Urban native gardens are certainly not a panacea to global environmental challenges, but they do make a difference locally, and anyone — even beginners with “black thumbs,” renters with only a small balcony and some pots, and homeowners with itty bitty yards — can support local wildlife by planting a native garden.

Looking for the best views in Central Oregon? Catch them from a kayak or raft. The Crooked, Deschutes, and Metolius Rivers are all within a short drive for Central Oregon residents, offering whitewater adventures year-round with a range of difficulty levels.

With three prime birding locations near Terrebonne — the Crooked River Wetlands, Smith Rock State Park, and Borden Beck Wildlife Preserve — all within 25 miles, a birder can put together a rewarding excursion.

Located on a high plateau in Cove Palisades State Park, the Tam-a-láu Trail is a great place to appreciate birds, blooms, and awe-inspiring geology.

Bandit Springs Sno-Park provides access to the most diverse network of cross-country ski and snowshoe trails on the Ochoco National Forest. With trail ratings ranging from easy to most Difficult, skiers of any skill level will have options here.

Keep The Haystack in mind for a sunny, mild winter day. This 20-mile gravel bike ride, described in detail on the Dirty Freehub website, travels from Peter Skene Ogden State Scenic Viewpoint, up to Haystack Reservoir, and down through the Crooked River National Grasslands.

Signing up for a CSA is a great way to keep eating seasonally this winter while also providing local farmers with the resources needed to sustain our region’s food system.

The Museum at Warm Springs exists to preserve the culture, history and traditions of the three tribes — Warm Springs, Wasco and Northern Paiute — which comprise The Confederated Tribes of Warm Springs. It is located near just off Highway 26 in Warm Springs, Oregon.