Coastal Training Program upcoming events

Using the Washington State Wetland Rating System in Western Washington - virtual with field site visit (on April 17th in Thurston County) (Wednesday, April 15, 2026)

Wed, 15 Apr 2026 16:00:00 GMT

This three-day intensive workshop will provide wetland regulators and consultants with practical information and experience in using the 2014 update to the rating system for wetlands in western Washington. It is specifically designed for those who will be using the rating system in the field. You will gain a working knowledge of topics such as the hydrogeomorphic classification of wetlands, how to separate wetlands into units for rating, and how to answer all the questions on the field form. The purpose of the class is to provide you with knowledge so that you can fill out the rating form on your own. You will receive a copy of the rating system manual.

It is important that you already have some experience and/or education in delineating wetlands and identifying natural wetland features such as outlets, boundaries of basins, vegetation classes, and some ability to distinguish between different plant species. The morning sessions will be held inside. The afternoon sessions will be conducted in local wetlands, so dress appropriately.

The first two sessions will be virtual (on Zoom) from 9 am - 12:30 pm and the third session will be in-person from 9 am - 4:30 pm in Thurston County. (13 CM AICP Credits/CEP Points)

Link to rating system:
https://fortress.wa.gov/ecy/publications/SummaryPages/1406029.html

Lunch is provided.

Additionally, we can offer scholarships to cover the registration fees with each training. Please reach out if you need a scholarship to participate in the training.

Instructors: Dr. Amy Yahnke is the senior wetland ecologist for the Shorelands and Environmental Assistance Program at the Washington State Department of Ecology. She holds a Certificate in Wetland Science and Management, BS in Environmental Horticulture, MS in Forest Resources, and PhD in Aquatic and Fishery Sciences. She has studied wetland ecology within the contexts of amphibians, invasive plants, and stormwater management. Dr. Yahnke has experience teaching a wide range of environmental topics to audiences of all ages.

Using the Washington State Wetland Rating System in Western Washington - virtual with field site visit (on April 17th in Thurston County) (Thursday, April 16, 2026)

Thu, 16 Apr 2026 16:00:00 GMT

The first two sessions will be virtual (on Zoom) from 9 am - 12:30 pm and the third session will be in-person from 9 am - 4:30 pm in Thurston County. (13 CM AICP Credits/CEP Points)

Link to rating system:
https://fortress.wa.gov/ecy/publications/SummaryPages/1406029.html

Lunch is provided.

Additionally, we can offer scholarships to cover the registration fees with each training. Please reach out if you need a scholarship to participate in the training.

Using the Washington State Wetland Rating System in Western Washington - virtual with field site visit (on April 17th in Thurston County) (Friday, April 17, 2026)

Fri, 17 Apr 2026 16:00:00 GMT

The first two sessions will be virtual (on Zoom) from 9 am - 12:30 pm and the third session will be in-person from 9 am - 4:30 pm in Thurston County. (13 CM AICP Credits/CEP Points)

Link to rating system:
https://fortress.wa.gov/ecy/publications/SummaryPages/1406029.html

Lunch is provided.

Additionally, we can offer scholarships to cover the registration fees with each training. Please reach out if you need a scholarship to participate in the training.

How to Conduct a Forage Fish Survey - April 22nd (Padilla Bay) (Wednesday, April 22, 2026)

Wed, 22 Apr 2026 16:00:00 GMT

This 1-day training will demonstrate the Department of Fish and Wildlife’s methods for conducting beach surveys and processing samples for Surf Smelt and Sand Lance spawn. The training will include a classroom component with a presentation and hands-on demonstration of lab techniques. It will also include a field component with a demonstration and time to practice field collection and sample processing. The training is specifically designed for biologists who need to conduct forage fish surveys for regulatory purposes, such as to comply with the conditions of a WDFW, DNR, or ACoE permit. At the conclusion of training, participants will have knowledge of forage fish survey techniques and reporting requirements. (6 AICP CM Credits/CEP Points)

Lunch will be provided. The registration fee is $105.

Instructor:

Wendel Raymond is a research scientist with Washington Department of Fish & Wildlife Habitat Science Team. Wendel joined the team in mid-February and will be working on a variety of nearshore projects including forage fish spawn surveys. Wendel earned his PhD in 2020 from University of Alaska Fairbanks where is studied subsistence harvest of sea otters and sea otter effects in seagrass communities in southeast Alaska. Since moving to Washington in late 2020, Wendel has been a research scientist at University of Washington where he has worked on a variety of projects including assessing the impact of the 2021 heatwave on co-managed shellfish, helped develop the new floating kelp bed area vital sign indicator for Puget Sound Partnership, and lead a watershed and algae monitoring program on San Juan Island. Wendel is excited to apply his experience and expertise to the Habitat Program’s mission through research and collaboration within and outside the agency.

