grower, or just an individual — you’ll find a way to plug in.
New Oregon policies will provide incentives for everyone: from low to moderate income to small and large businesses.
Join Roger Worthington, Worthy Brewery, along with Ashley Hammond, Sunriver Brewing. They will share their tips on training your staff to reduce waste, plastics, vending, and a bulk buy to save money. Small & large businesses can learn strategies to reduce energy use, along with low cost/no cost tips to save money and the planet.

Hike With the Eds: Broken Top
2018-07-17, 2018-07-28 | Deschutes Brewery Public House, 1044 NW Bond St, Bend, OR, 97701, United States
Where does our water come from and how is it used?
Join Eddie Kula and Ed Weiser this summer to explore the Deschutes River, from the urban corridor to its headwaters in the Cascade Mountains. Each hike will be held twice, once on a week day and once on the weekend.
Registration now open!
Broken Top: Tues, July 17 and Sat, July 28
This hike has a lot to offer: a beautiful lake and meadow, forest paths, mountain streams, and stunning views. We will take some time exploring the century-old “ditch” that funnels water to one of central Oregon’s irrigation districts.

Juniper Group Program Night
2018-07-18 | Deschutes Brewery Public House, 1044 NW Bond St, Bend, OR, 97701, United States
Social 6:30, Program 7:00
An informative program about environmental issues, every third Wednesday of the month.

Jackson's Corner (East) 10% Give-back Day
2018-07-19 | Deschutes Brewery Public House, 1044 NW Bond St, Bend, OR, 97701, United States
Eat local food, support local school gardens! Here’s a great excuse to enjoy a delicious meal at Jackson’s Corner this summer.
On Thursday, July 19th 10% of your purchase at the East location will be donated to The Environmental Center to facilitate MORE school gardens in Central Oregon.
Show your support for garden education in our local communities! The money raised during these two give-back events will help us provide schools with garden grants, technical expertise through a FoodCorps service member, and will strengthen our garden educator network.
Learn more here: http://envirocenter.org/schoolgardens
See you there!

Discover Nature Day: Beautiful Butterflies
2018-07-21 | Deschutes Brewery Public House, 1044 NW Bond St, Bend, OR, 97701, United States
Beautiful Butterflies presented by Children’s Forest of Central Oregon. Butterflies are important pollinators with a fascinating life-cycle. Come learn about their stages of life, and some of the fascinating journeys of our beautiful butterfly friends.

Ages 5-10! Free

Race to the Finish: American Solar Car Challenge 2018
2018-07-22 | Deschutes Brewery Public House, 1044 NW Bond St, Bend, OR, 97701, United States
See solar cars competing in the American Solar Challenge 2018 cross the finish line at the Museum!
Beginning on July 14, collegiate solar car teams will race more than 1,700 miles, following portions of the Oregon National Historic Trail and other trails starting in Nebraska and ending at the High Desert Museum. Watch the solar cars complete their historic journey, meet the teams behind the cars, explore the power of the sun and contrast stories from the past with the possibilities of the future.
The solar cars are expected to arrive between 11:30 am and 4:00 pm, depending on traffic, weather and energy management decisions made by each team.

Summer Repair Cafe
2018-07-25 | Deschutes Brewery Public House, 1044 NW Bond St, Bend, OR, 97701, United States
Our Rethink Waste Project is organizing a Summer Repair Cafe at The Environmental Center in downtown Bend. Volunteers will be on hand to attempt to repair your broken items, for FREE! Items to bring include: Clothes, outdoor gear, electronics and small appliances, jewelry, small furniture and household goods. You may bring multiple items, but only one item will be repaired at a time.
For more information on what a repair cafe is, check our the Rethink Waste Project webpage: Dare To Repair.

Whole Foods 5% Day
2018-07-26 | Deschutes Brewery Public House, 1044 NW Bond St, Bend, OR, 97701, United States
Mark your calendars to shop at Whole Foods Market on October 17th to support school gardens across Oregon! Whole Foods has designated the Oregon Farm to School & School Garden Network as the beneficiary for 5% of sales at ALL stores in Oregon on October 17th! As the Central Oregon Regional School Garden Education Hub, we are excited to support this statewide community giving. Funds they raise will go towards putting on the 2020 Oregon Farm to School and School Garden Conference, (which our staff plan to attend) and supporting the work of regional hubs – that’s us!
Multiple times a year we gather local garden educators and teachers wishing to incorporate garden based education into their work with youth. OFSSGN has funding to support 1 regional gathering a year, but we work to bring educators together in different locations for trainings, resource shares and school garden tours multiple times a year. By supporting OFSSGN you are supporting our ability to convene our local Garden Educator Network and enrich the work they do on the ground at school across Central Oregon.

Tiny Explorers: Sounds of Nature
2018-07-26 | Deschutes Brewery Public House, 1044 NW Bond St, Bend, OR, 97701, United States
Tiny Explorers encourages new parents to kickstart a healthy life enjoying the outdoors by getting their little ones outdoors starting at a young age. The program is targeted at new families with infants and toddlers, from birth to 3 years old.

Each week has a different theme and we’ll explore the outdoors, incorporating activities as we go. Parents will also learn safety tips for bringing little ones outdoors and more ideas for getting your family outside. Families with newborns to 3 year olds are welcome, and older siblings are invited to attend. Activities will encourage exploration of the natural world, connecting with our senses, and play. The activities can be adapted for your child’s age and development, and we’ll provide a space for families to network with each other.
Families with newborns or infants that aren’t mobile should bring a baby carrier and blanket. Families that qualify for the Oregon Health Plan can access free baby carriers and other outdoor gear, including a sunhat and sunscreen.
The program is offered as a 4-week series, and families are welcome to attend as many events as they are able.
Program dates: Thursdays, July 5, July12, July 19, and July 26.

22nd Annual Deschutes River Cleanup
2018-07-28 | Deschutes Brewery Public House, 1044 NW Bond St, Bend, OR, 97701, United States
The Deschutes River Clean-Up is a special day for watershed stewards of all ages to give back to the river. The Upper Deschutes Watershed Council coordinates the Deschutes River Clean-Up each year to engage business partners, river users, and community members in hands-on stewardship activities on the Deschutes River. Recreation use of the river has increased dramatically over the past few years and, unfortunately, so too has the amount of debris that ends up in the river.
Volunteers will meet at Riverbend Park at 10:00 am for coffee, pastries and instructions. River clean-up activities will take place in the Deschutes River and along its riparian areas between Slough Campground and Drake Park.
Bring your paddleboard, kayak, or canoe to help Central Oregon Diving divers pull garbage out of the river, or help us pull invasive weeds and remove litter from the stream banks.
Sign up to volunteer!

Hike With the Eds: Bridge Creek
2018-08-04 | Deschutes Brewery Public House, 1044 NW Bond St, Bend, OR, 97701, United States
Where does our water come from and how is it used?
Join Eddie Kula and Ed Weiser this summer to explore the Deschutes River, from the urban corridor to its headwaters in the Cascade Mountains. Each hike will be held twice, once on a week day and once on the weekend.
Registration now open!
Bridge Creek: Sat, August 4 and Tues, August 14
This final hike provides another perspective on how our water is used and where it comes from…this time our drinking water. The out-and-back route takes us to a beautiful meadow where we’ll eat lunch and get a better sense of Bend’s water supply.
