Stream Stewards Program
“Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world; indeed, it is the only thing that ever has.” - Margaret Mead
Since 1999, NSEA's Stream Stewards Program has engaged citizens in improving the health of their watersheds by participating in hands on salmon recovery work parties throughout Whatcom County. Each work party event offers stewardship opportunities based on the culture of shared responsibility and resulting in shared benefits. Volunteers learn how to properly plant trees and remove invasive vegetation, while learning about native vegetation. By working together towards a common goal, community members identify how their actions impact riparian ecosystems both individually and as a community.
As Whatcom County residents remove invasive plants and install native trees and shrubs, they help NSEA increase biodiversity, accelerate forest succession, and rebuild riparian habitats. Increasing the area and quality of riparian buffers improves flood control, increases stormwater runoff filtration, decreases erosion, and helps to shade streams for native fish.
Volunteer Restoration Events
Watch this video to learn what our Community Work Parties are all about!
Every spring and fall NSEA hosts volunteer events at salmon habitat restoration sites around Whatcom County. Most events take place on Saturdays from 9 am to noon. No previous experience necessary to participate. All ages are welcome! See below for the full schedule and links to register. Reach out to our Stewardship Program Manager, Sarah Brown at sbrown@n-sea.org or call 360-715-0283 for assistance.
2026 Schedule
Event times vary and some require RSVP due to limited space. You can also see the full schedule at nsea.volunteerhub.com. Click here to download the event flyer.
Pot native trees and shrubs to restock our native plant nursery with plants that will be used in future restoration projects!
9am-12pm - Bellingham, WA | Click here for details.
See restoration history and help us maintain older sites and save trees from restricting cages and blue tubes.
8am-12pm - Bellingham, WA | Requires registration! Click here for more.
Join City of Bellingham and NSEA to weed and mulch along this cherished trail near Padden Creek!
9am-12pm - Bellingham, WA | Click here for details.
See restoration history and help us maintain older sites and save trees from restricting cages and blue tubes.
8am-12pm - Bellingham, WA | Requires registration! Click here for more.
Save the date for the annual Birch Bay cleanup after the July 4 festivities along the berm!
More information coming soon - check back closer to.
See restoration history and help us maintain older sites and save trees from restricting cages and blue tubes.
8am-12pm - Bellingham, WA | Requires registration! Click here for more.
Hop on our shuttle bus and join us for a morning of stewardship and removing invasive vegetation!
8am-12pm - Bellingham, WA | Requires registration! Click here for more.
Hop on our shuttle bus and join us for a morning of stewardship and removing invasive vegetation!
8am-12pm - Bellingham, WA | Requires registration! Click here for more.
See restoration history and help us maintain older sites and save trees from restricting cages and blue tubes.
8am-12pm - Bellingham, WA | Requires registration! Click here for more.
See restoration history and help us maintain older sites and save trees from restricting cages and blue tubes.
8am-12pm - Bellingham, WA | Requires registration! Click here for more.
Join us and Whatcom Conservation District in stewarding Schell Creek by picking up pet waste, litter, and more!
9am-12pm - Ferndale, WA | Click here for details.
See restoration history and help us maintain older sites and save trees from restricting cages and blue tubes.
8am-12pm - Bellingham, WA | Requires registration! Click here for more.
Join NSEA with City of Bellingham and WCC to weed and mulch near East Bear Creek habitat.
9am-12pm - Bellingham, WA | Click here for details.
See restoration history and help us maintain older sites and save trees from restricting cages and blue tubes.
8am-12pm - Bellingham, WA | Requires registration! Click here for more.
Hop on our shuttle bus and join us for a morning of stewardship and picking up litter from along the river!
8am-11am - Bellingham, WA | Requires registration! Click here for more.
Hop on our shuttle bus and join us for a morning of stewardship and removing invasive vegetation!
8am-12pm - Bellingham, WA | Requires registration! Click here for more.
See restoration history and help us maintain older sites and save trees from restricting cages and blue tubes.
8am-12pm - Bellingham, WA | Requires registration! Click here for more.
Hop on our shuttle bus and join us for a morning of stewardship and picking up litter from along the river!
8am-11am - Bellingham, WA | Requires registration! Click here for more.
Hop on our shuttle bus and join us for a morning of stewardship and picking up litter from along the river!
8am-11am - Bellingham, WA | Requires registration! Click here for more.
See restoration history and help us maintain older sites and save trees from restricting cages and blue tubes.
8am-12pm - Bellingham, WA | Requires registration! Click here for more.
Things for you to remember
Registration is recommended
NSEA brings all needed tools, gloves (sizes XS - XL), and instructions for each event
Masks are optional for shuttle rides to/from the restoration side
Sturdy shoes and long pants that you don't mind getting dirty are recommended
Weather appropriate clothing to stay warm and dry that can be cleaned easily
Check the event for instructions on volunteers under 18 years old participating.
Stay home if you are feeling sick!
THANK YOU TO OUR FUNDERS
Waste Action Project
