Outdoors & Nature   

Explore the magical kingdom of fungi!

Join us and acquire a basic understanding of fungi ecosystems. This class is for outdoors lovers, scientists, naturalists, herbalists, foragers, and chefs.
Day 1 =  Dive Into the Science - What are fungi
Day 2 =  Wild Mushrooms -  Foraging & Mushroom Identification
Day 3 =  EthnoMycology -  Mushroom Cultivation, Current and Historic Uses of Fungi

After the first three classes are completed Aaron will guide a foray into the forest to get your feet on the ground and your hands on the mushrooms!

The mushroom foray will be located at a park in South Kitsap on the scheduled Saturday.  Address will be sent to class participants.  

Step inside the world of Washington's salmon hatcheries and discover how science, culture, and conservation come together to sustain this iconic species. During this immersive field experience, you will follow the salmon's journey from tiny fertilized eggs to ocean travelers and their astonishing return to freshwater to spawn. Learn how hatchery biologists and tribal partners manage each life stage through careful broodstock selection, spawning techniques, rearing practices, and strategies that protect genetic diversity. Whether you are curious about ecology, fisheries, or tribal stewardship, this visit offers a deeper understanding of the science and culture behind healthy salmon runs.

Located on the Kitsap Peninsula. Address will be sent to class participants.

4 Washington Educator STEM clock hours are available for this course. To request clock hours, please let the instructor know and email continuinged@olympic.com. 

Dive into the fascinating world of aquaponics—a sustainable system where fish and plants thrive together in perfect balance! This engaging online class will introduce participants to the essentials of building and maintaining a home or small-scale aquaponics system.
You’ll learn what components are needed—from tanks and grow beds to pumps and plumbing—and discover where to find affordable, reliable materials locally or online. We’ll explore multiple setup designs, from simple backyard systems to more complex indoor arrangements, so you can choose the model that best fits your goals and space. Through guided discussion and demonstrations, we’ll examine how aquaponics works, the biology of the system, and how to select compatible species. We’ll also touch on the business and sustainability side—including how to market your organically grown herbs, flowers, or produce at local farmers’ markets or community outlets.

7.5 Washington Educator STEM clock hours are available for this course. To request clock hours, please email continuinged@olympic.com before course completion.