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• ALTERNATIVES TO BULKHEADS: Course #6 -Sea Level Rise Issues (self-paced)

  • Start
    Monday, March 17, 2025
  •  
    9:00 AM
  • End
    Friday, April 04, 2025
  •  
    5:00 PM
  • Location
    Moodle - online
  • Spaces left
    0

  

  This self-paced course will provide an overview of sea level rise and coastal hazards that impact location and design of alternatives to bulkheads or armor. The course will provide science and policy context; outline the key considerations for sea level rise and shoreline stabilization projects; describe siting, design, and adaptive management of alternatives to bulkheads; and offer local and regional permitting perspectives. You’ll learn why bulkheads may not provide protection against future coastal conditions and explore alternatives including soft shore design, avoidance, and managed retreat. You’ll hear perspectives from instructors representing the research, policy, engineering, and permitting sectors about the key questions, challenges, and opportunities they are identifying as we reconsider shoreline stabilization in the context of sea level rise. 

  
  

  This course will available to registrants from March 17, 2025 - April 4, 2025. The course will take about 3 hours to complete. Upon completion, you will receive certificate for 3 AICP CM credits. 

  
  

  This course is offered as part of a series of six courses related to Alternatives to Bulkheads. Courses 1-4 will be offered during fall 2024 and Courses 5-6 will be offered during winter 2025. 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. 

  
  

  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.

  
  

  Instructors

  Charlotte Dohrn is a climate resilience planner with the Department of Ecology’s Shorelands and Environmental Assistance Program, where she works on climate change planning guidance and policy development. Her background includes climate adaptation research, restoration planning, and strategy development. Charlotte holds a Master’s degree from the University of Washington’s School of Marine and Environmental Affairs and a certificate from the Program on Climate Change.

  
  

  Dr. Ian Miller is Washington Sea Grant’s coastal hazards specialist, working out of Peninsula College in Port Angeles. Ian works with coastal communities and public agencies on the Olympic Peninsula to strengthen their ability to plan for and manage coastal hazards, including tsunamis, chronic erosion, coastal flooding and other hazards associated with climate change. He holds a bachelor’s degree in Marine Ecology from Western Washington University’s Huxley College of Environmental Studies and a Ph.D. in Ocean Sciences from the University of California, Santa Cruz.

  
  

  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.

  
  

  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.

  
  Railin Santiago is a Shoreline Planner in Ecology’s Northwest Regional Office. She has done environmental permitting, biology and planning for the past 14 years. She has worked in Federal, State and Local government, and was in private consulting for 8 years. At Ecology she provides technical assistance related to implementation of local Shoreline Master Programs, and Shoreline Permitting. She has a Bachelor’s in biology from the Evergreen State College and a Master’s from the University of Washington’s School of Marine and Environmental Affairs.

  
  

  Robert Perez is an associate planner with Pierce County Land Use and Environmental Review (LUER) since 2018. In this role he has met with applicants to discuss the complexities of the Pierce County Shoreline Management Program, conducted reviews for both public and private permits and represented the county in hearings when required. He received his B.A. in Urban and Regional Planning from Eastern Washington University. 

  
  

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• Using the 2021 Interagency Wetland Mitigation Guidance - virtual

  • Start
    Tuesday, March 25, 2025
  •  
  • End
    Wednesday, April 02, 2025
  •  
  • Schedule
    4 sessions
  • Location
    Virtual (via Zoom)
  • Spaces left
    0

  Join waitlist

  
  

  
  

  Using the 2021 Interagency Wetland Mitigation Guidance

  
  

  
  

  This class is designed for those who develop mitigation plans and for those who review and approve such plans. The training, which is divided into four modules, is based on the 2021 interagency document, "Wetland Mitigation in Washington State," Part 1, Agency Policies and Guidance. 

  
  

  This class provides an in-depth overview of the contents of Part 1. Topics include mitigation sequencing, site selection, compensation approaches and methods, determining the amount of compensation, buffers, and more. Several class exercises and poll questions allow participants to apply the concepts being taught.

  
  

  This course does NOT provide technical specifications for how to design or condition mitigation projects. Also, this training will include involve breakout rooms and groupwork. You will have about 1-3 hours of pre-work depending on your background knowledge. The pre-work will be provided to you 1 week before the training. Additionally, you will need a laptop or desktop to participate in this training.(11.0 CM Credits)

  
  

  Link to guidance: https://ecology.wa.gov/Water-Shorelines/Wetlands/Mitigation/Interagency-guidance

  
  

  The registration fee is $105.

