The Environmental Center

ThinkBike Ride & Learn #2
2023-08-01 17:00 - 18:00 (America/Los_Angeles) | Mirror Pond Plaza, downtown off Brooks St., Bend, OR, 97701, United States
During a two-day workshop, local and Dutch experts will exchange ideas for how to include walking, biking, and rolling in Bend’s transportation systems. The ThinkBike workshop is invite only but we want to keep the conversation going with the community!
Join us for a bike ride after the workshop to learn about the activities and travel to the public presentation at Open Space Studios.
Meet at the Mirror Pond Plaza to ride together to the event.

ThinkBike Public Presentation
2023-08-01 18:00 - 20:00 | Open Space Event Studios, 220 NE Lafayette Ave, Bend, OR, 97701, United States
Want to learn about Dutch urban and street design philosophy and how Bend can increase ridership through intentional planning? Join cycling and infrastructure expert, Sjors Van Duren, and colleagues, as well as other ThinkBike Workshop participants for a public presentation. The presentation will recap the workshop activities and share some of the concept designs in which Dutch strategies were applied to Bend’s streets.
No registration required but seating is limited. Light refreshments will be provided.

Weed Warriors at Whychus Canyon Preserve
2023-08-02 09:00 - 12:00 | Whychus Canyon Preserve, Sisters, OR, 97756, United States
Join the Weed Warriors to battle invasive weeds at our protected lands! Weed Warriors is a volunteer group that meets several times a month to remove invasive weeds like mullein, spotted knapweed, teasel, and Canada thistle from the Land Trust protected lands. Non-native vegetation is a major threat to functioning natural areas. Pulling them by hand helps restore native plant communities.
Rating: Work party with moderate physical activity that includes digging and pulling weeds out of uneven ground.
What to bring: Work gloves and weeding tools (if you have them), snacks, water, and closed toe shoes. Dress for the weather.
Register Here!

CIF Info Session (In Person/Virtual)
2023-08-08 13:00 - 14:00 | The Environmental Center, 16 NW Kansas Avenue, Bend, OR, 97703
Do you have an idea for reducing waste in your neighborhood, workplace, school, your favorite park or restaurant, or other community space, but aren’t sure how to get started? Apply for the Rethink Waste Community Innovation Fund!
The Environmental Center’s Rethink Waste Project will provide a total of $40,000* awards to individuals, businesses, or community organizations to implement waste reduction or recovery projects throughout Deschutes County. Each project will be awarded up to $5,000. There is no minimum project budget/award amount. 20% of the project funds must come from matching funds (cash or in-kind). Depending on project budget requirements, 8 to 12 projects will be funded in 2023.
*$15,000 of the $40,000 total projects budget will be awarded to projects that take place at or largely impact visitor destinations, such as a visitor lodging property, restaurant / eatery, park / trail/ nature area, outfitter / activity company, museum / gallery, entertainment venue.
Attend an info session in-person at The Environmental Center or Virtually! Info sessions are scheduled February 7th, May 9th, and August 8th 2023 from 1-2pm.
Register – In Person
Register – Virtual

Happy Hour in the Garden
2023-08-08 16:00 - 18:00, 2023-09-12 16:00 - 18:00 | The Environmental Center, 16 NW Kansas Avenue, Bend, OR, 97703
Join us in our Kansas Avenue Learning Garden for our ongoing volunteer work party series. In 2022, volunteers contributed over 200 hours to help keep our learning garden maintained over the growing season. We couldn’t do it without you!
This event is open to all ages and gardening abilities! No experience or tools required. Beer and non-alcoholic beverages are provided for all who volunteer. Each event includes seasonal ongoing tasks as well as special projects as needed throughout the growing season. Volunteers are welcome to pop in for an hour or stay the whole time. No need to RSVP or commit ahead of time. (Pro tip – put the following dates in your phone calendar now – then when it pops up you can decide if it works out for you or not!)
In 2023, Happy Hour in the Garden will once again run twice a month from March through October. This schedule throughout the extent of the growing season offers meaningful volunteer experiences for all who come, and deeper care for the garden when it needs it.
For Summer & Fall 2023, our Happy Hours will be 4-6pm, on the 2nd & 4th Tuesdays of the month.
March & April Happy Hours sponsored by Wild Ride Brewing

