LANE COUNTY PARKS
QUARTERLY NEWSLETTER
Fall 2023
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ELEVATING PARK EXPERIENCES | |
Lane County Parks' Strategic Planning and Levy-Funded Initiatives
Lane County Parks is determined to make outdoor spaces better for the people who live here and those who visit. We have a big plan to make this happen, and it's all thanks to the Parks Levy, which provides money for improving parks. We're focused on making parks that everyone can enjoy and that can change the way we experience the outdoors. Let's take a closer look at some of the exciting things that will make outdoor spaces even better.
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Harnessing the Collective Vision: Staff Strategic Planning and Project Prioritization Retreat
The ability to make big changes happens when a dedicated team works together. Lane County Parks knows this well. In June, we organized a special staff meeting to plan and decide which projects are most important. We did this to bring together everyone's ideas and goals. This meeting made our staff's commitment to making parks better even stronger. When we all work together, Lane County Parks can make projects that really matter and that everyone in the community will appreciate.
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Journey into the Heart of Southern Lane County: Park Advisory Committee Field Trip
As the strategic planning efforts unfold, Lane County Parks is undertaking yet another avenue to gain first-hand insights. In July, the Park Advisory Committee attended a field trip to southern Lane County park properties to comprehensively understand the nuances of these park spaces. This immersive experience not only informs decisions but also deepens the connection between stakeholders and the parks they cherish.
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New Levy Webpage: A Source of Information and Connection
Information is the lifeblood of community engagement, and Lane County Parks recognizes its importance. The unveiling of the new levy webpage serves as a beacon, illuminating crucial information about levy-funded projects, timelines, and progress updates.
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Embrace Inclusive Outdoor Exploration: "Birdability" Workshop Highlights
In early August, park staff had the unique opportunity to participate in a full-day workshop hosted by "Birdability" and aimed at enhancing park experiences through the lens of disability, accessibility, and inclusion. This workshop was a crucial component of our ongoing efforts to enhance parks with levy funding, ensuring that these spaces are welcoming and accommodating for everyone.
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Equity Survey and Strategic Planning Session: Forging Pathways of Inclusion
Equity is like a compass that shows Lane County Parks the way to being more inclusive for the community. In August, the county started a survey about equity. This survey is really important because it lets the community share their thoughts and ideas, which will help the county make better plans for the future. By listening to the community, the parks can become a place that welcomes everyone and offers things that everyone can enjoy.
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Please extend a warm welcome to our newest additions to the Park Maintenance team
Kamren, Karen (pictured above), Lyle, Rachel, and Randy! Their arrival marks an exciting milestone for our department as we embark on an era of growth and progress. With the increased support garnered through the recently passed local option levy, we are now gearing up to tackle the long-standing deferred maintenance backlog and enhance security measures across our expansive park system. Their dedication and expertise will undoubtedly play a crucial role in elevating the quality of our parks and ensuring the safety and enjoyment of our community members. We look forward to achieving great things together and making our parks even more exceptional places for everyone to enjoy. Welcome aboard!
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We're Hiring - Campground Volunteer Host Coordinator
Are you passionate about the great outdoors and the well-being of your community? Do you believe that access to beautiful parks and open spaces is a fundamental right for all residents? If so, we invite you to consider applying for the Campground Host Coordinator role with Lane County Parks Division. This isn't just a job; it's an opportunity to play a vital role in enhancing the lives of our community members through the stewardship of our parks and open spaces.
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LIFE CHANGING MOMENTS IN LANE COUNTY PARKS | |
Thank you Corvallis Youth Corps!
We want to give a big thank you to the City of Corvallis Youth Corps! Last July, these amazing young people worked hard to make our parks better. They focused on getting rid of blackberry bushes at Hendricks Bridge, Armitage Park, and Hileman Landing, and they did an amazing job.
The changes they made are really impressive. Places that used to be covered in bushes are now clean and inviting, all thanks to the hard work of the Youth Corps. They care a lot about making our outdoor spaces better, which shows how much they care about our environment and our city.
We're thankful not just for the improvements they made but also for the positive vibe they brought to the parks. It's really nice to see young people taking responsibility and helping make our parks even more beautiful and enjoyable.
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Interested in Volunteering?
The parks provide numerous opportunities to get involved with trails work, invasive species management, educating youth and adults and so much more!
Friends of Zumwalt Park (FOZP), in coordination with Lane County Parks, hosts regular volunteer work parties. To learn more follow them on Facebook or email FriendsofZumwaltPark1@gmail.com.
Calling all Hileman Heroes - The Santa Clara Community Foundation (SCCF) recently adopted Hileman County Park and hosts volunteer work parties the last Saturday of each month. This special park has access to the Willamette River and is a great spot for walking and swimming in the summer. Join the SCCF in an effort to remove invasive species, stabilize the river banks and repopulate with native species. To learn more visit their website.
The Mount Pisgah Arboretum in collaboration with The Friends of Buford Park and Mt. Pisgah, both have a variety of volunteer opportunities from restoration and trail building, to native plant nursery work and education.
