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Kwiaht

@kwiaht.org
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Your local laboratory in the San Juan Islands for the science to support good stewardship. Posts by @arbutocrat.bsky.social

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Kwiaht @kwiaht.org · 05/10/2026
Botanical illustrator Linda Ann Vorobik is curating a pop up art show featuring Lopez Island apples, and teaching a watercolor class using Lopez apples, on the weekend of October 24th and 25th.
Poster for an art class. It includes a pyramid of watercolor squares, a sequence of water color onion bulbs, and a detailed watercolor illustration of sword fern fronds. It reads: "Linda's Botanical Art Workshops at the Lopez Island Grange. www.VorobikBotanicalArt.com; for local vaccinated folks; thanks. October 24th & 25th. Botanical Watercolor: All Levels. Create a plant illustration watercolor but if you are a beginner: start with the basics about the media, supplies and how to use them, understanding the value and color, mixing color, brush strokes and their uses, etc. Many demonstrations to address challenges of planting plants brought into workshop. For accomplished artists there is plenty of one-on-one time for individual instruction, and of course, time for fun! Syllabus Saturday October 24th 9:00 am Grange open, you are welcome to come in. 9:30 am Introductions, objectives of workshop. 10:00 am the basics: tools, mixing colors, applying paint. 11:00 Independent work time. Noon-1:30 pm Lunch break (I will remain at the grange, you are welcome to stay if you wish, or leave to have or get something for lunch. If the weather is nice, we could have a social lunch outside: bring a lawn chair!) 1:30 pm Working in layers, planning a plant portrait. 2:30 pm Independent work time. 4:30 pm Questions, comments, mutual encouragement. 5:00 pm Have a lovely evening. Sunday October 25th. 9:00 am Grange open, you are welcome to come in. 9:30 am Questions answered with demonstrations. 10:00 am Independent work time. Noon-1:30 pm Lunch break. 1:30 pm Questions answered with demonstrations. 2:30 pm Independent work time 4:00 pm Questions, comments, mutual encouragement. 4:30 pm Pack up, clean up. 5:00 pm Thank you for your participation! Cost $145 for the workshop before September 30th; $175 after. Contact vorobik@gmail.com for payment info. Limit 16 participants. Next workshop at the Grange May 2027."
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Kwiaht @kwiaht.org · 03/10/2026
Come taste historic apple varieties from Friday Harbor (and the rest of the islands) in Friday Harbor tomorrow. We'll be at the Grange from 3-5 with hard copies of the apple map.
Poster for an apple tasting. It has a green background and shows a long table with rows of apples down the middle. It reads: "Heritage Apple Tasting! Sample heritage and unique seedling apples with Kwiaht botanist Madrona Murphy at the San Juan Island Grange from 3-5pm Sunday October 4th. Learn how Kwiaht is finding and sharing rare and "lost" apple cultivars in the islands. Hosted by the San Juan Island Grange with support from the San Juan Island Community Foundation." There is a Kwiaht 20th anniversary logo in the lower right corner.
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Kwiaht @kwiaht.org · 03/10/2026
There are quite a few seedling trees to visit as well. And two of the biggest native qáyexwilch (Malus fusca) we've ever seen (back behind the old Convalescent Center/soon to be new Library)
A very large, leafless tree, next to a gray building. The tree is twice as tall as the building.
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Kwiaht @kwiaht.org · 03/10/2026
If you head out to Evergreen Park (a small square of lawn off of Spruce Street), you'll find a Baldwin growing from the neighbor's yard out over the park. Baldwin is a great keeper, ripening late and staying pretty (and tasty) all winter.
A cluster of unripe green and red Baldwin apples hanging in a tree. They are round and have subtle bumps at the blossom end.
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Kwiaht @kwiaht.org · 03/10/2026
Back at Spring Street International School there are three big Glowing Coal trees right out front. A very unusual early ripening variety, the large fruit are very juicy, with a honey flavor.
A large round striped Glowing Coal apple viewed from above. It is yellow with red stripes overlain with darker red stripes. There is rough brown russet around the stem.
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Kwiaht @kwiaht.org · 03/10/2026
Right along the road across Argyle Avenue from the Land Bank is a big beautiful Belmont tree. This variety is rare, perhaps because it is too delicate to ship or store, but is a delightful tart dessert apple.
A bunch of large green Belmont apples on a large leafy apple tree, viewed from below.
