Blog Archives

Visit the Irvine Ranch Natural Landmarks by Moonlight

11/26/2014

Take advantage of monthly full moon activities and experience natural surroundings in a way you might not have experienced them before.

If you want to experience one of your favorite canyons in a new way, or want to hear coyotes howling to each other while on the prowl, then grab your sturdy shoes, warm clothing and a flashlight and sign up for one of the popular upcoming full moon activities. The lunar phase known as a “full moon” occurs when the moon is on the opposite side of the Earth from the sun. This is when the moon reflects the most light towards Earth—naturally illuminating beautiful landscapes on the Irvine Ranch Natural Landmarks.

For Thanksgiving, How Will You Thank the Outdoors?

11/20/2014

Palmer's Goldenbush seed being harvested on the Native Seed Farm

If you enjoy the Irvine Ranch Natural Landmarks, volunteering at the Native Seed Farm is the perfect way to say “thanks” to the land.

Thanksgiving time signals the end of the harvest season at the Irvine Ranch Conservancy Native Seed Farm. Seeds gathered there support habitat restoration projects across all of the Irvine Ranch Natural Landmarks. With this seed, habitat restoration is easier and more cost-efficient -- benefiting the land, the wildlife and your enjoyment of local open space.

The best part is, it’s easy for you to help support this critical part of ongoing habitat health. Conservancy staff lead public volunteer activities at the farm on Wednesday and Saturday mornings. So, during Thanksgiving week, you have two opportunities to say “thanks” to the Irvine Ranch Natural Landmarks. Volunteers at the Native Seed Farm next week will help collect seeds from California goldenrod (Solidago californica), Palmer’s goldenbush (Ericameria palmerii), California mugwhort (Artemisia douglasiana) and wild tarragon (Artemisia dracunculus).

Learn New Outdoor Skills with Hikes for the Whole Family

11/13/2014

Learn about the geology and ecology that make the Irvine Ranch Natural Landmarks so valuable and unique.

As fall begins to change into winter don’t miss the opportunity to explore the changing landscape of the Irvine Ranch Natural Landmarks with hikes geared toward every age and ability level. With a seemingly endless hot season wrapping up, take advantage of great hiking weather as you experience the beautiful geological features and wildlife found in your own backyard.

Exploring Historic Bommer Canyon

11/7/2014

Some trails in this former ranch area were once walked by cattle and cowboys.

Bommer Canyon in the City of Irvine’s Open Space Preserve is rich in both history and natural beauty. Up until 1998, this permanently-preserved open space had cattle grazing in Bommer Meadow and round-ups taking place just beyond Cattle Camp. Now hikers and bikers have replaced cattle and cowboys, but historic structures and equipment can still be seen from the trails.

The name Bommer Canyon first appeared on Orange County maps in the 1940s, according to Phil Brigandi’s definitive name guide, Orange County Place Names A to Z. Brigandi says that the name origin of this former cattle ranch is not quite clear, but may have come from “a corruption of ‘bummer’ – cowboy slang for a calf that lost its mother.” Whatever the origin, the name Bommer Canyon is now synonymous with the shady Cattle Camp events area, winding trails through rocky outcrops, and family-friendly meadow trails.

Visit the Irvine Ranch Natural Landmarks by Moonlight

For Thanksgiving, How Will You Thank the Outdoors?

Learn New Outdoor Skills with Hikes for the Whole Family

Exploring Historic Bommer Canyon

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