9AM – Noon

Hi everyone,

Due to the significant rainfall Tulsa received over the past 36 hours, we’re postponing our Chandler Park trail work day. The trails are too saturated for safe or sustainable work, and we want to honor Leave No Trace principles by avoiding any unnecessary damage.

We’ll announce a new date soon once conditions improve!

Thank you for your flexibility and for caring about Tulsa’s trails and green spaces. We couldn’t do this without you!

See you on the next work day,

The Tulsa Urban Wilderness Coalition Team

Meet at the West Parking Lot in front of the Community Center

What to bring / wear:

Tools (optional)

***** Should you bring personal tools please clearly label them so you can make it home with what you brought.

*******note – we do not expect any one volunteer to provide everything on this list, pick one or two things

• Gloves
• Closed Toe Shoes
• Water

• Lopper/Pruner (with your name on them)
• Hand saw (non-power like a bow saw or folding saw) and small Axe/Hatchet

Project list:

After we work enjoy pancakes cooked up by the TUWC Board 🥞.

Stay Smart, Stay Wild

There’s something magnetic about the trail—the crunch of dirt underfoot, the hush of trees overhead, and the sense that you’ve finally left the noise of the world behind. But while solitude can be relaxing, safety should never take a back seat—especially when you’re out on the trail alone.

Take a buddy

While a buddy system is always the safest bet, it’s not always realistic. One of our board members frequently hits the trail with only her dog in tow—and while the company may be furry and four-legged, it’s incredibly effective. A leashed dog can be a strong deterrent for anyone who might approach with less-than-noble intentions, and for many trail lovers, they’re the best kind of backup.

If you’re planning a solo adventure, here are a few ways to stay safe without sacrificing your peace:

Learn to Use Your Body as a Tool

Self-defense and martial arts classes aren’t just empowering—they’re practical. Techniques from Aikido, Judo, or Jujitsu rely on momentum and leverage, not strength, and can help protect you in a confrontation and prevent injury if you fall. Confidence in your body’s abilities changes how you carry yourself, and that can make all the difference.

Bear Spray: It’s Not Just for Bears

Bear spray is legal to carry in many areas and works on more than just wildlife. It’s an effective tool that can deter an aggressive animal or an unwanted human encounter. Be sure to check regulations and know how to use it before heading out.

Always Tell Someone Where You’re Going

It might seem like overkill—but a quick text before you go could make all the difference in an emergency. Share your planned route and when you expect to be back. Garmin Beacon on Strava is a great tool to share with two people your exact location in real time while getting some exercise in.

Don’t Tune Out Completely

While music or podcasts can make a hike more enjoyable, keeping at least one ear open to your surroundings helps you stay aware of wildlife, other trail users, and potential hazards.

Believe In Yourself

Trust your instincts. If something doesn’t feel right, there’s absolutely no shame in calling it a day and heading home. Your safety comes first—always. And if you ever suspect you’re being followed, drive directly to the nearest police station. Stay in your locked vehicle, lay on the horn, and wait for assistance. It’s better to be overly cautious than to ignore a gut feeling.

As outdoor writer and former TUWC board member Bob Doucette points out in his interviews with three seasoned outdoor women, staying safe on the trail isn’t about fear—it’s about being prepared and listening to that inner voice when it speaks.

“I’ve always felt it was important for people, especially women, to be empowered to go outside and have adventures on their own terms. I’d hate for fear to get in the way of that.”

Source: Proactive Outside

We couldn’t agree more. Trails should be for everyone, and fear should never outweigh your freedom. Be proactive. Be prepared. And never forget that even when you’re walking alone—you’ve got a whole community behind you. 

Flapjacks, Fresh Air, and Fatherly Fun — All for a Good Cause

This Father’s Day, treat Dad to something special — a morning of pancakes, nature, and giving back to the trails we love! The Tulsa Urban Wilderness Coalition (TUWC) invites you to our Father’s Day Pancake Brunch on Sunday, June 15 at Turkey Mountain.

🗓 Date: Sunday, June 15

🕘 Time: 9:00 AM – until we run out

📍 Location: Turkey Mountain Urban Wilderness Area lower lot pavilion

💵 Cost: By donation – give what you can!

What’s Cooking:

Join us on the for hot, fluffy pancakes straight off the griddle! Whether you’re planning a hike or just coming out for brunch, your meal supports a mission that keeps Tulsa’s wild spaces thriving.

Even More to Enjoy:

This year’s event will also feature a silent auction with a variety of items generously donated by local supporting businesses. From outdoor gear to local experiences and unique gifts, it’s the perfect opportunity to bid on something special while supporting the trails you love.

Why It Matters:

All proceeds benefit the Tulsa Urban Wilderness Coalition, directly supporting trail maintenance and educational programs that preserve and protect Various Trail Systems in the Tulsa Area for generations to come.

Bring the whole family — and your best dad jokes! This is a come-and-go event starting at 9:00 AM and going until the pancakes (and syrup) run out.

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Want to Do More?

Interested in volunteering, donating auction items, or sponsoring the event? Contact us at sponsorship@tuwc.org.

Stay in the Loop:

Follow TUWC on social media for updates and sneak peeks at auction items. Don’t forget to tag your brunch moments with #BrunchForTheWild.

Make this Father’s Day one to remember — with great food, great people, and a great cause.