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Kwiaht @kwiaht.org · 03/10/2026
Peeking over the fence at the Land Bank's parking lot is a Red Gravenstein, based on when it would have been planted it was very likely grafted from the blood red sport discovered in Olga on Orcas Island around 1905. And there's another of the same with the King behind the Museum of Art.
A round deep red Gravenstein apple viewed from above. You can see brown russet around the stem.
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Kwiaht @kwiaht.org · 03/10/2026
There are two yellow Gravensteins in the county annex across from the court house, and one in the front yard of the San Juan County Conservation Land Bank's office.
A large round yellow Gravenstein apple with small red stripes and green leaves.
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Kwiaht @kwiaht.org · 03/10/2026
You'll find King of Tompkins County, for example, behind the Masonic Hall, alongside the Key Bank parking lot, behind Spring Street International School, and behind the San Juan Islands Museum of Art
Two large striped King apples attached close together at the stems on a leafy branch. They are oblong and have distinct bumps on the blossom end.
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Kwiaht @kwiaht.org · 01/10/2026
We have a lot of events this month! More info on our Calendar www.kwiaht.org/calendar.htm
A photo of a zine page. It reads: " What we're up to & you can join: Apple tastings: SJI Grange Oct 4 3-5. Fruit City Apple Fest Oct 10 1-4. Lopez Museum Oct 11 1-4. Orcas Museum Oct 17 12:30-2:30. Arsenic workshops: Lopez Library Oct 1 4-6. Orcas Library Oct 10 1-3 & Oct 29 4-6. Book launch Lopez Library Oct 22. Pollinators @ Orcas Library Oct 24 1-3."
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Kwiaht @kwiaht.org · 26/09/2026
We have started using Zines to get the word out about our work and events
A small paper Zine on a clipboard with a rusty clip. It has a logo of a water molecule in a clam shell surrounded by stylized water and trees. It reads, in blue handwriting: "Kwiaht Zine October 2026"
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Kwiaht @kwiaht.org · 24/09/2026
We have qáyexw (Malus fusca, Pacific crabapple) at the LeMaister Farm fruit stand! They are tart and richly flavored.
A hand full of small (pea sized) oblong, yellow crabapples over a pile of more in a red basket.A red basket with a sign that says: " Historic LeMaister Farm. Taste our native wild crabapple! Pay what you wish. Pacific crabapple*. Tended by native Coast Salish peoples, and stored mashed & dried. Keep in a paper bag until fruits turn brown, soft, and sweeter. Great fruit for sauce and curd. *Qáyexw, or Malus fusca."
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Kwiaht @kwiaht.org · 18/09/2026
The Orcas Island Yacht Club is organizing a trip from Orcas to Salt Spring Island for their apple festival.
Facebook post from the Orcas Island Yacht Club, with a link to the Salt Spring Inland Apple Festival (saltspringapplefestival.org). It reads: " A 'Fruitful Cruise to Salt Spring Island'. 600 varieties of apples growing on Salt Spring. Sail to Fulford Harbour on the morning of September 27th and spend the Day at the Apple Festival. After a hearty breakfast the next morning return across the border. More info email rossnewp@gmail.com"
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Kwiaht @kwiaht.org · 14/09/2026
We have upcoming apple events! This Saturday, September 19th @arbutocrat.bsky.social and apple ID expert Lori Brakken will be at the San Juan Island Library for Lost Apples of the San Juan Islands from 12-1:30 pm.
A poster for an apple talk. The background are rows of apples and there is a photo of green apples on the left and apple drawings across the page. It reads: "The Wild Side Presents: Lost Apples of the San Juan Islands with Kwiaht. Botanist Madrona Murphy shares the latest findings of Kwiaht's efforts to relocate the island's oldest orchards, identify apples genetically, and preserve rare heirloom and seedling varieties. Saturday, September 19, 12:00-1:30 pm. Library Main Salon. Share your SJI Apples! Bring your own apples, preserves, or treats to share! Kwiaht will be bringing fresh apples and homemade pies to sample!". The green apples on the left also reads: "Pewaukee, first described in 1842 in WI". There are logos for the San Juan Island Library and Kwiaht.
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Kwiaht @kwiaht.org · 12/09/2026
Come see us at Long Live the King's Return of the Kings today
A trifold presentation board and a table of pamphlets and books. A banner showing a black oystercatcher, a sea star, a red paintbrush flower, a Townsend's big eared bat and the name Kwiaht hangs in front.
