Native Plant Stewardship Program

Participants will explore topics such as:

• Native plants and local ecosystems: Learn about the plants, forests, wetlands, and watersheds of the Puget Sound region.
• Restoration ecology: Understand how ecosystems change over time and how restoration can improve the health of urban forests and parks.
• Plant identification and invasive weed management: Develop practical skills to identify native plants and plants that threaten local ecosystems.
• Hands-on restoration: Gain experience preparing restoration sites, removing invasive vegetation, planting native species, and caring for newly restored areas.
• Volunteer leadership: Build confidence in organizing and leading volunteer work parties, practicing safe tool use, and sharing what you learn with others. Community and connection: Learn alongside others who care about Lynnwood’s parks, natural areas, and environmental future.

The program combines approximately 30 hours of instruction and field learning with at least 30 hours of volunteer service.

Instruction and field learning
The instructional portion takes place over approximately 10 weeks and includes classroom sessions and field experiences. Participants will learn from instructors and community partners, visit local ecosystems and restoration sites, and practice the skills they will use in their stewardship work.

Volunteer service
After completing the instructional portion, participants will work with a team to help restore a designated park or natural area. Stewardship activities may include invasive plant removal, site preparation, native plant installation, mulching, watering, and ongoing site care.

Work parties are generally planned for one Saturday per month. Participants will also have opportunities to develop leadership skills and help guide other volunteers.

This is a multi-month commitment. Applicants should be prepared to participate in the learning sessions and contribute consistent volunteer service over the program period.

We welcome community members who are interested in learning about native plants, caring for local parks, and contributing to a healthier environment.

You do not need to be a native plant expert or have previous restoration experience. Curiosity, a willingness to learn, and a commitment to community service are important.

We especially encourage applications from people who want to share their knowledge, help others connect with nature, and contribute to the long-term care of Lynnwood’s parks and natural areas.

The program is planned in stages:

• Application and selection: Apply during the announced recruitment period. Applicants may be contacted for an interview as part of the selection process.

• Spring through early summer: Participate in approximately 30 hours of instruction and field learning over 10 weeks.

• Summer through the following restoration seasons: Join your assigned stewardship team for regular volunteer work parties and restoration activities.

• Program completion: Celebrate your contributions and receive recognition for completing the program requirements.

Specific class dates, field trips, restoration locations, and work-party schedules will be shared with selected participants.

By participating, you will gain practical environmental knowledge, hands-on restoration experience, and opportunities to develop leadership skills while working with others who care about the community.

You will also contribute to healthier urban forests and parks, support native plant communities, and help create welcoming natural spaces that benefit people and wildlife.

Apply to become a Native Plant Steward and help grow a healthier, more connected Lynnwood.

Application details: [Insert application link]

Application deadline: [Insert deadline]

Questions? Contact [Insert City of Lynnwood contact name, email, or phone number].

The Native Plant Stewardship Program is a partnership between the City of Lynnwood and the Washington Native Plant Society.