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Volunteer Day at Rush Ranch   Saturday,  MAR  2, 2013
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 litter removal, trail maintenance, construction, and other improvement projects. Come prepared for variable weather by bringing layered clothes (including pants, boots or sturdy closed-toe shoes) and protection from sun, wind, fog, and rain. Meet in the Rush Ranch courtyard. RSVP requested, but not required: email Ken Poerner or 707-580-6277 (cell).
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.

 
Garden Volunteer Day   Saturday,  MAR  2, 2013
9:30 AM

CNPS - WILLIS LINN JEPSON CHAPTER —  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 Tour    Sunday,  MAR  3, 2013
10:00 AM

SOLANO LAND TRUST —  Lynch Canyon
Join Larry Broderick’s birding bonanza at Lynch Canyon 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. Each fall and winter season he offers tours on Solano Land Trust lands. Take advantage of this special opportunity to see resident, migrating and over-wintering raptors if you can because Lynch Canyon is otherwise closed until mid-March. RSVP requested but not required to Mary Beth at 707-685-5908 or email. 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 gaiters. Constant or heavy rain cancels the hike—call Larry Broderick at 707-975-7047 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 at the entrance gate to Lynch Canyon parking lot at 10am sharp. Since Lynch Canyon is otherwise closed, the gate will be locked except for the tour’s 10am start time and 2pm end time. Free, but donations are appreciated.
Leader: Larry Broderick
Parking Fee: $5
Location:
     3100 Lynch Road
     Vallejo  

 
Coyote Club   Saturday,  MAR  9, 2013
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

 
A Walk at Mare Island Shoreline Heritage Preserve   Saturday,  MAR  9, 2013
9:30 AM

SIERRA CLUB REDWOOD CHAPTER —  Mare Island Shoreline Heritage Preserve
We will walk to the highest point on Mare Island and encounter various wildflowers and spectacular views towards the Carquinez Strait and San Pablo Bay with the likelihood of seeing fledgling ospreys and great blue herons along the way. The route also includes various historical features along the way. This walk is a fairly easy 3.0 mile r/t walk on paved roads. Class E-4-A.
Leader: Brian Collett
Location:
     1595 Railroad Ave.
     Mare Island
     Vallejo  

 
Garden Volunteer Day   Saturday,  MAR  9, 2013
9:30 AM

CNPS - WILLIS LINN JEPSON CHAPTER —  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  

 
Friday Bird Walk   Friday,  MAR  15, 2013
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 $.30/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.

 
'Citizen Science Friday' Land Stewardship Volunteer Opportunity   Friday,  MAR  15, 2013
8:30 AM

SOLANO LAND TRUST —  Lynch Canyon / King-Swett Ranches
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! RSVP REQUIRED: Sue at 707-432-0150 x 207 or by email.
Leader: Sue Wickham
DIRECTIONS: Provided upon RSVP.

 
Hann's Park Restoration   Saturday,  MAR  16, 2013
9:00 AM

VALLEJO WATERSHED ALLIANCE —  Hann's Park
Meet in Hanns Park to perform needed cleanup and restoration activities. Wear comfortable clothes, gloves, and sturdy shoes. Park in the lot at Redwood and Skyline; follow the signs up the bike path. Everyone welcome. Free refreshments.
Location: Vallejo  
DIRECTIONS: Skyline Drive at Redwood Parkway