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Kwiaht @kwiaht.org · 09/09/2026
There are some red apples that are nearly blue. Blue Pearmain, Arkansas Black, and Robert's Crab for example. (the real answer is pigments and the limited variety that apples make)
Watercolor of a nearly purple striped red apple. It is dark red with blue-purple stripes. It is shown once whole and once cut stem to blossom-end).Watercolor of a deep red apple, so red it is nearly purple. It is shiny and round. It is shown twice, once whole and once cut stem to blossom end. The core line is quite wide and the tube at the blossom end is long with the core lines meeting it at the calyx.
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Kwiaht @kwiaht.org · 09/09/2026
Canada Reinette (Reinette Blanche du Canada) is considered an excellent tarte-tatin apple.
A watercolor of a yellow apple with flecks of brown russet. At top it is shown whole, below it is cut from stem to blossom end. The core line is green.
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Kwiaht @kwiaht.org · 09/09/2026
Yellow Bellflower! It's been popular for over 200 years and is pretty, unusually shaped, and tastes fantastic fresh, is amazing in pies, and makes fine cider.
Watercolor of a long-conical yellow apple with red spots and ribs. The apple is shown twice, once in cross section (cut across the core). The core is large.
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Kwiaht @kwiaht.org · 07/09/2026
The farm stand is on Port Stanley Road, approximately 0.2 miles south of the intersection with Hummel Lake Road. While we have fruit to share it will be stocked from 12 until dark. Today we have
A simple farm stand with two crates of apples on a low shelf.
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Kwiaht @kwiaht.org · 07/09/2026
The first day of our seasonal fruitstand at LeMaister Farm is tomorrow, Labor Day. We'll have unique Eastsound Rose seedling apples (they taste like roses!) and Gravensteins from the farm's orchard. Heritage apples (like Gravenstein) are pay-what-you-wish, unique new varieties are $1 an apple.
A milk crate full of greenish yellow apples, some with a pink blush.
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Kwiaht @kwiaht.org · 31/08/2026
Some of the "wild" flavored macarons @arbutocrat.bsky.social made for our event at Lime Kiln Point State Park.
A plate of macarons. In front is a label with a picture of a woven cedar basket and a Kwiaht 20th anniversary logo. The label reads "ȽEKES Seaweed Caramel Macarons. Macarons filled with a rich salted caramel made with wild growing winged kelp (Alaria marginata). Sugar, egg white, almonds, cream cheese, cream, butter, cornstarch, winged kelp, salt, rice vinegar."A plate of macarons. In front is a label with a picture of a woven cedar basket and a Kwiaht 20th anniversary logo. The label reads "ḴÁ¸EW̱ Pacific Crabapple Curd Macarons. Macarons filled with a vibrantly tart crabapple curd prepared from the berry size fruit of our native Pacific crabapple (Malus fusca). Sugar, eggs, almonds, butter, cream cheese, Pacific crabapple puree, cornstarch, rice vinegar."
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Kwiaht @kwiaht.org · 28/08/2026
This Sunday, August 30th, we're sharing what makes the landscape at Lime Kiln Point State Park unique, with talks, walks, and treats made with wild plants. We're joined by F.O.L.K.S, PKOLS, Salish Wildlife Rescue, and Washington State Parks. 3-5pm
Poster of upcoming programs for Lime Kiln Point State Park. It has the Washington State Parks logo top left (a shield/badge showing a river, green conifers, mountains, the sun, and yellow deciduous trees). It reads: "Upcoming Programs Lime Kiln Point State Park. 
Forest Bathing Sunday, August 23 @ 10am-12pm & Sunday August 30th @ 1-3pm. Meet in front of the Interpretive Center / 1.0 Mile / Slow & Steady Incline. Shinrin-Yoku is the Japanese term for 'taking int he forest atmosphere'. Join park staff for a leisurely stroll on a quiet trail and enjoy sensory activities to experience the forest and learn how being in nature helps restore mental and physical health. Best for ages 12 and up and please wear sturdy shoes. 
Kelp Forests, Storytime, & Salish Sea Art Sunday, August 23rd @ 2-3pm & Sunday, August 30th @ 10-11am. Meet at the picnic tables nest to the Pump House, just above the Lighthouse. Did you know that the San Juan Islands are home to one-thirst of all floating kelp in the inland waters of Washington State? IN this family program, listen to the story of the Ko-kwal-alwoot, the Maiden of Deception Pass. Afterwards, create your own Salish Sea Art while learning how to protect these rainforests of the sea. Best for ages 5 and up and their families. 
