The Environmental Center

Happy Hour in the Garden
2024-10-01 16:00 - 18:00, 2024-10-15 16:00 - 18:00 (America/Los_Angeles) | 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 2024, Happy Hour in the Garden will once again run twice a month from March through October on the 1st and 3rd Tuesdays from 4-6pm. 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.

2024 Go Clean Energy Conference
2024-10-02 08:30 - 16:30 | COCC, 2600 NW Collge Way, Bend, OR, 97701, United States
Discover opportunities and solutions in building, clean energy, efficiency, sustainability, EV charging and electric vehicles. For individuals, businesses, & government.
REGISTER HERE!

Fall Social and Seed Swap
2024-10-02 17:30 - 19:30 | Worthy Brewing, 495 Northeast Bellevue Drive, Bend, OR, 97701, United States
Welcome to the Fall Social and Seed Swap! Join us on Wednesday, October 2nd, 2024 at 5:30 PM at Worthy Brewing Company for a fun evening of mingling, swapping seeds, and sharing garden stories. Whether you’re a seasoned native plant gardener or just starting out, this event is perfect for connecting with fellow native plant enthusiasts .
We’ll provide some light refreshements. Drinks avaialble for purchase.
Don’t miss out on this opportunity to learn about the Pollinator Pathway, make new friends, and enjoy the cozy fall atmosphere. See you there!
Register here

Trailblazing in Space with Dr. Ellen Ochoa
2024-10-03 19:00 - 21:00 | Tower Theatre, 835 NW Wall St., Bend, OR, 97701, United States
The first Latina in space, Dr. Ellen Ochoa has charted an inspiring path — as a researcher, inventor, astronaut with four missions and director of NASA’s Johnson Space Center. Join us for a stirring presentation as Ochoa speaks about the frontiers of space and the importance of breaking barriers, from championing diversity in the STEM fields to expanding the culture of the corporate world.
This program is presented by Discovery West with additional support from Associated Students of COCC, Bend Science Station, COCC’s Office of Diversity and Inclusion, Lonza, Maybelle Clark Macdonald Fund, and The Appel Family Fund of the Oregon Community Foundation.
Tickets:
In-person $20 Reserve in-person tickets here
Livestream $5 Reserve livestream here
COCC students and staff are FREE. For complimentary in-person tickets email cgilbride@cocc.edu for promo code. For livestream, click Student Registration – FREE on the livestream page.

Livable Future Forum
2024-10-03 19:00 - 21:00, 2024-10-23 19:00 - 21:00 | Open Space Event Studios, 220 NE Lafayette Ave, Bend, OR, 97701, United States
How do we meet our community’s needs without compromising the environment and all that makes Central Oregon so incredible?
Through our Livable Future Forum, we’ll explore that question and more as LandWatch program directors chat with knowledgeable local leaders about land use and livability topics. From the fascinating life and times of mule deer to the reality of farming in the high desert to the creative work of developing Complete Communities, you’ll gain new insight into the many ways land use decision making is foundational to life in our region — and learn how you can participate in shaping a more sustainable and equitable future for Central Oregon.
Events will be on Oct. 3, Oct 23, and Nov. 13. All events will start at 7 pm and take place at Open Space Event Studios in the Bend Central District.
Each event in this three-part series will feature a LandWatch program director in conversation with fellow local experts covering a range of topics on land use and regional livability.
REGISTER FOR ALL THREE EVENTS
On October 3, we’ll start out by looking closely at the lives of mule deer, with the High Desert Museum’s Curator of Wildlife Jon Nelson. You see deer often, but how much do you know about this shy, fascinating species? Find out.
GET TICKETS FOR OCT 3 ONLY
On October 23, we’ll talk about farming in the high desert with local farmers and ambitious entrepreneurs Megan Kellner-Rode and Cate Havstad.
GET TICKETS FOR OCT 23 ONLY
And, on November 13, following hot on the heels of the national election, we will host a lively session all about how we can act locally to create Complete Communities to ensure a more equitable, climate-resilient future.
GET TICKETS FOR NOV 13 ONLY