 
Opening Day   Saturday,  MAR  16, 2013
9:00 AM

SOLANO COUNTY PARKS & SOLANO LAND TRUST —  Lynch Canyon
Solano Land Trust and Solano County Parks are pleased to announce that Lynch Canyon will open to the public for the season on Saturday, March 16. This popular park will be open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays, March 16 through October 6, 2013. Parking is $5 per vehicle. Explore the park on foot, horseback or mountain bike. Relax at a picnic table or wander the nearly ten miles of trails. See for yourself why Lynch Canyon was named one of the “Seven (Hidden) Wonders of the West” by Sunset Magazine. The hum of traffic disappears as you step into over 1,000 acres of grassland hills and oak woodlands, featuring spectacular views of San Francisco Bay, San Pablo Bay, Mount Tamalpais, and Mount Diablo. The area is also well known for its winter raptors including golden eagles, and red-tailed and ferruginous hawks. Besides the opportunity to explore the trails on your own, Opening Day activities will include a guided equestrian ride at 9 a.m. and a 3-mile exploration hike at 10 a.m. At 11 a.m. Lynch Canyon docents will co-lead a two-county hike with the American Canyon Parks and Recreation Department, starting in Lynch Canyon and crossing the Napa county line into the Newell Open Space. To join the 11 a.m. hike, pack a snack or lunch and meet at the 3-sided kiosk at the junction of South Valley Trail and Middle Valley Trail. See website for more details.
Parking Fee: $5
Location:
     3100 Lynch Road
     Vallejo  

 
Public Boating Courses: Powerboat   Saturday,  MAR  16, 2013
9:00 AM

CAL MARITIME ACADEMY —  Cal Maritime Academy
This is a two-day event on Saturday, March 16 and Sunday, March 17. US Coast Guard & NASBLA Approved. This 16-hour hands-on, on-the-water course is for anyone who wants to learn how to safely operate a small motorboat and improve their boathandling skills on actual boats. The US Coast Guard and the National Association of State Boating Law Administrators (NASBLA) have approved this course and an increasing number of states have recognized it as meeting their requirements for a state boating safety education certificate. These national and state approvals call for the course to include a total of six to eight hours of classroom sessions covering required education topics. For more information, call 707-654-1157.
Entrance Fee: $50
Location:
     200 Maritime Academy Dr
     Vallejo  

 
Rockville Hills Regional Park Trail Crew   Saturday,  MAR  16, 2013
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  

 
Volunteer Day at Semple School   Saturday,  MAR  16, 2013
9:00 AM

BENICIA TREE FOUNDATION —  Robert Semple Elementary School
Join us and help with watering, staking, mulching and other tree planting duties. We're near completion of our Semple Urban Forest project installation phase! Tools provided and all ages are welcome! Questions? Email us to learn more or phone 415-497-5480.
Location:
     2015 East 3rd Street
     Benicia  

 
Garden Volunteer Day   Saturday,  MAR  16, 2013
9:30 AM

CNPS - WILLIS LINN JEPSON CHAPTER —  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,  MAR  16, 2013
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 souvenir 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,  MAR  16, 2013
10:00 AM

SOLANO LAND TRUST AND RUSH RANCH EDUCATIONAL COUNCIL —  Rush Ranch
Get the Rush is a series of fun and free activities designed for families—all ages and mobility levels are welcome! November through March: The blacksmith shop remains open for visitors! The wagons are in storage for the winter. Other activities are dependent on volunteer availability and the weather. As part of this month's Get the Rush series, join volunteers and special guest Sarah Ferner for a guided walk at Rush Ranch. Take advantage of this opportunity and bring the whole family if you can because Sarah is a fun and engaging speaker for all ages, and she's a marsh expert with the San Francisco Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve. Use all five senses as you travel alongside the tidal marsh and through the upland grasses. Learn why Rush Ranch is locally loved and nationally famous! Rain or shine, meet at the wall map just outside the entrance to the Nature Center. (Sarah and team will guide you through the Nature Center exhibit if it's raining too hard to walk). 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.
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.

 
Wildflowers & Aquatic Critters Walk   Saturday,  MAR  16, 2013
10:00 AM

SOLANO LAND TRUST —  Jepson Prairie
Jepson Prairie Preserve is one of California’s best remaining examples of vernal pools and native grasslands. Enjoy an easy walk in a portion of the Preserve only accessible with a Jepson Prairie docent. The Preserve explodes into color during its spring wildflower display. Dry and dormant most of the year, the prairie is transformed by winter rains into a tapestry of stunning colors, and its vernal pools host a rich diversity of rare aquatic life. WHAT TO BRING: Protection from sun, wind, fog, and rain. Note: It is often windy! Also recommended: Cash donation suggested but not required: $5/adult. No RSVP.
Location: Dixon  
DIRECTIONS: Cook Lane off Highway 113 South 12 miles south of Dixon