Exploring Local Landscapes Sunday, August 30th @ 3-5pm. Join Parks staff and our partners Kwiaht, Salish Wildlife Rescue, FOLKS, and PKOLS for an afternoon of talks and walks around Lime Kiln Point. The event will kick-off with a talk on the post-glacial geophysical, biological, and cultural factors that have shaped the park, followed by a guided walk to discover its unique flora and fauna. Snacks made from native plant ingredients will be provided by Kwiaht!
*Programs are FREE to attend; a Discover Pass is required to park in the lot. Please visit the Lime Kiln Point State Park website for more program details."
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Kwiaht @kwiaht.org · 27/08/2026
Join us and Salish Wildlife Rescue at Mountain Lake in Moran State Park for batwatching by moonlight at 7pm tonight (August 27).
A zine page that reads "What we're up to & you can join: Beach seine Wed 26 @Watmough ~5pm. Bat Watching Thu 27 @Moran @ 7pm. Walks and wild treats @ Lime Kiln Sun 30 3-5pm"Moonrise over trees reflected in a smalllake after dark. There are boats on the shore in the foreground.
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Kwiaht @kwiaht.org · 24/08/2026
Come watch bats with us at Moran State Park! Thursday August 27th at the Mountain Lake ranger station and dock starting at 7pm
Poster for bat event. It is black with a picture of a flying big eared bat. Washington State Parks' logo is in the lower right and above it is a QR code that takes you to: https://parks.wa.gov/find-activity/event-calendar/2026/aug/go-little-batty-moran-state-park . The poster reads: "Bats in the full moon! What more could you ask? Moran State Park. Mountain Lake Picnic Shelter. Thursday August 27, 7:00-9:00 pm. Kwiaht, Salish Wildlife Rescue. Visit the park website for more info."
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Kwiaht @kwiaht.org · 24/08/2026
Join us, Washington State Parks, Salish Wildlife Rescue, F.O.L.K.S. and PKOLS at Lime Kiln Point State Park on Sunday August 30th from 3-5pm to explore the local landscape, learn more about the post-glacial geophysical, biological, and cultural factors that have shaped the park and eat wild snacks.
Poster of upcoming programs for Lime Kiln Point State Park. It has the Washington State Parks logo top left (a shield/badge showing a river, green conifers, mountains, the sun, and yellow deciduous trees). It reads: "Upcoming Programs Lime Kiln Point State Park. 
Forest Bathing Sunday, August 23 @ 10am-12pm & Sunday August 30th @ 1-3pm. Meet in front of the Interpretive Center / 1.0 Mile / Slow & Steady Incline. Shinrin-Yoku is the Japanese term for 'taking int he forest atmosphere'. Join park staff for a leisurely stroll on a quiet trail and enjoy sensory activities to experience the forest and learn how being in nature helps restore mental and physical health. Best for ages 12 and up and please wear sturdy shoes. 
Kelp Forests, Storytime, & Salish Sea Art Sunday, August 23rd @ 2-3pm & Sunday, August 30th @ 10-11am. Meet at the picnic tables nest to the Pump House, just above the Lighthouse. Did you know that the San Juan Islands are home to one-thirst of all floating kelp in the inland waters of Washington State? IN this family program, listen to the story of the Ko-kwal-alwoot, the Maiden of Deception Pass. Afterwards, create your own Salish Sea Art while learning how to protect these rainforests of the sea. Best for ages 5 and up and their families. 
Exploring Local Landscapes Sunday, August 30th @ 3-5pm. Join Parks staff and our partners Kwiaht, Salish Wildlife Rescue, FOLKS, and PKOLS for an afternoon of talks and walks around Lime Kiln Point. The event will kick-off with a talk on the post-glacial geophysical, biological, and cultural factors that have shaped the park, followed by a guided walk to discover its unique flora and fauna. Snacks made from native plant ingredients will be provided by Kwiaht!
*Programs are FREE to attend; a Discover Pass is required to park in the lot. Please visit the Lime Kiln Point State Park website for more program details."
