Upcoming Events List

	New Year's Day Hike Friday, JAN 1, 2016 9:00 AM SOLANO LAND TRUST — Rockville Trails Preserve The New Year is a powerful symbol in our lives—a time of reflection, promise, and renewal. Dedicate the first day of January to your health and well-being by joining us on this winter's day hike. Sweeping views of Suisun and Green Valleys from the hilltops will recharge your spirit! Participants of all ages are welcome but they must be prepared for the following: hiking 4-6 miles at a moderate pace up and down rugged, steep and slippery hills through the oak woodlands and grasslands. Register online. For additional questions, call Cathy at 707-745-1913. Rain cancels. Call if the weather is uncertain. Leader: Cathy Registration is required. Location: Fairfield DIRECTIONS: Meet promptly at the big red "Ice House" building on Suisun Valley Ct, near the intersection of Rockville Rd and Suisun Valley Rd, Fairfield, CA. Be ready to immediately carpool or caravan from there to the trailhead.

	2nd Annual Solano Resolution 5K Run & 1-mile Walk Friday, JAN 1, 2016 11:00 AM LUCKY RABBIT EVENTS — Solano Community College and Linear Park Trail Keep the Party Going! Located in the county seat of Fairfield, known as the home of Jelly Belly Candy Company and the Anheuser-Busch Brewery, is the 2nd Annual Solano Resolution 5K Run & 1-mile Walk. The event is located in the Green Valley area on the beautiful campus of Solano Community College and the nearby Linear Park Trail. Wear your wackiest outfit and kick off the New Year as a perfect way to start your fitness goals. Post-race Expo and refreshments will welcome you back at the finish line. 5K run or walk -- the flat, timed, paved-path course, is perfect for all levels of fitness. Wear your New Year's outfit! 1-mile Walk -- flat, non-timed, paved-path course that's a perfect way to celebrate a leisurely experience. New Year's Snooze -- Plan on being out a bit late New Year's Eve? Hit the snooze button but still support the event! We'll send you your custom t-shirt and race bib if registered by December 21. Enjoy the experience and cheer on your friends and family at the free post-race festival! To register, click here. Race Day Packet Pickup and Late Registration: 8:00am to 10:45am; race begins at 11:00am. Location: 4000 Suisun Valley Rd Fairfield

	6th Annual Mare Island Aglow Holiday Lighted Trail Walk Friday, JAN 1, 2016 5:00 PM MARE ISLAND HERITAGE TRUST — Mare Island Shoreline Heritage Preserve Every weekend evening Friday–Sunday, 5:00pm-8:00pm. Rain or shine! Walk the 1-mile paved trail with holiday lighting to the Naval Cemetery, Rowser Garden, and the Spirit Ship. Music, refreshments, gift items, and a campfire at the Visitors Center, at the south end of Railroad Ave. Free but donations appreciated. Location: 167 O’Hara Ct Mare Island Vallejo DIRECTIONS: Preserve Visitor Center, Building A-167, at the end of Railroad Ave (1595 Railroad Ave)

	Solano County Christmas Bird Count for Kids Saturday, JAN 2, 2016 8:30 AM SOLANO LAND TRUST — Rush Ranch Join us for a morning of kid-friendly citizen science! Families will start by attending a binocular boot camp program. Breaking into small groups, we'll survey birds on different areas of Rush Ranch Afterwards, groups will meet together to share our findings and enter them into the citizen science website eBird. This experience is especially designed for kids and teens, ages 7-5, and their families. Everyone under 18 must be accompanied by an adult. Hikes will be slow-paced and on easy terrain. Please dress appropriately for winter weather, including walking on trails that may be wet or muddy and standing still in windy conditions. In order to protect wildlife, cattle, and rare plants—and for your pet's safety—dogs are not allowed on these trails. Maintain a safe distance from cattle and wildlife, and be aware that this is tick and wild pig country. Bring a backpack with plenty of water and snacks, wear boots or sturdy closed-toe shoes with good grip, protection from the elements (sun, wind, fog, rain), and layered clothes that can get dirty. Bring binoculars if you have them, but if you don't, we'll some you can borrow. Meet at the Rush Ranch Nature Center. This event takes place rain or shine! Space is limited. RSVP to Wendy or call her at 925-963-4871. Location: 3521 Grizzly Island Road Suisun City DIRECTIONS: From Hwy 12 in Suisun City, take Grizzly Island Road south approximately 2 miles. Entrance/driveway will be on the right.

