Making Tracks


The Newsletter of the Friends of the Tualatin River National Wildlife Refuge Complex.

Joyfully Connecting our Community with the Wonder of the Refuge

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Winter Life at the Refuge

  • The Landscape: January at the refuge is a time of quiet beauty. You'll likely see the wetlands filled with wintering waterfowl like Northern Shovelers, Cackling Geese, and American Wigeons.
  • Active Conservation: The Friends are already busy! They just hosted a "Conservation Conversation" on January 13th regarding the impact of insects on history and are preparing for Amphibian Egg Mass Surveys starting in February.

UPCOMING EVENTS

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****CLICK HERE TO REGISTER****

What are AEMS?

In these surveys, we document floating masses of amphibian eggs in various wetland habitats on the Refuge. Amphibians are an important indicator of ecosystem health, and these surveys provide valuable information about our amphibian populations! Surveys involve wading (in waders) and spending several hours out of doors in winter weather with a small team on different Refuge properties. They are led by Friends or Refuge staff and are a fun opportunity to see the Refuge in a new way and contribute to important monitoring efforts. Due to the strenuous native of surveys, they are open to participants 13+. Minors should be accompanied by a parent or guardian, although you can reach out to me directly for an exception. 

When do AEMS take place?

Amphibian egg mass surveys take place in February and March, on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Fridays. Surveys are scheduled for three hours, 9am - 12pm or 12pm - 3pm. You can select one or more shifts that work for your schedule in the registration form. 

What is required to participate?

The refuge provides all equipment needed, so you'll just need to bring warm winter clothes, snacks, and water. Participants must also watch an online training video that takes approximately 40 minutes before their first survey (even if you have participated in the past, we ask that you review the video). You'll also need transportation to the survey location at Wapato Lake or Tualatin River National Wildlife Refuge. On request, I can help you connect with other participants to carpool. 

Click here to view the online training

Questions? Contact bethany_llewellyn@fws.gov



Join the Friends of Tualatin River NWR for our 2nd Saturday Work Party! We will be improving wildlife habitat by planting native plants in an area of the refuge not open to the public at the Tualatin River NWR. The meeting location for this event will be communicated when you sign up. 

This event will take out of doors, in an uncovered area exposed to the elements. Work will require bending, stooping, and traveling across uneven surfaces. Long pants and sleeves, warm layers, and rain gear are recommended. This event will be canceled in the event of hazardous weather or travel conditions. All training, tools, first aid supplies, and light refreshments will be provided.

Volunteers of all ages are welcome, but volunteers under 15 must be accompanied by an adult. Volunteers under 18 must have a Volunteer Service Agreement signed by a parent or guardian to participate in the event. 

Questions? Contact Bethany Llewellyn

2025 Annual Report


We are pleased to present the Friends of Tualatin River National Wildlife Refuge Complex Annual Report. This document captures the highlights of what was an interesting and challenging year. Our ability to achieve our mission of supporting the Refuge relies on the pivotal roles played by our Board of Directors, Members, Volunteers, Donors, and Staff.

So many ways to support the Friends!

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Nature's Overlook Nature Store


The Nature's Overlook Nature Store is your premier location for nature-related gifts. We are open for your convenience Tuesday through Sunday, from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM.


Supporting the Refuge: All proceeds from the Nature Store directly fund the mission and programs of the Friends organization. As a benefit of membership, Friends members receive 10% off their entire purchase.

New Year- New Goal

Let's Raise $2026 in 2026

Join Our Be the Change Campaign

Help us exceed our 2026 Goal of $2,026- currently at $64.91 from Jan.1 -20th

1. Grab a Blue Bag from the Visitor Center

2. Fill it up with bottles & cans

3. Drop it off at your nearest donation center

Help us reach our 2026 goal of $2,026.00

We raise $2000.00 in 2025! Thank You

Our new Amazon Wishlist will take you right to a list of high-need items. Your purchase will support the Friends office, special events, public programs, and volunteer work parties. All items are shipped directly to the Friends office at the Refuge.


Thank you for your support!

Calling All Photographers

By Phyllis Millan


Let’s share the beauty of TRNWRC and other wild places through your pictures. Submit via email to:


FriendsPhoto@FriendsOfTualatinRefuge.org


Include your name, where the picture was taken, and any pertinent information.


Photo credit: Roger Williams

Friends of the Tualatin River National Wildlife Refuge Complex

19255 SW Pacific Hwy Sherwood, Oregon 97140

503.625.5944 x 15227

www.FriendsofTualatinRefuge.org



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