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Kwiaht @kwiaht.org · 15/08/2026
The San Juan Island Community Foundation is awarding a bonus grant for one of the correct answers to this local history question "Which Coast Salish fishing technology used a large, suspended net between canoes to catch migrating salmon?" Answers can be emailed to info@sjicf.org
A Facebook post from the San Juan Island Community Foundation. It reads: " Today's bonus grant game: islands history question! To participate, email your answer to info@sjicf.org today before midnight. A drawing will be held from all the correct submissions. The winner will be able to donate $500 to one of the 36 featured projects! Do not put your answer in the comments. 🙂 Please email your guess to info@sjicf.org! The question is.... Which Coast Salish fishing technology used a large, suspended net between canoes to catch migrating salmon? Remember: please email your guess to info@sjicf.org by midnight tonight! Support local nonprofits. SJI Cares. San Juan County Fair 2026. August 15 Today's game Islands History Question."
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Kwiaht @kwiaht.org · 14/08/2026
Come see Kwiaht botanist @arbutocrat.bsky.social at the San Juan County Fair today (Friday August 14th) at the Ag Tent at 12:30 to learn more about qáyexw, hybrid apples, and the ancient fruit forests of the islands.
Poster for Friday talks at the San Juan County Fair. It reads: "SJC Fair 2026. Green Village & Ag Tent Speaker Series. 11:00 am. Growing Community at Overmarsh Farm Commons. By Roger Ellison & Amanda Zee. Overmarsh Farm Commons is a collaborative project creating opportunities for local food production, land stewardship, and agricultural education. Learn about the vision behind the project, its growth over the past two seasons, and how the farm is helping cultivate a more resilient and equitable local food system. 12:30 pm. The Wild Origins of Island Orchards: qáyexw to Jonagold. By Madrona Murphy, Kwiaht. Join Kwiaht botanist Madrona Murphy to explore how Coast Salish cultivation of qáyexw (Pacific crabapple) and other wild fruits led to the widespread planting of orchards and berries in the San Juans, how we all benefit from this fruitful legacy, and how you can help ensure the old trees continue to feed our communities. 2:00 pm. The Future of Affordable Farming in San Juan County. By Jay Kimball & Lauren Bigelow. Half of San Juan County's farm operators are 65 or older, and a working island farm now costs more than any farm income can support. Using the latest USDA Census data, Jay Kimball walks through what island farms actually earn, why the next generation can't buy in--and the pathways forward already taking root here. Lauren Bigelow will share some steps the SJI Ag Guild is taking to find community-based solutions. 3:30 pm. Lamb Albóndigas: A Taste of Local Flavor. By Kayleen Meeker & Chris Shotwell, Cove Dining. Join the chefs from Cove Dining as they prepare flavorful lamb albóndigas, showcasing locally raised lamb in a hearty, delicious dish. Learn simple techniques and serving ideas while discovering a fresh way to enjoy one of the islands' signature ingredients. Friday, August 14th."
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Kwiaht @kwiaht.org · 14/08/2026
Among North American native crabapples, qáyexwilch are unique in that they freely hybridize with orchard apples (Malus domestica), and these hybrids can be found throughout the islands, generally producing larger fruit but retaining the high citric acid and more "wild" flavor.
A hand holding three yellow crabapples still attached to a branch. They are the size of large olives, yellow with no stripes, and have a slightly pointed blossom end with persistent sepals.
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Kwiaht @kwiaht.org · 14/08/2026
Qáyexw (ḴÁ¸EW̱, qéʔəxʷ) is the original apple of the islands. Also known as Malus fusca, Pacific crabapple, or Oregon crabapple, qáyexwilch (qáyexw trees) are native to western North America
A hand displaying 6 clusters of pea sized crabapples. Most are yellow on one side and reddish brown on the other.  The apples are oblong rather than round and do not have persistent sepals (the basin is a tiny dimple).
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Kwiaht @kwiaht.org · 11/08/2026
We're going to the San Juan County Fair! Talk to us about apples, community science, and local stewardship on Friday and Saturday. Friday we'll be at the Ag Tent for @arbutocrat.bsky.social's talk about the Coast Salish roots of island orchards, Saturday find us at the Community Foundation booth.
