LOCAL HERO

Free beer and expert forest tours

Conservationist “litter-ally” cleans forests with his “secret sauce”

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How to get regular folks to pick up other people’s trash without a court order?

Mason County author Mark Woytowich, who knows where all of the most beautiful spots are on the Olympia Peninsula, has figured it out.

He shares his love for the Olympia National Forest and Hood Canal by leading TrashMash Litter Posse Rides. Twice a month he gathers up an informal group of eager nature lovers who volunteer to drive with him to different locations to clean areas littered by illegal dumping or camping violations.

 “Our mission is to clean up the wilderness, litter-ally,” says Woytowich

In his book, "Where Waterfalls and Wild Things Are," Woytowich guides readers on scenic and often hidden spots throughout the Olympic National Forest and Hood Canal. Currently, he shares his knowledge of the outdoors using his “secret sauce.”

What is the secret sauce?

Woytowich explained the philosophy behind his TrashMash outings, “We’re hiking, exploring, while picking up things that belong better in bags, not in the woods.” He says he believes that the activity gives people an opportunity to learn about unmapped swimming areas, waterfalls, canyons, and campsites.

 Join TrashMash

 While most of the target locations are in Mason County, Thurston County people are invited to participate. The group usually meets on the second Saturday and third Thursday of every month starting this Saturday, Nov. 13, until April 2022.

Those who are interested in participating are directed to drive to The Tides Restaurant in Lilliwaup by 9 a.m. He says, “arrive closer to 8 a.m. if you want breakfast. Food’s great but mornings are busy.”

Participants must also wear boots, preferably waterproof. They must also prepare clothes fit for rainy or any other unpleasant weather conditions. The use of gloves is also recommended. In addition, participants must also bring lunch, extra snacks, water, toilet paper, and an extra trash bag. The plan is to be finished by 3 p.m.

That free beer? 

Just to top things off, Woytowich has arranged with Cody Morris, owner of Potlatch Brewing, to thank TrashMash volunteers by serving them a free pint of beer at Morris’ new brewpub in Hoodsport. 

Woytowich writes "On the Trail," a weekly column for the Shelton-Mason County Journal, as well as develops marketing programs for regional businesses and organizations through Woytowich Design, working with his wife, Linda.  

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  • Johns2cents

    What a great idea and cause. It would also be nice to install some trail cameras and catch these ecoterrorists polluting our wonderful area.

    Friday, November 12, 2021 Report this