Native of the Month: Deer fern

Native of the Month: Deer fern

Dear fern – Blechnum spicantThe deer fern or Blechnum spicant (Greek for “spiked fern”) can be found in Europe, Japan, Northern Asia, and in the western part of the United States. In the U.S., it is commonly found from southern Alaska to California...
Sustainable Hiking Practices

Sustainable Hiking Practices

Outdoor ethics constantly evolves with emerging research, but many basic principles for trail use remain the same. We ask that you follow these simple guidelines to the best of your abilities when visiting SHADOW Lake Nature Preserve and other outdoor spaces. One less...
Owl Nests

Owl Nests

While looking up into a tree, it’s nice to imagine that squirrels or birds call it their home, but where do animals truly nest? Individuals from Washington, Oregon, and even northern California have reported northern spotted owl (NSO) nest sightings in...
SHADOW’s Mission Makeover

SHADOW’s Mission Makeover

After much consideration and thoughtful discussions, we are so delighted to announce that SHADOW Lake Nature Preserve has a new mission!   Our Mission:  SHADOW Lake Nature Preserve acquires and restores critical lands to permanently protect and steward dwindling...
Protecting and Preserving since 1995

Protecting and Preserving since 1995

SHADOW (Save Habitat And Diversity of Wetlands) started out with just two individuals, Max and Erin Prinsen, determined to make a difference in their community. In 1995, Max and Erin purchased a 18.5-acre forested lot next to their home that was being used as an...
Native Plant of the Month: Pacific madrone

Native Plant of the Month: Pacific madrone

Pacific madrone – Arbutus menziesiiAlthough the madrone looks foreign to Washington, it is actually endemic to the Pacific Northwest. Its twisting branches, vibrant red bark, glossy leaves, and fragrant flower clusters are hard to miss. People along the west...
For the Birds

For the Birds

During the month of May, SHADOW Lake Nature Preserve celebrates Washington’s native birds. Bird populations, like many other wildlife species, have been greatly influenced by human-related disturbance including habitat loss and pesticide use. From 50 years of...
Amazing Amphibians

Amazing Amphibians

It is no secret that here at SHADOW Lake Nature Preserve we love wildlife, including our amphibian friends. As both predators and prey, amphibians are critical to their habits which is one of the many reasons why we love seeing them around the Nature Preserve....