Poster for Friday talks at the San Juan County Fair. It reads: "SJC Fair 2026. Green Village & Ag Tent Speaker Series. 11:00 am. Growing Community at Overmarsh Farm Commons. By Roger Ellison & Amanda Zee. Overmarsh Farm Commons is a collaborative project creating opportunities for local food production, land stewardship, and agricultural education. Learn about the vision behind the project, its growth over the past two seasons, and how the farm is helping cultivate a more resilient and equitable local food system. 12:30 pm. The Wild Origins of Island Orchards: qáyexw to Jonagold. By Madrona Murphy, Kwiaht. Join Kwiaht botanist Madrona Murphy to explore how Coast Salish cultivation of qáyexw (Pacific crabapple) and other wild fruits led to the widespread planting of orchards and berries in the San Juans, how we all benefit from this fruitful legacy, and how you can help ensure the old trees continue to feed our communities. 2:00 pm. The Future of Affordable Farming in San Juan County. By Jay Kimball & Lauren Bigelow. Half of San Juan County's farm operators are 65 or older, and a working island farm now costs more than any farm income can support. Using the latest USDA Census data, Jay Kimball walks through what island farms actually earn, why the next generation can't buy in--and the pathways forward already taking root here. Lauren Bigelow will share some steps the SJI Ag Guild is taking to find community-based solutions. 3:30 pm. Lamb Albóndigas: A Taste of Local Flavor. By Kayleen Meeker & Chris Shotwell, Cove Dining. Join the chefs from Cove Dining as they prepare flavorful lamb albóndigas, showcasing locally raised lamb in a hearty, delicious dish. Learn simple techniques and serving ideas while discovering a fresh way to enjoy one of the islands' signature ingredients. Friday, August 14th."
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Kwiaht @kwiaht.org · 29/07/2026
Come learn about local pollinators from our hard working field tech Sophie Citro and summer apprentice Tyler Iyengar on Thursday August 6th at the Orcas Island Public Library from noon-3pm.
Poster for pollinator day showing a bright green bee with pollen on her hind legs climbing a green blade of green grass. It reads "Pollinator Day @ OI Library. Thursday, August 6th. 1pm Presentation. 12-3pm South Lawn Observations. Join Russel Barsh and Kwiaht biologists for a fun, educational day on native pollinators of the islands. Special thanks to the Ken Gibbs Memorial Fund for Youth Science Education. Orcas Island Library." The Orcas Island Library logo looks like a pine cone made out of books.
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Kwiaht @kwiaht.org · 16/07/2026
Surf smelt (Hypomesus pretiosus) were spawning on the beach by the Hunter Bay boat ramp when we returned from our Lopez Community Salmon Team beach seine yesterday evening.
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Kwiaht @kwiaht.org · 03/07/2026
Our newest book. Important Indigenous plants in the San Juan Islands and their names in Lekwungen (Northern Straits Salish). Available soon at bookshops and libraries in the islands or contact us to order by donation (info@kwiaht.org)
A book held in a hand over green strawberry leaves. There is a drawing of a soapberry shrub on the cover. The cover says "Naming and knowing Indigenous Plants of the San Juan Islands. Russel Barsh and Madrona Murphy with illustrations by Amanda Konishi." There is a blue, green, red, and grey logo in the lower right corner that says Kwiaht.
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Kwiaht @kwiaht.org · 02/05/2026
Poster for a moth and butterfly lecture. It has the logos for Kwiaht and the San Juan Island Library, a picture of a white and brown moth on a white flower, and a man in a plaid shirt smiling and holding a sample container while surrounded by tall green leaves. He is labeled Russel Barsh, KWIAHT director. The rest of the poster reads "Colorful, Rare, and Mysterious: Butterflies and Moths of the San Juan Islands. Come learn more about the dozens of butterflies and hundreds of moths that can [sic] the San Juan Islands home, many of which are regionally rare and threatened by habitat loss and climate change. Saturday, May 23 3-5 pm Library Main Salon."
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Kwiaht @kwiaht.org · 18/04/2026
Minus tides this weekend, and we are hosting a community clam dig on Sunday April 19 starting at 11:30 at the end of Mud Bay Dock Road on Lopez Island.
A bucket of butter and little neck clams covered in water. A hand is holding one of the butter clams to show it off.
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Kwiaht @kwiaht.org · 02/04/2026
Our last scheduled scion exchange and grafting workshop is coming up this Saturday April 4th at the Orcas Island Museum in Eastsound. We'll be there with heritage apple scions and rootstock from 12-3pm rain or shine.
Pink apple buds surrounded by green leaves with lichen in the background.