Wild & Scenic Film Festival
2024-10-04 17:00 - 21:00 | Tower Theatre, 835 NW Wall St., Bend, OR, 97701, United States
Oregon Natural Desert Association presents the Wild & Scenic Film Festival on Friday, October 4, 2024 — an unforgettable evening of captivating short films that address pressing environmental issues, highlight incredible work being done by activists around the world, and celebrate the beauty of our planet.
Our carefully curated lineup will take you on a breathtaking journey through the natural world, showcasing awe-inspiring landscapes and emphasizing the urgency of protecting our wild places.
There will be an in-person show at the Tower Theatre in Bend, Oregon as well as a virtual version streamed online. Join us for a night of inspiration and discovery!
GET TICKETS HERE

Go Zero! Tour 2024
2024-10-05 13:00 - 17:00 | 375 SW Powerhouse Dr Suite 100, Bend, OR, 97701, United States
Residential buildings account for ​almost a quarter of all energy usage​ in the state of Oregon, and zero energy home design is an important strategy in climate adaptation. Join Solar Oregon for an open house tour of zero energy and “path to zero” homes across the state: the Go Zero! Tour 2024 presented by Energy Trust of Oregon. This event is part of Sustainable Building Week.
This year’s tour features a diverse and exciting mix of projects. Explore new and retrofit homes, learn about the value of electrification, energy resilience, and energy efficiency. Meet the homeowners and builders behind each site, and learn about their path to zero energy.
REGISTER HERE!
Tour Format & Locations
This is an in-person, open house tour with 3 sites in E Portland and 2 sites in Lake Oswego. Ticketed attendees will receive an official map and a list of tour addresses in their ticket confirmation email.
Want to go green with your transportation? Bike and public transportation routes will be provided for both circuits! Details of the route will be sent with the official map.
Family Discounts
Bring your kids and teach them about green technology and climate solutions! Use the following discounts when purchasing your tickets:
Children under 14 can register for free using the promo code UNDER14.
All students with valid ID or youth ages 14-18 can register for only $5 using the promo code 14TO18.

Indigenous Speakers Series – Stories Are Good Medicine
2024-10-06 17:30 - 19:30 | High Desert Museum, 59800 Hwy 97, Bend, OR, 97702, United States
Join us for an evening with New York Times bestselling author Angeline Boulley. Called an “Indigenous Nancy Drew,” her protagonists in Warrior Girl Unearthed and Firekeeper’s Daughter provide opportunities to see Indigenous children and teens as complex and nuanced individuals. Boulley will share her 38-year-long path to publication to demonstrate the importance of Indigenous storytelling.
5:30 pm – 6:30 pm Reception
6:30 pm – 7:30 pm Program
No-host bar, Rimrock Café open 5:30 pm – 6:30 pm
$15, Members receive 20% discount, Free for Tribal Members
RSVP HERE

Deschutes Land Trust Open House
2024-10-08 17:00 - 19:00 | Unitarian Universalist Fellowship, 61980 Skyline Ranch Road, Bend, OR, United States
Join the Deschutes Land Trust at our annual Open House!
October 8, 2024, 5-7pm (Remarks will begin at 6pm)
Join us at our annual Open House on October 8th at the Unitarian Universalist Fellowship of Central Oregon in Bend. Celebrate an outstanding year of land conservation, community, and caring for the land! Learn about current Land Trust projects, and connect with Land Trust staff and other community members, while you enjoy snacks and drinks. RSVPs are helpful, but not required. Register today!
Accessibility: The Land Trust’s Open House will take place at the Unitarian Universalist Fellowship of Central Oregon. Restrooms are accessible and include three unisex/family restrooms. Five accessible parking spaces are available in the building’s parking lot.
The Land Trust is working to make our events as accessible as possible. Please let us know at least one week in advance if there is something we can do or provide to support you in participating in this Open House to the fullest and we will accommodate as possible.

