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Power Down and Head Outdoors During National Screen-Free Week

4/27/2017

 
PictureVolunteers get ready to harvest seeds at the Native Seed Farm.
Visit the Irvine Ranch Natural Landmarks in celebration of National Screen-Free Week to connect with nature and enjoy fresh air and exercise. 

National Screen-Free Week kicks off on May 1, and the seven-day celebration encourages people to put down their devices and take time to enjoy the great outdoors. The Irvine Ranch Natural Landmarks are home to a variety of programs, welcoming the community to explore the unique geology and diverse range of flora and fauna found on the lands. Register for a free activity on the Landmarks to enjoy fresh air and sweeping views, from the mountains to the sea.  
 
The Irvine Ranch Natural Landmarks are found near densely populated areas, making them an oasis of nature amidst an urban landscape. Hundreds of species of plants and animals live on the open spaces, including eagles, badgers, mountain lions, rare species of birds and trees, and a variety of reptiles and amphibians.Screen-Free Week is the perfect opportunity to discover the wilderness in your own backyard, and explore permanently protected and rare natural habitats.

“People often drive by the Landmarks, but don’t realize they can register for a free program on the open spaces,” Irvine Ranch Conservancy Deputy Director Dave Raetz said. “We offer many activities to the public that are suitable for a wide range of age groups, from stewardship programs to fitness hikes to more kid-friendly programs. National Screen-Free Week gives people a reason to power down their devices and take advantage of the local lands. We hope a visit to the Irvine Ranch Natural Landmarks sparks a life-long love of the local habitat.”
 
A visit to the Landmarks is a great way to break away from the digital entertainment that tends to fill up our time. Opportunities to explore the great outdoors, get some exercise, and care for the local habitat are at your fingertips. Click on programs below to register for a free activity in celebration of National Screen-Free Week.  
 
  • Celebrate Cultures in Nature: Walpurgis Night on Mon., 5/1 begins at 6:30 p.m. in OC Parks Black Star Canyon Wilderness Park. Nature lovers ages 6 and older are welcome to kick off National Screen Free Week by celebrating Walpurgis Night, a northern European celebration of spring.  
  • Equestrian Ride in Weir Canyon welcomes equestrians to bring their own horse and travel through OC Parks’ Weir Canyon Nature Preserve on a six-mile ride. This reoccurring program begins at 11 a.m., register for rides in May on 5/1, 5/5, 5/10, and 5/13.
  • It’s Harvest Time! Collect Wildflower Seeds at the Native Seed Farm in the City of Irvine is a reoccurring program that is vital part of the Landmarks! Join volunteers ages 8 and older as they harvest seeds to be replanted on the local lands. Register for programs in May on 5/3, 5/6, 5/10, 5/17, 5/20, 5/24, and 5/31.
  • Mid Week Hike: Quail Hill begins at 8 a.m. every Wednesday in the City of Irvine’s Quail Hill. This distance hike travels 10-12 miles through beautiful scenery and offers quiet time in Irvine’s picturesque Southern Preserve.  
  • Tai Chi in the Canyon kicks off at 9 a.m. every Monday in OC Parks’ Black Star Canyon Wilderness Park. Enjoy soothing and non-stressful exercise in the beautiful setting of Baker Canyon.

Visit the Irvine Ranch Natural Landmarks during National Screen-Free Week and all throughout the year. All activities are free with required pre-registration, which closes at 4 p.m. the day prior to each event. Remember to pack a snack, water, and wear appropriate clothing and sunscreen. Children must be accompanied by a parent or adult guardian, age requirements for programs vary. For more details on programs on the Irvine Ranch Natural Landmarks visit LetsGoOutside.org/activities.
Picture
Hikers enjoy the spring splendor in OC Parks' Irvine Ranch Open Space Preserve. Photo by Steve Lopushinksy of Turville Photography.

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    Welcome to the Irvine Ranch Conservancy "News from the Field" blog. These articles are written by Conservancy staff about activities and projects in and near the Irvine Ranch Natural Landmarks. 

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Irvine Ranch Conservancy  •  4727 Portola Pkwy. Irvine, CA 92620  •  714-508-4757  •  info@irconservancy.org

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  • Home
    • Landmarks Blog
  • What We Do
    • Programs >
      • Habitat Restoration and Enhancement
      • Wildfire Prevention
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      • Volunteer Management
    • Where We Work
    • About Us >
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      • Contact Us
  • Volunteer
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