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Kwiaht @kwiaht.org · 02/04/2026
We're raising funds through the San Juan Island Community Foundation to start restoring native plants and cultural landscapes at Cattle Point (San Juan Island) with PKOLS (Protecting Knowledge of Land and Sea) and the San Juan Islands National Monument. You can donate through April 15th.
Bright purple shore lupines with silvery foliage blooming along a rocky shoreline. There is a large black and yellow bumble bee in the middle of the photo.
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Kwiaht @kwiaht.org · 26/03/2026
We are seeking an exceptional middle or high-school student to work part-time as an ecosystem steward alongside adult volunteers and Kwiaht scientists at Indian Island, Eastsound. Preference given to Orcas Island students. Interested? Write to info@kwiaht.org to schedule an interview.
A poster with a picture of orange ochre sea stars on a seaweed covered rock. It reads: "Summer on the Beach! We are seeking an exceptional middle or high-school student to work part-time as an ecosystem steward alongside adult volunteers and Kwiaht scientists at: Indian Island, Eastsound. Successful applicants will be organized, reliable, enjoy speaking to strangers, and working in a cooperative team. Interest in ecology and marine biology is an advantage but not required. Help inform and educate visitors to Indian Island on 30 low-tide days in June, July, and August (about 100 hours total). Your reward is a summer of seabirds, sea stars, and science, plus a $3,300 stipend. May be compatible with other part-time summer employment. 
Interested? Write to info@kwiaht.org to schedule an interview. Robyn Lowe Fund. Indian Island Marine Health Observatory, Kwiaht. Supported by generous private donors on Orcas Island."
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Kwiaht @kwiaht.org · 06/03/2026
It's grafting season! We have upcoming grafting workshops with heritage island apples on San Juan (March 21st), Lopez (March 29th), and Orcas (April 4th).
Poster for a grafting workshop. At the center is a photos of a dense cluster of red striped apples on a tree. The poster reads: "Celebrate the 1st day of Spring with Apples! Grafting workshop and scion exchange. Free rootstock and heritage varieties from the islands. San Juan Island Grange. Saturday March 21 Noon to 2pm. Supported by the San Juan Island Community Foundation." There is a Kwiaht 20th anniversary logo at the bottom left.
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Kwiaht @kwiaht.org · 10/02/2026
Come let Russel Barsh introduce you to the lesser known butterflies and moths of the San Juan archipelago. February 22nd at the Orcas Odd Fellows Hall from 2-3:30 The illustrated handbook Butterflies of the San Juan Islands (and some interesting moths) will be available.
Poster for a talk. In the middle is a photo of a brown woodland skipper with its long tongue in a pink thistle inflorescence. The poster says "Kwiaht ecologist Russel Barsh at Orcas Odd Fellows Hall. Colorful, Rare, & Mysterious Butterflies & Moths of the San Juan Islands. Sunday, February 22--2:00-3:30pm"
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Kwiaht @kwiaht.org · 22/01/2026
Want to learn more about our research in the marine waters around the San Juan Islands? Kwiaht director Russel Barsh will tell you all about it at our Marine Matinee on Sunday January 25th at Lopez Center.
Poster for Kwiaht's Marine Matinee. A close up of a herring head with the big eye centered. A bubble above reads "Marine Matinee" and below it says "Kwiaht. Lopez Center. Sunday January 25, 3-5pm. Free. Refreshments."
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Kwiaht @kwiaht.org · 31/12/2025
We have a new book out! A guide to the moths and butterflies of the San Juan Islands. Available at the Lopez Bookshop (and on its way to other local booksellers) or by donation to Kwiaht www.kwiaht.org/donate.htm
The cover of a book with an illustration of an orange tip butterfly on a mustard stalk. The cover says "Butterflies of the San Juan Islands and some important moths, Kwiaht"
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Kwiaht @kwiaht.org · 13/11/2025
Tonight! Kwiaht ecologist Russel Barsh at the Lopez Library with Shining a Light on Local Moths starting at 6pm. And while you are there you can see local high school artist (and Kwiaht lab tech) Sophie Citro's moth art and buy a ticket (or many) for her moth sculpture raffle.
