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. Event details including parking are listed in our volunteer portal - nsea.volunteerhub.com
Plant native trees and shrubs with us along Smith Creek for coho, chum, Steelhead, and Chinook salmon.
9am-12pm - Everson, WA | Requires registration! Click here for details.
Plant native trees and shrubs with us along Smith Creek for coho, chum, Steelhead, and Chinook salmon.
9am-12pm - Everson, WA | Requires registration! 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.
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 Whatcom Land Trust and NSEA to protect and enhance critical salmon habitat along Kenney Creek.
9am-12pm - Deming, WA | Click here for details.
Join Whatcom Land Trust and Nooksack Salmon Enhancement Association for a day of stewardship at Maple Creek Reach.
9am-12pm - Maple Falls, WA | Click here for details.
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.
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 the City of Bellingham for planting, weeding, and mulching near the Mayflower Bridge at Whatcom Creek.
9am-12pm - Bellingham, WA | Requires registration! Click here for details.
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.
Join the Land Trust and NSEA to help protect vital habitat at the Catalyst Reserve by removing invasive blackberry.
9am-12pm - Acme, 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.
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.
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
Any volunteers under 18 years old must bring a completed NSEA Youth Liability Form to each work party. Minors under 14 years old must also be accompanied by an adult. Please bring a COB/NSEA Youth Liability Form to work parties with the City of Bellingham Parks Department.
Stay home if you are feeling sick!
THANK YOU TO OUR FUNDERS
Waste Action Project
