Spring 2026 Field Programs Highlights
Before diving into the exciting learning adventures we have planned for this summer, join our Field Programs team Emily Schauble and Shelby Gresch on a photographic review of 2026 field excursions so far! See even more photos in the Institute’s Flickr albums.
Birding Across the Skagit Valley
The beginning of 2026 saw Field Programs venturing forth to observe migratory birds with avian enthusiasts Joe Ordoñez and Brendan McGarry. Affectionately called “Birding by Butt”, we warmed up in our vehicles in between each birding hotspot so that we could brave chilly temperatures.
This was just the beginning of wildlife encounters during programs as we watched winter weather ease into salmonberry blossoms, sunny skies, and participants gaining hands-on experiences with the natural world.
Seaweed Foraging & Feasting
In mid-April, you would have found Field Programs on the shores of the Salish Sea for an exploration of the senses as we foraged for seaweeds then feasted in our kelp kitchens under the expert instruction of Jennifer Hahn.
In one breath spouting the culinary uses of each seaweed and the next discussing sustainable harvesting, Jennifer wove together the story of the tides which left participants with a meaningful understanding of what we can do to protect this resource for generations to come.
Exploring the Salish Sea
With Highway 20 closed for winter, we took advantage of alternative transportation and took to the seas aboard the Snow Goose with Captain Dan and Orion with Captain Kevin.
Between island explorations, marine science activities, sightings of orcas, sea otters, harbor porpoise and tideline crustaceans, we barely had time to take a photo! Participants appreciated the abundance of the Salish Sea from plankton all the way up the food chain.
Learning Center Seminars
May kicked off with two seminar weekends at the Environmental Learning Center and didn’t slow down from there. While one group painted landscapes and forest scenes with renowned artist Molly Hashimoto, the other headed farther afield with naturalist Chris Byrd for a deep dive into native plants, large mammal sign, and even forest forensics.
Dinner conversations highlighted the profound impact of engaging in the natural world as participants swapped stories from the day and discussed our place on the planet.
Exciting Eastside Excursions
Field Programs also took the long way around to the east side of the mountains this spring to observe snakes with current and former WDFW biologists John Rohrer and Scott Fitkin, and spent a long weekend birding with long-time instructor Libby Mills.
The Methow Valley did not disappoint: over 26 snakes were spotted in addition to 92 species of bird. These experiences were more than just looking at neat wildlife; they are powerful reminders that the North Cascades ecosystem is home to our wild neighbors who rely on public lands and conservation efforts to survive.
More to Come in 2026
Looking to July and beyond, we are gearing up for lots more field programs! You can join us to dabble in the arts with night sky photography, nature writing, and illustrated poetry. We’ll engage our scientific minds studying the geology of the Upper Skagit Valley (did we mention by river raft??) and by peering closely at lichens, fungi, and animal tracks. Come fall, we’ll tune into a mindful experience with forest bathing and then return to the cycle of the seasons with more winter birding.
It’s going to be a busy year, and we hope to meet you in person in the field or online in our virtual classroom. Bring your questions for our experts, your enthusiasm, and your sense of adventure!
Meet the Team
Hi! We are Emily and Shelby—the new Field Programs Manager and Coordinator at the North Cascades Institute. We both joined the team earlier this year and are thrilled to be bringing participants a broad suite of classes including old favorites and new offerings! 
Emily grew up on both sides of the U.S. / Canada border and has always been happy to call the PNW home. She looks forward to crafting courses that engage all of the senses—with a particular delight in foraging! Shelby is originally from Idaho and spent some time on the East Coast, but is now thrilled to be back in the PNW and helping connect people of all ages to her favorite ecosystem. We can’t wait to meet you in the field!