	Hike at King-Swett Ranches Saturday, JAN 2, 2016 9:00 AM SOLANO LAND TRUST — King-Swett Ranches Come explore the hills between Fairfield, Benicia, and Vallejo! You'll be led by Jim Walsh and/or James Chang, both expert Solano Land Trust guides who know this area—known as the King-Swett Ranches—inside out. They'll share insights about the birds and other wildlife that call this area home, and give you a great workout! Take advantage of this special opportunity if you can because the King-Swett Ranches are otherwise closed. Bring: a backpack with plenty of water and snacks, boots or sturdy closed-toe shoes with tread for rugged, steep, and slippery off-trail terrain, long, sturdy pants and layered clothes that you don't mind getting dirty, protection from the elements (sun, wind, fog, rain). Recommended: binoculars, camera, bug repellent, hiking sticks, gaiters. Participants of all ages are welcome, but they must be prepared: a strenuous pace hiking 4-6 miles off-trail, up and down rugged, steep, and slippery hills that are full of sticky seeds, thorny plants, and thistle. The King-Swett Ranches are working ranches—cattle are free range so they roam as they please. Very heavy rain cancels—call Jim at 916-870-4824 if the weather is uncertain. The hike is free; donations are appreciated. No reservations are necessary but an RSVP would be appreciated to Jim at 916-870-4824 or by email. Leader: Jim Walsh or James Chang Location: Vallejo DIRECTIONS: Meet Jim and/or James promptly at the Park-and-Ride lot where McGary Road, Hiddenbrooke Parkway, and American Canyon Road intersect (on the Hiddenbrooke side of the American Canyon/Hiddenbrooke Parkway exit, off Interstate 80). (Jim has a white "TruGreen" pickup truck). Be ready to carpool or caravan from there.

	Garden Volunteer Day Saturday, JAN 2, 2016 9:30 AM BENICIA STATE PARKS ASSOCIATION — Forrest Deaner Native Plant Botanic Garden We meet every Saturday from 9:30-11:30am in the Forrest Deaner Native Plant Botanic Garden located at the Benicia State Park Recreation Area for planting, weeding, and tending. Parking is free on Saturday Volunteer Days. Tell the Gate Attendant that you are going into the Park to work at the Garden. Location: I-780 at Columbus Parkway Benicia State Park Recreation Area Benicia

	6th Annual Mare Island Aglow Holiday Lighted Trail Walk Saturday, JAN 2, 2016 5:00 PM MARE ISLAND HERITAGE TRUST — Mare Island Shoreline Heritage Preserve Every weekend evening Friday–Sunday, 5:00pm-8:00pm. Rain or shine! Walk the 1-mile paved trail with holiday lighting to the Naval Cemetery, Rowser Garden, and the Spirit Ship. Music, refreshments, gift items, and a campfire at the Visitors Center, at the south end of Railroad Ave. Free but donations appreciated. Location: 167 O’Hara Ct Mare Island Vallejo DIRECTIONS: Preserve Visitor Center, Building A-167, at the end of Railroad Ave (1595 Railroad Ave)

	6th Annual Mare Island Aglow Holiday Lighted Trail Walk Sunday, JAN 3, 2016 5:00 PM MARE ISLAND HERITAGE TRUST — Mare Island Shoreline Heritage Preserve Every weekend evening Friday–Sunday, 5:00pm-8:00pm. Rain or shine! Walk the 1-mile paved trail with holiday lighting to the Naval Cemetery, Rowser Garden, and the Spirit Ship. Music, refreshments, gift items, and a campfire at the Visitors Center, at the south end of Railroad Ave. Free but donations appreciated. Location: 167 O’Hara Ct Mare Island Vallejo DIRECTIONS: Preserve Visitor Center, Building A-167, at the end of Railroad Ave (1595 Railroad Ave)