We’ll see you on the trails! 🥞🌲🎁

Earth Day is rapidly approaching, and TUWC will be out and about for many earth day events around Tulsa. Although TUWC has excellent trail work days (Sunday, March 9th, 9am at Keystone Ancient Forest – mark your calendars!), we also educate the public about leave no trace principals, trail etiquette, and supporting pollinators. You can spot us at environmental fairs year-round, but especially at earth day events. 

Already this year we’ve attended the 2025 Oklahoma Environmental Expo at the Oklahoma City Zoo, utilizing our Leave No Trace diorama to show our fellow outdoor recreators that staying on trail, not littering, and making sure to scoop up that doggy doo are all important tenants of maintaining the health of your urban wilderness. 

Did you know that dog waste is not only a hazard for the bottom of your hiking shoes or bike tires, but also a cause of pollution in waterways? Dog waste contains nitrogen and phosphorus, which can deplete oxygen that fish and other water-based life need to survive. Water runoff from dog waste can also encourage the growth of harmful algae and, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, is considered a significant source of pathogens like fecal coliform, a disease-causing bacteria. 

Although things like orange peels, apple cores, and dog waste may be organic materials that can break down in certain environments, disposing of them in your local urban wilderness can cause wild animals to depend on humans as a source of food and pollute our waterways. Leaving no trace means to leave the trail as if you were never there – preserving that trail magic for those that recreate after you! 

Besides our March 9th trail & April 13 work day, TUWC has some exciting education events upcoming. You can find our education table at:

• Earth Day at Chandler Park – Friday, April 11 
• Native Plant Sale Philbrook – Saturday, April 12
• Party for the Planet at the Tulsa Zoo – Saturday, April 19 
• PSO Employee Earth Day Event – Tuesday April 22
• The M.E.T.’s Environmental Expo – Wednesday, April 23 (Earth Day!) 
• Earth Day Event Ray Harlan Nature Park – Saturday April 26

We hope that you’ll join us at one of these events. Until then – see you outside! 

Monarchs on the Mountain: A Celebration at Chandler Park

For the second year, Monarchs on the Mountain returns to Tulsa County Parks Chandler Park, offering a beautiful setting for one of nature’s most spectacular migrations. Every fall, as monarch butterflies journey thousands of miles across North America, Chandler Park becomes a hub of excitement and learning, where the community comes together to celebrate these incredible pollinators and learn about the conservation efforts that can help ensure their survival.

Why Monarchs Matter

Monarch butterflies are not only visually stunning but also vital contributors to pollination and biodiversity. Each year, they embark on an epic migration from Canada to Mexico, a journey that faces increasing threats from habitat loss, pesticide use, and climate change. Monarchs on the Mountain highlights the importance of protecting these butterflies and their migration routes, encouraging local involvement in conservation efforts.

As one of nature’s most iconic migrators, monarch butterflies serve as ambassadors for broader ecological health. By protecting their habitats—rich with native plants like milkweed and nectar sources—communities support not only monarchs but a wide range of other pollinators and wildlife.

What’s Happening at Monarchs on the Mountain?

Held at the scenic Chandler Park, this year’s Monarchs on the Mountain promises an immersive and educational experience for all ages. Some of the exciting activities you can look forward to include:

– Monarch Biology Workshops:

Experts will guide participants through the fascinating lifecycle of monarch butterflies, discussing their biology, migration, and the environmental challenges they face.

– Butterfly Tagging Demonstrations: Tagging monarchs is a vital part of research and conservation efforts. Join our team to learn about this process and witness the tagging of butterflies, which helps track their migratory paths.

– Native Pollinator Gardens: Explore the pollinator-friendly gardens at Chandler Park, where you can learn about the native plants that attract monarchs and how to create your own butterfly haven.

– Family Activities: From butterfly-themed crafts to face painting and nature hikes, there’s something for the whole family to enjoy.

– Conservation Talks: Local environmental advocates will share their knowledge and strategies for protecting monarch habitats in urban areas, encouraging everyone to take small, impactful actions.

How You Can Help

Monarchs on the Mountain isn’t just a one-day event; it’s a movement focused on ongoing monarch and pollinator conservation. Whether you’re an experienced gardener or just starting to learn about monarchs, there are several ways you can contribute:

– Plant Native Milkweed: Monarchs rely on milkweed to lay their eggs, and it’s essential for their survival. Planting native species of milkweed in your garden helps support the monarch population.

– Reduce Pesticide Use: Pesticides are harmful to monarchs and other pollinators. Opt for natural pest control methods to create a safer environment for these creatures.

– Spread Awareness: Use your voice! Share information about the monarch’s plight with friends, family, and on social media to help raise awareness and inspire action.

Growing Our Movement

This year, our goal is to continue building the Monarchs on the Mountain community. We’re working to grow our social media presence and reach 1,000 followers before the event. By spreading the word and encouraging others to join, we can create a ripple effect of awareness and support for monarch conservation.

The monarch migration is a reminder of the delicate balance of nature and our role in preserving it. Join us at Chandler Park for Monarchs on the Mountain and become part of a growing movement dedicated to ensuring that future generations can enjoy the sight of these beautiful butterflies soaring through the sky.

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Be sure to follow Monarchs on the Mountain on social media for event updates, pollinator garden tips, and ways to get involved in monarch conservation. We can’t wait to see you at Chandler Park for another inspiring year!

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