Native Plants 101: Field Identification

In this hands-on field workshop, you’ll learn how to identify plants by observing key features of their leaves, stems, flowers, and fruits while exploring the habitats where they thrive. Along the way, you’ll begin to see your natural surroundings through the lens of plant communities and ecological connections.

• Plant Identification Skills: Practice recognizing key characteristics used to identify common native plants of Western Washington, from leaf margins to flower arrangement and habitat clues.
• Field-Based Observation: Explore Oxbow’s forests and meadows while observing native plants in their natural habitats and learning to notice the patterns that help distinguish species.
• Ecological Relationships: Learn how native plants support birds, pollinators, and other wildlife while deepening your understanding of the interconnected relationships that sustain healthy ecosystems.

Lea Dyga (they/them) is an ecologist, environmental educator, and community organizer originally from West Michigan. They hold a Bachelors of Environmental Plant Biology from Michigan State University. Since moving to Seattle in 2022, they've enjoyed making friends with the local flora and fungi through their AmeriCorps service at the Center for Urban Horticulture, by assisting the Seattle Lichen's Guild, and by leading adult education classes with the UW Botanic Gardens. Lea brought their passion for native plants to Oxbow in 2024 and now manages the nursery with care and vision as of 2025.

We’re excited to offer this workshop at just $5, thanks to generous funding from 4Culture’s Doors Open grant! This experience is valued at $30, but the grant helps us make it accessible to more of our community.

We’re deeply grateful for this support, which allows us to connect more people with outdoor learning experiences.

All participants must register in advance—spaces are limited!

Also check out other Workshops in Carnation.