Blog Archives

Tips for Avoiding Heat-Related Illnesses During Outdoor Activities

5/25/2022

Hiker resting in the shade on a sunny day.

The warm summer months in southern California may deter nature lovers from exploring the Irvine Ranch Natural Landmarks, but there are still plenty of opportunities to have an outdoor adventure during the summertime. Before heading out on the trails on a hot day, it’s important to educate yourself about heat safety and the simple steps that can be taken to avoid heat-related illnesses.

Heat-related illnesses happen when a person’s body temperature rises and becomes unable to cool itself down through sweating. As we perspire, we lose body fluids that need to be replenished. The best way to enjoy summer outdoor activities is to properly prepare for the heat and know the warning signs of heat exhaustion and heat stroke.

Snakes Awaken from Seasonal Brumation on the Irvine Ranch Natural Landmarks

5/19/2022

There are a variety of different animals that make the Irvine Ranch Natural Landmarks their home, including snake species that play an important role in our ecosystem. With the weather warming up, snakes are coming out of their annual brumation, a type of hibernation that slows down their metabolism, making snakes lethargic and largely inactive.

With the end of the winter season, snakes are becoming increasingly active on trails and open spaces on the Landmarks, so it’s important to understand how to coexist with these reptiles while still enjoying your time outdoors.

Invasive Plant Profile: North African Knapweed

5/12/2022

North African Knapweed. Photo courtesy of Ron Vanderhoff.

A newly introduced invasive plant species, the North African Knapweed, has been discovered in parts of California, including Orange County and the Irvine Ranch Natural Landmarks. This annual species belongs to the genus Centaurea in the sunflower family (Asteraceae) and originates from southwestern Europe and northern Africa.

Identifiable by its small pink-purple flowers and lobed leaves, the North African Knapweed is usually found in grasslands and disperses its seeds by wind. Flowering from April to December, this invasive species can degrade habitat for wildlife, exacerbate wildfire risks, and reduce overall biodiversity of Orange County’s native wildlands.

Irvine Ranch Conservancy Volunteers Recognized at the 2022 Spirit of Volunteerism Awards

5/5/2022

IRC Volunteers assist the public during Limestone Canyon Wilderness Access Day

On Thursday, April 28, OneOC held the 46th Spirit of Volunteerism Awards, where volunteers across Orange County are recognized for going above and beyond during their volunteer time. This year, the annual event was held in person at the Grove of Anaheim and live steamed for those who wanted to enjoy the celebration virtually.

Irvine Ranch Conservancy was proud to honor five of its volunteers recognized in the Environment & Sustainability category for their exemplary efforts in support of the Conservancy and the Irvine Ranch Natural Landmarks. These volunteers have contributed countless hours to the land by leading public activities, participating in habitat restoration work and supporting IRC staff on special projects.

Tips for Avoiding Heat-Related Illnesses During Outdoor Activities

Snakes Awaken from Seasonal Brumation on the Irvine Ranch Natural Landmarks

Invasive Plant Profile: North African Knapweed

Irvine Ranch Conservancy Volunteers Recognized at the 2022 Spirit of Volunteerism Awards

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