  
  

  
  

  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

  Patricia Johnson is a wetland specialist with the Washington Department of Ecology. She conducted Ecology's Washington State Wetland Mitigation Evaluation Study (Phase 1 and 2) and co-authored Wetlands in Washington - Volume 1: A Synthesis of the Science, the 2006 Interagency guidance document Wetland Mitigation in Washington State, as well as the 2021 update to Part 1. Patricia follows up on wetland mitigation projects to ensure compliance. Patricia has a master’s degree in environmental studies from the Evergreen State College. 

  
  

  Dana Mock is a wetland mitigation specialist for the Shorelands and Environmental Assistance Program at the Washington State Department of Ecology. She coordinated the development of the 2006 interagency wetland mitigation guidance document "Wetland Mitigation in Washington State," as well as the 2021 update to Part 1. Dana tracks and follows up on wetland mitigation projects across Washington to ensure compliance with the conditions of Section 401 water quality certifications and Administrative Orders for non-federally regulated wetlands.

   

  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.

  
  

  
  

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• How to Conduct a Forage Fish Survey - April 16 (Lacey)

  • When
    Wednesday, April 16, 2025
  •  
    9:00 AM - 4:30 PM
  • Location
    Lacey Community Center - 6729 Pacific Ave SE, Olympia, WA 98503
  • Spaces left
    0

  Join waitlist

  We are offering this same training at the Padilla Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve (near Mount Vernon) on May 13th from 9 am - 4:30 pm. Here is a link to that registration page: https://coastaltraining-wa.org/event-6119842 

  
  

  

  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.

  
  

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

  
  

  
  

  Instructors:

  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.
  

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• Western Washington: How to Determine the Ordinary High Water Mark (virtual with field site visit April 23rd in Thurston County)

  • Start
    Monday, April 21, 2025
  •  
  • End
    Wednesday, April 23, 2025
  •  
  • Schedule
    3 sessions
  • Location
    Virtual - Zoom w/ field site visit in Thurston County. See the event details for more information.
  • Spaces left
    0

  Join waitlist

  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 April 21st and April 22nd 9:00 AM - 12:30 PM). On April 23rd, 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).

  
  

  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 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.

  
  

  Heather Rogers works in Ecology’s Headquarters Office, where she has been a fluvial geomorphologist for the Flood Unit since 2022. Her work is largely focused on channel migration zones and providing technical assistance to local jurisdictions and other state agencies. Heather has a MS in Geological Sciences and a professional certificate in Wetland Science and Management from the University of Washington. Her background includes work in geomorphology, geohazards, wetlands, research, consulting, and the federal government.

  
  

  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.  

  
  

  
  

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• Western Washington: How to Determine the Ordinary High Water Mark (virtual with field site visit April 24th in Thurston County)

  • Start
    Monday, April 21, 2025
  •  
  • End
    Thursday, April 24, 2025
  •  
  • Schedule
    3 sessions
  • Location
    Virtual - Zoom w/ field site visit in Thurston County. See the event details for more information.
  • Spaces left
    0

  Join waitlist

  
  

  

  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 April 21st and April 22nd 9:00 AM - 12:30 PM). On April 24th, 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).

  
  

  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 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.

  
  

  Heather Rogers works in Ecology’s Headquarters Office, where she has been a fluvial geomorphologist for the Flood Unit since 2022. Her work is largely focused on channel migration zones and providing technical assistance to local jurisdictions and other state agencies. Heather has a MS in Geological Sciences and a professional certificate in Wetland Science and Management from the University of Washington. Her background includes work in geomorphology, geohazards, wetlands, research, consulting, and the federal government.

  
  

  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.  

  
  

  Show details
• Western Washington: How to Determine the Ordinary High Water Mark (virtual with field site visit April 23rd in Skagit County)

  • Start
    Monday, April 21, 2025
  •  
  • End
    Wednesday, April 23, 2025
  •  
  • Schedule
    3 sessions
  • Location
    Virtual - Zoom w/ field site visit in Skagit County. See the event details for more information.
  • Spaces left
    0

  Join waitlist

  

  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 April 21st and April 22nd 9:00 AM - 12:30 PM). On April 23rd, 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).

  
  

  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 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.

  
  

  Heather Rogers works in Ecology’s Headquarters Office, where she has been a fluvial geomorphologist for the Flood Unit since 2022. Her work is largely focused on channel migration zones and providing technical assistance to local jurisdictions and other state agencies. Heather has a MS in Geological Sciences and a professional certificate in Wetland Science and Management from the University of Washington. Her background includes work in geomorphology, geohazards, wetlands, research, consulting, and the federal government.

  
  

  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.  