	Volunteer Opportunity: Citizen Science Friday Friday, JAN 8, 2016 8:30 AM SOLANO LAND TRUST — Solano Land Trust Properties Get involved in science on our lands! Solano Land Trust staff scientist Sue Wickham will teach you all you need to know. BRING: Water, snacks, sturdy gloves, pants, sturdy closed-toe shoes. Come prepared for variable weather (bring layered clothes you don't mind getting dirty, and protection from sun, wind, and fog). Optional: bug repellent, your favorite gardening tools, and binoculars to enjoy the birds! ADVANCE REGISTRATION REQUIRED: Sue at 707-432-0150 x 207 or by email no later than Dec 10. Leader: Sue Wickham Registration is required. DIRECTIONS: Provided upon RSVP.

	Coyote Club Saturday, JAN 9, 2016 9:00 AM GVRD — McIntyre Ranch Ages 4-14 -- The McIntyre Ranch is home to several different habitats, farm animals and an educational garden. Studies have found that children who spend time exploring nature are more focused and interested in school. Bring a snack, water and your curiosity! Cost: $5/class for residents, $6/class nonresident. Adults must register at no cost. Pre-registration is required at 395 Amador St. or online. For more information contact the Coordinator at 707-639-1325. Leader: Dee Davis Entrance Fee: $5 Registration is required. Location: Vallejo DIRECTIONS: McIntyre Ranch, located at the very end of St. John’s Mine Road, across from the Solano Community College Vallejo Center at 545 Columbus Parkway. Take St. John’s Mine Road and cross over the cattle crossing. Continue up the road and stay to the right to follow the road down to the barn. You are authorized to drive through this road for GVRD programs only.

	Volunteer Opportunity: Trail Crew Saturday, JAN 9, 2016 9:00 AM SOLANO LAND TRUST — Lynch Canyon Open Space Park Help us take care of Lynch Canyon's 1,000 plus acres. Projects include improving trails, fixing fences, weeding, and the like. Ages 12 and up are welcome—under 18 must be accompanied by an adult. WHAT TO BRING: a backpack with plenty of water and snacks, heavy work gloves, eye protection (e.g., sunglasses), boots or sturdy closed-toe shoes with tread for rough, steep, and slippery terrain, long, sturdy pants and layered clothes that you don't mind getting dirty, protection from sun, wind, fog. Meet promptly in the parking lot. RSVP by email or call at 707-580-6277 so he can bring enough tools. Ages 12 and up who are comfortable with this type of physical work are welcome—under 18 must be accompanied by an adult and must have a liability waiver signed by a parent or legal guardian. When you arrive, ask the leader for a free parking pass. If you RSVP, tools and free lunch are provided. Rain cancels. Call Ken if the weather is uncertain. Leader: Ken Poerner Location: 3100 Lynch Road Vallejo DIRECTIONS: From I-80 East, take the Hiddenbrooke Parkway exit and follow the Lynch Canyon signs. From I-80 West, take the Red Top Road exit and follow the Lynch Canyon signs.