How to Conduct a Forage Fish Survey - April 23rd (Padilla Bay) (Thursday, April 23, 2026)

Thu, 23 Apr 2026 16:00:00 GMT

Lunch will be provided. The registration fee is $105.

Instructor:

ALTERNATIVES TO BULKHEADS: Course #3 -How to Address Site Assessments for Design and Construction (virtual and a field day at Bay View State Park in Skagit County) (Wednesday, April 29, 2026)

Wed, 29 Apr 2026 16:00:00 GMT

Course #3 explores how to conduct a site assessment for a shoreline stabilization project. This includes identifying issues that need to be addressed, where to find resources for each of the issues, and how to prepare and read reports pertaining to various aspects of the site.

April 29th, 2026 will be virtual from 9 am - 3 pm. April 30th, 2026 will be in-person at Bay View State Park (10901 Bayview Edison Rd, Mount Vernon, WA 98273) from 12:30 pm - 3:30 pm (8 CM AICP Credits/CEP Points).

Please email the Coastal Training Program (ecyrectpadmin@ecy.wa.gov) if you require an accommodation for this training (audio, visual, mobility, or other). Additionally, the program can offer a couple of scholarships to cover the registration fees with each training. Please reach out if you need a scholarship in order to participate in the training.

This course is offered as part of a series of six courses related to Alternatives to Bulkheads. These courses are being offering from winter 2026 to fall 2026. These courses are endorsed by the Shore Friendly program and the content is consistent with Shore Friendly recommended practices. Here is a link to more information.

Instructors:

Jessica Cote is a coastal engineer with Blue Coast Engineering, which she founded in 2018. Jessica is deeply committed to the health and recovery of Puget Sound. For more than two decades she has worked on complex coastal issues nationally and globally. She received her Master’s degree in Ocean Engineering from Oregon State University.

Corey Morss is an Environmental Engineer working for the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife Habitat Program. He provides technical assistance to WDFW Habitat Biologists statewide, as well as designing and constructing restoration projects in marine and freshwater environments. Corey has developed and delivered trainings on water crossings, marine shoreline protection (MSDG), fluvial geomorphology, reading engineering plans, and fish friendly construction considerations.

Kathy Ketteridge, PhD, PE, is a coastal engineer with Blue Coast Engineering. Her background includes civil engineering, coastal engineering, hydrodynamic modeling, and restoration projects. She has completed many complex modeling efforts for remediation projects in the Pacific NW, British Columbia, and New York State. Kathy lives in Bellingham and has been a co-owner of Blue Coast since 2020.

ALTERNATIVES TO BULKHEADS: Course #3 -How to Address Site Assessments for Design and Construction (virtual and a field day at Tolmie State Park in Thurston County) (Wednesday, April 29, 2026)

Wed, 29 Apr 2026 16:00:00 GMT

April 29th, 2026 will be virtual from 9 am - 3 pm. April 30th, 2026 will be in-person at Tolmie State Park in Thurston County from 12:30 pm - 3:30 pm (8 CM AICP Credits/CEP Points).

Instructors:

ALTERNATIVES TO BULKHEADS: Course #3 - How to Address Site Assessments for Design and Construction (virtual and a field day at Brackett's Landing in Snohomish County) (Wednesday, April 29, 2026)

Wed, 29 Apr 2026 16:00:00 GMT

April 29th, 2026 will be virtual from 9 am - 3 pm. April 30th, 2026 will be in-person at Brackett’s Landing (50 Railroad Ave, Edmonds, WA 98020) from 12:30 pm - 3:30 pm (8 CM AICP Credits/CEP Points).

Instructors:

ALTERNATIVES TO BULKHEADS: Course #3 -How to Address Site Assessments for Design and Construction (virtual and a field day at Bay View State Park in Skagit County) (Thursday, April 30, 2026)

Thu, 30 Apr 2026 19:30:00 GMT

Instructors:

ALTERNATIVES TO BULKHEADS: Course #3 -How to Address Site Assessments for Design and Construction (virtual and a field day at Tolmie State Park in Thurston County) (Thursday, April 30, 2026)

Thu, 30 Apr 2026 19:30:00 GMT

April 29th, 2026 will be virtual from 9 am - 3 pm. April 30th, 2026 will be in-person at Tolmie State Park in Thurston County from 12:30 pm - 3:30 pm (8 CM AICP Credits/CEP Points).

Instructors:

ALTERNATIVES TO BULKHEADS: Course #3 - How to Address Site Assessments for Design and Construction (virtual and a field day at Brackett's Landing in Snohomish County) (Thursday, April 30, 2026)

Thu, 30 Apr 2026 19:30:00 GMT

Instructors:

Western Washington: How to Determine the Ordinary High Water Mark (virtual with field site visit May 14 in Thurston County) (Monday, May 11, 2026)

Mon, 11 May 2026 16:00:00 GMT

This training provides information and methods for determining the ordinary high water mark (OHWM) as defined in the state Shoreline Management Act (SMA). Waters regulated under the SMA include all tidal waters, streams greater than 20 cubic feet per second mean annual flow, water bodies greater than 20 acres in size, and any associated wetlands and deltas.