  
  

  
  

  Show details
• Western Washington: How to Determine the Ordinary High Water Mark (virtual with field site visit April 24th in Skagit County)

  • Start
    Monday, April 21, 2025
  •  
  • End
    Thursday, April 24, 2025
  •  
  • Schedule
    3 sessions
  • Location
    Virtual - Zoom w/ field site visit in Skagit County. See the event details for more information.
  • Spaces left
    0

  Join waitlist

  

  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 April 21st and April 22nd 9:00 AM - 12:30 PM). On April 24th, 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).

  
  

  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 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.

  
  

  Heather Rogers works in Ecology’s Headquarters Office, where she has been a fluvial geomorphologist for the Flood Unit since 2022. Her work is largely focused on channel migration zones and providing technical assistance to local jurisdictions and other state agencies. Heather has a MS in Geological Sciences and a professional certificate in Wetland Science and Management from the University of Washington. Her background includes work in geomorphology, geohazards, wetlands, research, consulting, and the federal government.

  
  

  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.  

  
  

  Show details
• Designing and Installing Wetland Mitigation and Restoration Projects - April 29-30

  • Start
    Tuesday, April 29, 2025
  •  
  • End
    Wednesday, April 30, 2025
  •  
  • Schedule
    2 sessions
  • Location
    Lacey Community Center, 6729 Pacific Ave SE, Olympia, WA 98503
  • Spaces left
    0

  Join waitlist

  
  

  Please sign up for the waitlist if the training is full. We anticipate being able to implement this training again in June.

   

  

  
  

  This two-day class is geared towards those who already have basic knowledge of plants, soils and hydrology and who design and implement compensatory mitigation and restoration projects, and/or those who  review  and  condition  mitigation  plans and want  more technical information. This class focuses on factors to consider when designing wetland projects and protocols to help ensure their success.

  
  

  
  

  Participants will learn:

  •      Factors to consider for site selection
  •      How to develop realistic site-specific goals and objectives and measurable performance standards
  •      Water (hydrology sources and potential hydroperiods - what to look for and evaluate)
  •      Soils (salvaging, amendments, compaction)
  •      Vegetation (source of plant material, salvaging, planting specifications, improving survival, establishing appropriate vegetation communities)
  •      Invasive species (techniques for control and maintenance)
  •      Habitat (design considerations)
  •      Plan specifications (mulches, irrigation, plant materials, habitat features)
  •      Construction and installation considerations
  •      Contingencies, maintenance, and monitoring
  

  
  

  Lunch will be provided both days. (12 AICP CM credits/ CEP Points)

  
  

  The registration fee is $400. 

  
  

  The two-day, in person course will be held on the following days:

  • 1.Tuesday, April 29, 2025, 9:00 AM - 4:30 PM
  • 2.Wednesday, April 30, 2025, 9:00 AM - 4:30 PM

  
  

  Class Location: Lacey Community Center, 6729 Pacific Ave SE, Olympia, WA 98503

   

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

  
  

  
  

  Instructors:

  Susan Buis: Susan is a restoration ecologist and native plant horticulturist currently working for the US Army Corps of Engineers and the WA State Dept of Transportation.  She is also co-founder and former co-owner of Sound Native Plants, an Olympia company that provides a full spectrum of restoration services including design, installation, native plant propagation, maintenance, and monitoring. Before founding her company in 1991, she worked for Yosemite and Olympic National Parks, where she developed and managed restoration projects and native plant propagation.  Ms. Buis has been teaching workshops in restoration design and installation to professional groups and agencies since 1996 and has published articles on creating restoration plant specifications in Hortus West and in Native Plants Journal.  She is a regular guest lecturer on native plant topics in the coastal NW.

  
  

  Lisa Palazzi: Lisa is an Certified Professional Wetland Scientist (SWS-PCP) and a Certified Professional Soil Scientist (SSSA).  She has over 32 years of professional experience evaluating wetlands, soils and hydrology in the Pacific Northwest.  Ms. Palazzi has provided expert advice and expert witness services on many hydric soils and wetlands hydrology functions in the Puget Sound region to many different municipalities and agencies.   She consistently receives high marks as a teacher from her students and from workshop participants in these subjects, and she has taught in many different settings, ranging from University-level certification courses to professional conference workshops and even as a guest speaker in elementary, middle school and high school classes.  Therefore, she is not only technically competent in her field of expertise, but capable of explaining that knowledge to a wide range of audiences.  She is familiar with the most common mistakes and misinterpretations of soils and hydrology characteristics made that can cause a restoration project to fail. 