	Garden Volunteer Day Saturday, JAN 9, 2016 9:30 AM BENICIA STATE PARKS ASSOCIATION — Forrest Deaner Native Plant Botanic Garden We meet every Saturday from 9:30-11:30am in the Forrest Deaner Native Plant Botanic Garden located at the Benicia State Park Recreation Area for planting, weeding, and tending. Parking is free on Saturday Volunteer Days. Tell the Gate Attendant that you are going into the Park to work at the Garden. Location: I-780 at Columbus Parkway Benicia State Park Recreation Area Benicia

	Eagles, Hawks & other Birds of Prey Hike Saturday, JAN 9, 2016 10:00 AM SOLANO LAND TRUST — Rush Ranch Join Larry Broderick’s birding bonanza at Rush Ranch to discover, observe and learn about eagles, hawks and other birds of prey. Previous sightings include golden eagles, Cooper’s hawks, ferruginous hawks, American kestrels, white tailed kites, red-tailed hawks, Northern harriers, and turkey vultures. COST: $10 per person (payable when registering). The presentation will take place indoors from 10am to approximately noon. Following a brief social break and time for a snack, Larry will lead a short but steep hike up Suisun Hill where participants may observe eagles, falcons and hawks and test their new identification skills. Suisun Hill Trail is about one mile of rugged, steep, and slippery terrain, full of sticky seeds and thorny plants. Expect rough, rocky, uneven ground. The preserve is a working ranch with free-range cattle. Maintain a safe distance from cattle and wildlife, and be aware that this is tick and wild pig country. Bring binoculars and a backpack with plenty of water and snacks and/or a bag lunch. Wear boots or sturdy closed-toe shoes with good tread, long, sturdy pants and layered clothes that you don't mind getting dirty, protection from the elements (sun, wind, fog and rain). Also recommended: Camera and hiking sticks. Optional: Bug repellent. Meet in the Rush Ranch Nature Center for the workshop. Rain may cancel. Call Larry at 707-791-0335 if the weather is uncertain. Space is limited. Pre-registration recommended online. Leader: Larry Broderick Entrance Fee: $10 Registration is required. Location: 3521 Grizzly Island Road Suisun City DIRECTIONS: From Hwy 12 in Suisun City, take Grizzly Island Road south approximately 2 miles. Entrance/driveway will be on the right.

	Garden Guys Saturday, JAN 9, 2016 10:00 AM GVRD — McIntyre Ranch Bring the family for activities and learn how the garden grows from seeds to fruits. Participants will share ideas on what to plant, will be allowed to harvest and take home the fruits from the garden. For more information contact the Coordinator at 648-4552. Cost: $10/class resident, $12/class nonresident. Pre-registration is required, and can be completed online. Leader: Dee Davis & Nicki Belinger Entrance Fee: $12 Registration is required. Location: Vallejo DIRECTIONS: McIntyre Ranch, located at the very end of St. John’s Mine Road, across from the Solano Community College Vallejo Center at 545 Columbus Parkway. Take St. John’s Mine Road and cross over the cattle crossing.

	Hummingbirds@Home Project & Beginning Bird Walk Saturday, JAN 16, 2016 9:00 AM NAPA SOLANO AUDUBON SOCIETY — Rush Ranch Learn about a Citizen Science project that is not only gathering information about hummingbirds, but focusing on the habitat upon which they rely. Participants of the workshop will receive a 'Hummingbirds at Home' kit, including wildflower seeds of native California flowers, materials for creating a hummingbird feeder from recycled materials, and more. The workshop begins at 9am, followed by a bird walk at Rush Ranch Open Space and Grizzly Island Wildlife Area at 9:30am until noon. Walks are appropriate for all ages (children must be accompanied by an adult). This walk requires some hiking up hills. Please bring binoculars if you have them and water. Meet at the Rush Ranch parking lot at 9:00am. For more information, contact Wendy. Location: 3521 Grizzly Island Road Suisun City DIRECTIONS: From Hwy 12 in Suisun City, take Grizzly Island Road south approximately 2 miles. Entrance/driveway will be on the right.

