2026 Creek Crew Training Part 1: Online

Registration is open for the 2026 Creek Crew Leader cohort. Creek Crew Leaders are a HUGE piece of our restoration, education, and outreach work at Johnson Creek! We work with over one thousand volunteers each year and with a small staff, we can’t function without the community support of volunteers like you to teach and lead in our events!
There is a two-part training required to join the 2026 Creek Crew cohort. See “How do I Join” section below to register for the training.
When:
Online Training: Thursday, February 5th 6 – 7:30pm
In-person Training: Saturday, February 7th 10am-2:30pm with a 30 minute break for lunch (not provided)
Both trainings are required for new and returning Creek Crew Leaders
Where:
Thursday – Online training: Zoom
Saturday – In-person Training: Powell Butte Nature Park (directions below)
What do Creek Crew Leaders do:
Creek Crew leaders choose at least 4 volunteer days a year to help guide small groups of participants for our native plantings, invasive species removal, trash removal parties, and environmental education throughout the year. CCL’s will also get opportunities to support tabling events, like the Woodstock Farmers Market. CCL’s are a crucial element of our larger events such as our Watershed Wide Event (March 7th) and the Johnson Creek Clean-Up (August 15th).
Our Creek Crew Leaders are the reason JCWC is able to plant 5,000 native plants and pull 6 tons of trash out of the creek every year – we couldn’t do it without you!
Why be a Creek Crew Leader:
- Have fun outdoors with cool people!
- Develop and practice leadership skills
- Learn about ecology and restoration practices
- Gain familiarity with Pacific Northwest plant and animal species
- Make friends and professional connections from diverse backgrounds
- Get a reference for applications to college, jobs, or scholarships
- Receive sweet Johnson Creek swag
Who are Creek Crew Leaders:
- A new or returning Johnson Creek Watershed Council volunteer
- Over 16 – OR – you are under 16 but paired with a parent or guardian as a Creek Crew team
- Excited to attend and lead at least 4 volunteer events (especially Watershed Wide Event, March 7th and/or Johnson Creek Cleanup, August 15th)
How do I join?
Click here to register
It’s a 3 step process:
First: Fill out this digital waiver. Afterwards, we will send you a link to the training webinar.
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Training Part 1: Attend the webinar training on Thursday, February 5th from 6pm-7:30pm
When you complete this training you will be able to sign up for the first round of events!
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Training Part 2: Hands-On training, Saturday, February 7th from 10am-2:30pm with a 30 minute break for lunch (not provided). Details will be sent to you after you complete the webinar. (This is the part where you get to make friends, get leadership practice, and get sweet JCWC swag!)
Reach out to Marlee@jcwc.org if you have any questions. We look forward to seeing you there!
Details for the training:
We will provide: Gloves, and all necessary tools, plus coffee, pastries and snacks. We can also provide bus fare to and from the event. Please contact Marlee@jcwc.org to arrange bus fare.
How to prepare: This event will happen rain or shine, so dress for weather: rain coat, warm layers, sun hat, and sunscreen as necessary. Wear sturdy, close-toed shoes and clothes you don’t mind getting dirty. Bring a filled water bottle and lunch.
Health and Safety: We will follow current Oregon Health Authority guidelines. Masks are not required, but encouraged in indoor spaces where social distancing is not possible. Stay home if you are experiencing symptoms of any contagious illness or have had recent contact with someone exhibiting symptoms of any illness.
Children under 16 are not permitted: We recommend that all volunteers are over 16 for this role. If you are under 16 you are welcome to join if paired with a parent or guardian as a Creek Crew team for the training and all events.
Accessibility: This event may require standing for long periods, walking over uneven ground, going up or down steep slopes, bending, and lifting heavy objects.
Directions:
A zoom link and directions will be emailed after you complete the waiver.
A huge thank you to Portland Parks and Recreation for helping to organize this event and to our generous funders that make the volunteer program possible. Thank you to the Mintkeski Family Fund of the Oregon Community Foundation, Portland General Electric, City of Gresham, Clackamas Water Environment Services, East Multnomah Soil and Water Conservation District, and City of Portland’s Bureau of Environmental Services.