  Show details
• Using the Washington State Wetland Rating System in Western Washington - virtual with field site visit (on 5/8 in Thurston County)

  • Start
    Tuesday, May 06, 2025
  •  
  • End
    Thursday, May 08, 2025
  •  
  • Schedule
    3 sessions
  • Location
    Virtual on 5/6 and 5/7 and in-person at a field site on 5/8
  • Spaces left
    0

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  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.

  
  

  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 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.

   

  
  

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• How to Conduct a Forage Fish Survey - May 13th (Padilla Bay)

  • When
    Tuesday, May 13, 2025
  •  
    9:00 AM - 4:30 PM
  • Location
    Padilla Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve - 10441 Bayview Edison Rd, Mount Vernon, WA 98273
  • Spaces left
    14

  Register

  

  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. 

  
  

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

  
  

  
  

  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.
  

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• Eelgrass Delineation Training - May 15

  • When
    Thursday, May 15, 2025
  •  
    9:00 AM - 4:00 PM
  • Location
    Padilla Bay Reserve, Mt. Vernon
  • Spaces left
    0

  Join waitlist

  This full-day course is designed for consultants and others who work with projects that may involve eelgrass, and who need to have a basic understanding of eelgrass biology, distribution, mapping and delineation.
  

  
  

  
  

  
  

  Course topics will include the following:
  

  • Eelgrass biology
  • Eelgrass functions and ecosystem services
  • Species identification
  • Distribution patterns
  • Methods for mapping eelgrass
  • Delineation of eelgrass bed boundaries using the new Corps eelgrass delineation guidance

  The class will consist of a half-day classroom session in the morning, followed by a half-day of field exercises designed to familiarize participants with the new Corps of Engineers Eelgrass Delineation guidance. Class participants should expect to encounter wet conditions, soft sediments, with a fair amount of walking to and from the parking lot and tidal flats.

  
  

  (6.0 CM AICP Credits/CEP Points)

   

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

  
  
  Instructor: Dr. Deborah Shafer Nelson is a retired Biologist with the Seattle District Army Corps of Engineers. She has had experience in seagrass research and management since 1992. She recently developed the eelgrass delineation guidance methodology that is currently being used by Seattle District Army Corps of Engineers Regulatory. Her research expertise includes seagrass physiology, habitat requirements, restoration, functional assessment, impact assessment, interactions between native and introduced seagrasses in the PNW, and the potential effect of climate change on PNW seagrass distribution. Dr. Nelson is the author of numerous peer-reviewed journal articles, technical reports, and technical notes.

  
  

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• Using the Washington State Wetland Rating System (2014) in Western Washington (in-person May 20-21)

  • Start
    Tuesday, May 20, 2025
  •  
  • End
    Wednesday, May 21, 2025
  •  
  • Schedule
    2 sessions
  • Location
    Lacey Community Center, Lacey
  • Spaces left
    0

  Join waitlist

  This two-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. (12 CM AICP Credits/CEP Points)
   
  Link to rating system:
  https://fortress.wa.gov/ecy/publications/SummaryPages/1406029.html
  

   

  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 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.

   

  
  

   

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• Using the Washington State Wetland Rating System (2014) in Eastern Washington (virtual with field site visit on 5/29 in Spokane)

  • Start
    Tuesday, May 27, 2025
  •  
  • End
    Thursday, May 29, 2025
  •  
  • Schedule
    3 sessions
  • Location
    Virtual on 5/27 and 5/28 and in-person at a field site on 5/29
  • Spaces left
    0

  Join waitlist

  

  This three-day intensive workshop will provide wetland regulators and consultants with practical information and experience in using the revised rating system for wetlands in eastern 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 revised rating system.
  
  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.

  
  

  This course will include two required virtual sessions on Zoom on 5/27 (9:00 am - 12:30 pm) and 5/28 (9:00 am - 12:30 pm). Participants will visit sites with the instructor in Spokane on 5/29 (9 am - 4:30 pm). The field session will be conducted in local wetlands, so dress appropriately. Note: All cars driving to the field sites will need a Discover Pass.

  
  

  It is mandatory to attend the virtual sessions and in-person field session in order to obtain your certification of completion for the rating system (13 CM AICP Credits/CEP Points).
  

  
  Link to rating system:
  https://fortress.wa.gov/ecy/publications/SummaryPages/1406030.html
  

  
  

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

  
  

  Instructor: 

  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.

  
  

  
  

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• Riparian and Wetland Plant Identification in Eastern WA

  • When
    Wednesday, June 25, 2025
  •  
    9:00 AM - 4:30 PM
  • Location
    Wenatchee River Institute, Leavenworth
  • Spaces left
    4

  Register

  
  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  

   

  Lunch is provided.

  
  

  The training will include the following plants:

  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

  
  

  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 scholarships 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. 

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