 
Vallejo Daffodil Festival   Saturday,  MAR  16, 2013
11:00 AM

VALLEJO TOGETHER —  Vallejo Waterfront
Help us celebrate the first blooms of the Vallejo Daffodil Project with a ribbon cutting by our founder Carmen Johnson and Project Director Marie Neri. Then we will have a guided tour of the planted areas along the Waterfront and on Georgia Street. Project participants from Vallejo High School, St. Vincent de Ferrer School and community volunteers will be on hand to show off the bulbs they've planted. Enjoy music and refreshments! Planting a brighter future for Vallejo through Daffodils ... one bulb at a time.
Location:
     Mare Island Way
     Vallejo  
DIRECTIONS: Festivities will begin adjacent to the Front Room at the Vallejo Waterfront.

 
Community Workday at Lake Solano   Sunday,  MAR  17, 2013
9:00 AM

SOLANO COUNTY PARKS —  Lake Solano
Help care for Lake Solano Park & Campground! Join lead volunteer Aaron Damman on special projects, like improving the Shoreline and Beetle Point trails. Bring: a backpack with plenty of water and snacks, heavy work gloves, boots or sturdy closed-toe shoes with tread for potentially rough, steep, and slippery terrain, long, sturdy pants and layered clothes that you don't mind getting dirty, protection from the elements (sun, wind, fog, rain). RSVP REQUIRED: Natalie DuMont or 707-432-0150 x200. Meet Aaron just outside the Lake Solano Nature Center on the west side of the park at 8685 Pleasants Valley Road.
Leader: Aaron Damman
Location:
     8685 Pleasants Valley Road
       
DIRECTIONS: Lake Solano Park straddles Pleasants Valley Road, north of Vacaville and near the town of Winters.

 
Wildflowers & Aquatic Critters Walk   Sunday,  MAR  17, 2013
10:00 AM

SOLANO LAND TRUST —  Jepson Prairie
Jepson Prairie Preserve is one of California’s best remaining examples of vernal pools and native grasslands. Enjoy an easy walk in a portion of the Preserve only accessible with a Jepson Prairie docent. The Preserve explodes into color during its spring wildflower display. Dry and dormant most of the year, the prairie is transformed by winter rains into a tapestry of stunning colors, and its vernal pools host a rich diversity of rare aquatic life. WHAT TO BRING: Protection from sun, wind, fog, and rain. Note: It is often windy! Also recommended: Cash donation suggested but not required: $5/adult. No RSVP.
Location: Dixon  
DIRECTIONS: Cook Lane off Highway 113 South 12 miles south of Dixon

 
Birds of Prey Identification Workshop and Hike   Sunday,  MAR  17, 2013
11:00 AM

SOLANO LAND TRUST —  Rush Ranch
The winter migration season for birds of prey is coming to a close. Join Larry Broderick and the Solano Land Trust Raptor Team to celebrate the amazing birds we've seen this fall and winter in Solano County and beyond. The program begins at 11am at the Rush Ranch Nature Center with an interactive presentation recapping raptor natural history and threats, the importance of habitat conservation, acquisition and restoration, identification methods, and a book review. Following a brief social break, test your new identification skills on a short but steep hike up Suisun Hill to observe eagles, falcons and hawks. Broderick brings over 25 years of experience studying, 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. Space is limited. RSVP to Mary Beth at 707-685-5908, or by email. What to 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 gaiters. Free, but donations are appreciated.
Leader: Larry Broderick
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.

 
Friday Bird Walk   Friday,  MAR  22, 2013
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 $.30/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.