Solarize Deschutes Campaign Online Workshop
2024-10-08 18:00 - 19:00 | Online Event
If you live in Deschutes County, register now to join us at 6:00 PM, October 8, to learn how you can benefit from installing solar panels and battery storage on your home. This free, one-hour presentation will be held online. You will learn about the Solarize campaign in your community, how solar energy works and how it can be stored with battery storage for backup power. We will talk about limited-time discount pricing, tax credits and Energy Trust cash incentives, including special increased incentives for income-qualified homes. We will also spend time answering your questions.
Solarize Deschutes runs August 15 – October 31. To lock in your Solarize discounts, go to the website and request a custom analysis and bid from a pre-qualified Energy Trust trade ally during this period to lock in Solarize discounts (your solar installation can be completed any time through June 30, 2025).
REGISTER HERE!
This campaign is brought to you by:

The Environmental Center
Energize Bend
Envision Bend
City of Bend
Solar Oregon
Energy Trust of Oregon

Sunriver Fungi Fest and Mushroom Show
2024-10-12 10:00 - 15:00 | Sunriver Nature Center & Oregon Observatory, 57245 River Rd, Sunriver, OR, 97707, United States
Celebrate the fantastic world of fungi with Sunriver Nature Center & Observatory and the Central Oregon Mushroom Club on
Saturday, October 12, 2024
from 10am to 3pm
Know Before You Go

FungiFest & Mushroom Show takes place on the campus of Sunriver Nature Center & Observatory, located at 57245 River Road in Sunriver.
Tickets will be available at the door. Last entry is at 2:30pm.
SNCO, SROA, and members of the Central Oregon Mushroom Club receive discounted admission to the event with appropriate code.
Dogs are not permitted; service animals excepted.
Bring a shopping bag and stock up at the mushroom marketplace.

First Peoples Celebration with the Confederated Tribes of Warm Springs
2024-10-12 13:00 - 19:00 | OSU Cascades, 2600 Northwest College Way, Bend, OR, 97701, United States
1 p.m. Native Culture Bearers Demonstrations
Native Artists and Culture Bearers from the Tananáwit Artists Community of Warm Springs will demonstrate traditional tribal crafts and artistry. Members of the Warms Springs Natural Resources Department and Warm Springs Community Action Team will be on hand to discuss their work. Representatives of the Museum at Warm Springs and the High Desert Museum will be available to discuss their roles in preserving the heritage of the First Peoples of Central Oregon.
2 p.m. Opening Ceremony and Invocation
followed by A Showcase of Traditional Regalia and Native Dancing. A narrated presentation with descriptions and histories of the intricate Native fashions – including jingle, fancy, grass and traditional — and background about the dances.
4:30 p.m. Round Dance with the Black Lodge Singers
This Native American, Grammy-nominated drum group has more than 30 albums to their credit. It’s led by Kenny Scabby Robe of the Blackfeet Nation and includes many of his sons.
6 p.m. Dinner of Indigenous Foods*
Enjoy the traditional foods of the Indigenous People of Central Oregon, including salmon, elk, dried corn, huckleberries and fry bread, prepared by Twisted Teepee. $25 per person. Seating is limited — Registration details to come.

Transforming School Transportation with Electric School Buses
2024-10-15 10:00 - 11:00 | 375 SW Powerhouse Dr Suite 100, Bend, OR, 97701, United States
Join this webinar to hear from Forth’s panel of experts as they discuss inclusive strategies for the widespread adoption of electric school buses. You will also gain insights and learn best practices from Forth’s Repower School Bus program, the Electric School Bus Initiative, and more.

OLCV's Virtual Town Hall on the Environment with Senator Merkley
2024-10-17 15:30 - 16:30 | 375 SW Powerhouse Dr Suite 100, Bend, OR, 97701, United States
Senator Jeff Merkley has been a champion of our conservation and environmental values in D.C., voicing our support for strong safeguards for the environment, pollinators, and public lands. During OLCV’s Town Hall on the Environment with Senator Merkley, we’ll celebrate his leadership and learn about the latest news on a broad range of environmental issues, including addressing climate change, benefits for Oregon powered by climate investments of the IRA, plastic reduction, protections for the Owyhee Canyonlands and his work to support pollinator recovery.

