Education Update Summer 2025
Environmental Conservation & Education
As spring arrives in the Pacific Northwest, wildlife begin seasonal migrations that are essential to their life cycles. For the Northern red-legged frog (Rana aurora), this means an annual journey from upland forests to wetlands and breeding ponds. After the breeding season, they make the same arduous journey back to their upland habitats. This journey, while vital for reproduction, is fraught with challenges. The frog’s historical range has been shrinking due to habitat loss and degradation caused by logging, development, altered fire regimes, and climate change. These factors make it increasingly difficult for the frogs to find safe breeding grounds. In addition to habitat loss, the invasive American bullfrog (Lithobates catesbeianus) and nonnative fish species are significant threats to Northern red-legged frogs.
To support conservation efforts, volunteers and students from Umpqua Community College have been monitoring Northern red-legged frog populations at Applegate Pond and Shadow Pond. These ongoing surveys are essential for tracking the health of frog populations and gathering valuable data for the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (ODFW). In February, volunteers waded into the water to search for frog egg masses. The team found Northern red-legged frog egg masses and egg masses from Northwestern salamanders, indicating a diverse aquatic ecosystem. During the Shadow Pond survey, volunteers were also able to spot an adult Northern red-legged frog, along with some Chorus frogs and eggs. In April, Susan Applegate led a wildflower walk around Applegate Pond, teaching participants about native plant species and the importance of habitat restoration. In May and June, the group focused on removing invasive American bullfrogs, a critical step in protecting native amphibian populations and ensuring a diverse aquatic ecosystem. These surveys provide important data and offer volunteers the chance to learn about local wildlife, invasive plant species, and conservation efforts. By participating, community members gain hands-on experience in environmental science, helping to protect the natural habitats that are so vital to local ecosystems.
Growing Educational Opportunities and Partnerships
Umpqua Watersheds continues to expand its educational outreach, fostering partnerships with schools, tribes, and local organizations. Through these partnerships, Umpqua Watersheds is bringing conservation education to even more individuals in the community.
Julie Lowe, Umpqua Watersheds’ Education and Outreach Leader, led Eastwood Nature Days for the second consecutive year—a week-long celebration dedicated to nature, science, and education. Hundreds of 3rd grade students from the Roseburg School District participated in this event. Organizing such a large-scale program is no small feat. Julie ensured a memorable and enriching experience for volunteers, teachers, and students. To learn more about this exciting week, be sure to read the AmeriCorps article.
Julie has developed valuable relationships with St. Paul Lutheran Church and School (LCMS) and Cow Creek Band of Umpqua Tribe of Indians. Julie now provides environmental education programs for LCMS and for the Tribe’s Pre-K students and after-school club.
Umpqua Watersheds is committed to offering more educational opportunities for youth and adults in our community. Educational efforts include:
- Field surveys for older youth and adults
- Monthly library presentations on conservation topics
- Outreach at local farmers’ markets engage with the community and promote environmental stewardship.
Additionally, Umpqua Watersheds continues to partner with the Umpqua Natural Leadership Science Hub (UNLSH) for its annual summer Science Camp. Youth participants visit sites such as Falls Creek Falls, Steamboat, and Shadow Pond to study wildlife, hydrology, and ecology. Special cultural insights will also be shared, with a visit to the Grandfather Tree guided by Jesse Jackson from the Cow Creek Band of Umpqua Tribe of Indians.
River Appreciation Day and Summer Science Camp
Every July, Umpqua Watersheds celebrates River Appreciation Day to honor the vital role rivers play in our environment. During this event, educational opportunities will be provided to learn about local rivers, their ecosystems, and how you can get involved in conservation efforts.
How You Can Get Involved
From volunteering in surveys to attending educational events and supporting community programs, you can contribute to conservation efforts in your community in many ways. Umpqua Watersheds is always looking for passionate individuals to get involved!
