Free Bellevue Naturalist training

Bomb cyclone storm impacts

A bomb cyclone windstorm lashed Bellevue the night of Tuesday, Nov. 19, bringing down trees throughout the city and leaving hundreds of thousands without power. Most city facilities have power but some are on modified hours or closed due to power outages. Damages from the storm continue to impact Bellevue, prompting the mayor to proclaim a civil emergency in the city. Updates about the city's response will be posted at Bomb Cyclone Storm.

Published November 7 2023

Bellevue naturalists Cindi Guyer, Steven Pestana, Jackie Desautels, Linda Hildreth and Rowena Clima participate in a training at Weowna Park.

People with a passion for the environment and Bellevue parks can train to become Bellevue Naturalists. These parks advocates help lead park tours and restorations and participate in a variety of other projects that benefit Bellevue’s natural resources. Those interested can apply online by 4 p.m., Thursday, Nov. 30.

The naturalist training, open to adults, is designed to develop a group of dedicated community volunteers trained in environmental awareness and stewardship. The upcoming session is Feb. 6 to April 25. Classes are Tuesdays and Thursdays, 6-8 p.m., and Saturdays (times vary).

Training is a mix of weekday evening Zoom classes and in-person (mostly Saturday) field trips. This program is free with a volunteer commitment of 100 hours of service.

Ideal candidates will have an enthusiasm for learning and a passion for the outdoors. Bellevue residents will have priority for selection, but residents of other cities will be considered if space allows.