	Rockville Hills Regional Park Trail Crew Saturday, JAN 16, 2016 9:00 AM CITY OF FAIRFIELD — Rockville Hills Regional Park The Rockville Trail Crew volunteer work days are scheduled for the third Saturday of every month from 9-12noon, rain or shine! Trail Crew volunteers provide technical assistance with trail maintenance and construction activities on the trails. Trail Crew volunteer duties consist of clearing rocks, trees, brush and other debris from proposed trail routes; build/repair walk ways, bridges or other structures; grade/fill existing trail paths to ensure user safety; and attend all required meetings and training sessions. Volunteers should bring water, gloves and a tool if available. Volunteers should wear layered clothing and sturdy shoes. A snack and beverage provided for volunteers. Meet at the parking area. If you are not a regular volunteer, please RSVP to Ranger Teri, (707) 249-3613, or by email. Location: 2149 Rockville Rd Fairfield

	Watershed Restoration Saturday, JAN 16, 2016 9:00 AM VALLEJO WATERSHED ALLIANCE & SOLANO RESOURCE CONSERVATION DISTRICT — Blue Rock Springs Creek Corridor January is the perfect time to plant, as Mother Nature helps establish new growth. Please join the Vallejo Watershed Alliance and the Solano Resource Conservation District on Saturday, January 16 from 9 a.m. to noon. We’ll plant native grasses, shrubs, and trees. Park in the Hanns Park lot on Skyline just off Redwood Parkway. Follow the path (and signs) a short distance. We’ll bring water, refreshments, and tools. Wear sturdy shoes, clothes that can get dirty, hat, sunscreen, and gloves. Location: Redwood Pkwy & Skyline Dr Vallejo

	Garden Volunteer Day Saturday, JAN 16, 2016 9:30 AM BENICIA STATE PARKS ASSOCIATION — Forrest Deaner Native Plant Botanic Garden CANCELLED because of rain. Location: I-780 at Columbus Parkway Benicia State Park Recreation Area Benicia

	Garden Guys Saturday, JAN 16, 2016 10:00 AM GVRD — McIntyre Ranch Bring the family for activities and learn how the garden grows from seeds to fruits. Participants will share ideas on what to plant, will be allowed to harvest and take home the fruits from the garden. For more information contact the Coordinator at 648-4552. Cost: $10/class resident, $12/class nonresident. Pre-registration is required, and can be completed online. Leader: Dee Davis & Nicki Belinger Entrance Fee: $12 Registration is required. Location: Vallejo DIRECTIONS: McIntyre Ranch, located at the very end of St. John’s Mine Road, across from the Solano Community College Vallejo Center at 545 Columbus Parkway. Take St. John’s Mine Road and cross over the cattle crossing.

	Horse Day at McIntyre Ranch Saturday, JAN 16, 2016 10:00 AM GVRD — McIntyre Ranch For ages 8-17 -- Learn about the friendly horses and goats, and participate in their daily care. Wear sturdy work clothes and tough shoes because this is a "hand-on" experience. You will put a halter on a horse, learn to lead horses safely, brush them, clean their feet and clean their stalls. Everyone will have a chance to sit on a horse (helmet are required and provided, keep hairstyle simple for easy fit). Eat a good breakfast, bring water bottle and wear layers. For more information contact the Coordinator at 648-4552. Cost: $25/class resident, $30/class non-resident. Online registration is also available online. Leader: Jane Mitchell Entrance Fee: $25 Registration is required. Location: Vallejo DIRECTIONS: McIntyre Ranch, located at the very end of St. John’s Mine Road, across from the Solano Community College Vallejo Center at 545 Columbus Parkway. Take St. John’s Mine Road and cross over the cattle crossing. Continue up the road and stay to the right to follow the road down to the barn. You are authorized to drive through this road for GVRD programs only.

	Rush Ranch 'Get the Rush' Saturday, JAN 16, 2016 10:00 AM SOLANO LAND TRUST & RUSH RANCH EDUCATIONAL COUNCIL — Rush Ranch Get the Rush is a series of fun and free activities for the whole family, offered on the third Saturday of every month at Rush Ranch. All ages and mobility levels are welcome! This event is 100% volunteer-run and activities vary month-to-month. The blacksmith shop remains open for visitors! The wagons are in storage for the winter. Travel back in time by entering a traditional blacksmith shop in action (~10am-1pm). You might even have the opportunity to try blacksmithing and make an iron nail or other keepsake! Weather and volunteers permitting, in December you can also visit Little Bear's table full of Native American tools he handcrafted (~10am-1pm. You can also explore exhibits, wander the trails, and enjoy beautiful views of Solano County and the Bay Area. Rain may cancel some activities. Location: 3521 Grizzly Island Road Suisun City DIRECTIONS: From Hwy 12 in Suisun City, take Grizzly Island Road south approximately 2 miles. Entrance/driveway will be on the right.