 
Public Boating Courses: Sailing   Saturday,  MAR  23, 2013
9:00 AM

CAL MARITIME ACADEMY —  Cal Maritime Academy
This is a two-day event on Saturday, March 23 and Sunday, March 24. Basic Keelboat $50. The Basic Keelboat course will teach you the basic elements of sailing including terminology, boat setup, wind direction and points of sail, sail trim, tacking, jibing, reefing. You'll also learn the more advanced elements of sailing, including close quarter maneuvering, docking, anchoring, navigation rules, and crew overboard recovery. Upon successful completion you will be issued a US SAILING Log Book with Basic Keelboat certification. Cal Maritime’s Basic Keelboat course is taught in the J-22s by US SAILING certified instructors. Classes are Saturday and Sunday from 9am to 5pm at the California Maritime Academy. For more information, call 707-654-1157.
Entrance Fee: $50
Location:
     200 Maritime Academy Dr
     Vallejo  

 
Garden Volunteer Day   Saturday,  MAR  23, 2013
9:30 AM

CNPS - WILLIS LINN JEPSON CHAPTER —  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  

 
History-Nature Walk at Lake Solano Park   Saturday,  MAR  23, 2013
10:00 AM

SOLANO COUNTY PARKS & SOLANO LAND TRUST —  Lake Solano
Enjoy guided walks along the Shoreline Trail of Lake Solano Park with volunteers Cricket Kanouff and Kitty Van Newkoop. Walk back through the mists of time to learn about the Patwin Indians, the Berryessa brothers and John Wolfskill’s impact on the region. Enjoy the beauty of nature – the lake and its surroundings. Discover how Putah Creek was transformed into Lake Solano, bringing water to farmers and residents of Solano County. Learn about the native trees and plants, and some of their medicinal secrets, passed down through the generations by the Native Americans. You may have the good fortune of spotting a great blue heron, a snowy egret, or a peacock on the tour! Meet in front of Lake Solano Park’s Nature Center . No RSVP is necessary, but note that the walks are canceled if it rains. Be prepared for variable weather and trail conditions by bringing water, wearing sturdy closed-toe shoes, and dressing in layers. A camera and binoculars are also recommended. For questions in advance, call Cricket at 707-451-7699. For same-day information, call 530-795-2990.
Leader: Cricket Kanouff and Kitty Van Newkoop
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.

 
Wildflowers & Aquatic Critters Walk   Saturday,  MAR  23, 2013
10:00 AM

SOLANO LAND TRUST —  Jepson Prairie
Jepson Prairie Preserve is one of California’s best remaining examples of vernal pools and native grasslands. Enjoy an easy walk in a portion of the Preserve only accessible with a Jepson Prairie docent. The Preserve explodes into color during its spring wildflower display. Dry and dormant most of the year, the prairie is transformed by winter rains into a tapestry of stunning colors, and its vernal pools host a rich diversity of rare aquatic life. WHAT TO BRING: Protection from sun, wind, fog, and rain. Note: It is often windy! Also recommended: Cash donation suggested but not required: $5/adult. No RSVP.
Location: Dixon  
DIRECTIONS: Cook Lane off Highway 113 South 12 miles south of Dixon

 
Wildflowers & Aquatic Critters Walk   Sunday,  MAR  24, 2013
10:00 AM

SOLANO LAND TRUST —  Jepson Prairie
Jepson Prairie Preserve is one of California’s best remaining examples of vernal pools and native grasslands. Enjoy an easy walk in a portion of the Preserve only accessible with a Jepson Prairie docent. The Preserve explodes into color during its spring wildflower display. Dry and dormant most of the year, the prairie is transformed by winter rains into a tapestry of stunning colors, and its vernal pools host a rich diversity of rare aquatic life. WHAT TO BRING: Protection from sun, wind, fog, and rain. Note: It is often windy! Also recommended: Cash donation suggested but not required: $5/adult. No RSVP.
Location: Dixon  
DIRECTIONS: Cook Lane off Highway 113 South 12 miles south of Dixon

 
Friday Bird Walk   Friday,  MAR  29, 2013
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 $.30/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.

