Hello WBA members and friends, My last message reflected on the end of summer, with thoughts of hot apple cider and hot chocolate. And now after celebrating the shortest day of the year on December 21st, we can look ahead to longer, warmer days and the butterflies awaiting us in the 2026 field season. Melanie Weiss is busy recruiting field leaders, and the lineup already looks amazing.
Volunteer Opportunities for 2026 In addition to our exciting Field Trip plans, WBA is organizing a range of events and activities. The success of these efforts depends on the support of dedicated volunteers.
Support the Annual WBA Study Weekend – Assist with logistics, including welcoming and registering attendees. Help set up conference rooms for sessions and gatherings. Contribute to videography documenting and capturing activities for our YouTube channel.
Idie Ulsh Young Naturalist Scholarships – We are seeking a volunteer to oversee coordination of the Idie Ulsh Young Naturalist Scholarships. This role involves managing the scholarship process which awards free attendance for a student and parent to attend our annual Butterfly Weekend and supporting young naturalists at the event.
WBA Tabling Events Across the State – A Chair is needed to lead tabling events throughout Washington. Responsibilities may include Handling incoming event requests. Enlisting volunteers for the events. Managing our educational materials and interactive activities to promote awareness of native butterflies.
Member Outreach Initiatives – Members are invited to chair or participate in outreach efforts. These initiatives focus on developing activities to engage our community, boost promotional efforts, and enhance recruitment strategies for WBA.
Seattle Magnuson Park Butterfly Garden Work Party – Join us for monthly restoration work parties at the Seattle Magnuson Park Butterfly Garden. Volunteers work together to create a welcoming habitat for butterflies and their pollinator friends. These events take place from 10:00 am to 12:30 pm typically on the fourth Saturday of each month. Announcements and sign-up links are distributed via our Noticeline email communication.
We encourage all members and friends to get involved and help make the upcoming season a success!
Interested? Send your name and e-mail address to: wabutterflyassoc@gmail.com or any Board member and we will gladly sign you up.
See you out there soon!
Liz Kuehn
G’num2026Vol27No1
Liz Kuehn
WBA President, Former WBA Secretary & butterfly enthusiast