Preservación de nuestra cultura y tradiciones con Hilda Leon
2024-10-18 18:30 - 20:00 | Becky Johnson Community Center, 412 SW 8th St, Redmond, OR 97756, Redmond, OR, 97756, United States
Reflexionemos sobre la Importancia de la identidad cultural latina, el uso de la lengua nativa y la preservación de las tradiciones y costumbres. Esta conversación es para personas que han emigrado de países hispanohablantes, o descendientes de inmigrantes (hasta la 3ra generación) que están interesados en reconectarse con su cultura. Aquí compartiremos historias y vivencias sobre el nivel de conexión que aún tenemos con nuestras raíces, y finalmente reflexionaremos sobre qué podemos hacer para reconectarnos en caso de que exista tal añoranza.

Cómo Escuchar Música de Forma Activa
2024-10-19 14:00 - 15:30 | Brooks Room, Deschutes Public Library, 507 NW Wall St., Bend, OR, 97703, United States
Goza la música a través de una comprensión más profunda.

En este taller, Armando Alcalde va a tocar la guitarra y explicar los detalles de lo que sucede en música. Vamos a usar jazz, bossa nova, y blues para mostrar los conceptos musicales, aunque las ideas aplican a todos losgéneros musicales. Los participantes aprenderán a entender la estructura de canciones, las funciones de instrumentos diferentes, cómo escuchar a los solos y mucho más. ¡Profundicen el goce de la música a través de una comprensión más profunda! Ojalá que puedan unirse a nosotros.

AdvenTours: Tumalo Creek Scenic Hike
2024-10-20 08:30 - 12:30 | Shevlin Park, 18920 Shevlin Park Road, Bend, OR, 97701, United States
Adventure: Wanderlust Tours is excited to bring more access to the outdoors by partnering with AdvenChair to help those with mobility challenges get into the outdoors and explore beautiful areas that initially may not seem accessible. With the AdvenChair off-road wheelchair and the incredible team of volunteers at AdvenChair, we will experience a magnificent ecosystem filled with burgeoning flora and fauna, spring migratory birds, and more that find refuge and resources in Tumalo Creek.
Naturalist Guided Experience: We will begin our adventure along the crystal clear waters of Tumalo Creek. Our route will take us through a section of Tumalo canyon where we will immerse ourselves in some of Central Oregon’s finest geologic features. This scenic area just outside Bend’s front door known as Shevlin Park was founded as a beacon of conservation. Early 1900’s Bend was almost exclusively a logging community and as many areas became heavily logged, demand grew for a nearby area to be protected for recreation. In 1920, Shevlin-Hixon Lumber Company, under the guidance of Thomas W. Shevlin and Hugh O’Kane, donated the land to the city of Bend with the stipulation that it be used for park purposes. This initial donation helped establish the park, and it has been expanded over the years through additional land acquisitions.
Learn more and register here!

Farm-to-Table Dinner at Terra Kitchen
2024-10-23 17:30 - 19:00 | 375 SW Powerhouse Dr Suite 100, Bend, OR, 97701, United States
October 23, 2024 5:30 pm

Join us for an unforgettable Farm-to-Table Dinner on Wednesday, October 23 at Terra Kitchen! Enjoy a seasonal menu crafted from fresh, local ingredients, with the option to enhance your experience with a wine pairing. Guests will have the opportunity to hear from local farmers, winemakers, and chefs, who will share their stories throughout the evening.

6th Annual Fall Harvest Feast
2024-10-25 17:30 - 20:00 | Hanai Center, Eagle Road, Bend, OR, 97701, United States
Get ready for a spooktacular evening at Central Oregon Locavore’s Fall Harvest Feast on October 25th at Hanai Community Center! Feast on a mouthwatering farm-to-table dinner, made with the freshest local meats and produce from Well Rooted Farm and Well Rooted Produce Patch, while enjoying the night’s lively lineup. Bid on unique local goods in our live and silent auctions, sip mystical herbal teas from the Green Witch, get your fortune read, find the hidden speak easy and dash for dessert in our sweet contest. Don’t forget to wear your best costume—prizes are brewing!
This isn’t just a party—it’s a harvest celebration and fundraiser, supporting Locavore’s mission to boost local food security and sustainable farming. Let’s come together for a hauntingly good time, all for a great cause! Every dollar raised goes back into our community, ensuring fresh, healthy food is accessible for all.
GET TICKETS