In this training, you will learn answers to these questions:

How is the OHWM defined and where does it apply?
What is the regulatory context and history of the OHWM?
Why it is important to use field indicators to determine the OHWM?
What are the most reliable field indicators on tidal waters, streams, lakes, and associated wetlands?
What are some common misconceptions about OHWM determinations?

The three-day training includes two virtual sessions that will take place on Zoom on May 11th and May 12th from 9:00 AM - 12:30 PM. On May 14th, the participants will complete the field component of the training. Participants will practice how to determine the OHWM at four field sites in Thurston County with an instructor. Please block your calendar from 9:00 AM - 4:30 PM for the field component. Lunch will be provided on the field day.

The registration fee is $150 (16 AICP CM credits/ CEP Points).

Additionally, we can offer scholarships to cover the registration fees with each training. Please reach out if you need a scholarship in order to participate in the training.

Instructors

Chris Luerkens works in Ecology’s Bellingham Field Office, where he has been a shoreline and wetlands permit specialist since 2018. His work is largely focused on reviewing permits, and providing technical assistance to local jurisdictions, including Ordinary High Water Mark determinations. Chris has a BS in environmental science from WWU and has been working in natural resource management since 2005. His background includes work in water quality, fisheries, and local government as a planner.

Zach Meyer came to Ecology in 2015 from the University of Washington where he got his Master’s Degree in Marine and Environmental affairs and taught introductory biology. At Ecology, Zach has served as a shoreline planner, wetland and shoreline specialist, and since June 2022 has had the role of Wetlands and Shorelands Technical and Regulatory Lead.

Leah Beckett is a Wetland Specialist with Ecology working out of the Northwest Region Office. Prior to Ecology, Leah had roles with city, state, and federal governments in wetlands and hydrological research, and taught biology and ecology courses at the undergraduate and graduate level. She earned a Ph.D. and a M.S. in Wetland Ecology from the University of Maryland and a B.S. in Ecology from Brevard College.

Doug Gresham is a wetland specialist in Ecology’s Northwest Region, and he has 24 years of consulting experience in wetlands, fisheries, water quality monitoring, mitigation design and monitoring, construction inspection, and permitting. He provides technical assistance on wetland protection to government agencies and consultants within King, Snohomish, Skagit, and San Juan Counties. He also conducts verification of consultant’s wetland delineations and ordinary high water mark determinations, and assesses the adequacy of their mitigation site designs and monitoring programs.

Western Washington: How to Determine the Ordinary High Water Mark (virtual with field site visit May 13 in Thurston County) (Monday, May 11, 2026)

Mon, 11 May 2026 16:00:00 GMT

In this training, you will learn answers to these questions:

How is the OHWM defined and where does it apply?
What is the regulatory context and history of the OHWM?
Why it is important to use field indicators to determine the OHWM?
What are the most reliable field indicators on tidal waters, streams, lakes, and associated wetlands?
What are some common misconceptions about OHWM determinations?

The three-day training includes two virtual sessions that will take place on Zoom on May 11th and May 12th from 9:00 AM - 12:30 PM. On May 13th, the participants will complete the field component of the training. Participants will practice how to determine the OHWM at four field sites in Thurston County with an instructor. Please block your calendar from 9:00 AM - 4:30 PM for the field component. Lunch will be provided on the field day.

The registration fee is $150 (16 AICP CM credits/ CEP Points).

Additionally, we can offer scholarships to cover the registration fees with each training. Please reach out if you need a scholarship in order to participate in the training.

Instructors

Western Washington: How to Determine the Ordinary High Water Mark (virtual with field site visit May 13 in Skagit County) (Monday, May 11, 2026)

Mon, 11 May 2026 16:00:00 GMT

In this training, you will learn answers to these questions:

How is the OHWM defined and where does it apply?
What is the regulatory context and history of the OHWM?
Why it is important to use field indicators to determine the OHWM?
What are the most reliable field indicators on tidal waters, streams, lakes, and associated wetlands?
What are some common misconceptions about OHWM determinations?

The three-day training includes two virtual sessions that will take place on Zoom on May 11th and May 12th from 9:00 AM - 12:30 PM. On May 13th, the participants will complete the field component of the training. Participants will practice how to determine the OHWM at four field sites in Skagit County with an instructor. Please block your calendar from 9:00 AM - 4:30 PM for the field component. Lunch will be provided on the field day.

The registration fee is $150 (16 AICP CM credits/ CEP Points).

