Snow in April! Squad enjoyed the full gamut of springtime weather with sunshine, showers and snow as well. Fortunately we were peeling off layers after working up some heat digging blackberry and pulling ivy in the restoration area around the wetland pond at White Center Heights Park with King County Parks. This unique hidden gem has a lovely plaza, grassy areas, art and a cool bridge to top it off- after a recent property acquisition it will also feature a loop.
Urban wetlands face many pressures from development and population density, yet they are critical habitat elements for countless species from aquatic plants and amphibians to mammals and water fowl. They also provide crucial flood control for built environments- imagine your kitchen floor receiving a deluge of water…. wetlands are like damp sponges on the floor, soaking up the moisture, filtering and slowly releasing it- all while providing habitat and beauty. You can learn more about our amphibians from the Burke Museum’s educational page, including the long toed salamanders we found!