Learn about native plants, wildlife, recycling and volcanoes
OLYMPIA – June 19, 2019 – Battle Ground Lake State Park staff have partnered with Clark County institutions and organizations to bring visitors a lineup of Saturday evening programs this summer. Local experts will lead the kid and adult friendly programs, which focus on native plants, animals and geology.
The programs take place at 7:30 p.m. on Saturday evenings, July 6 through Aug. 24, and at 7p.m. on Aug. 31 at Battle Ground Lake State Park, 18002 N.E. 249th Street, Battle Ground (Driving directions). Directional signs will point attendees to the day-use pavilion near the kitchen shelter and playground, where the programs will take place.
The programs are as follows:
July 6
What’s Growing on Here?
A master gardener from Washington State University Extension in Vancouver will help visitors identify the native plants and trees growing in the park.
July 13
Something Fishy’s Going On
Volunteers from the Columbia Springs education center will lead attendees in fish songs, show visitors the common traits of all fish and discuss fishing at Battle Ground Lake. Kids can make a fish craft.
July 20
Recycle Relay!
A recycling educator with Waste Connections of Washington will lead a fun game that teaches people of all ages to be conscientious recyclers.
July 27
Nuts about Squirrels!
A Columbia Springs squirrel-recovery volunteer will teach parkgoers about native squirrels of the Pacific Northwest and wildlife conservation. Kids can make a squirrel craft.
Aug. 3
Whooo Are You? OWLS
A Columbia Springs volunteer will help visitors celebrate Owl Appreciation Day by learning about these fascinating raptors, including owls seen in Washington state. Kids can make an owl craft.
Aug. 10
Batty for Bats
Visitors will learn about bats, how they help people (hint; they eat mosquitoes) and what we can do to help them. The topic focuses on native bats, especially the little brown bat. Kids can make a bat craft.
Aug. 17
Volcanoes!
A presenter from the Mount St. Helens Institute will compare Battle Ground Lake and Mount St. Helens, which were both formed by volcanoes.
Aug. 24
Slugs!
A library director from Hillsboro, Oregon will discuss these slimy friends and their important roles in our ecosystem.
Aug. 31
Batty for Bats!
“Bat” by popular demand… visitors will learn about bats, how they help us and what we can do to help them. Kids can make a bat craft.
Children must be accompanied by a responsible adult. A Discover Pass is required for day-use parking at Battle Ground Lake State Park. Park staff reserve the right to cancel programs due to inclement weather, speaker cancellations or other circumstances.
About Battle Ground Lake State Park
Battle Ground Lake State Park is a 275-acre forested park not far from Vancouver with camping, hiking, biking, equestrian camping and horse trails. The lake is an extinct volcanic crater. The spring-fed lake is stocked with trout for anglers, and non-motorized boating is allowed. The lake has a popular swimming and beach area. Paddle boards are available for rent. A new dock and pier are scheduled to open in summer of 2019. The forested campground is a popular spot for summer overnights.
For more information about the park: https://parks.state.wa.us/472/Battle-Ground-Lake
News media contacts:
James Donnellan, Park Ranger (360) 687-4621
Meryl Lassen, Communications Office, (360) 902-8557
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About Washington State Parks
The Washington State Parks and Recreation Commission manages more than 100 state parks and properties totaling approximately 120,000 acres. The Commission provides a variety of recreation opportunities for citizens and provides stewardship protection for a diverse array of natural, cultural and historic resources. State Parks’ statewide programs include long-distance trails, boating safety and winter recreation.
News release number: 19-045