 
Guided Canoe Trip on Lake Solano   Saturday,  MAR  30, 2013
8:30 AM

SOLANO COUNTY PARKS —  Lake Solano
Make a splash into spring by participating in a new guided canoe program at Lake Solano Park. Discover the wonders of Putah Creek on this adventure. You’ll have the opportunity to relax, explore, learn, and enjoy the arrival of spring. To ensure a friendly, personal experience, the guided trip is limited to just 10 guests in 5 park-owned canoes (2 people per canoe). Children age 8 and older are welcome if accompanied by an adult. The volunteers will give you basic safety and paddling instructions before you begin. Then you’ll learn about life along the river. You may observe Great blue herons, egrets, cormorants, ducks, geese, or perhaps a shy muskrat or river otter. Participants may want to bring water, a hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, and paddling gloves. You will probably get wet, so a change of clothes is recommended upon your return to land. For those who want to take pictures, a dry bag (double ziplock bags work well) or water tight container is suggested to keep your camera dry.

Reservations are required. Reserve your spot online. Guests should arrive by 8:45am to pay the fees of $5 per vehicle and the special rate of $10/rental canoe for the 3-hour trip. Paddles and lifejackets are included with the rental. For questions in advance, contact Barbara by email or 530-867-0435. For same-day information, call the Nature Center office at 530-795-2990.
Leader: Cathi Christo and Barbara Cooper
Entrance Fee: $10
Parking Fee: $5
Registration is required.
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.

 
Public Boating Courses: Powerboat   Saturday,  MAR  30, 2013
9:00 AM

CAL MARITIME ACADEMY —  Cal Maritime Academy
This is a two-day event on Saturday, March 30 and Sunday, March 31. US Coast Guard & NASBLA Approved. This 16-hour hands-on, on-the-water course is for anyone who wants to learn how to safely operate a small motorboat and improve their boathandling skills on actual boats. The US Coast Guard and the National Association of State Boating Law Administrators (NASBLA) have approved this course and an increasing number of states have recognized it as meeting their requirements for a state boating safety education certificate. These national and state approvals call for the course to include a total of six to eight hours of classroom sessions covering required education topics. For more information, call 707-654-1157.
Entrance Fee: $50
Location:
     200 Maritime Academy Dr
     Vallejo  

 
Garden Volunteer Day   Saturday,  MAR  30, 2013
9:30 AM

CNPS - WILLIS LINN JEPSON CHAPTER —  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  

 
Wildflowers & Aquatic Critters Walk   Saturday,  MAR  30, 2013
10:00 AM

SOLANO LAND TRUST —  Jepson Prairie
Jepson Prairie Preserve is one of California’s best remaining examples of vernal pools and native grasslands. Enjoy an easy walk in a portion of the Preserve only accessible with a Jepson Prairie docent. The Preserve explodes into color during its spring wildflower display. Dry and dormant most of the year, the prairie is transformed by winter rains into a tapestry of stunning colors, and its vernal pools host a rich diversity of rare aquatic life. WHAT TO BRING: Protection from sun, wind, fog, and rain. Note: It is often windy! Also recommended: Cash donation suggested but not required: $5/adult. No RSVP.
Location: Dixon  
DIRECTIONS: Cook Lane off Highway 113 South 12 miles south of Dixon

 
Wildflowers & Aquatic Critters Walk   Sunday,  MAR  31, 2013
10:00 AM

SOLANO LAND TRUST —  Jepson Prairie
Jepson Prairie Preserve is one of California’s best remaining examples of vernal pools and native grasslands. Enjoy an easy walk in a portion of the Preserve only accessible with a Jepson Prairie docent. The Preserve explodes into color during its spring wildflower display. Dry and dormant most of the year, the prairie is transformed by winter rains into a tapestry of stunning colors, and its vernal pools host a rich diversity of rare aquatic life. WHAT TO BRING: Protection from sun, wind, fog, and rain. Note: It is often windy! Also recommended: Cash donation suggested but not required: $5/adult. No RSVP.
Location: Dixon  
DIRECTIONS: Cook Lane off Highway 113 South 12 miles south of Dixon