Additionally, we can offer scholarships to cover the registration fees with each training. Please reach out if you need a scholarship in order to participate in the training.

Instructors

Western Washington: How to Determine the Ordinary High Water Mark (virtual with field site visit May 14 in Skagit County) (Monday, May 11, 2026)

Mon, 11 May 2026 16:00:00 GMT

In this training, you will learn answers to these questions:

How is the OHWM defined and where does it apply?
What is the regulatory context and history of the OHWM?
Why it is important to use field indicators to determine the OHWM?
What are the most reliable field indicators on tidal waters, streams, lakes, and associated wetlands?
What are some common misconceptions about OHWM determinations?

The three-day training includes two virtual sessions that will take place on Zoom on May 11th and May 12th from 9:00 AM - 12:30 PM. On May 14th, the participants will complete the field component of the training. Participants will practice how to determine the OHWM at four field sites in Skagit County with an instructor. Please block your calendar from 9:00 AM - 4:30 PM for the field component. Lunch will be provided on the field day.

The registration fee is $150 (16 AICP CM credits/ CEP Points).

Additionally, we can offer scholarships to cover the registration fees with each training. Please reach out if you need a scholarship in order to participate in the training.

Instructors

Eastern Washington: How to Determine the Ordinary High Water Mark (virtual with field site visit May 13 in Yakima County) (Monday, May 11, 2026)

Mon, 11 May 2026 16:00:00 GMT

In this training, you will learn answers to these questions:

How is the OHWM defined and where does it apply?
What is the regulatory context and history of the OHWM?
Why it is important to use field indicators to determine the OHWM?
What are the most reliable field indicators on tidal waters, streams, lakes, and associated wetlands?
What are some common misconceptions about OHWM determinations?

The three-day training includes two virtual sessions that will take place on Zoom on May 11th and May 12th from 9:00 AM - 12:30 PM. On May 13th, the participants will complete the field component of the training. Participants will practice how to determine the OHWM at four field sites in Yakima County with an instructor. Please block your calendar from 9:00 AM - 4:30 PM for the field component. Lunch will be provided on the field day.

The registration fee is $150 (16 AICP CM credits/ CEP Points).

Additionally, we can offer scholarships to cover the registration fees with each training. Please reach out if you need a scholarship in order to participate in the training.

Instructors

Western Washington: How to Determine the Ordinary High Water Mark (virtual with field site visit May 14 in Thurston County) (Tuesday, May 12, 2026)

Tue, 12 May 2026 16:00:00 GMT

In this training, you will learn answers to these questions:

How is the OHWM defined and where does it apply?
What is the regulatory context and history of the OHWM?
Why it is important to use field indicators to determine the OHWM?
What are the most reliable field indicators on tidal waters, streams, lakes, and associated wetlands?
What are some common misconceptions about OHWM determinations?

The registration fee is $150 (16 AICP CM credits/ CEP Points).

Additionally, we can offer scholarships to cover the registration fees with each training. Please reach out if you need a scholarship in order to participate in the training.

Instructors

Western Washington: How to Determine the Ordinary High Water Mark (virtual with field site visit May 13 in Thurston County) (Tuesday, May 12, 2026)

Tue, 12 May 2026 16:00:00 GMT

In this training, you will learn answers to these questions:

How is the OHWM defined and where does it apply?
What is the regulatory context and history of the OHWM?
Why it is important to use field indicators to determine the OHWM?
What are the most reliable field indicators on tidal waters, streams, lakes, and associated wetlands?
What are some common misconceptions about OHWM determinations?

The registration fee is $150 (16 AICP CM credits/ CEP Points).

Additionally, we can offer scholarships to cover the registration fees with each training. Please reach out if you need a scholarship in order to participate in the training.

Instructors

Western Washington: How to Determine the Ordinary High Water Mark (virtual with field site visit May 13 in Skagit County) (Tuesday, May 12, 2026)

Tue, 12 May 2026 16:00:00 GMT

In this training, you will learn answers to these questions:

How is the OHWM defined and where does it apply?
What is the regulatory context and history of the OHWM?
Why it is important to use field indicators to determine the OHWM?
What are the most reliable field indicators on tidal waters, streams, lakes, and associated wetlands?
What are some common misconceptions about OHWM determinations?

The three-day training includes two virtual sessions that will take place on Zoom on May 11th and May 12th from 9:00 AM - 12:30 PM. On May 13th, the participants will complete the field component of the training. Participants will practice how to determine the OHWM at four field sites in Skagit County with an instructor. Please block your calendar from 9:00 AM - 4:30 PM for the field component. Lunch will be provided on the field day.

The registration fee is $150 (16 AICP CM credits/ CEP Points).

Additionally, we can offer scholarships to cover the registration fees with each training. Please reach out if you need a scholarship in order to participate in the training.

