
To further the goal of long-term habitat health, organizations such as Irvine Ranch Conservancy organize monthly volunteer stewardship opportunities to allow members of the community to give their time in the same location over time. This rewarding habit allows volunteers to see the fruits of their efforts every time the revisit the canyon they love. The difficulty level of each activity varies, but all tools and training are provided. There are a few of these monthly activities coming up this week, and you can click here to see all of the volunteer stewardship opportunities that happen monthly.
In addition to acres of grass park space, did you know that Irvine Regional Park also has extensive natural trails? This is the oldest park in the OC Parks county park system, and a dedicated community of volunteers helps to keep the trails and nature garden ready for visitors. During the “2nd Saturday Trail Restoration Day,” volunteers can join park staff to work along the trails at this historic Orange County park. The next community volunteer day is on Saturday, September 12.
Also on Saturday is the monthly “Adopt a Canyon – Agua Chinon Stewardship” in Limestone Canyon Nature Preserve. If you’ve walked or biked along the Agua Chinon trail to The Sinks, you’ve probably noticed the active restoration project in the riparian areas at the bottom of this watershed. The volunteer work includes removing invasive weeds that threaten the native plants, trees and shrubs. Ages 14 and over are welcome to participate in this unique restoration project.
If you’re interested in adopting a canyon, click here to view all of the upcoming monthly stewardship activities. Additional opportunities include “Be a Friend to the Cactus Wren,” “3rd Sundays Restoration Day at Peters Canyon Regional Park,” and “First Friday Habitat Restoration in Buck Gully.”
There are plenty of ways to give back to the Irvine Ranch Natural Landmarks, and with repeating monthly activities, you can find the most convenient path to adopting your favorite canyon.