A Day of Impact  

Our Executive Director and Board of Directors get hands-on for their annual Board-in-the-Field Day at Magnuson Park. 

EarthCorps believes that hands-on experiences can deepen our commitment to restoration and the global environmental movement. To actualize these values, each year our leadership steps away from their desks and immerses themselves in the transformative work happening in our communities. This annual Board-in-the-Field Day is an integral opportunity for our Executive Director and Board of Directors to connect with our mission and community.  

Guided by our Program Director, Elizabeth White, and Ecologist Johnny Billecci, our leadership team joined Mallory’s crew along the Lake Shore Promenade at Magnuson Park. Spanning 5.3 acres, this cherished location not only houses EarthCorps’ office but serves as a focal point and hub for our restoration efforts in the region.  

(Pictured Left: Program Director Elizabeth White teaches tool use and safety.)

For over 20 years, EarthCorps has partnered with Seattle Parks & Recreation to transform these urban green spaces into thriving ecosystems. However, this specific project, launched in 2023, focuses on restoration efforts to improve the delicate balance of the native shoreline habitat.  

Last year, our crews made monumental strides by introducing 900 sedges and rushes to the wetlands, installing 250 live stakes to combat shoreline erosion, and enriching our landscape with 2,000 native plants along the promenade. Our work extends beyond planting trees and shrubs; these efforts play an essential role in stabilizing slopes and improving water quality, which directly benefits Lake Washington and its surrounding waters.  

This month, our Executive Director Christine Tang and members of our board worked shoulder-to-shoulder with our crews, learning to identify non-native invasive species that threaten our ecosystem. With Elizabeth’s expert guidance on tool safety and effective weeding strategies, our leadership rolled up their sleeves to actively pull invasive plants and build compost piles. This work not only enriches our soil but also supports the growth of diverse native plant life that is critical to healthy ecosystems.  

(Pictured Right: Board President Shanon Tysland, Executive Director Christine Tang, and Board Vice President Quena Batres.)

So, why is this hands-on work so vital?   

Invasive species create a competitive environment that can push native plants to the brink of extinction. By addressing this issue head-on, our leadership team is not merely pulling weeds; they are nurturing an environment where native plants can flourish. In turn, this supports canopy expansion and promotes healthier public spaces, ensuring our communities remain resilient in the face of climate change.  

This day of action serves as a poignant reminder of our commitment to restoration and the power of collaboration in reaching our shared environmental goals. We invite you to join us on this journey towards sustainability. Whether you’re volunteering or spreading the word about our mission, your involvement is crucial! Every small action counts as we collectively work towards a vibrant and sustainable future.