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MUSHROOM FESTIVAL - October 29 | |
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As the cool, autumn air sweeps through the trees and the forest floor turns into a canvas painted with vibrant colors, an enchanting event is waiting for nature lovers and curious folks: The Mushroom Festival. Held by the Mount Pisgah Arboretum, this special celebration of mushrooms lets you peek into the hidden world beneath our feet, showing off the amazing beauty and importance of these fungi.
Located right in the heart of nature, the Mushroom Festival is a perfect mix of learning, exploring, and having fun. Surrounded by the beautiful Mount Pisgah Arboretum, the festival invites people of all ages to go on a journey of discovery through guided walks to find mushrooms, expert talks, and hands-on activities. It's not just about enjoying how mushrooms look; it's also about understanding why they matter in nature.
One of the most exciting parts of the Mushroom Festival is the guided walks led by experts who really know their mushrooms. These walks reveal the incredible variety of fungi, from the colorful to the subtle. You'll get to learn about different types of mushrooms, where they live, and how they work together with plants. As you walk through the forest, you'll see how everything in nature is connected, and mushrooms play a big role in making sure everything works well.
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For those who want to dive deeper into the world of fungi, the expert talks are a chance to learn from scientists who study mushrooms. These talks teach you about the fascinating lives of mushrooms, how they can be used in medicine and cooking, and how they can help clean up the environment and support sustainable farming. Whether you're just starting to learn about mushrooms or you're already a big fan, these talks will make you appreciate these often-overlooked creatures even more.
But the Mushroom Festival isn't just about watching and listening; it's a hands-on experience that gets you involved. Workshops and activities are designed to let you be creative and learn in fun ways. From making art with mushrooms to growing your own edible mushrooms, the festival sparks your imagination and helps you understand the amazing world of fungi.
Besides all the learning, the festival is also a time to celebrate community and the wonders of nature. Local vendors often have tasty treats inspired by mushrooms, showing off the delicious flavors that fungi can bring to the table. The feeling of togetherness among festival-goers, who all share a love for nature, creates an atmosphere that's both friendly and informative.
As you wander around the festival grounds, surrounded by tall trees and the sound of leaves rustling, you can't help but be amazed by the beauty and mystery of mushrooms. The Mushroom Festival at Mount Pisgah Arboretum opens a door to a world that's usually hidden but is incredibly important. It's a reminder that beneath the ground lies a web of life that connects everything living, and it's an invitation to explore, learn, and appreciate the magic of the natural world.
So, mark your calendars, bring your family and friends, and come to Mount Pisgah Arboretum for a day filled with discovery, inspiration, and the enchantment of mushrooms. Let's celebrate the fascinating world of mushrooms together and embark on a journey that will change the way you see the forest floor beneath your feet forever.
Artwork by Emily Poole, featuring oak mazegill (Daedalea quercina) and Acorn Woodpecker (Melanerpes formicivorus)
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If you happened to miss the August lunar spectacle in Oregon, don't despair. There's still an exciting celestial event on the horizon: the annual 2023 Solar Eclipse, set to grace the skies on October 14, 2023. For those eager to seize this opportunity, our partners at Travel Lane County are your go-to source for essential information and handy tips to help you kickstart your eclipse expedition.
Moreover, our array of year-round open campgrounds offer ideal options for camping during your eclipse escapade. Imagine finding the perfect spot to set up camp as you prepare to witness this remarkable solar phenomenon.
August moon photo by Martin Campbell, 2017 solar eclipse at Howard Buford Recreation Area.
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Calling Equestrian Enthusiasts!
Get ready for an exciting adventure as we celebrate 50 wonderful years of riding the trails at Howard Buford Recreation Area! The Lane County Sheriff’s Mounted Posse invites you to join them Saturday, September 30th.
🕘 Departure Time: Between 9am and noon
📍 Meeting Point: Mount Pisgah Horse Arena
Important Note: Unfortunately, there are no horses for rent, so riders must have a horse to participate in the ride.
Whether you're a seasoned trailblazer or new to riding at Howard Buford Recreation Area, The Sheriffs Mounted Posse has you covered! Experienced riders familiar with the park's trails will be there to guide you. If you'd like to join a guided ride, simply let them know, and they will find the perfect group for you.
For those looking for a leisurely ride, there are guides for the bottom lands loop trail, ideal for novice riders. And if you're feeling adventurous and want to take in a breathtaking view from the summit, there is a guide for that too!
To secure your spot, call or text Alan at 541-556-8521 by September 29th.
Don't miss out on this special anniversary ride. We can't wait to share this memorable experience with you!
Happy Trails! 🌳🏞️🐴
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The closure of day use areas at Baker Bay, Orchard Point, Perkins, and Richardson during the off-season pertains to vehicular traffic. However, these areas remain accessible for pedestrians and recreational activities such as dog walks and picnics. The closure minimizes potential issues associated with vehicle access as water levels drop exposing the lake bed. It is illegal to drive onto the lake beds as vehicles can cause significant damage. The closure also minimizes the resources required for vehicle removal when individuals break the law and get stuck in the mud. | | | | |
