Upcoming Events List

	Visions of the Wild Wednesday, SEP 3, 2014 3:00 PM What is your vision of the wild? Whether it's bird watching in your local park or backpacking through remote forest, wildness is where you find it. Join us September 3rd-6th in downtown Vallejo for this unique celebration of wilderness on the 50th anniversary of the Wilderness Act. This cross-cultural event features music, art, films, author events, field trips, speakers, panels, camping workshops and activities for young people. A festival pass offers entry to all events at the Empress Theatre and a choice of guided field trips on Saturday, Sep 6. Student ID required for discount ticket. Price increases to $50 after Sept 1. Note: Children under 8 years old are not allowed on the Napa River Cruise. 3-Day Festival Pass: $20 Students / $40 General, Napa River Cruise and 3-Day Festival Pass: $60. Click for more information. Entrance Fee: $40 Location: Vallejo DIRECTIONS: The Empress Theater and various locations around Vallejo.

	Visions of the Wild Thursday, SEP 4, 2014 10:00 AM What is your vision of the wild? Whether it's bird watching in your local park or backpacking through remote forest, wildness is where you find it. Join us September 3rd-6th in downtown Vallejo for this unique celebration of wilderness on the 50th anniversary of the Wilderness Act. This cross-cultural event features music, art, films, author events, field trips, speakers, panels, camping workshops and activities for young people. A festival pass offers entry to all events at the Empress Theatre and a choice of guided field trips on Saturday, Sep 6. Student ID required for discount ticket. Price increases to $50 after Sept 1. Note: Children under 8 years old are not allowed on the Napa River Cruise. 3-Day Festival Pass: $20 Students / $40 General, Napa River Cruise and 3-Day Festival Pass: $60. Click for more information. Entrance Fee: $40 Location: Vallejo DIRECTIONS: The Empress Theater and various locations around Vallejo.

	Friday Bird Walk Friday, SEP 5, 2014 8:00 AM NAPA - SOLANO AUDUBON SOCIETY — Napa and Solano Counties The destination for each Friday bird walk is not decided until a few days before the trip. An email is sent out each week describing the destination for the upcoming trip. If you would like to be added to the email list for Friday Bird Walks, you can submit your information on our sign-up page. Car-poolers will share driving expenses (recommended $.40/mi to be split by the number of riders). Leader: Murray Berner DIRECTIONS: Meet at Sweeney's Sport Store, 1537 Imola Ave West, Napa, to carpool.

	Visions of the Wild Friday, SEP 5, 2014 10:00 AM What is your vision of the wild? Whether it's bird watching in your local park or backpacking through remote forest, wildness is where you find it. Join us September 3rd-6th in downtown Vallejo for this unique celebration of wilderness on the 50th anniversary of the Wilderness Act. This cross-cultural event features music, art, films, author events, field trips, speakers, panels, camping workshops and activities for young people. A festival pass offers entry to all events at the Empress Theatre and a choice of guided field trips on Saturday, Sep 6. Student ID required for discount ticket. Price increases to $50 after Sept 1. Note: Children under 8 years old are not allowed on the Napa River Cruise. 3-Day Festival Pass: $20 Students / $40 General, Napa River Cruise and 3-Day Festival Pass: $60. Click for more information. Entrance Fee: $40 Location: Vallejo DIRECTIONS: The Empress Theater and various locations around Vallejo.

	Visions of the Wild Saturday, SEP 6, 2014 9:00 AM What is your vision of the wild? Whether it's bird watching in your local park or backpacking through remote forest, wildness is where you find it. Join us September 3rd-6th in downtown Vallejo for this unique celebration of wilderness on the 50th anniversary of the Wilderness Act. This cross-cultural event features music, art, films, author events, field trips, speakers, panels, camping workshops and activities for young people. A festival pass offers entry to all events at the Empress Theatre and a choice of guided field trips on Saturday, Sep 6. Student ID required for discount ticket. Price increases to $50 after Sept 1. Note: Children under 8 years old are not allowed on the Napa River Cruise. 3-Day Festival Pass: $20 Students / $40 General, Napa River Cruise and 3-Day Festival Pass: $60. Click for more information. Entrance Fee: $40 Location: Vallejo DIRECTIONS: The Empress Theater and various locations around Vallejo.

