WBA field trip statement:
Non-consumptive appreciation of butterflies is central to our purpose, basic to our approach, and the guiding principle behind general membership field trips. Collecting adult butterflies is not allowed on these trips. Collecting eggs and larvae for rearing is accepted on condition that individuals raised to adult stage are released at their original location.
Washington Butterfly Association schedules field trips in April through August and butterflies permitting.
Frequently Asked Questions
Before signing up for a Field Trip, please read our FAQ.
Sign Ups
Sign up for field trips with the trip leader/trip contact.
Policy – Attendance by Minors
Children under the age of 18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian and submit a ‘Liability Release Form’ in order to attend a field trip. Otherwise, we cannot allow you on the trip, and we would all be disappointed.
To download the form, click on the button below.
Cancelling Your Sign Up
If you need to cancel, please remember to contact the trip coordinator as soon as you can so the group does not wait for you at the meeting location.
Field Trip Difficulty Ratings
- Easy, mostly by car, minor walking along roads.
- Fairly limited walking, some slopes involved.
- Moderate, 3-4 miles walking with some slopes.
- Difficult, hiking required off road, may have short steep sections, total of 4 miles or so. For experienced hikers.
- Strenuous, extended hiking on trails with steep terrain, 4-8 miles. For experienced hikers.
When and Where to Meet
- Your trip leader will let you know where the group will meet and at what time. The location may be near the field trip site with the group caravanning from that point, or at the site itself.
- WBA does not arrange carpooling, although members are encouraged to do so on their own. Passengers are expected to share gasoline expenses when carpooling. Typically, this is $10-20 each. Each rider should also pay a share of any park entry fees, ferry fares, etc.
- Bring your own beverages, snacks and lunch for a day in the field.
Insurance
WBA Insurance coverage requires a signed Field Trip Liability Release and indemnity agreement. Fill out the form and give it to the trip leader.
Download the form, click on the button below.
Weather and Scheduling
Weather is always a major factor when planning butterfly trips in Washington, particularly during the rainy months of March through June. We have learned that the key to dealing with weather is flexibility; our leaders reserve the right to make last-minute itinerary changes in order to provide you with the best possible butterfly experience. On occasion it may be necessary to cancel or reschedule an outing if the weather does not permit a viable alternative. The flow of the season is also important, and it may be necessary to adjust some trips to earlier or later dates to best match the seasonal weather patterns. Your trip leader will keep you informed of any changes
FOR TRIP LEADERS:
Click Link below to see our current list of field trips