Orange poster with a picture of a fuzzy orange Elegant sheep moth showing his face and focusing in on the large feathered black antennae. The poster reads: "Shining a Light on Local Moths. Lecture by Russel Barsh of Kwiaht. Thurs, Nov. 13 @ 6 pm. Join us for the last in this three part series: BAM! Bats, Apples, & Moths. www.lopezlibrary.org"
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Kwiaht @kwiaht.org · 07/10/2025
Join us for our 7th annual Camas Festival! A potluck featuring camas (Camassia leichtlinii) based dishes and presentations and discussion of camas cultivation. Saturday October 25th 12-3pm at the Stevens Center of the Padilla Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve. www.kwiaht.org/calendar.htm
A great camas (Camasssia leichtlinii) inflorescence. The flowers are deep purple.
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Kwiaht @kwiaht.org · 30/09/2025
More heritage apple events coming up in October! Our third annual apple tasting with the Orcas Museum is Saturday October 4th (12:30-2:30), and on October 11th we're joining the San Juan County Land Bank, apple ID expert Lori Brakken, and master orchardist Marguerite Greening for Apple-Palooza
Poster for Apple Tasting. It reads: "Annual Apple Tasting hosted by Kwiaht and the Orcas Island Historical Museums. Saturday, October 4th 12:30-2:30pm. Orcas Island Historical Museum 181 North Beach Rd. Free Event! Enjoy fresh-pressed cider! Community is welcome to come and sip, or bring their own apples to press! *Press until 3:30pm. Dozens of local varieties of apples to sample! Supported by Girl Meets Dirt and Orcas Isle Cider." There is a photo of an apple tasting display, a striped apple on a tree, and at the bottom the logos for Kwiaht, Girl Meets Dirt, Orcas Isle Cider, and the Orcas Island Historical Museums.Poster for Apple-Palooza. There are the shapes of two red apples with green leaves in the middle of the poster. It reads: "Apple-Palooza. Saturday, Oct 11, 10am-2pm. North Shore Preserve Orcas Island. Identification, tasting, pruning." At the bottom are the logos for the San Juan County Conservation Land Bank and San Juan County.
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Kwiaht @kwiaht.org · 19/08/2025
Western leafcutter bee (Megachile perihirta) taking off from a Cirsium vulgare (bull thistle) inflorescence near Cattle Point (San Juan Islands National Monument).
A fuzzy bee with a black head, pale hairs, and a bright yellow patch showing on the underside of her abdomen taking flight from a pale purple thistle flower. The background is green thistle leaves and beige grass stalks.
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Kwiaht @kwiaht.org · 17/08/2025
Do you need more ways to enjoy this years abundant crop of t’áqa7? We have added recipes to the Food Security section of our website.
A gallon ziplock bag full of ripe salal berries still on their racemes (the stems are pale green, the bracts are red, and the berries are black).
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Kwiaht @kwiaht.org · 26/06/2025
Our 2nd annual Hummel Lake fishing derby starts at 8am on Saturday June 28th. Weigh-in ends at 4:30 and prizes are awarded at 5pm. Register at the WDFW boat launch on the day of the event. Contact brett@kwiaht.org with questions.
Hummel Lake fishing derby poster. It says: "2nd annual Hummel Lake Fishing Derby June 28. Register at Hummel Lake Boat Launch on the Day of the Derby. Entry fee adult $30 youth $15. Your entry fee goes into the prize pot! The more Anglers participate, the bigger the pot! Prizes will be awarded for the biggest fish caught of each species (Rainbow Trout, Bluegill, Largemouth Bass)--Focus on one or try for the Grand Slam! Cash prizes awarded for first place, tackle kits awarded to the runners-up. Separate prizes for youth. Official derby start @ 8am, weigh-in ends @ 4:30pm. Prizes awarded @ 5pm. Hosted by Kwiaht. Thanks to our sponsor Islands Marine Center! Contact brett@kwiaht.orh with questions."
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Kwiaht @kwiaht.org · 07/06/2025
Dasysyrphus intrudens, a common and widespread North American hoverfly, enjoying a meal of Fragaria vesca (woodland strawberry) nectar. Syrphid hoverflies like this one should be welcomed in Northwest gardens; their larvae eat aphids voraciously.
A hover fly with black and yellow patterned abdomen on a white strawberry flower.
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Kwiaht @kwiaht.org · 29/05/2025
We're seining at Watmough Bight this evening (4pm). Everyone welcome to help pull the net and sort fish.
Aerial drone photo of a beach seine. A net is gathered on the beach with people on the inside and outside of it, the middle of the net is still in the water. A floating net pen is just outside the net. In the upper left you can see the drone operator.
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