Landmarks Blog

Irvine Ranch Conservancy Staff Spotlight: Robert Freese, Ph.D., Senior Project Manager

10/9/2019

Innovation in science, research and monitoring is central to Irvine Ranch Conservancy’s commitment to long-term land stewardship and restoration. The Conservancy collaborates with partners on the land to implement large-scale habitat restoration, remove invasive plant and animal species, monitor sensitive natural resources, and conduct scientific research to improve management over time.

As a Senior Project Manager for Irvine Ranch Conservancy, Robert Freese is an integral part of the short- and long-term planning of restoration efforts on the Landmarks. With a background in restoration planning, design, monitoring, and adaptive management, Robert oversees the restoration of upland and riparian habitats throughout the open space.

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Be Wildfire-Ready This Fall with Wildfire Preparedness Tips from Irvine Ranch Conservancy

10/4/2019

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Orange County Fire Watch volunteers

As the fall season approaches and cooler temperatures set in, the Irvine Ranch Natural Landmarks are the perfect destination for nature lovers. In Southern California, the seasonal change also brings increased risk of wildfire throughout the region, including the 40,000 acres of open space that make up Irvine Ranch.

With the lack of rainfall over the summer months, much of the open space vegetation has become extremely dry and susceptible to fire. Dry and hot Santa Ana winds during the fall months contribute to increased wildfire risk. Wildfires pose a serious threat in Orange County, making it essential for residents to help prevent wildfires from starting and stay prepared in case a wildfire occurs in their area.

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Landmark Focus: Limestone Canyon Nature Preserve

9/26/2019

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'The Sinks' at Limestone Canyon

One of the most iconic locations within the Irvine Ranch Natural Landmarks, Limestone Canyon never ceases to amaze. Located between the rugged Santa Ana Mountains and central Orange County, Limestone Canyon is home to a variety of plants, animals, and unique geological features. Its oak filled valleys and year-round springs made it a popular place for Native Americans and early European settlers to hunt and forage for supplies. Later, it became an important grazing area for ranchers in the region. Today, Limestone Canyon remains one of the most pristine wilderness areas in the county and houses a number of habitat restoration projects to further ensure it biological viability. Over 20 miles of trails crisscross Limestone Canyon, providing hiking, riding, and equestrian opportunities for all levels and interests. You can sign up to participate in a number of activities in Limestone Canyon on LetsGoOutside.org, including Wilderness Access Days. Be sure to check out all this area has to offer on your next adventure, including:

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Landmark Focus: Living Off the Land

9/26/2019

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Acorns

The natural land in Orange County has been home to humans for thousands of years. You might have wondered from time to time how people survived – what they ate, where they sheltered, how they dealt with heat and drought. Indigenous groups like the Tongva lived in the area for many years before Spanish explorers colonized the area. These groups moved with the seasons and subsisted on the lands, using tried-and-tested techniques to prepare food you might not have known was edible.

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Wildlife Spotlight: Chaparral Yucca

9/26/2019

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Chaparral Yucca

Hesperoyucca whipplei, or Chaparral yucca, is an unmissable sight on the Irvine Ranch Natural Landmarks. When flowering, it looks something like a giant Dr. Seuss character, with shaggy cascades of white, yellow-green or purple hair springing more than mid-way up its stalk. You might know Chaparral yucca by any of its common names, such as Spanish bayonet, Quixote yucca, or Our Lord’s candle. Yucca plants typically live a few years before they flower and die, but the flowering growth can happen in a short time span: the flower part of the plant can grow as tall as 15 feet in a matter of weeks.

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Irvine Ranch Conservancy Staff Spotlight: Robert Freese, Ph.D., Senior Project Manager

Be Wildfire-Ready This Fall with Wildfire Preparedness Tips from Irvine Ranch Conservancy

Landmark Focus: Limestone Canyon Nature Preserve

Landmark Focus: Living Off the Land

Wildlife Spotlight: Chaparral Yucca

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