Ohop Creek Wildlife Monitoring

Volunteers are needed to help conduct citizen science surveys on Nisqually Land Trust property on the Ohop Creek located near Eatonville, WA. 

Citizens knowledgeable in identifying local birds, mammals, and/or amphibians are needed to help collect baseline data on present species. 

A major reconstruction and restoration project commenced in the summer of 2009, and the data collected this year, using Nature Mapping, will help us measure the success of this restoration project. 

2010 Survey Dates:               Map & Directions:                Questions?

Three surveys were done in 2008, and three more in 2009.  Here is a report from the July 19th, 2008 trip: 

We had a great initial survey, with over 15 volunteer surveyors coming out.  Highlights include kicking off the morning with seeing a Lazuli bunting, a rare spotting.  The most abundant bird species found were Violet Green Swallows, Tree Swallows, Song Sparrows, Barn Swallows, American Goldfinch, and Common Yellowthroats, as well as a nesting family with chicks.  Also among the highlights were owl pellets, small mammal skulls, a petrified newt, and fresh elk skat!

This wildlife monitoring project is a collaboration of groups and citizens working together to restore the Ohop Watershed, a tributary of the Nisqually River in South Pierce County.  Participating organizations include: Tahoma Audubon Society, Nisqually Land Trust, Citizens Reclaiming the Ohop Watershed, South Puget Sound Salmon Enhancement Group, NW Trek Wildlife Park, and the Nature Mapping program at the University of Washington.