Learn About the Forthcoming Hilltop Prescribed Fire & Meadow Restoration Project at an Open House July 23rd; Winslow Green Concerts, etc.

Join the Bainbridge Island Metro Park & Recreation District and other organizations on Thursday, July 23 from 4-6 p.m. at Prue’s House to learn about the meadow restoration planned for Hilltop and how the project will help improve wildfire resilience, restore native habitat, and support the long-term health of one of the Island’s unique natural areas.

This community event is an opportunity to:

• Learn why prescribed fire is being used at Hilltop.
• Meet the partners planning and implementing the project.
• See the burn area and learn how fire benefits native prairie and meadow ecosystems.
• Ask questions about smoke, safety, wildlife, and project timing.
• Learn how prescribed fires are carefully planned and conducted under specific weather conditions by trained professionals.

The prescribed fire is a collaborative effort between the Bainbridge Island Metro Park & Recreation District, Bainbridge Island Fire Department, Bloedel Reserve, and Bainbridge Island Land Trust. Together, the groups are working to reduce wildfire risk while restoring native plant communities that depend on periodic fire. This project is supported, in part, by a grant from the Washington State Department of Natural Resources.

A key natural area on Bainbridge Island, Hilltop has been identified as the focus of the carefully planned prescribed fire designed to reduce hazardous fuels while restoring a native bunchgrass and forb meadow community. Historically, these ecosystems played an important role in local biodiversity but have declined due to fire suppression and invasive species encroachment throughout the Puget Sound, park officials point out.

“Prescribed fire is one of the most effective tools we have to reduce wildfire risk while also improving habitat conditions,” said Morgan Houk, Park District Natural Resource Manager. “We are excited to learn from the team at Bloedel Reserve and their experience utilizing prescribed fire to manage their pollinator meadow.”

Bloedel Reserve has successfully partnered with BIFD to implement prescribed fire at the Bloedel Reserve beginning in 2020, including collaborating to support updates to local regulations to allow the use of prescribed fire as a land management tool on Bainbridge Island.

The BILT is also working with BIFD to explore the use of prescribed fire as a stewardship tool, beginning with small, controlled pile burns this fall.

The burn is planned for summer or early fall during a carefully selected weather window that meets strict safety and smoke management requirements, according to Houk. “The exact date will depend on weather conditions, fuel moisture, wind direction, and approval from fire professionals. Community notifications will be shared in advance of ignition,” she said.

Limited parking is available at Grand Forest East, for Thursday’s open house, and ADA parking is available on site.  A shuttle will be available from nearby Strawberry Hill Park. “We encourage folks to walk or bike to the site,” Houk said. This event is an educational opportunity for the community. Prior to ignition, updates regarding anticipated burn windows, trail closures, smoke information, and operational status will be shared through the Park District’s website and communication channels

Whether you’re curious about prescribed fire, interested in habitat restoration, or simply want to learn more about this important stewardship effort, the Park District hopes you’ll join them for the open house.

You can learn more about the project here! Prescribed Fire | Park & Recreation District

Hilltop Prescribed Fire & Meadow Restoration Open House

• July 23/2026 4 PM – 6 PM
• Location: Prue’s House
  9600 Mandus Olson Rd NE
  Bainbridge Island, Washington 98110

Winslow Green Concert Series Continues Tonight and Through August 28th 

Winslow Green hosts its popular “Music on the Green” series is held every Friday evening, featuring live music at the Gazebo in the community park.

Upcoming 2026 Music on the Green Schedule 

7/17 Bluefish
7/24 The Bass Quintet with Jon Green
7/31 Psycho Sushi
8/07 Mercedes Nicole
8/14 Mark Soltys
8/21 Watmough Daze
8/28 Honey Moon

Event Details

• Time: 6 PM – 8 PM
• Location: Gazebo, Winslow Green, 100 Winslow Way W, Bainbridge Island, WA 98110 rangerswings.com+1
• Cost: Free to attend; donations welcome rangerswings.com
• Bring: Blanket or chair, and a picnic dinner or snacks rangerswings.com

About the Series

“Music on the Green” is a community-driven event brought to you by residents and local businesses. It’s a casual, family-friendly way to enjoy summer evenings with live music, food, and a relaxed atmosphere. Past performers have included jazz legends, local bands, and eclectic acts, so the lineup varies each season. Check the Winslow Green Facebook page for the latest updates, as dates and performers can change.

Also, on Saturdays throughout the summer months, check out Courtyard Concerts at The Pavillion, from 6-8 p.m. For more Bainbridge events visit: Events – Bainbridge Island Downtown Association

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