Land that is scheduled for clearing and development can still provide benefits to habitat elsewhere in King County with the help of volunteers.

King County’s native plant salvage program is looking for volunteers to take part in a March 6 salvage effort in Black Diamond. Volunteers are needed to dig out native trees and shrubs from property that is going to be cleared, then pot the vegetation at the King County native plant holding facility near Sammamish for future use.

Salvaged native plants will be used to enhance local habitat restoration projects by reducing erosion, shading streams, wetlands and estuaries and improving fish and wildlife habitats throughout King County.

Volunteers can get their hands dirty for a worthy environmental cause from 9 a.m. to noon at the salvage site or from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. at the native plant holding facility in Sammamish.

A parent or guardian must accompany volunteers under 16 years old. Dress for the weather and be prepared to get dirty. Sturdy shoes or boots are recommended. King County will provide gloves, tools and light refreshments.

For more information or to sign up for either event contact Cindy Young at 206-296-8065 or e-mail cindy.young@kingcounty.gov. To learn more about King County’s Native Plant Salvage Program, visit the Web site.

Directions to the Black Diamond salvage site:

• From I-405 near Renton, take Highway 169 to Black Diamond.

• Turn right onto Roberts Drive.

• Go approximately 1 ½ miles and watch for sign on left.

• Turn left on a gravel road and into the site.

• Those who dig for King County from 9 a.m. to noon can dig plants for themselves from noon to 2 p.m.

Volunteers are also needed at our Native Plant Holding Facility from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. to help pot up the salvaged plants.

Directions to the Native Plant Holding Facility:

• From I-5 or I-405, take I-90 east to Highland Drive exit (exit 18) in Issaquah.

• Stay left on the off ramp to continue onto Highland Drive through several lights.

• Turn right onto Issaquah–Fall City Road.

• Just past Endeavor Elementary School, stay straight onto Duthie Hill Road.

• The Holding Facility is in Duthie Hill Park (on the right) at 27101 Duthie Hill Road.

• Volunteers who help with potting are eligible for free native plants.