Better Ground

06/01/2026

Orca Recovery Day is back Saturday, October 17! Start getting into the Orca-tober spirit early with . 🐋Our partners are offering opportunities all month long to learn, connect, and celebrate Southern Resident orcas. Visit orcamonth.org to explore events and activities.

05/27/2026

Did you know? In addition to Wildfire Awareness Month, May is also American Wetlands Month! 🌱💧🔥

In addition to providing important habitat for wildlife and improving water quality, wetlands can create buffers to slow down or prevent the spread of wildfire and increase landscape resiliency.

True story: America has the best wetlands!

May is American Wetlands Month – when we celebrate the many ways wetlands support communities and wildlife across the United States.

Wetlands cover just over 5 percent of the contiguous United States, yet their benefits are immense! They keep people and infrastructure safe by buffering the impact of storm waves, reducing flood waters, and preventing the spread of wildfires. They offer clean and abundant freshwater water to people and farms by filtering pollutants and recharging groundwater. They provide habitat for wildlife like waterfowl and shrimp, as well as our nation’s noble bald eagle. Wetlands support recreation, tourism, and fisheries too!

Is there anything wetlands CAN'T do? Not really. They're the best.

Wetland conservation equals improved health and wealth for Americans!

Photo of bald eagle at Montezuma National Wildlife Refuge by Daniel Umstead (sharetheexperience)

05/21/2026

Check out these helpful tips from Pierce Conservation District on preparing for wildfires!

05/18/2026

Are you looking to prepare for wildfire season?

Having an emergency checklist prepared ahead of time can make a stressful situation safer and more manageable. Use this Wildfire Readiness checklist from WSDA to get started.

Follow this link to sign up for emergency alerts in your area: https://mil.wa.gov/alerts

05/15/2026

Spring is a great time to think about how healthy landscapes can support birds, bees, and other wildlife! 🌼🐝

Small steps such as planting a variety of native plants can make a big difference.

Reach out to your local Conservation District for resources and ideas to support wildlife habitat on your land.

We can all do something to help our local wildlife populations, especially songbirds and pollinator insects. Committing even a small section of your yard to be used as habitat can make a big difference for the birds and bees! Birds Birds aren't just an important part of our ecosystem, they also make...

05/13/2026

Have you taken steps to increase wildfire safety for your home and property?

May is Wildfire Awareness Month- now is the time to prepare!

Learn more about Home Ignition Zones and find ways to protect your property by visiting the National Fire Protection Association website:

This blog from NFPA covers what the wildfire home ignition zone is, where the concept comes from, and how it differs from defensible space.

05/08/2026

May is Wildfire Awareness Month 🔥

Throughout the month, we'll be sharing information, tips, and resources to help communities better understand wildfire risk and preparedness.

Check out the post below from Thurston Conservation District to learn more!

05/06/2026

May 9th is World Migratory Bird Day!

Spring migration is underway, and birds are on the move.
Want to know which birds are flying over you? Use https://birdcast.org/ for real-time local migration data. 🐦

Conservation Districts support bird health by improving habitat that birds rely on to rest and refuel. Reach out to your local District to find out how they can help make your land more bird-friendly!

The world is celebrating the power of community science for World Migratory Bird Day this Saturday, May 9 with the theme “Every Bird Counts – Your Observation Matter.” You don’t need to be a professional researcher to help protect our shared natural world. Every bird you spot and record helps scientists track migration patterns and protect vital habitats.

Getting involved is as easy as stepping outside and paying attention to the local species passing through your neighborhood or favorite park. Whether you are a beginner or a seasoned nature lover, your participation helps track trends that professional researchers couldn't monitor alone.

We encourage everyone to join this global movement by recording observations through local apps and by practicing ethical bird watching from a respectful distance. Your curiosity today directly fuels the conservation efforts of tomorrow, ensuring these spectacular journeys continue for generations to come.

Visit https://wdfw.wa.gov/species-habitats/living/habitat-at-home/community-science to find easy ways to start your community science journey today!



📷 Bill Hebner

05/04/2026

Spring is the perfect time to get your soil tested! 🌱

Did you know? Many Conservation Districts offer assistance with soil testing and help interpret results so you know what your soil needs.

Find your district here to get started: https://betterground.org/home/find-your-local-cd/