Our native plant nursery helps us better achieve our goal of restoration, while also creating more volunteer and learning opportunities. Through grant funding like our Aquatic Lands Enhancement Account (ALEA) grants, we are able to grow native trees and shrubs. As a fisheries enhancement group, we mainly care for riparian plants that will be used along streams and creeks. Yet, every so often we care for nearshore species that will be planted out on the beach. Having our own nursery not only allows us to donate native plants but it also gives our community a chance to be directly involved in growing life.
Our WSC Riparian Restoration Associate Molly welcoming new western red cedars into our nursery!
Importance of Natives
Restoration projects are done to help restore an area that no longer provides sufficient habitat for the organisms living there. Habitat loss can result from an unnatural introduction or removal of a plant, structure, or animal. For example, a new plant may outcompete a native plant which then destabilizes the banks. The eroding banks create turbid water that fish cannot live in, which may lead to the prevention of migration or death. As a result, the orca population can decline because they have lost an important food source. Native species depend on each other to survive and function. That’s why we raise and plant native species.
Native plants are an essential aspect to creating a healthy ecosystem and helps SFEG achieve best management practices. It’s about WAY MORE than just salmon. Plants provide native insects, mammals, birds, and fish with food, shelter, and protection. Whether it is bees collecting pollen from native shrubs or western hemlock shading the creeks for salmon, native plants create a safe and functional home for organisms. Another benefit to using native plants rather than nonnative ornamentals, is that local plants have already adapted to survive in the regional soil, temperature, weather, and other affecting forces. This results in less maintenance and better survival for native plants, thus creating a successful riparian restoration project.
Nootka rose flower, native to this region
History
Trumpeter Swans
Our nursery resides within the Samish River Watershed along Thomas Creek, a tributary to the Samish River. In the nursery we see a variety of birds including Dark-eyed Juncos, Bald Eagles, Red-tail Hawks, Chickadees, Golden-crowned Kinglets, Wrens, Killdeer, Barn Owls, Trumpeter Swans, and much more.
One of our fun facts about the nursery is that it is a part of a real life love story. The land that the nursery sits on was originally owned by a woman named Josephine. Josephine fell in love with a member of the Samish Tribe. When she passed away, as a token of her affection, she donated her land to the Samish Tribe. SFEG leases the nursery from the Samish Tribe and together we have created a partnership to care for and maintain native riparian plants.
For more information on native plants found in our nursery: Native Plant Guide [under construction]
For more information on volunteer opportunities in the nursery: Volunteer and Internship Opportunities
