Calendar

Tuesday, December 30, 2025
10:00am - 12:00pm

4600 SE Columbia Way,
Vancouver, WA 98661

Did you know that beavers are environmental superheroes? They are excellent builders and considered keystone species due to their incredible ability to shape the environment.

Join us for an exciting winter break nature adventure at the Water Center’s wetlands where we’ll dive into the fascinating world of these amazing mammals! In this hands-on exploration, we’ll discover how beavers create their homes, build dams, and transform wetlands into thriving ecosystems. You’ll learn how their work helps other wildlife, cleans the water, and even impacts the landscape around us.

This program is perfect for families with kids 6-12 years of age. All youth need to be accompanied by an adult during the entire program.

Advanced registration is required and space is limited. Sign up today!

This program will be mostly outdoors. We will start the day with an introduction activity inside. We will then be outside for 1-1.5 hours.  Program will happen rain or shine. Dress for the weather and be prepared to walk about 2 miles. Be prepared to walk on paved trails and on uneven terrain, sandy beaches and muddy trails.  Detailed logistics will be sent to all registered participants.

Space is limited. If the event becomes full contact the Water Center at vanwrec@cityofvancouver.us or 360-487-7111 to add your name to the waitlist.

Meeting Details

Wednesday, December 31, 2025
10:00am - 12:00pm

4600 SE Columbia Way,
Vancouver, WA 98661

Join us on a Wednesday morning guided nature walk where we will explore the rich ecosystems along the Columbia River and adjacent wetland. As we wander, we’ll discover native plants, search for wildlife, and learn how these vibrant waterways support life all around us. Whether you’re a curious beginner or a seasoned nature lover, there’s always something new to see and learn on the trail.

This program is great for families with youth ages 6 and older as well as adults who want to get out and wander! Be prepared to walk 2 miles on paved pathways, unpaved wetland trails, and along sandy beaches. Program will happen rain or shine.

Registration is required.  Sign up today!

If the event becomes full, please contact the Water Center at vanwrec@cityofvancouver.us or 360-487-7111 to add your name to the waitlist.

Meeting Details

Saturday, January 3, 2026
9:30am - 11:30am

4501 SE Columbia Way,
Vancouver, WA 98661

Join the Water Resources Education Center to help remove plastic, styrofoam, and litter from the beaches and prevent it from entering and polluting the Columbia River.

All tools will be provided. Expect to walk 2.5 miles on uneven sandy beach areas. Volunteers will collect litter with litter pickers and carry it in buckets while walking the beach and surrounding area.

Registration is required. Sign up today!

All ages welcome. Youth under 18 must bring a signed minor consent form. Youth under 13 must have an adult guardian present.

Contact: Water Center staff at vanwrec@cityofvancouver.us or 360-487-7111

Meeting Details

Saturday, January 10, 2026
10:00am - 12:00pm

4600 SE Columbia Way,
Vancouver, WA 98661

Take a leisurely stroll on a portion of the Washington State Birding Trail that lies along the banks of the Columbia River in search of our feathered friends. The river and adjacent Water Center wetlands provide great viewing for overwintering waterfowl, raptors, and year-round songbirds.

Registration is required. Sign up today!

Expect to walk 2.5 miles on uneven terrain, sandy beaches, and muddy trails.  Binoculars will be available to borrow.   Suitable for adults and youth ages 8 and older.

If the event becomes full, please contact the Water Center at vanwrec@cityofvancouver.us or 360-487-7111 to add your name to the waitlist.

Meeting Details