	Science Discovery Lab Saturday, JAN 16, 2016 6:00 PM SAN FRANCISCO BAY NATIONAL ESTUARINE RESEARCH RESERVE — Rush Ranch Discover the excitement of science with your family at Rush Ranch – for free! A few learning labs will be set up with engaging science and engineering activities from 6-9PM. The activities are parent-led, but educators will be available for guidance and support. Parent supervision required. Meet at the Rush Ranch Nature Center. Registration is required. Location: 3521 Grizzly Island Road Suisun City DIRECTIONS: From Hwy 12 in Suisun City, take Grizzly Island Road south approximately 2 miles. Entrance/driveway will be on the right.

	Citizen Science - Planting! Friday, JAN 22, 2016 8:30 AM SOLANO LAND TRUST — Lynch Canyon Get involved in science on our lands! Solano Land Trust staff scientist Sue Wickham will teach you all you need to know. The plan for this particular day: Restoration assistance and planting. We will be cleaning up and replanting a few trees/acorns at the corral site and finishing up plug planting if needed in the confluence. This is a smaller project and should not take more than a few hours. This is an outdoor experience involving physical exertion. There is usually no shade. Be prepared to be moving outdoors for approximately four hours. Depending on the citizen science goals for the day, you may be hiking, doing physical work, and/or recording observations about plants and animals. You may be using hand tools like clippers; lifting, carrying and lowering supplies; bending over, squatting and kneeling on dirt, grasses and weeds; and sweating. Ages 12 and up who are comfortable with this kind of physical exertion are welcome—those under 18 must be accompanied by an adult and must have a liability waiver signed by a parent or legal guardian. Tools are provided. Bring a backpack with plenty of water and snacks, sturdy work gloves, eye protection (e.g., sunglasses), and wear boots or sturdy closed-toe shoes with tread for rough, steep, and slippery terrain, long, sturdy pants and layered clothes you don't mind getting dirty, and protection from the elements (sun, wind, fog, rain). Optional: bug repellent, your favorite gardening tools, and binoculars to enjoy the birds! Pre-registration is required. Contact Sue at 707-432-0150 x 207 or by email. Meeting place directions provided upon registration. Leader: Sue Wickham Registration is required. Location: 3100 Lynch Road Vallejo DIRECTIONS: From I-80 East, take the Hiddenbrooke Parkway exit and follow the Lynch Canyon signs. From I-80 West, take the Red Top Road exit and follow the Lynch Canyon signs.

	Napa-Solano Audubon Field Trip Saturday, JAN 23, 2016 9:00 AM NAPA-SOLANO AUDUBON SOCIETY — Benicia State Park Recreation Area Benicia State Recreation Area lies along the north side of Carquinez Strait. The area consists of shoreline along the strait, marsh habitat, and some grass uplands. Birds expected are many ducks, marsh birds (including rails), robins and some shorebirds. There is always the unexpected in this area as well. Bring lunch, water and be prepared for cool weather. RSVP by Jan. 20 to Bruce Thomsen by email or call him at (707) 224-1906. Meet Joanne Castro at the park entrance to get your pass. Leader: Joanne Castro Location: Benicia DIRECTIONS: Columbus Parkway / Rose Drive exit off Interstate 780

	Garden Volunteer Day Saturday, JAN 23, 2016 9:30 AM BENICIA STATE PARKS ASSOCIATION — Forrest Deaner Native Plant Botanic Garden Cancelled due to rain. Location: I-780 at Columbus Parkway Benicia State Park Recreation Area Benicia