March 7 & 21
April 4 & 18

May & June Happy Hours sponsored by Worthy Environmental

May 2 & 16
June 6 & 20

July & August Happy Hours sponsored by Worthy Environmental

July 11 & 25
August 8 & 22

September & October Happy Hours sponsored by Boneyard Beer

September 12 & 26
October 10 & 24

Contact Denise, Garden Program Manager, if you have any questions about getting involved.

E-Bikes Will Change Your Life
2023-08-09 12:00 - 13:30 | OR
Find out how and why to get an electric bike to increase your mobility while helping our communities and the planet.
Register here!

Stream Sampling on Whychus Creek
2023-08-10 08:30 - 2023-08-11 16:00 | Whychus Creek, Sisters, OR, 97759, United States
Do you have an interest in supporting the Upper Deschutes Watershed Council as a community scientist? They invite you to join them for their annual Stream Sampling Days on Whychus Creek this August 10th or 11th!

Sampling the aquatic insect community in restoration project reaches allows our organization and partners to understand the habitat these projects are providing for aquatic critters like bugs and fish. Join on August 10th or 11th (or both!) to collect stream samples along Whychus Creek that will provide information about their restoration projects, fish habitat, and stream health. You’ll spend the day with a small team collecting samples from the stream on Deschutes Land Trust preserves and National Forest lands and will have the opportunity to learn about their restoration efforts and see less-visited reaches of the creek.

Please register below to volunteer for one day or both. For questions about Stream Sampling, please contact Lauren Mork at lmork@restorethedeschutes.org
Thursday, August 10th Registration
Friday, August 11th Registration

Our Disrupted Learning Environment: Schools and Student Behavior
2023-08-17 11:30 - 13:00 | Riverhouse on the Deschutes, 2850 Rippling River Court, Bend, OR, 97701, United States
Join City Club and The Bulletin for a discussion about the current state of student behavior in schools, the consequences, and how schools are responding.
More information available soon as the forum is planned.

Plastic-Free Back to School
2023-08-17 14:00 - 15:00 | OR
With summer winding down in the Northern Hemisphere, it’s back-to-school time for many students. While back-to-school time is usually associated with plastic binders, water bottles, pens, and other single-use plastics, it’s possible to avoid a school year filled with toxic plastic—and Plastic Pollution Coalition will show you how. On August 17, learn why reusable, refillable, non-plastic school supplies like stainless steel lunch boxes and food storage containers are better for student health, the planet, and wallets—and how to incorporate them into the school year. You will also discuss how schools can incorporate reusable, plastic-free items and practices into their operations.

OLCV's Town Hall on the Environment with Senator Ron Wyden
2023-08-22 14:00 - 15:30 | Online Event
Senator Ron Wyden has been a champion of our conservation and environmental values in D.C., voicing our support for strong safeguards for our air, water, forests, wildlife, and communities. During OLCV’s Town Hall on the Environment with Senator Wyden, we’ll celebrate his leadership and learn about the latest news on a broad range of environmental issues, including benefits for Oregon powered by climate investments of the IRA, conservation efforts in progress, and threats to public lands in our state.
RSVP and join us for an afternoon with the senator discussing all things environment and conservation!
WHEN: August 22nd, 2023 from 2 – 3:15PM
WHERE: Zoom – RSVP here!

(Cancelled due to smoke) Happy Hour in the Garden
2023-08-22 16:00 - 18:00 | The Environmental Center, 16 NW Kansas Avenue, Bend, OR, 97703

Backyard Composting with Worthy Environmental
2023-08-26 09:00 - 11:00 | Worthy Brewing, 495 Northeast Bellevue Drive, Bend, OR, 97701, United States
Join Worthy Environmental for a Backyard Composting Workshop on Saturday, August 26th, 9:00-11:00 AM at Worthy Brewing Company (495 Northeast Bellevue Drive in Bend)
Learn the basics of starting your own backyard compost system and the simple science behind it. This workshop will cover the basics of composting, different types of compost systems, and how compost can benefit your plants, your soil, and the environment.