	Volunteer Opportunity: Trail Crew Saturday, SEP 6, 2014 9:00 AM SOLANO LAND TRUST — Rush Ranch Our land is our future, so jump in with your boots on! Rush Ranch is over 2,000 acres of tidal marsh and upland grasses. Help Solano Land Trust's Land Steward, Ken Poerner, maintain it through trail maintenance, construction, litter removal, and other improvement projects. Ages 12 and up are welcome; under 18 must be accompanied by an adult. Tools are provided. 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 and rain. Meet Ken promptly in the Rush Ranch courtyard. RSVP (appreciated, not required) to Ken Poerner at 707-580-6277 or email. Leader: Ken Poerner 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.

	Where the Wild Things Are Saturday, SEP 6, 2014 9:00 AM SOLANO LAND TRUST — King-Swett Ranches Explore the hills between Fairfield, Benicia, and Vallejo—known as the King-Swett Ranches—as part of Visions of the Wild: A Festival Connecting Nature, Culture & Community. A Festival Connecting Nature, Culture & Community. You'll be led by Jim Walsh, an expert Solano Land Trust guide who knows this area inside out. He'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. There are no bathrooms. 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. RSVP to Jim at 916-870-4824 or by email. Leader: Jim Walsh Location: Vallejo DIRECTIONS: Meet Jim 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, SEP 6, 2014 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

	Peña Adobe Open House Saturday, SEP 6, 2014 11:00 AM PEÑA ADOBE HISTORICAL SOCIETY & RUSH RANCH EDUCATIONAL COUNCIL — Peña Adobe Park Visitors are invited to tour the national- and state-recognized historic Peña Adobe built in 1842 and the Mowers-Goheen Museum. Meet our friendly and knowledgeable volunteers at the Adobe--one of the few pre-gold rush era structures remaining in the county--from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Docents will be on hand to answer questions and provide insight into Vacaville’s past. A camera, binoculars and snacks are recommended as wildlife is often spotted in the park, or bring a picnic, enjoy the beautiful scenery, and take a hike. Docent-led nature walks will begin at 11:15, 12:15 and 1:15. This is a great family friendly opportunity to have fun. Leader: Little Bear Location: Vacaville DIRECTIONS: The park is located at Peña Adobe Road just off of Interstate 80.

	Walk on the Wild Side Saturday, SEP 6, 2014 2:00 PM SOLANO LAND TRUST — Lynch Canyon Open Space Park Take a walk on the wild side at Lynch Canyon as part of Visions of the Wild: A Festival Connecting Nature, Culture & Community. Your guide, Natalie DuMont, will encourage you to use all your senses to explore and observe this wild land. What sounds will we become aware of when our eyes are closed? How many pollinators will we notice out and about? What clues will wildlife leave behind to tell us who they are and what they eat? Come find out! All ages are welcome. This will be a very slow-paced hike with frequent stops, covering 2 miles or less. The route may include rugged, steep, and slippery hills that are full of sticky seeds and thorny plants. Expect rough, rocky, uneven ground. This is a working ranch where free-range cattle roam as they please. There is no drinking water. There is one bathroom, located in the parking lot. In order to protect wildlife, cattle, and rare plants—and for your pet's safety—dogs are not allowed. This is tick, mountain lion, and potentially rattlesnake country. Bring a backpack with plenty of water and snacks. Wear boots or sturdy closed-toe shoes with good tread, layered clothes that you don't mind getting dirty, long, sturdy pants are recommended, and protection from the elements (sun, wind, fog, rain). Optional: gaiters (to protect your legs from thorny plants), hiking sticks, bug repellent, binoculars, a camera, and a magnifying glass. Parking is $5 per motorized vehicle. Meet your guide beside the parking lot kiosk. Extreme weather cancels (e.g., heavy rain or red flag conditions)—call Natalie at 415-517-2624 if the weather is uncertain. Leader: Natalie DuMont Parking Fee: $5 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.

	Suisun Marsh Walk Sunday, SEP 7, 2014 9:30 AM SUISUN MARSH NATURAL HISTORY ASSOCIATION — Peytonia Ecological Reserve As the seasons change in the Suisun Marsh, it cycles through many different conditions. And all year it is alive with the many resident birds and plants. Now is a good time to take a trek through Peytonia Ecological Reserve in Suisun and learn more about the flora and fauna of these unique wetlands. The Suisun Marsh Natural History Association has scheduled a 1-1/2 hour guided walk through the reserve on Saturday. The walk will begin at 9:30 a.m. and will highlight the current and past uses of plants growing there as well as the natural history of resident birds and animals. Binoculars and walking shoes are recommended. This walk is likely to fill early, so enroll today! For more information or to register, call the Wildlife Center at: (707) 429-4295. This event is free to members and $5.00 for non-members. All proceeds assist the Suisun Marsh Natural History Association in its Suisun Wildlife Center. Entrance Fee: $5 Registration is required. Location: 1171 Kellogg St Suisun City

	Jepson Plant Nursery Work Day Sunday, SEP 7, 2014 10:00 AM CNPS - WILLIS LINN JEPSON CHAPTER — Vallejo Sanitation and Flood Control District Corporation Yard The Plant Sale Committee has scheduled a work day at our nursery from 10AM to noon. Location: 7 Solano Ave Vallejo DIRECTIONS: West of Sonoma Boulevard.

