
Thanks in large part to our dedicated volunteers we are able to enjoy the Irvine Ranch Natural Landmarks and retreat to its mountains, renew ourselves on its trails and learn from its geological formations, animals and wildlife. We are always grateful for our volunteers, but even more so as we think of all their efforts throughout the year that help in ways big and small to ensure our rich biodiversity is protected and nurtured for years to come. These efforts include removing invasive non-native plants and harvesting native wildflower seeds that grow into plants like California Buckwheat and Sagebrush that form the foundation for a healthy coastal sage scrub ecosystem.
In light of recent news, we’d like to share our appreciation for volunteers in our Fire Watch Program. These volunteers keep a vigilant watch during red-flag weather events, acting as visual deterrents and as early detectors in high-risk areas. If you are interested in participating in this valuable program, call 714-508-4700 or email firewatch@irconservancy.org.
To have unspoiled open space in the midst of our urban landscape is one of the greatest treasures. We are thankful to hike, explore, marvel at and learn from our great outdoors and for all the people who help to preserve our natural treasures. To appreciate the great outdoors or to volunteer your time to help keep and protect our Landmarks, sign up for one of the events below.
- Wilderness Access Day: Bommer Canyon on Saturday, November 17, from 8 a.m.-2 p.m. Explore the southern portion of Irvine’s Open Space Preserve. The entire trail network for this area will be available for biking and hiking during the designated time, including single-tracks in Shady and Bommer Canyon usually reserved for guided tours only.
- 3rd Sunday Restoration Day: Peters Canyon Regional Park on Sunday, November 18 from 7:30-10:30 a.m. Contribute to the restoration of native habitat by removing non-native invasive plant species. This event is part of our Stewardship activity series. Appropriate attire, sunscreen, drinks, and snacks are required.
- It’s Harvest Time! Collect Wildflower Seeds at the Native Seed Farm on Wednesday, November 21 from 8:30 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. Harvest seed that our Ecologists have carefully selected to provide animal habitat within our IRC Landmarks and help to act as a natural buffer to floods and wildfires.
Many of our activities allow you to experience the great outdoors while helping to care for our natural resources. Although many of these activities are not demanding, you can use our coded system to determine the right level of physical effort and skill involved (1 is the easiest; 5 is the most difficult). Most activities are free with required registration as long as you sign up by 4 p.m. the day prior to the event. To find out about more ways to help preserve, protect and appreciate our Natural Landmarks, visit LetsGoOutside.org for more information.