Kick cabin fever to the curb this winter with a variety of fun, free educational activities for the whole family at Brightwater Center.
Take a treatment plant tour, learn about a bug’s life and prepare your plants for a lush and chemical-free summer with natural yard care tips!
The programs are hosted by King County, Snohomish Conservation District and IslandWood, and take place at Brightwater Center, located at 22509 State Route 9 S.E. in Woodinville.
Brightwater Treatment Plant Tours 
Saturday, Jan. 16 and Feb. 27
10 a.m. – noon
The Brightwater Treatment Plant is opening its doors to the public on Jan. 16 and Feb. 27. Take a tour and learn about our amazing water system and how you can take simple steps to protect it. (For ages 9 and up) Register here.
Water Bug Bonanza
Saturday, Jan. 23
10 a.m. – noon
Come join us for a fun day of citizen science with the water bugs at Brightwater! You’ll venture into the great outdoors to collect water bugs from our on-site ponds and return to our cozy classroom to take a closer look. Water quality investigations and other water bug related activities will ensue. This is a perfect way for families with kids of all ages to escape the dreary winter days and explore the life that lurks beneath the surface. Preregister online.
What’s Love Got to Do With It?
Saturday, Feb. 13
1-3 p.m.
Birds do it. Bees do it. But exactly how they do it is the question. Intimacy in the natural world boasts a wild and memorable array of reproductive techniques and strategies. At this mature youth and adults only program, the reproductive biology of our most common animal species will be discussed in the class and on the trail. Using mature and scientific language, participants will learn the truth behind courtship ritual, mating techniques, and survival strategies. Preregister online.
Natural Yard Care Classes at Brightwater
When it comes to your yard, act naturally! King County is partnering with the Snohomish Conservation District to offer a series of three classes this winter all about creating a healthy, sustainable landscape. These classes will be hands-on workshops for folks who are new to the concepts of natural yard care practices. 
Classes are free to attend, and there will be giveaways as well! Join us for one, two, or all three workshops. Preregister online:
- Jan. 30, 10 a.m.-noon: Jumpstart Your Yard: First steps to creating a healthy landscape
- Feb. 13, 10 a.m.-noon: Plant Right for Your Site: Selecting plants functionality, aesthetics and wildlife
- March 12, 10 a.m.-noon: Watering Wisely: Tips on reducing water use and building rain barrels ($25 fee for materials)
For additional information about any of these events, or to arrange reasonable accommodations for people with disabilities, please contact Brightwater Center’s Kristin Covey at 206-263-8856 or 711 TTY Relay.