The evolutionary life history of Willow (Salix spp.) has been shaped by floods and the extremes found in riparian habitats. With about 35 species of native Willows in the Northwest, this old friend has a lot to teach us about the land and the strength of adaptability.

This year in celebration of National Public Lands Day, we are inviting you on a unique excursion through the heart of the Slavin Conservation Area, a publicly protected landscape located minutes from downtown Spokane.

In partnership with Lapis Sky, The Lands Council is pleased to offer a different type of plant identification or birding walk. This meditative saunter delivers us to Willow, an important water-loving species found growing wild on our public lands along streambanks, marshes, and lake bodies of the Inland Pacific Northwest.

Beneath the branches of Willow, bioregional plant enthusiast and somatic instructor Korrine Rothrock will uncover our connection to this species through story, sensory exploration, and gentle somatic movement. Guided meditation will highlight unique patterns, elemental affinities, and signatures found within Willow’s unfolding growth cycle. Dale Young, local artist and musician, will accompany the meditation with soft, airy sounds of willow conveyed through his Native American flute – an instrument he has been playing for the trees for over twenty years.

 Join us as we listen to the sounds of willow, lay with the roots, smell the medicinal bark and leaves, and even taste a bit of willow’s flavor profile on the pallet. This intentional focus and opening of our sensory channels – the learning tools of our ancestors – is a powerful way to learn about the ecological medicine of Willow and its crucial role in the watersheds of our precious public lands.

 This will be a small group experience open to just 15 pre-registrants. Register soon!

This event is offered exclusively to TLC members at no cost as part of our commitment to providing enriching experiences that deepen your connection to the land. As a member, you have the unique opportunity to engage with this intimate, sensory exploration of Willow in a small group setting.

If you’re not yet a member, consider joining TLC today to enjoy this and other special members-only events. Visit landscouncil.org/join

Note: If you don’t register in time for this Willow Sensing and Listening Somatic Field Day, there’s a good chance there’ll be a similar offering at an upcoming Gathering. In the meantime, we invite you to join us for “Reforest Spokane Day” held on Saturday, October 12th where we will be planting willow along with other native plant species as part of a larger restoration effort located at the beautiful Slavin Conservation Area.