	Friday Bird Walk Friday, SEP 12, 2014 8:00 AM NAPA - SOLANO AUDUBON SOCIETY — Napa and Solano Counties The destination for each Friday bird walk is not decided until a few days before the trip. An email is sent out each week describing the destination for the upcoming trip. If you would like to be added to the email list for Friday Bird Walks, you can submit your information on our sign-up page. Car-poolers will share driving expenses (recommended $.40/mi to be split by the number of riders). Leader: Murray Berner DIRECTIONS: Meet at Sweeney's Sport Store, 1537 Imola Ave West, Napa, to carpool.

	Coyote Club Saturday, SEP 13, 2014 9:00 AM GVRD — McIntyre Ranch For ages 4-14 -- The McIntyre Ranch is home to several different habitats, farm animals and an educational garden. Explore nature through activities, games and crafts. Getting up close to nature helps us to understand the balance we have with the environment. Studies have found that children who spend time exploring nature are more focused and interested in school. Families are encouraged to come to every meeting. Bring a snack, water and your curiosity! For more information contact the Coordinator at 648-4552. Cost: $5/class resident, $6/class nonresident. Adults must register at no cost. Leader: Dee Davis Entrance Fee: $5 Location: Vallejo DIRECTIONS: Off St. John's Mine Road.

	Volunteer Opportunity: Trail Crew Saturday, SEP 13, 2014 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. 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 and rain. Meet Ken promptly in the parking lot. RSVP to Ken Poerner at 707-580-6277 or email so he can bring enough tools. 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, SEP 13, 2014 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

	Western Magazine Hike Saturday, SEP 13, 2014 10:00 AM MARE ISLAND HERITAGE TRUST — Mare Island Shoreline Heritage Preserve Hike the Western Magazine back side of the island with a Mare Island Heritage Trust Hike Leader and our Navy escort. Meet at the corner of Flagship Dr. and Nereus St. at 10am. The Navy does not allow dogs or bikes on this outing. Bring cameras, binoculars, snacks and dress for all kinds of weather. Flat paved and gravel roads. 3 miles roundtrip. Wear comfortable walking shoes. Once in the gate, you must stay together as a group. Might sound like lots of dos and don'ts but it is so worth it! Call 707-249-9633. Leader: Jim & Karlyn Lewis Location: Vallejo DIRECTIONS: Meet at the corner of Flagship Dr. and Nereus St.

	Wildlife Photography Walk Saturday, SEP 13, 2014 10:00 AM SOLANO COUNTY PARKS & PUTAH CREEK COUNCIL — Lake Solano County Park All ages are welcome to join a free, guided photography walk at Lake Solano Park on Saturday, September 13, from 10am to noon. People of all ages and all levels of photography knowledge are welcome - from smart phone camera to high end DSLR. The idea is to have fun, learn about the area, talk about what can be seen, and how to photograph different species. This is not a photography class, but a guided photographic experience wherein guide Alejandro Garcia (http://www.winterswild.com/) will share his experience and knowledge with participants. Meet at 10am in front of the Nature Center, at the west entrance of the Park. The tour is free, and parking is only $5 per vehicle, payable at the east entrance of the Park, on the other side of Pleasants Valley Road. This tour is a great opportunity to have fun, learn, and get fresh air and exercise. Be prepared for variable weather and trail conditions by bringing water, wearing sturdy closed-toe shoes, and dressing in layers. Leader: Alejandro Garcia Parking Fee: $5 Location: 8685 Pleasants Valley Road 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.

	Friday Bird Walk Friday, SEP 19, 2014 8:00 AM NAPA - SOLANO AUDUBON SOCIETY — Napa and Solano Counties The destination for each Friday bird walk is not decided until a few days before the trip. An email is sent out each week describing the destination for the upcoming trip. If you would like to be added to the email list for Friday Bird Walks, you can submit your information on our sign-up page. Car-poolers will share driving expenses (recommended $.40/mi to be split by the number of riders). Leader: Murray Berner DIRECTIONS: Meet at Sweeney's Sport Store, 1537 Imola Ave West, Napa, to carpool.