Sunsetting Solarize: Your Last Chance to Go Solar with Solarize Deschutes
2024-10-28 16:00 - 18:00 | The Environmental Center, 16 NW Kansas Avenue, Bend, OR, 97703
Don’t miss out on this final opportunity to explore solar energy for your home through the Solarize Deschutes campaign before it ends on October 31st! Whether you’re just starting your solar journey or have already received a quote, this event is your chance to get expert advice, learn about current tax credits and incentives, and connect with other homeowners making the switch.
What to Expect:

Expert Guidance: Have your solar questions answered by professionals and get tailored advice based on your needs.
Bring Your Proposal: If you’ve already received a quote, bring it along for additional insights and guidance.
Learn About Solar: If you’re new to the process, we’ll walk you through how solar works, the benefits, and how you can join the campaign before the deadline.
Exclusive Discounts: Sign up for a no-obligation solar assessment by October 31st to lock in discounted pricing and see if your home qualifies.
Fun for All: Kids’ activities, light snacks, and beverages provided, making it easy to drop in anytime from 4:00–6:00 PM.
Bonus Resources: If solar isn’t the right fit for your home, learn about additional energy-saving options

About Solarize Deschutes: Solarize Deschutes is a community-powered initiative aimed at making solar energy more accessible and affordable in Deschutes County. Led by The Environmental Center, Energize Bend, and community members, this campaign has helped local residents discover their solar potential through discounted rates and community support.
If you need to request custom analysis of your home and a bid, make sure to do so before October 31st. If you have any questions, please connect with us at solarize@envirocenter.org.
This is your final chance to get involved before the sun sets on this campaign, so don’t wait—join us and see how easy it can be to go solar!
REGISTER HERE

Climate Resilience in Housing Panel
2024-10-29 12:00 - 13:00 | The Environmental Center, 16 NW Kansas Avenue, Bend, OR, 97703
RSVP HERE!

How to Make Decisions About Energy Investments for Affordable Housing
2024-10-29 16:00 - 17:30 | Azimuth 315, Northwest Labiche Lane 2155, Bend, Oregon, 97701, United States
Guidance on How to Make Decisions About Energy Investments for Affordable Housing
Join us on October 29 at the Azimuth 315 Apartments in Bend for a thoughtful discussion with local leader and Energy Trust Net Zero Fellow Rob Roy, who will share replicable strategies for analyzing and making decisions about energy investments in commercial construction. Research is based on comparisons of modeled and operating performance of three Pacific Crest Affordable Housing projects in Bend. The event space, Azimuth 315, is one of the case studies featured in his research.
Through his research, Rob evaluated the efficacy and replicability of Pacific Crest’s financial model, which considers the long-term monetary impact of implementing various energy efficiency measures and renewable energy systems. Rob also developed a tool that other affordable housing developers and design teams can use to evaluate the impacts of energy efficiency measures and renewable energy systems over the lifespan of their projects.
Rob Roy has established himself as an industry leader by building some of the most energy-efficient affordable multifamily buildings in the nation. Rob led the research with funding from Energy Trust of Oregon’s Net Zero Fellowship. Don’t miss this opportunity to engage with Rob about the research and its applicability to your own work.
About Net Zero Fellow Rob Roy
Rob Roy is a founding partner and co-manager of Pacific Crest Affordable Housing and has extensive experience with all facets of building and development, from financing and construction to planning and land use. His 32 years of experience navigating complex public-private partnerships, alongside his work as a three-time Olympic snowboarding coach, have refined his collaboration, negotiation and business skills.

"Why we need Indigenous Ingenuity - Indigenuity - now" with Dr. Daniel Wildcat
2024-11-03 14:00 - 16:00 | Madras Performing Arts Center, Madras, OR, 97741, United States
This presentation will challenge the misconception that Indigenous knowledge is solely about the past. Dr. Wildcat will highlight how American Indian Nations are dynamic, evolving communities with living cultures, traditions, and knowledge. He will explore the concept of Indigenuity (Indigenous ingenuity)—how ancient wisdom informs modern problem-solving—and argue for the critical need for this unique knowledge in today’s world.
Dr. Wildcat is a Professor at Haskell Indian Nations University and author of “Red Alert” and “On Indigenuity.”

