The Belmondo Reach Natural Area on the Cedar River in Renton is a sweet little swim spot with a restoration site managed by King County. We had a large group pulling weeds away from young native plants so they wouldn't be smothered. Indeed, several were prostrate beneath the grass with only a desperate leaf or two rising up to the sun. This year should yield enough growth to raise
them above the weed height, provided the ever-threatening blackberry is kept in check each season.
Squad always enjoys working alongside AmeriCorps crew members, whom hail from all over the country. In addition to being inspirational public servants, they are fun to talk to! As usual, many-a-parent mused about the unique opportunity for young adults to both travel around the country, develop a network, earn college money and gain experience in a wide variety of public services, from planting and tax assistance to teaching first-aid and assisting non-profits. What a wonderful program. We also learned that there are many positions in the program for crew leaders as well.
It is special to work on the river who's upper waters provide our drinking water. May we continue to take care of it for salmon's sake and all of nature, as well as ourselves.