The Nisqually Reach Nature Center (NRNC) hosted its much-anticipated annual event, The Feast of the Reach, on Saturday, August 24, 2024. I was lucky enough to attend the event. The lively affair drew a crowd of enthusiastic supporters who braved the rain and made the journey to Luhr Beach. We all enjoyed an afternoon and evening of festivities, all while contributing to a noble cause.
The event featured engaging activities, including a silent auction, a tempting dessert auction, and a raffle with various prizes. Attendees had the opportunity to bid on unique items and indulgent treats, with all proceeds directly benefiting the Nisqually Reach Nature Center. For those with a penchant for tradition, bringing a Feast pint or wine glass from past events earned an extra drink ticket, adding a special touch to the evening. I purchased one this year, hoping they’ll have the same deal next year.
Guests were treated to a delicious dinner from Hunter Family Catering. While all the food was great, I would say that the smoked salmon was incredible. The event not only offered a chance to savor great food and drink but also to mingle with like-minded individuals committed to environmental conservation.
All proceeds from The Feast of the Reach support the Nisqually Reach Nature Center’s mission to promote the understanding, appreciation, and conservation of the Nisqually Estuary. Through educational programs, interpretive activities, and community science, NRNC plays a critical role in fostering environmental stewardship and appreciation for this unique natural habitat.
Established in 1982 as an extension of the Black Hills Audubon Society, NRNC became an independent nonprofit in 1986. Over the years, the center has expanded its focus from general public outreach to providing vital educational experiences. Each year, around 3,000 school-age children visit the Nature Center, engaging in supplemental classroom, laboratory, and field trip opportunities. The center also conducts important community science monitoring, including tracking pigeon guillemots, forage fish, larval crabs, and water quality.
NRNC is situated in northeast Olympia at Luhr Beach, on the western shore of the Nisqually Estuary. The center’s location offers a stunning backdrop of Mt. Rainier and the scenic flow of McAllister Creek into Puget Sound. Just across the water lies the Billy Frank Jr. Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge, enhancing the area’s natural charm.
Through a cooperative agreement with the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife, which manages the adjacent public boat launch, NRNC occupies a historic site established by Bill Luhr, Sr. This picturesque setting not only provides access to recreational activities such as fishing, crabbing, and bird watching, but it also underscores the center’s role in showcasing and preserving the estuary’s ecological value.
The Feast of the Reach offered me a chance to get to know the work of the NRNC, meet some lovely folks who care deeply about nature, and score some tickets to Woodland Park Zoo. I don’t know if I’ve ever won a raffle prize before, so it was a pleasant surprise. To end the evening, Board Vice President Brian Scott thanked all in attendance and assured us of NRNC’s commitment to their mission. As The Feast of the Reach once again demonstrated the power of community engagement in preserving and celebrating our natural heritage, I plan on attending next year.
Zach Davis-Price is a man of many interests, especially the workings and activities of local nonprofit organizations and volunteer programs. He lives in Tumwater. Send him a note at zach@theJOLTnews.com.
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Duffish
Thank you, Zach, My wife and I have attended this event for the last two years and have enjoyed the event and most importantly the mission to educate and preserve our precious estuaries. As you have indicated, the funds go to critical studies and educates our community on the importance of estuaries.
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