3rd Annual Free Wildflower Seeds Giveaway Celebration in The Dalles and Moro

Apr 20

Written By Columbia Community Connection

From North Central Public Health:

By Martha McInnes

The Dalles, Ore., April 20, 2026 — This Wednesday, April 22, North Central Public Health District (NCPHD), Sherman County Soil and Water Conservation District (SWCD), and Wasco County Soil and Water Conservation District (SWCD) are teaming up for their third annual Earth Day celebration by giving out free wildflower seed packets and tree seedlings.

Join the celebration and pick up your free seed packets, tree seedlings, and conservation information while supplies last from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Wasco County SWCD (2325 River Rd #3, The Dalles) or the Sherman County SWCD (2004 First St, Moro).

Wildflowers and pollinators, like bees, butterflies, moths, and hummingbirds, are essential to the PNW’s ecosystems, including crop yields. As habitat loss and climate change threaten these species, protecting them is vital to maintain healthy soil, clean water, and the natural beauty that defines the PNW.

Environmental Health plays a critical role in this work by identifying environmental risks, preventing exposure to hazards, and supporting strategies that reduce health impacts before they occur. This includes addressing emerging challenges such as extreme heat, wildfire smoke, and changing patterns of vector-borne disease, all of which are becoming more frequent as our climate shifts.

One important, and often overlooked, area of climate resilience is thoughtful planting and landscaping. The right vegetation choices and placement can reduce wildfire risk, improve air quality, support water conservation, and create healthier outdoor spaces.

In a changing climate, actions such as thoughtful planting, water-wise landscaping, and creating defensible space around homes are increasingly important tools for reducing wildfire risk and supporting healthier, more resilient communities.

To learn more about our Climate Adaptation Plan and how you can make a difference, visit ncphd.org/climate.