Instructors

Western Washington: How to Determine the Ordinary High Water Mark (virtual with field site visit May 14 in Skagit County) (Tuesday, May 12, 2026)

Tue, 12 May 2026 16:00:00 GMT

In this training, you will learn answers to these questions:

How is the OHWM defined and where does it apply?
What is the regulatory context and history of the OHWM?
Why it is important to use field indicators to determine the OHWM?
What are the most reliable field indicators on tidal waters, streams, lakes, and associated wetlands?
What are some common misconceptions about OHWM determinations?

The three-day training includes two virtual sessions that will take place on Zoom on May 11th and May 12th from 9:00 AM - 12:30 PM. On May 14th, the participants will complete the field component of the training. Participants will practice how to determine the OHWM at four field sites in Skagit County with an instructor. Please block your calendar from 9:00 AM - 4:30 PM for the field component. Lunch will be provided on the field day.

The registration fee is $150 (16 AICP CM credits/ CEP Points).

Additionally, we can offer scholarships to cover the registration fees with each training. Please reach out if you need a scholarship in order to participate in the training.

Instructors

Eastern Washington: How to Determine the Ordinary High Water Mark (virtual with field site visit May 13 in Yakima County) (Tuesday, May 12, 2026)

Tue, 12 May 2026 16:00:00 GMT

In this training, you will learn answers to these questions:

How is the OHWM defined and where does it apply?
What is the regulatory context and history of the OHWM?
Why it is important to use field indicators to determine the OHWM?
What are the most reliable field indicators on tidal waters, streams, lakes, and associated wetlands?
What are some common misconceptions about OHWM determinations?

The three-day training includes two virtual sessions that will take place on Zoom on May 11th and May 12th from 9:00 AM - 12:30 PM. On May 13th, the participants will complete the field component of the training. Participants will practice how to determine the OHWM at four field sites in Yakima County with an instructor. Please block your calendar from 9:00 AM - 4:30 PM for the field component. Lunch will be provided on the field day.

The registration fee is $150 (16 AICP CM credits/ CEP Points).

Additionally, we can offer scholarships to cover the registration fees with each training. Please reach out if you need a scholarship in order to participate in the training.

Instructors

Western Washington: How to Determine the Ordinary High Water Mark (virtual with field site visit May 13 in Thurston County) (Wednesday, May 13, 2026)

Wed, 13 May 2026 16:00:00 GMT

In this training, you will learn answers to these questions:

How is the OHWM defined and where does it apply?
What is the regulatory context and history of the OHWM?
Why it is important to use field indicators to determine the OHWM?
What are the most reliable field indicators on tidal waters, streams, lakes, and associated wetlands?
What are some common misconceptions about OHWM determinations?

The registration fee is $150 (16 AICP CM credits/ CEP Points).

Additionally, we can offer scholarships to cover the registration fees with each training. Please reach out if you need a scholarship in order to participate in the training.

Instructors

Western Washington: How to Determine the Ordinary High Water Mark (virtual with field site visit May 13 in Skagit County) (Wednesday, May 13, 2026)

Wed, 13 May 2026 16:00:00 GMT

In this training, you will learn answers to these questions:

How is the OHWM defined and where does it apply?
What is the regulatory context and history of the OHWM?
Why it is important to use field indicators to determine the OHWM?
What are the most reliable field indicators on tidal waters, streams, lakes, and associated wetlands?
What are some common misconceptions about OHWM determinations?

The three-day training includes two virtual sessions that will take place on Zoom on May 11th and May 12th from 9:00 AM - 12:30 PM. On May 13th, the participants will complete the field component of the training. Participants will practice how to determine the OHWM at four field sites in Skagit County with an instructor. Please block your calendar from 9:00 AM - 4:30 PM for the field component. Lunch will be provided on the field day.

The registration fee is $150 (16 AICP CM credits/ CEP Points).

Additionally, we can offer scholarships to cover the registration fees with each training. Please reach out if you need a scholarship in order to participate in the training.

Instructors

Eastern Washington: How to Determine the Ordinary High Water Mark (virtual with field site visit May 13 in Yakima County) (Wednesday, May 13, 2026)

Wed, 13 May 2026 16:00:00 GMT

In this training, you will learn answers to these questions:

How is the OHWM defined and where does it apply?
What is the regulatory context and history of the OHWM?
Why it is important to use field indicators to determine the OHWM?
What are the most reliable field indicators on tidal waters, streams, lakes, and associated wetlands?
What are some common misconceptions about OHWM determinations?

The three-day training includes two virtual sessions that will take place on Zoom on May 11th and May 12th from 9:00 AM - 12:30 PM. On May 13th, the participants will complete the field component of the training. Participants will practice how to determine the OHWM at four field sites in Yakima County with an instructor. Please block your calendar from 9:00 AM - 4:30 PM for the field component. Lunch will be provided on the field day.

