JULY FEATURES Garter Snakes.

Garter snakes are exceptional swimmers and use water for both
foraging and protection. They feed primarily on fish and
amphibians. These “water snakes” are often considered an
indicator of healthy aquatic and riparian systems. (Artwork by 6th grade student Landry Chrastina.)

If you live anywhere in North America, chances are you’ve seen a garter snake slithering past. For many, such a sight might cause a flinch or scream or, for a die hard and curious few, the need to get closer. If you’re in the latter category, be careful. While garters are relatively harmless, if you pick one up, it may try to defend itself with a bite — a relatively harmless bite, but a nip nonetheless. It will also struggle and emit a foul smell from its anal gland.

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The Living with the Methow Calendar is available each year at Methow Arts and numerous location. These are free to the public with funding and support is provided by Washington Department of Ecology and Bonneville Environmental Foundation. Additional support from Methow Salmon Recovery Foundation, MRC partners, Bureau of Reclamation, the Methow Valley School District, Washington State Arts Commission, the National Endowment for the Arts, the Community Foundation of North Central Washington, Methow Valley Fund, PSFA, Icicle Fund, and generous members of Methow Arts.

Find out more about

CLICK HERE to learn, engage and explore places along the rivers in the
Methow Valley. Find artwork, walk trails, discover learning activities, wildlife, history and fish habitat. Find sculpture, poetry, site-specific art installations and more; and learn about the rivers and waterways that make up the Methow watershed.

The Methow River Collaborative is a group of organizations working together to build awareness for improving water quality and salmon recovery actions in the Methow Valley watershed.