Spring Break, Reimagined: Our Week of Service and Stewardship

While many college students spent their spring break last month traveling or catching up on sleep, a dedicated group of UW Bothell and Cascadia College students chose a different path. This past March, our campus community came together for Alternative Spring Break (ASB)—a week dedicated to community service, environmental stewardship, and educational programming.

ASB is a collaborative effort between CoSEE, Outdoor Wellness, UW Bothell Sustainability, and Cascadia Sustainability. More than just a volunteer opportunity, it is a manifestation of our commitment to the land and all the life it supports.

The Purpose Behind the Program

Our social well-being is tied to the health of our local ecosystems. Alternative Spring Break bridges the gap between classroom theory and community impact, allowing students to practice direct stewardship while building lasting social connections. By restoring native habitats and supporting local food systems, participants develop practical conservation skills and a sense of shared responsibility for a more resilient regional ecology.

2025 Highlights: A Week of Impact

Last month’s schedule offered three distinct opportunities to dive into local conservation efforts. Here is how our participants made a difference:

• Group Hikes at St. Edward State Park: The week kicked off with a group hike through the lush trails of St. Edward State Park. As we walked and explored the trails, students picked up trash and talked about the importance of restoration and taking care of our parks. Students also saw a variety of key native species including a family of bald eagles! The morning wrapped up with a picnic lunch where participants reflected on the importance of urban canopy preservation.
• Sustainable Agriculture at 21 Acres Farm: Later that week, the focus shifted to our local food systems. Volunteers headed to 21 Acres Farm in Woodinville to assist with seasonal farm projects. From prepping soil to supporting spring planting, participants gained first-hand insight into the complexities of sustainable farming. After a shared lunch, many stayed to explore the farm’s local Farm Market and Sustainability Library, deepening their understanding of how local food choices impact regional ecology.
• Protecting the Shoreline at Log Boom Beach in Kenmore: We closed out the week at Log Boom Beach Park in Kenmore. The mission was clear: protect Lake Washington’s ecosystem. Volunteers worked together to remove debris along the shoreline, preventing litter from entering the water and harming aquatic life. This final event fostered a powerful sense of shared responsibility, leaving the beach cleaner and the community more connected.

Looking Ahead

Alternative Spring Break 2025 proved once again that small, collective actions lead to significant regional impact. We are incredibly proud of the students and community members who dedicated their break to the “Bothell way,” leading with service and a commitment to a healthier, more engaged world. We look forward to seeing these connections grow throughout the rest of the academic year.