The registration fee is $150 (16 AICP CM credits/ CEP Points).

Additionally, we can offer scholarships to cover the registration fees with each training. Please reach out if you need a scholarship in order to participate in the training.

Instructors

Western Washington: How to Determine the Ordinary High Water Mark (virtual with field site visit May 14 in Thurston County) (Thursday, May 14, 2026)

Thu, 14 May 2026 16:00:00 GMT

In this training, you will learn answers to these questions:

How is the OHWM defined and where does it apply?
What is the regulatory context and history of the OHWM?
Why it is important to use field indicators to determine the OHWM?
What are the most reliable field indicators on tidal waters, streams, lakes, and associated wetlands?
What are some common misconceptions about OHWM determinations?

The registration fee is $150 (16 AICP CM credits/ CEP Points).

Additionally, we can offer scholarships to cover the registration fees with each training. Please reach out if you need a scholarship in order to participate in the training.

Instructors

Western Washington: How to Determine the Ordinary High Water Mark (virtual with field site visit May 14 in Skagit County) (Thursday, May 14, 2026)

Thu, 14 May 2026 16:00:00 GMT

In this training, you will learn answers to these questions:

How is the OHWM defined and where does it apply?
What is the regulatory context and history of the OHWM?
Why it is important to use field indicators to determine the OHWM?
What are the most reliable field indicators on tidal waters, streams, lakes, and associated wetlands?
What are some common misconceptions about OHWM determinations?

The three-day training includes two virtual sessions that will take place on Zoom on May 11th and May 12th from 9:00 AM - 12:30 PM. On May 14th, the participants will complete the field component of the training. Participants will practice how to determine the OHWM at four field sites in Skagit County with an instructor. Please block your calendar from 9:00 AM - 4:30 PM for the field component. Lunch will be provided on the field day.

The registration fee is $150 (16 AICP CM credits/ CEP Points).

Additionally, we can offer scholarships to cover the registration fees with each training. Please reach out if you need a scholarship in order to participate in the training.

Instructors

Using Field Indicators for Hydric Soils - Skagit County field day on May 22nd (Thursday, May 21, 2026)

Thu, 21 May 2026 17:00:00 GMT

Using Field Indicators for Hydric Soils

You will learn the basic processes that take place in saturated soil, and how to “read the story” in a soil profile. The training includes an introduction to identifying layers, distinguishing concentrations and depletions, and preparing hydric soil descriptions from soil profiles. Each student will have a chance to describe soil profiles and apply the field indicators to their notes. Also, you will learn how to use the Hydric Soil Indicators in the Regional Supplements to the Corps of Engineers Wetland Delineation Manual.

This workshop includes a virtual day on May 21st from 10 AM - 3 PM and an in-person field day on May 22nd from 9 AM - 4 PM in Skagit County. The program will follow up with more details about the field day in May. Lunch will be provided during the field day (11 CM AICP Credits/ CEP Points)

Suggested class materials to bring:

A copy of the Munsell Soil Color Book
U.S. Army Corps of Engineers wetland delineation manual regional supplement (Western Mountains, Valleys, and Coast and Arid West Supplements) or have access to a digital copy (https://www.usace.army.mil/Missions/Civil-Works/Regulatory-Program-and-Permits/reg_supp/)
Knife for cutting soil (i.e., one you don’t mind ruining)
Spray bottle with water
Hand lens
Clip board
Measuring tape
Shovel (18 inch blade recommended)

Please reach out to Sara Brostrom (bros461@ecy.wa.gov) if you require an accommodation for this training (audio, visual, mobility, or other). Additionally, we can offer a couple of scholarship to cover the registration fees with each training. Please reach out if you need a scholarship in order to participate in the training.

Instructors

Leah Beckettis a Wetland Specialist with Ecology working out of the Northwest Region Office. Prior to Ecology, Leah had roles with city, state, and federal governments in wetlands and hydrological research, and taught biology and ecology courses at the undergraduate and graduate level. She earned a Ph.D. and a M.S. in Wetland Ecology from the University of Maryland and a B.S. in Ecology from Brevard College.

Lizzie Carpis a Wetland/Shoreline Specialist for Ecology’s Southwest Region. She reviews wetland and shoreline permits and helps local governments implement their shoreline regulations and review wetland projects. Before she came to Ecology, Lizzie was a soil scientist with the Natural Resources Conservation Service.

Neil Molstad is a Regional Wetland Specialist with the Washington State Department of Ecology. He worked as a soil scientist, both as a private consultant and for the federal government, before joining Ecology. Molstad has a MS degree in soil science, with soil morphology and genesis emphasis, from Iowa State University, and has obtained various national and state certifications and licenses as a professional soil scientist over his career. He has developed and provided training on soils, with an emphasis on hydric soil identification, to both the general public and specialized audiences.