	Volunteer Opportunity: Citizen Science Friday Friday, SEP 19, 2014 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. Leader: Sue Wickham Registration is required. DIRECTIONS: Provided upon RSVP.

	Coastal Clean-up Day Saturday, SEP 20, 2014 9:00 AM SOLANO RESOURCE CONSERVATION DISTRICT — Various locations around Solano County. Come be a part of cleaning up Solano County's coastlines and creeks! Make our waterways beautiful and healthy for wildlife. There will be clean-up locations in your city and local park throughout Solano County (including Lake Solano and Sandy Beach County Parks). Cleanup sites are located throughout the county. Please see our website for a location near you. Advanced sign-ups are requested so coordinators can have enough clean-up supplies on-hand for you and your group.

	Rockville Hills Regional Park Trail Crew Saturday, SEP 20, 2014 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

	Solano County Signature Hike in Solano Land Trust Rockville Trails Preserve Saturday, SEP 20, 2014 9:00 AM BAY AREA RIDGE TRAIL COUNCIL — Rockville Trails Preserve Explore a new planned Ridge Trail segment through the Solano Land Trust's Rockville Trails Preserve. The Preserve was recently acquired by the Land Trust and is comprised of 1500 acres north of Rockville Hills Park. The hike will be from 3 ½ to 4 hours long covering 4 to 5 miles through grass and oak woodlands with views of Suisun Bay. The hike will be led by Steve Pressley, Solano Land Trust Board member and member of the Solano County Ridge Trail Committee. Please bring water and snacks. No water or restrooms at the Preserve. For questions, contact Emily at (415) 561-2595. Tickets are available online. Leader: Steve Pressley Registration is required. Location: Fairfield DIRECTIONS: Meet in the parking lot in front of the old red “Ice House” building behind the Florist shop at the corner of Suisun Valley Road and Rockville Road. We will carpool to the Preserve.

	Garden Volunteer Day Saturday, SEP 20, 2014 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

	Horse Day at McIntyre Ranch Saturday, SEP 20, 2014 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). Kids will receive a souvenit t-shirt! Eat a good breakfast, bring water bottle and wear layers. For more information contact the Coordinator at 648-4552. Leader: Jane Mitchell Entrance Fee: $25 Location: Vallejo DIRECTIONS: Off St. John's Mine Road

	Rush Ranch 'Get the Rush' Saturday, SEP 20, 2014 10:00 AM SOLANO LAND TRUST AND 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. Volunteer-run activities may include a guided walk alongside tidal marsh and through upland grasses (timing varies), a traditional blacksmith shop in action (10am-1pm), an interpretive display of Native American tools and decorations (10am-1pm), and horse-drawn wagon rides that are wheelchair accessible (11am-1pm). BRING: Water, snacks or picnic lunch, bug repellent. Be prepared for variable weather by bringing layered clothes, sturdy closed-toe shoes, and protection from sun, wind, fog, and rain. Optional: binoculars, camera. For current details, check the Solano Land Trust calendar. 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.

	Volunteer Day at Semple School Sunday, SEP 21, 2014 9:00 AM BENICIA TREE FOUNDATION — Robert Semple Elementary School Join us the morning of Sunday, September 21st to water and maintain the trees at Robert Semple School! We'll be working from 9 AM to 12 Noon. No experience necessary - tools and instruction provided. Bring gloves if you have them. High School students earn community service hours. Register through our webform or email. Location: 2015 East 3rd Street Benicia

	Birds of Prey Identification Workshop and Hike Sunday, SEP 21, 2014 10:00 AM SOLANO LAND TRUST — Lynch Canyon Open Space Park Today’s hike launches our eighth season of birds of prey tours and workshops on Land Trust properties! Join Larry Broderick and the Solano Land Trust Raptor Team for a hiking tour featuring resident, migrating and over-wintering birds of prey. Previous sightings include golden eagles, bald eagles, rough-legged hawks, Cooper's hawks, sharp-shinned hawks, ferruginous hawks, peregrine falcons, prairie falcons and other more common birds of prey. Broderick brings over 25 years of experience studying, identifying, researching, rescuing and rehabilitating birds of prey. Each fall and winter season he offers tours on Solano Land Trust lands. He’s a gifted and entertaining teacher who gives beginning and experienced birders easy ways to identify year-round and migratory raptors. He shares useful handouts on raptor information and identification, and brochures on where to spot them. Binoculars are highly recommended. Birds of prey are often seen at a distance and binoculars will enhance your experience. Bring snacks or a bag lunch. Wear 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. All ages are welcome but they must be prepared for a slow-to-moderate pace covering about 4 miles. The route includes rugged, steep, and slippery hills that are full of sticky seeds and thorny plants. Expect rough, rocky, uneven ground. A camera and hiking sticks are also recommended. SPACE IS LIMITED. PRE-REGISTRATION REQUIRED. Click here to register online. Leader: Larry Broderick Entrance Fee: $10 Parking Fee: $5 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.