	Help Plant an Interpretive Garden Saturday, JAN 23, 2016 9:30 AM PUTAH CREEK COUNCIL — Lake Solano County Park Join Putah Creek Council and our partners at Lake Solano Park to help plant an interpretive garden of native chaparral. Chaparral is a drought-tolerant, fire-adapted vegetation that forms part of the mosaic of foothill plant communities between elevations of 300 and 3000 feet. It supports a variety of native pollinators, birds, mammals, and other wildlife. We'll be meeting at the Lake Solano Park Nature Center at 9:30 am and working until noon. Please dress appropriately for the weather in clothes that can get dirty and wear closed-toe shoes. Bring a hat and water bottle. We will provide all the tools and supplies, including gloves. If you are under 18, you MUST bring this completed liability form with a parent's signature. This event will happen rain or shine. PCC will bring ponchos and mud boots if necessary. You can register for this event online. We look forward to working with you! Location: 8685 Pleasants Valley Rd DIRECTIONS: Lake Solano Park straddles Pleasants Valley Road, north of Vacaville and near the town of Winters. Pay the $5 parking fee and park on the east-side of Pleasants Valley Rd.

	Garden Guys Saturday, JAN 23, 2016 10:00 AM GVRD — McIntyre Ranch Bring the family for activities and learn how the garden grows from seeds to fruits. Participants will share ideas on what to plant, will be allowed to harvest and take home the fruits from the garden. For more information contact the Coordinator at 648-4552. Cost: $10/class resident, $12/class nonresident. Pre-registration is required, and can be completed online. Leader: Dee Davis & Nicki Belinger Entrance Fee: $12 Registration is required. Location: Vallejo DIRECTIONS: McIntyre Ranch, located at the very end of St. John’s Mine Road, across from the Solano Community College Vallejo Center at 545 Columbus Parkway. Take St. John’s Mine Road and cross over the cattle crossing.

	McIntyre Ranch Hands Saturday, JAN 23, 2016 12:00 PM GVRD — McIntyre Ranch Come join the families who enjoy and care for the ranch. Meet the hands who are the muscles behind the ranch improvements and projects. No special skills needed. Enjoy this beautiful setting, a day in the sun and a BBQ lunch. Instructor: Dee Davis. Register online. Leader: Dee Davis Entrance Fee: $6 Registration is required. Location: Vallejo DIRECTIONS: McIntyre Ranch, located at the very end of St. John’s Mine Road, across from the Solano Community College Vallejo Center at 545 Columbus Parkway. Take St. John’s Mine Road and cross over the cattle crossing. Continue up the road and stay to the right to follow the road down to the barn. You are authorized to drive through this road for GVRD programs only.

	Eagles, Hawks & other Birds of Prey Hike Sunday, JAN 24, 2016 10:00 AM SOLANO LAND TRUST — Lynch Canyon Join Larry Broderick and team for a hiking tour featuring resident, migrating and over-wintering birds of prey. Broderick is a gifted and entertaining teacher who brings over 25 years of experience researching, rescuing and rehabilitating raptors. Learn about these majestic birds, including where they go, what they do, and how to distinguish different species based on their looks, behaviors, and the ways they fly. Birds of prey we've seen on past hikes include Golden and Bald Eagles, Rough-legged, Cooper's, Sharp-shinned and Ferruginous Hawks, Peregrine and Prairie Falcons, and other more common raptor species. COST: $10 per person (payable when registering) plus $6 per vehicle (payable at the park). Space is limited. Pre-registration and pre-payment preferred online. Bring: binoculars, snacks or a bag lunch, boots or sturdy, closed-toe shoes with tread for rough, steep, and slippery terrain, long, sturdy pants and layered clothes that you don't mind getting dirty, protection from sun, wind, fog and rain. Also recommended: camera, hiking sticks, and bug repellant. Rain may cancel. Call Larry at 707-791-0335 if the weather is uncertain. All ages are welcome, but participants must be prepared for a moderate pace covering about 4 miles, partly off-trail, up and down rugged, steep, and slippery hills that are full of sticky seeds, thorny plants, and thistle, and passing free range cattle along the way. Meet in the Lynch Canyon parking lot before 10am. Leader: Larry Broderick Entrance Fee: $10 Parking Fee: $6 Registration is required. Location: 3100 Lynch Road Vallejo DIRECTIONS: From I-80 East, take the Hiddenbrooke Parkway exit and follow the Lynch Canyon signs. From I-80 West, take the Red Top Road exit and follow the Lynch Canyon signs.