Using Field Indicators for Hydric Soils - Thurston County field day on May 22nd (Thursday, May 21, 2026)

Thu, 21 May 2026 17:00:00 GMT

Using Field Indicators for Hydric Soils

This workshop includes a virtual day on May 21st from 10 AM - 3 PM and an in-person field day on May 22nd from 9 AM - 4 PM in Thurston County. The program will follow up with more details about the field day in May. Lunch will be provided during the field day (11 CM AICP Credits/ CEP Points)

Suggested class materials to bring:

A copy of the Munsell Soil Color Book
U.S. Army Corps of Engineers wetland delineation manual regional supplement (Western Mountains, Valleys, and Coast and Arid West Supplements) or have access to a digital copy (https://www.usace.army.mil/Missions/Civil-Works/Regulatory-Program-and-Permits/reg_supp/)
Knife for cutting soil (i.e., one you don’t mind ruining)
Spray bottle with water
Hand lens
Clip board
Measuring tape
Shovel (18 inch blade recommended)

Instructors

Leah Beckettis a Wetland Specialist with Ecology working out of the Northwest Region Office. Prior to Ecology, Leah had roles with city, state, and federal governments in wetlands and hydrological research, and taught biology and ecology courses at the undergraduate and graduate level. She earned a Ph.D. and a M.S. in Wetland Ecology from the University of Maryland and a B.S. in Ecology from Brevard College.

Using Field Indicators for Hydric Soils - Skagit County field day on May 22nd (Friday, May 22, 2026)

Fri, 22 May 2026 16:00:00 GMT

Using Field Indicators for Hydric Soils

Suggested class materials to bring:

A copy of the Munsell Soil Color Book
U.S. Army Corps of Engineers wetland delineation manual regional supplement (Western Mountains, Valleys, and Coast and Arid West Supplements) or have access to a digital copy (https://www.usace.army.mil/Missions/Civil-Works/Regulatory-Program-and-Permits/reg_supp/)
Knife for cutting soil (i.e., one you don’t mind ruining)
Spray bottle with water
Hand lens
Clip board
Measuring tape
Shovel (18 inch blade recommended)

Instructors

Leah Beckettis a Wetland Specialist with Ecology working out of the Northwest Region Office. Prior to Ecology, Leah had roles with city, state, and federal governments in wetlands and hydrological research, and taught biology and ecology courses at the undergraduate and graduate level. She earned a Ph.D. and a M.S. in Wetland Ecology from the University of Maryland and a B.S. in Ecology from Brevard College.

Using Field Indicators for Hydric Soils - Thurston County field day on May 22nd (Friday, May 22, 2026)

Fri, 22 May 2026 16:00:00 GMT

Using Field Indicators for Hydric Soils

Suggested class materials to bring:

A copy of the Munsell Soil Color Book
U.S. Army Corps of Engineers wetland delineation manual regional supplement (Western Mountains, Valleys, and Coast and Arid West Supplements) or have access to a digital copy (https://www.usace.army.mil/Missions/Civil-Works/Regulatory-Program-and-Permits/reg_supp/)
Knife for cutting soil (i.e., one you don’t mind ruining)
Spray bottle with water
Hand lens
Clip board
Measuring tape
Shovel (18 inch blade recommended)

Instructors

Leah Beckettis a Wetland Specialist with Ecology working out of the Northwest Region Office. Prior to Ecology, Leah had roles with city, state, and federal governments in wetlands and hydrological research, and taught biology and ecology courses at the undergraduate and graduate level. She earned a Ph.D. and a M.S. in Wetland Ecology from the University of Maryland and a B.S. in Ecology from Brevard College.

Alternatives to Bulkheads: Course #4 - Demonstration of Need, Risk Assessment, and Alternatives Analysis (virtual) (Thursday, June 04, 2026)

Thu, 04 Jun 2026 16:00:00 GMT

This course examines how to determine which type of erosion protection and shoreline treatment is applicable for a given site, as no one design is applicable everywhere. It will cover the preparation and review of the site-specific alternatives analysis for shoreline stabilization, including an evaluation of where alternatives to bulkheads are appropriate. The information in this course builds upon the information identified and included in the Site Assessment course #3. This course will also address the application review perspective of a local jurisdiction, including the concept of “demonstration of need,” as required in shoreline master programs, and how emergency situations are addressed. The risk assessment tool (as revised), provided in the Marine Shoreline Design Guidelines (MSDG), will be discussed as a basis for determining need (5 AICP CM Credits/CEP Points).

This course is offered as part of a series of six courses related to Alternatives to Bulkheads. Courses 1-6 will be offered throughout 2026.These courses are endorsed by the Shore Friendly program and the content is consistent with Shore Friendly recommended practices. Here is a link to more information.

