Whidbey 101: Living on an Island

After many years, Whidbey 101 is back! The focus this year is on resilient living.

Living on an island is different.  We have ferries, rural roads, deer, private septic systems and wells, an abundance of trails and other outdoor opportunities, different recycling rules, and fewer services and shopping options.  We have community.  Although sometimes inconvenient, these things all make our island what it is and are why most of us moved here in the first place.  Learn how to live life to the fullest here on Whidbey Island.

If you live on Whidbey, whether you just moved here or you have been here for a generation or more, this free event will help you. Find out about the best trails, how to live with a septic system and what programs are available for seniors. Learn about the free bus system, how to manage yard waste and recyclables, prepare for emergencies, prune an orchard, start a garden, or landscape for wildlife. Volunteer to help clean beaches, maintain trails, greet park visitors. Sign up for educational programs, or get expert advice on forest or pasture management, all in the Freeland Trinity Lutheran Hall. Bring your questions and meet your neighbors.

Demonstrations and Presentations

  • Demonstrate how-to’s
  • Community partners share their expertise
  • Parking Lot demonstrations of emergency vehicles, electric vehicles, and a transit bus

Talks and Instructional Tables

Topics Include:

  • Public Health and Safety
  • Emergency Preparedness
  • Community and Volunteering
  • Natural Resource Management
  • Wellness and Healthy Living
  • Stewardship of Resources
  • Educating New and Present Islanders

Map image of Trinity Lutheran Fellowship Hall.

Trinity Lutheran Fellowship Hall

loren helping out at Camano 101

18341 State Rt. 525, Freeland

Booths will be set up for experts to share their advice and to answer any questions you may have.

Whidbey 101 Sponsors

"Island Transit" logo

The mission of Island Transit is to provide safe, accessible, convenient, and friendly public transportation services that enhance our Island quality of life.

"Sound Water Stewards" logo.

Sound Water Stewards are trained volunteers working in and around Island County for a healthy, sustainable marine environment through education, science, and stewardship (our mission).

We are a community of like-minded people who care deeply for our natural environment, and enjoy learning together and socially with one another to celebrate what we have accomplished while continuing to learn how to be better stewards.

"Island County Marine Resources Committee" logo.

Island County Marine Resources Committee (MRC) is an advisory body to county government established in 1999 and comprised of many community volunteers who represent diverse interests and industries, with the common goal to protect and restore marine resources in the Puget Sound area through scientific monitoring, restoration projects, and community education.

"Whidbey Island Conservation District" logo.

We inspire voluntary conservation practices for the benefit of present and future Whidbey Islanders.