	Volunteer Planting Saturday, JAN 30, 2016 9:00 AM SOLANO RESOURCE CONSERVATION DISTRICT — Centennial Park The rain is here and Solano RCD has several great volunteer opportunities to help restore local waterways! This winter we’ll be planting native trees, shrubs, and grasses along Horse Creek in Centennial Park in northern Vacaville. Please RSVP if you are interested in participating. We will work from 9am to 12noon. Families are welcome at these events, but we need anyone under the age of 14 to work closely with their parents. Site location and other information will be sent once you RSVP. As always, we’ll provide all necessary tools as well as snacks. Feel free to email Katherine if you have questions. Registration is required. Location: Vacaville DIRECTIONS: Details for the meeting location will be given on RSVP.

	Garden Volunteer Day Saturday, JAN 30, 2016 9:30 AM BENICIA STATE PARKS ASSOCIATION — Forrest Deaner Native Plant Botanic Garden We meet every Saturday from 9:30-11:30am in the Forrest Deaner Native Plant Botanic Garden located at the Benicia State Park Recreation Area for planting, weeding, and tending. Parking is free on Saturday Volunteer Days. Tell the Gate Attendant that you are going into the Park to work at the Garden. Location: I-780 at Columbus Parkway Benicia State Park Recreation Area Benicia

	Garden Guys Saturday, JAN 30, 2016 10:00 AM GVRD — McIntyre Ranch Bring the family for activities and learn how the garden grows from seeds to fruits. Participants will share ideas on what to plant, will be allowed to harvest and take home the fruits from the garden. For more information contact the Coordinator at 648-4552. Cost: $10/class resident, $12/class nonresident. Pre-registration is required, and can be completed online. Leader: Dee Davis & Nicki Belinger Entrance Fee: $12 Registration is required. Location: Vallejo DIRECTIONS: McIntyre Ranch, located at the very end of St. John’s Mine Road, across from the Solano Community College Vallejo Center at 545 Columbus Parkway. Take St. John’s Mine Road and cross over the cattle crossing.

	Nature Walk at Lake Solano Saturday, JAN 30, 2016 10:00 AM PUTAH CREEK COUNCIL & SOLANO COUNTY PARKS — Lake Solano County Park Join Lake Solano Rangers and Docents for a free, guided nature walk, "Watery Landscapes of Lake Solano," at Lake Solano Park! Meet at the Lake Solano Nature Center to begin your adventure into the natural world of Putah Creek from 10am until noon. This family-friendly event is a great opportunity to have fun, learn, and get fresh air and exercise. The activities are appropriate for all ages, and we welcome families and groups. Please prepare for the weather and variable conditions by dressing appropriately, bringing a water bottle, and wearing sturdy shoes. Please register online. A camera, binoculars and snacks are also recommended. Continue to enjoy the beautiful scenery and wildlife at Lake Solano Park & Campground by picnicking, or renting a campsite for the weekend.The day's activities are free, and parking is $5 per vehicle payable at the east entrance/day-use side of the Park. For questions, call Karin Young at Putah Creek Council, 530-795-3006. Parking Fee: $5 Location: 8685 Pleasants Valley Rd DIRECTIONS: Lake Solano Park straddles Pleasants Valley Road, north of Vacaville and near the town of Winters. Pay the $5 parking fee and park on the east-side of Pleasants Valley Rd.