	Friday Bird Walk Friday, SEP 26, 2014 8:00 AM NAPA - SOLANO AUDUBON SOCIETY — Napa and Solano Counties The destination for each Friday bird walk is not decided until a few days before the trip. An email is sent out each week describing the destination for the upcoming trip. If you would like to be added to the email list for Friday Bird Walks, you can submit your information on our sign-up page. Car-poolers will share driving expenses (recommended $.40/mi to be split by the number of riders). Leader: Murray Berner DIRECTIONS: Meet at Sweeney's Sport Store, 1537 Imola Ave West, Napa, to carpool.

	Hike at Rockville Trails Preserve Saturday, SEP 27, 2014 8:30 AM SOLANO LAND TRUST — Rockville Trails Preserve Get a great workout as you trek about 4 miles up and down the hilly, rocky terrain to the interior of this 1,500-acre natural area. Enjoy the majestic oaks. Rockville Trails Preserve is only accessible by docent-led hikes at this time. There is no drinking water, and there are no bathrooms or parking lots yet. Dogs are not permitted. Since the preserve is otherwise closed, the entry and exit gate will be locked except for the start and end times of the hike. Meet your guide promptly at the big red "Ice House" building on Suisun Valley Ct., near the intersection of Rockville Rd. and Suisun Valley Rd., outside of Fairfield. Be ready to immediately carpool or caravan from there to the trailhead. Heavy rain cancels this event. Call Jim if the weather is uncertain, 707-372-6090. Bring a backpack with plenty of water and snacks or lunch. Wear hiking boots or sturdy closed-toe shoes with good tread, and long, sturdy pants and layered clothes that provide protection from the elements (sun, wind, fog, rain, cold). Hiking sticks, bug repellent, binoculars and a camera are also recommended. Your safety is your responsibility. Maintain a safe distance from cattle and wildlife, and be aware that this is tick, rattlesnake, and mountain lion country. Solano Land Trust’s Rockville Trails Preserve is located along Rockville Road, across from the City of Fairfield’s Rockville Hills Regional Park. RSVP appreciated to Jim Hanser at 707-372-6090 or by email. Leader: Jim Hanser 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.

	Garden Volunteer Day Saturday, SEP 27, 2014 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

	“Feels Like Fall” 3rd Annual Live Music in the Rowser Garden Under a Full Moon Saturday, SEP 27, 2014 5:30 PM MARE ISLAND HERITAGE TRUST — Mare Island Shoreline Heritage Preserve Mare Island Shoreline Heritage Preserve's Annual Fundraiser Requested donation = $10 adults, $5 seniors and students, children free No reservations required Bring your own picnic dinner or a potluck dish to share. Hot and cold drinks will be available. Free root beer floats. Music during and after dinner. Please note: The Rowser Garden is a 20-minute walk uphill from the visitors center parking (limited vehicle access for mobility-impaired). Also bring jackets and blankets! Want to help out? Send Myrna Hayes an email or call 707-249-9633. Leader: Myrna Hayes Performers: Location: 1595 Railroad Ave Mare Island Vallejo

	Astronomy Night Saturday, SEP 27, 2014 7:00 PM RUSH RANCH EDUCATIONAL COUNCIL AND SOLANO LAND TRUST — Rush Ranch CURIOUS ABOUT CONSTELLATIONS? PONDERING THE PLANETS? If so, then don’t miss a Rush Ranch stargazing event led by local astronomy enthusiast, Jim Jerrell, who will share his 30+ years of celestial knowledge. The evening begins at 7:00 pm with a short presentation in the Rush Ranch Nature Center. Outdoor viewing begins when darkness falls. Telescopes will be on hand. Personal scopes & binoculars are welcome, but be familiar with their setup and use. Mosquito repellant and warm clothing are a must. Children are welcome, but must remain supervised at all times. In order to preserve night vision, flashlights should be covered with red cellophane, and all latecomers should dim their headlights. For more information call 707-422-4491. Free but donations appreciated! Leader: Jim Jerrell 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.