Reserve a spot here.
This workshop is part of Worthy Environmental’s Rethink Waste Community Innovation Fund Project – learn more.

Tomato Manifesto 2023 - Preserving Your Summer Bounty
2023-08-27 13:30 - 15:00 | Open Space Event Studios, 220 NE Lafayette Ave, Bend, OR, 97701, United States
“Tomato Manifesto – Preserving Your Summer Bounty” – Locavore’s Food School at Open Space Studios, Sunday, August 27th 1:30-3pm
Central Oregon Locavore Non-Profit is proud to offer a learning and demonstration experience for storing, preserving and enjoying tomatoes all season long! Registrants will be given tips, tricks, hands-on experiences and learn the many different methods of storing summer produce for year-round use that preserves nutritional integrity and follows food safety guidelines.
The Food School Program is a hands-on approach bringing local chefs, farmers, ranchers and herbalists together with the community as they teach their trades in a fun and approachable manner to those that want to learn all about food!
Event is $8 for members, $10 for non-members, with limited registration. Please visit our website for more information, or those interested can sign up at the link below.
Sign up here!

Solar + Storage Incentive Review
2023-08-28 12:00 - 13:00 | OR
Learn how you can embrace Solar+storage and become apart of the green energy Future!

Rescheduled Happy Hour in the Garden
2023-08-29 16:00 - 18:00 | OR
Join us in our Kansas Avenue Learning Garden for our ongoing volunteer work party series. In 2022, volunteers contributed over 200 hours to help keep our learning garden maintained over the growing season. We couldn’t do it without you!
This event is open to all ages and gardening abilities! No experience or tools required. Beer and non-alcoholic beverages are provided for all who volunteer. Each event includes seasonal ongoing tasks as well as special projects as needed throughout the growing season. Volunteers are welcome to pop in for an hour or stay the whole time. No need to RSVP or commit ahead of time. (Pro tip – put the following dates in your phone calendar now – then when it pops up you can decide if it works out for you or not!)
In 2023, Happy Hour in the Garden will once again run twice a month from March through October. This schedule throughout the extent of the growing season offers meaningful volunteer experiences for all who come, and deeper care for the garden when it needs it.
Please note – Happy Hour in the Garden is cancelled when temps are over 100 degrees and AQI in Old Bend is over 150.
For Summer & Fall 2023, our Happy Hours will be 4-6pm, on the 2nd & 4th Tuesdays of the month.
March & April Happy Hours sponsored by Wild Ride Brewing

March 7 & 21
April 4 & 18

May & June Happy Hours sponsored by Worthy Environmental

May 2 & 16
June 6 & 20

July & August Happy Hours sponsored by Worthy Environmental

July 11 & 25
August 8 & 22
August 29 – Rescheduled make up date!!

September & October Happy Hours sponsored by Boneyard Beer

September 12 & 26
October 10 & 24

Contact Denise, Garden Program Manager, if you have any questions about getting involved.

Raise the Deschutes: Deschutes River Walk and Talk Tour
2023-08-30 18:00 - 20:00 | OR
Deepen your understanding of the Deschutes Basin through an enriching, serene evening by the river. Join DRC for the “Raise the Deschutes River Walk and Talk Tour,” happening on August 30, from 6 pm to 8 pm.
During the walk, the group will stop along the way to discuss several key points, including the unique dynamics of the Deschutes Basin, the changes it has undergone, and the ways in which human activity has impacted it.
Additionally, DRC will share how they’re working toward DRC’s mission to restore streamflow and improve water quality. You’ll discuss their ongoing projects, collaborations, and the tangible differences they’re making for our rivers and all who depend on them.

Green Energy Series #11: Seasonal Thermal Energy Storage
2023-09-09 10:00 - 11:00 | OR
Solar Oregon presents a free webinar on seasonal thermal energy storage – Options, methods, and economics.

