THE WATER TENDERS

The following was contributed by Water Tenders:

WATER TENDERS is a grassroots organization dedicated to the protection and preservation of our aquatic resources with special focus on the Bear Creek Basin. We strive to provide a vehicle by which as many citizens as possible can become active participants in learning about and protecting our aquatic resources. There are many ways to become involved that range from reading our popular newsletter and participating in a few educational and work party events to attending planning and opportunity meetings.

Modest memberships and grants make it possible to continue our work in the Bear Creek Watershed. In 2008 we hosted over 400 people at the "Meet the Salmon" education event. We participate in Redmond Derby Days. We advocated for the state funding for Lower Bear Creek restoration (near Redmond Town Center). Restoration projects kept us busy near the headwaters of Bear Creek. We also presented well received lecture series on watershed topics.

The Water Tenders are leaders in the restoration of NW salmon stream habitat. This year we will partner with GreenRedmond on April 25 to restore critical areas of the Hartman Park Greenbelt. On May 30 we will have plans to partner with Redmond students, scouts and volunteers to continue our restoration of Cold Creek Natural Area in Woodinville.