Registration is now open for the Jefferson County Conservation District’s spring natural landscaping courses. The interactive, three-classroom, two-field trip course emphasizes native plants, sustainable landscape design, and maintenance practices. Course participants will learn how to analyze the unique ecological conditions of their properties and develop site-specific landscape plans that are in harmony with the environment while also meeting  the homeowner’s needs.

The deadline to register is April 5.

“Space is limited,” said instructor Joe Holtrup, “so early registration is highly recommended.”

Due to high demand, two courses are being offered – one in Port Townsend and one in Port Hadlock. The Port Townsend courses will focus on small lots. The Port Hadlock sessions will focus on large lots.

The Port Hadlock course classroom sessions will be held on Tuesdays from 6 to 7:30 p.m., starting April 9. Field trips are scheduled for April 11 and 18 from 4 to 5:30 p.m.

The Port Townsend course classroom sessions will be held on Mondays from 4 to 5:30 p.m., starting April 15. Field trips are scheduled for April 17 and 24 from 4 to 5:30 p.m.

The course fee is $15 and covers facility rental and course materials. Participants can register online at the conservation district website: https://www.jeffersoncd.org/news-events/natural-landscaping-course-spring-2024.

Joe Holtrop, district manager for the Jefferson County Conservation District, will teach the course. Holtrop has been teaching about sustainable landscaping on the Olympic Peninsula for more than 30 years. He also draws on permaculture design training and experience, emphasizing the principle of working with, rather than against, nature.

More details about each course can be found on the district website or by contacting the course instructor by email at jholtrop@jeffersoncd.org.