Indigenous Speakers Series – Tribal Sovereignty & Water Rights: The Confederated Tribes of Warm Springs Ongoing Relationship
2024-11-06 18:30 - 19:30 | High Desert Museum, 59800 Hwy 97, Bend, OR, 97702, United States
Bobby Brunoe, CEO and Secretary/Treasurer for the Confederated Tribes of Warm Springs, and Josh Newton, Partner at BBK Law, will explore tribal sovereignty and treaty rights as they relate to water in the region. This talk will highlight the importance of water to tribes and the ways that tribes continue to enact their rights today.
6:30 pm – 7:30 pm
Doors open at 6:00 pm
$5, Members receive 20% discount, Free for tribal members
RSVP HERE

Central Oregon Fill Your Pantry
2024-11-09 11:00 - 15:00 | Deschutes County Fair & Expo, 3800 SW Airport Way, Redmond, OR, 97756, United States
The 9th Annual Central Oregon ​​​Fill Your Pantry is a community bulk buying farmers market created so YOU can fill up your pantry, freezer, and root cellar full of great local products for the winter. Say bye-bye to busy holiday lines and produce that has traveled farther than you during holiday vacations, and say hello to a cupboard full of local meat, grains, vegetables, ferments, and more.
The Central Oregon Fill Your Pantry will allow you to stock up on items like potatoes, onions, leeks, beets, winter squash, garlic, honey, flours, apples, pears, dried beans, krauts, baked goods, and more.
This is a bulk focused farmers market, so bring your muscles! Farmers, ranchers, orchardists, and producers will be selling large quantities of items. For example, 20lb bags of onions, 50lb bags of potatoes, 25lb ground beef boxes, etc. This is a great opportunity for vendors to move product before the harsh Central Oregon winter and a great opportunity for YOU to save money and eat well all winter long.

Last Happy Hour in the Garden!
2024-11-12 15:00 - 17:00 | The Environmental Center, 16 NW Kansas Avenue, Bend, OR, 97703
Last Happy Hour in the Garden
Tuesday 11/12
3-5pm (because the sunsets at 4:42!)

Main tasks include:

Spreading woodchips
Cutting back (some) dead plants
Raking leaves to mulch garden beds and planting areas.

We have a few rakes and pruners, but a few more would be helpful, so bring these if you have them. Gloves and beverages provided.

To What Remains - Filmscreening and Discussion
2024-11-12 18:30 - 20:30 | Wille Hall, Coats Campus Center, Central Oregon Community College, Bend, 2600 Northwest College Way, Bend, OR, 97703, United States
Film screening and Discussion on To What Remains.
About the film: To What Remains is the story of Project Recover, a team of scientists, oceanographers, archaeologists, historians, researchers, and military veterans, who have dedicated their lives to scouring the depths of the ocean and the farthest corners of the earth, to search for, recover, and repatriate the remains of the more than 80,000 Americans missing in action since WWII.
In breathtaking imagery and intimate interviews with Project Recover team members and MIA families, To What Remains takes viewers inside this journey to honor our fallen servicemen, from the discovery of wreckage on the seafloor in the South Pacific to the living room of a stunned family in middle America, to a well-deserved final resting place at home.

Learn About Ridwell Bend!
2024-11-13 09:00 - 10:00 | Open Space Event Studios, 220 NE Lafayette Ave, Bend, OR, 97701, United States
The founders of Ridwell, a grassroots organization dedicated to keeping hard-to-recycle and reusable materials from landfills, will be hosting a free event in Bend on November 13th at 9 AM , 11 AM & 1:30 PM at Open Space Event Studios. You’re invited to come see how you can soon recycle different types of thin plastics, including snack wrappers, coffee bags, and frozen food bags, all without leaving home.
More info and RSVP at get.ridwell.com/rsvp-bend.