Instructors

Rebecca Rothwell is a Shoreline Planner with Ecology’s headquarters office and represents the SEA Program in the development and review of statewide guidelines, policies, and regulations related to protecting and managing the state’s shorelines. She has 11 years’ experience with reviewing shoreline permits, providing technical assistance to applicants and consultants, and coordinating with property owners to resolve SMA violations. Rebecca has a bachelor’s degree in biology from the University of Puget Sound and a master’s degree in environmental studies from The Evergreen State College. She has worked at Ecology for 17 years.

Riparian and Wetland Plant Identification in Eastern WA (Wednesday, June 24, 2026)

Wed, 24 Jun 2026 16:00:00 GMT

This is a one day workshop aimed at teaching field identification skills for wetland and riparian plant species in Central and Eastern Washington. Students will learn how to identify 30 trees and shrubs most common to wetlands and riparian areas. Field study will cover terminology, field characteristics that distinguish similar species, Wetland Indicator Status, habitat preferences, and information about using these species in restoration projects. This is a beginner level course and emphasis will be placed on teaching field identification characteristics; students are NOT expected to be proficient in plant taxonomy or wetland ecology. Students will build a plant press and take home pressed samples of the species covered during the training.(6.5 AICP CM credits/ CEP Points)

Please bring one of the recommended texts:
1. A Field Guide to the Common Wetland Plants of Western Washington and Northwestern Oregon by Sarah Spear Cooke
2. Wetland Plants of Oregon and Washington by Jennifer Guard
3. Plants of the Pacific Northwest Coast by Pojar and MacKinnon
4. Plants of Southern Interior BA and the Inland Northwest by Parish, Coupe, Lloyd

Riparian Plant List, June 2025 Training

GYMNOSPERMS:
Scientific Name	Common Name
Abies grandis	Grand fir
Larix occidentalis	Western larch
Picea sp.	Spruce
Pinus contorta	Lodgepole pine
Pinus monticola	Western white pine
Pinus ponderosa	Ponderosa pine
Pseudotsuga menziesii	Douglas fir
Thuja plicata	Western red cedar
Tsuga sp.	Hemlock
DICOTS:
Scientific Name	Common Name
Acer circinatum	Vine maple
Acer glabrum	Douglas maple
Acer macrophyllum	Big-leaf maple
Alnus sinuata	Sitka alder
Amelanchier alnifolia	Serviceberry
Apocynum sp.	dogbane
Berberis (Mahonia) aquifolium	Tall Oregongrape
Ceanothus velutinus	Snowbrush
Cornus stolonifera (C. sericea) (C. alba)	Red-osier dogwood
Crataegus douglasii	Hawthorn
Holodiscus discolor	Ocean spray
Lonicara involucrata	twinberry
Philadlephous lewissii	mock orange
Populus tremuloides	Quaking aspen
Populus trichocarpa	Black cottonwood
Prunus emarginata	Bitter cherry
Prunus virginiana	Chokecherry
Rhamnus purshiana	cascara
Ribes aureum	Golden currant
Ribes cereum	Wax currant
Rosa gymnocarpa	Baldhip rose
Rosa nutkana	Nootka rose
Rosa woodsii	Wood's rose
Rubus parviflorus	Thimbleberry
Rubus discolor (armenicus)	Himalayan blackberry
Rubus ursinus	Wild blackberry
Salix exigua	Coyote willow
Salix lasiandra (S. lucida)	Pacific willow
Salix scouleriana	Scouler willow
Salix sitchensis	Sitka willow
Sambucus cerulea (nigra)	Blue elderberry
Sambucus racemosa	Red elderberry
Spiraea douglasii	Hardhack
Symphoricarpos albus	Common snowberry

Lunch is provided.

Please reach out to Sara Brostrom (bros461@ecy.wa.gov) if you require an accommodation for this training (audio, visual, mobility, or other). Washington State Department of Ecology staff, if you need a reasonable accommodation to successfully attend this training, please contact the Core Training Team. Additionally, we can offer a couple of scholarship to cover the registration fees with each training. Please reach out if you need a scholarship in order to participate in the training.

Instructor:

Jennifer Hadersberger has over 20 years of experience working in Natural Resources Management. Jennifer worked as a wetland consultant for 6 years performing wetland delineations, wetland mitigation site monitoring, and preparing permit applications and mitigation plans. Jennifer also has 14 years of experience working for government agencies including City of Portland Bureau of Environmental Services, Oregon Department of State Lands, and Chelan County Natural Resources Department. In the public sector, Jennifer has specialized in project management, grant writing, permitting, and project development for stream and wetland restoration projects. Since 2000, Jennifer has also been teaching botany and biology classes part time for various Community Colleges and through the Portland State Environmental Professional Program. Jennifer is a Professional Wetland Scientist with a MS in Botany from Oregon State University.