Latino Fest
2023-09-09 11:00 - 17:00 | Sahalee Park, 1 SE 7th Street, Madras, OR, 97744, United States
Central Oregon’s most important Latin American heritage celebration!

September 9, 2023 11am – 5pm

Enjoy diverse cultures, live music, dancing, delicious food, a community resource fair, piñatas, and games for kids!

Rethink Waste Workshop at The Central Oregon Maker Faire
2023-09-10 11:00 - 12:00 | Deschutes Brewery Mountain Room, 901 SW Simpson Ave, Bend, OR, 97701
Join The Environmental Center at The Central Oregon Maker Faire!
The Environmental Center will host a Rethink Waste Workshop on Sunday, September 10 at 11am at The Central Oregon Maker Faire. The workshop will include interactive recycling do’s and don’ts and a sock darning demo by Fixer Elaine. The workshop is located in the Mountain Room at Deschutes Brewery (901 SW Simpson Ave, Bend OR 97702).
The Maker Faire takes place September 9th and 10th with The Environmental Center booth open 10am-1pm on September 9th and 1:30pm-4pm on September 10th.

Tickets to Maker Faire are available here.

How To Go Solar + Storage Webinar
2023-09-12 18:00 - 19:00 | OR
In this webinar, you’ll learn everything you need to know to feel confident adding solar or energy storage to your home or business.

Regenerative Food & Farming; Documentary and Discussion
2023-09-12 18:30 - 21:00 | Worthy Brewing, 495 Northeast Bellevue Drive, Bend, OR, 97701, United States
Regenerative Food & Farming; Documentary and Discussion
Join us for an exciting evening of exploring the world of regenerative food and farming at Worthy Brewing Company in Bend, Oregon. Get ready to dive into a thought-provoking documentary, Kiss the Ground, that sheds light on the importance of regenerative practices in our food system. We will screen a 45 minute educational version of the film, followed by a lively discussion with a local panel:

Klaus Mager, Citizen Climate Lobby – Moderator
Cate Havstad-Casad of Casad Family Farm;
Ellen Hammond, Jefferson County Soil and Water Conservation District;
Katrina Wiest from Bend La Pine Schools;
Katrina Van Dis, Ensoterra
Mike Bakouris, NeighborImpact

Come share your thoughts and ideas with like-minded individuals passionate about creating a better future for our planet.
Introduced and hosted by Bend Citizen Climate Lobby in partnership with Worthy Brewing. Tickets include one drink token. The event will have a limited food menu.
If you would like to attend but need assistance with the fee, please contact info@citizensclimatebend.org
Doors open at 6:30. Film starts at 7. Please arrive before the film to order food and drinks.
Get tickets here!

Welcoming Week-Multicultural Art Exhibition
2023-09-13 16:00 - 19:00 | The Environmental Center, 16 NW Kansas Avenue, Bend, OR, 97703
Join us at The Environmental Center in downtown Bend for a Multicultural Art Exhibit. Experience live poetry, music, and creative arts by local BILAPOC, LGBTQ+ artists. Attendees can also tour The Environmental Center’s Learning & Demonstration Garden. You will also get the opportunity to practice your creative skills during our live art demonstration. We invite community members who practice any of the various creative arts to participate. ASL interpretation will be offered on-site.
September is also Latino Heritage Month! To honor, celebrate and recognize the contributions, achievements, and influences that the Latino/a/e/x community has had, and continues to have in our community, we’ve partnered with High Desert Museum. We will be giving away passes to HDM during our Art Walk event to highlight the Vistas del Cielo exhibit created by artist Justin Favela.
Acompáñenos en The Environmental Center en el centro de Bend para una exhibición de arte multicultural. Experimente en vivo poesía, música y artes creativas de nuestros artistas locales BILAPOC, LGBTQ+. Los asistentes también pueden hacer un recorrido por el Jardín de aprendizaje y demostración de The Environmental Center. También tendrá la oportunidad de practicar sus destrezas creativas durante nuestra demostración de arte en vivo. Invitamos a participar a los miembros de la comunidad que practiquen cualquiera de las diferentes artes creativas. Se ofrecerá interpretación de ASL.
¡Septiembre también es el Mes de la Herencia Latina! Para honrar, celebrar y reconocer las contribuciones, logros y influencias que la comunidad latina ha tenido y continúa teniendo en nuestra comunidad, nos hemos asociado con High Desert Museum. Regalaremos pases al museo durante nuestro evento para resaltar la exhibición Vistas del Cielo creada por el artista Justin Favela.

