Volunteer: Seed collection at the Phelps Preserve

The Phelps Preserve is a wonderful parcel of land in the center of San Juan Valley on San Juan Island. This preserve hosts a number of projects that the Preservation Trust works on, from our Island Marble Butterfly habitat patches to Western Bluebird nest boxes to the county's first AgWeatherNet station, in addition to a young grove of Garry oak trees that we planted in 2019.

For this event, we will be focusing on collecting the seeds of native plants the Island Marble Butterfly historically have used for food and protection. In addition to collecting seeds, we will also be making new "mini mounds" as additional spaces for host plants next season. 

The grounds are relatively flat, but could possibly be muddy and puddled in some areas if it has been raining. SJPT will supply necessary tools, but feel free to bring your own hand tools. 

We will provide snacks, but please bring your own water and lunch and arrange your own transportation out to the Phelps Preserve. Details on how to get there will be sent with a confirmation email closer to the event date.

• Date: Wednesday, July 23, 2025
• Time: 9:00am - 1:00pm
• Location: Phelps Preserve on San Juan Island  
• Bring: Weather-appropriate clothing and footwear, sun protection as needed, work gloves, water, lunch
• Questions? Email lizd@sjpt.org

Please note:

All participants are required to sign an SJPT liability waiver. Please ensure that everyone you register, including yourself, has filled out our online waiver in English or en Español (required as part of the registration process).

Todos los participantes deben firmar una exención de responsabilidad del SJPT. Asegúrese de que todas las personas que registre, incluido usted mismo, hayan completado nuestra exención en línea en inglés o en español (requerido como parte del proceso de registro).