Blog Archives

Discover the 7 Wonders of the Irvine Ranch Natural Landmarks

11/21/2017

Buck Gully Reserve, Newport Beach

Irvine Ranch Conservancy invites the community to discover the seven wonders of the Irvine Ranch Natural Landmarks that span The Sinks, Loma Ridge, Red Rocks, Three Sisters Rock, The Native Seed Farm, Buck Gully Reserve, and the Back Bay. The seven wonders are found in OC Parks, the City of Irvine, and the City of Newport Beach, and nature lovers have a chance to win a canvas of their favorite wonder by participating in a social media contest.

“We’re thrilled to be celebrating the seven wonders of the Landmarks,” commented Dave Raetz, Deputy Director of Irvine Ranch Conservancy. “We’re encouraging nature lovers to explore the wonders by registering for a program on the open spaces, and to follow the Irvine Ranch Natural Landmarks on social media for a chance to win a beautiful canvas of their favorite wonder.”

Spot Migratory Birds on the Irvine Ranch Natural Landmarks

11/17/2017

A Common Yellowthroat

Those aren’t turkeys on the Landmarks! Migratory birds are traveling south for the winter, register for a birding program to catch a glimpse of feathered friends on the open spaces.

Orange County residents can spot the changing seasons when temperatures start to drop and leaves change color, but there are more traces of fall that often go unnoticed – birds! Many regions in the United States begin collecting blankets of snow this time of year, driving some species to hibernate. However, a variety of bird species travel south to warmer weather, bringing our local habitat to life in the winter season. This gives nature lovers the perfect opportunity to spot migratory birds during activities on the Irvine Ranch Natural Landmarks.

Volunteers on the Irvine Ranch Natural Landmarks are continuously working to restore the lands throughout the open spaces, planting native plant life and removing invasive species – and ultimately making the Landmarks a more attractive place for migratory birds and an amazing location for birding!

Orange County Fire Watch Program Initiates Largest Deployment in 3 Years

11/9/2017

Check out our Q&A with Orange County Fire Watch Program Coordinator, Tony Pointer for updates and info on fire prevention across the lands.

Southern California is home to a Mediterranean climate that produces warm temperatures nearly year-round. While most Orange County residents enjoy the sunny weather, fire risk is a reality on the Irvine Ranch Natural Landmarks and throughout the county. The recent Canyon Fires have been contained, and in the wake of more high winds, low humidity, dry air and charred vegetation, it’s extremely important to stay vigilant in terms of fire prevention.

Orange County Fire Watch recently initiated the largest Fire Watch deployment in three years that strategically placed volunteers in fire-prone locations from the mountains to the sea. Tony Pointer, Orange County Fire Watch Program Coordinator, oversaw the impactful efforts, which included three different deployments in October, and deployed over 130 Fire Watch volunteers. Keep reading to learn why the deployments occurred, what weather zones were affected, and how Fire Watch continues to be the eyes and ears of the Landmarks.

Rise and Shine on the Irvine Ranch Natural Landmarks

11/3/2017

Hikers enjoy an early morning stroll on Hicks Haul Road in Limestone Canyon Nature Preserve.

Don't let Daylight Savings Time keep you indoors, explore the lands during morning programs for fresh air and exercise on the Landmarks

The clocks turn back on Sunday, November 5, but there's still plenty of time to explore the Irvine Ranch Natural Landmarks! The Landmarks are home to many self-guided trails and activities across the open spaces, and with the end of daylight savings time comes earlier mornings that give trail enthusiasts more time to start their day in the great outdoors. Rise and shine on the Landmarks this fall and throughout the year by registering for a morning program.

“The Landmarks are home to many morning fitness, recreational, and interpretive programs that allow the community to start their day with fresh air, sweeping views, and exercise” commented Dave Raetz, Irvine Ranch Conservancy Deputy Director. “Whether visitors are looking to kick off their day with an invigorating 8-mile hike through Limestone Canyon Nature Preserve or ease into the day with a morning of Tai Chi in Black Star Canyon Wilderness Park, there’s a wide variety of programs to suit all ages and interests on the Landmarks.”

Discover the 7 Wonders of the Irvine Ranch Natural Landmarks

Spot Migratory Birds on the Irvine Ranch Natural Landmarks

Orange County Fire Watch Program Initiates Largest Deployment in 3 Years

Rise and Shine on the Irvine Ranch Natural Landmarks

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