Fermentation Workshop With Worthy Environmental
2023-09-13 17:30 - 20:30, 2023-09-18 17:30 - 20:30 | OR
Fermenting is Fun and Easy
Learn fermentation to make delicious food cheaply and easily! Fermented food is full of beneficial live cultures. Take this workshop and you’ll be able to turn vegetables from the bottom of your fridge and garden into mustard, kimchi, sour pickles and more. Led by a Master Food Preserver, this workshop will stretch your budget but not your waistline! You’ll try fermented goodies at the workshop, go home with a batch of fermented cucumbers that you make, and with a special fermenting lid.
Cost: $40 per ticket
Sept. 13th in Redmond and Sept. 18th in Bend
Register Here!

The Green 2.0 Environmental Experts of Color Database Launch
2023-09-14 10:00 - 11:30 | OR
The Green 2.0 Environmental Experts of Color Database addresses a pressing issue—the lack of diversity in experts providing testimony in the policymaking process nationally and locally. The database provides policymakers, organizations, and individuals with an expansive set of environmental and environmental justice leaders, and offers a more representative perspective on these issues. Join the database launch on September 14, to hear from key experts and policymakers about how we may implement practices and policies that build a more inclusive set of experts in the environmental sector.

Native Plant Harvest
2023-09-15 12:00 - 17:00 | Rooted at Simpson, 19755 Simpson Avenue, Bend, OR, 97702, United States
RootedHomes invites the community to participate in its Native Plant Harvest on September 15, 2023 from 12:00 PM to 5:00 PM. Hosted at 19755 Simpson Avenue, at the corner of Simpson Ave and SW 18th Ave, the RootedHomes event will harvest native plants and adolescent trees on the site of its future affordable housing development – Rooted at Simpson. Additional harvested plants and trees, including ponderosas, bitterbrush, rabbitbrush, sulfur buckwheat, yarrow, and fescue will be available for volunteers to take home.
Volunteers should wear appropriate footwear and clothing for landscaping, with gloves recommended. While limited shovels, and wheelbarrows will be available, volunteers are encouraged to bring their own. If you are interested in bringing home plants please bring your own pots.
Interested volunteers can register below or contact Tess Freeman at tess@rootedhomes.org or 458-202-4598.

Global Climate Strike Bend
2023-09-15 17:00 - 20:00 | Bend City Hall, 710 NW Wall St, Bend, 97701, United States
Join the Deschutes Youth Climate Coalition and Fridays for Future Bend, along with other local partners, for the Global Climate Strike at Bend City Hall on September 15th, starting at 5pm.
“This is a family-friendly, peaceful strike put on by Fridays for Future Bend, Deschutes Youth Climate Coalition, and many other organizations. Anyone who loves the Earth and wants to fight for it is welcome!”

Putting Your Garden to Bed
2023-09-16 10:00 - 11:30 | OSU Extension Office, 3800 SW Airport Way, Redmond, OR, 97756, United States
This class will cover how to harvest vegetables at the end of the season, including how to ripen tomatoes indoors; how to winterize your vegetable garden to save time next spring; how to divide and cut back perennials; and how to prepare your landscape for winter.
Register here!

Policy Matters: Solutions for a Plastic Pollution Free U.S.
2023-09-19 14:00 - 15:00 | OR
Plastic pollution is an urgent threat to the climate, human health, communities, the environment, and wildlife. With industries set to triple their plastic production by 2060, public support for policies to reduce plastic pollution is growing across the world. From implementing bag bans and fees on single-use plastics, to rules that strengthen regulations on industrial polluters, communities and policymakers are using many strategies to address the growing plastic pollution crisis.
