Volunteers head west along Thornton Creek to remove invasive weeds

Volunteers at Twin Ponds south

The southern end of Twin Ponds Park will be the site of a volunteer work party on Saturday, December 16 from 10:00am to 1:00pm, rain or shine.

Shoreline citizens have embarked on an effort to restore native habitat along Thornton Creek in Twin Ponds Park. With new trees established by volunteers in November, workers will move westward along the creek to other areas overcome with weeds.

Everyone is invited to come work along First Avenue one block North of NE 149th St across from Aegis Assisted Living at the southern part of the park. The project site is adjacent to the parking lot near 149th St.

Stewards trained in environmental restoration by the Washington Native Plant Society have been leading efforts to recover valuable habitat along Thornton creek. Volunteers have removed enough weeds to fill more than two large dumpsters.

This riparian and wetland area once sheltered spawning salmon. This fall as the weeds were removed, valuable native plants that still survive were revealed.

Volunteers have found licorice fern, lady fern and wild lily of the valley, plus water parsley that grows in the stream with salmonberry shrubs and willow trees nearby. Perhaps small mammals, fish, amphibians and reptiles will find the stream area habitable again. Birds and pollinating insects should also increase.

River otters in Ronald Bog.
Otters have appeared in Twin Ponds.
Photo by Martin De Grazia

Recently, river otters showed up in the park. This may become a spot where park visitors can experience a more natural environment with an opportunity for study and learning about wildlife habitat. 

If our restoration goals are to be met, we will need regular help from local citizens and neighbors. We hope you are able to join us on Saturday.

Please dress in warm layers. Bring water, boots, rain gear, work gloves and your own tools if you have them. Some gloves, tools, light snacks and water will be provided. Park near 149th Street near the southern end of the park across from Aegis Assisted Living. Parking lot may be full. (Avoid the lot at 155th St.) Contact us at twinpondssouthhabitat@gmail.com to let us know you are coming or for questions you may have.

This project is sponsored by the Shoreline Department of Parks and Recreation, King Conservation District and the Washington Native Plant Society.