Celebrate Earth Day with Free Seed Packets and Tree Seedlings

Apr 18

Written By Columbia Community Connection

The Dalles, Ore., April 18, 2025 — Next Tuesday, April 22, 2025, 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 to celebrate Earth Day by giving out free wildflower seed packets and tree seedlings.

Join the celebration and pick up your free seed packets, kids’ pocket greenhouses, conservation information, and a limited number of pine tree seedlings (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 are essential to the PNW’s ecosystems. Bees, butterflies, moths, and hummingbirds help wildflowers reproduce, supporting biodiversity and providing food and shelter for wildlife. These relationships also benefit agriculture by boosting crop yields. As habitat loss and climate change threaten these species, protecting native wildflowers and their pollinators is vital to maintain healthy soil, clean water, and the natural beauty that defines the PNW.

NCPHD intends to inspire our community in the creation of an equitable, safe, and healthy environment. The function of our Environmental Health department is to identify health risks in the environment and implement solutions that reduce those risks. NCPHD Director Martha McInnes said, “We recognize the link between climate change and public health. As our climate undergoes record shifts, we see a surge in health hazards, including more frequent and severe heatwaves, air pollution, and vector-borne diseases. These impacts affect vulnerable populations the most, worsening existing health inequalities.”

Mitigating climate change is vital to public health. Individuals can make a lasting impact by adopting eco- friendly habits, like reducing energy use, practicing water-wise landscaping, composting organic waste, and advocating for environmentally friendly practices. By collectively building stronger, more resilient communities, we can adapt to the impacts of a changing climate and ensure everyone’s health and well-being.

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