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May Day on Mare Island: Springtime Tours and Tea
Sunday,
MAY
1, 2011
8:00 AM MARE ISLAND HERITAGE TRUST — Mare Island Join us for a full day of events. Choose from guided or self-guided wildflower and bird walks, take a carriage ride or history tour. And be sure to attend the annual Daffodil Tea, a joyous springtime ritual we have been celebrating for over a decade. Choose from two seatings, at noon and 3:00pm. See our website for a full schedule of events. Some activities require fees. Location: Vallejo DIRECTIONS: Various locations around Mare Island. |
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Wildflower & Aquatic Critters Walk
Sunday,
MAY
1, 2011
10:00 AM SOLANO LAND TRUST — Jepson Prairie Jepson Prairie Preserve is just over 1500 acres and is one of California’s best remaining examples of vernal pools and native grasslands. Enjoy an easy, meandering walk in a portion of the Preserve only accessible with a Jepson Prairie docent. Under wide-open skies, 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. Bring: Portable drinking water, insect repellent. (Optional: snacks or a bag lunch). Be prepared for variable weather (bring layered clothes including pants, boots or sturdy closed-toe shoes, and protection for sun, wind, fog and rain). A donation is suggested but not required. Donations contribute to the sustainability of Jepson Prairie and the Jepson Prairie Docents. Location: Dixon DIRECTIONS: Cook Lane off Highway 113 South 12 miles south of Dixon |
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Spring Native Plant Sale
Saturday,
MAY
7, 2011
9:00 AM WILLIS LINN JEPSON CHAPTER OF THE CALIFORNIA NATIVE PLANT SOCIETY — Benicia Community Gardens The Willis Linn Jepson chapter of the California Native Plant Society for Solano County will hold its annual Spring Native Plant Sale at the Community Gardens. Parking is available at the Heritage Presbyterian Church. Cash and checks will be accepted. For more information, contact Sue Wickham at 747.5815 or email swgeo1@gmail.com. Location: Benicia DIRECTIONS: Northeast corner of East Second and Military East |
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Volunteer Day at Rush Ranch
Saturday,
MAY
7, 2011
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. RSVP to Natalie at 707-432-0150 x200, volunteer@SolanoLandTrust.org. Meet in the Rush Ranch courtyard. 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. |
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Wildflower Wonders Hike
Saturday,
MAY
7, 2011
9:00 AM SOLANO LAND TRUST — King-Swett Ranches Enjoy a free hike to see wondrous spring wildflowers at the King-Swett Ranches. This is a very special opportunity because these ranches are only accessible in the company of trained Solano Land Trust guides. Solano Land Trust staff scientist Sue Wickham will lead visitors to a sea of yellow cream cups, purple birds-eye gilia, and pink checkerbloom. This will be a strenuous hike requiring the ability to trek off-trail, through high grasses and thistle, on uneven ground and up and down steep hills. Note that these are working ranches, so cattle may be present. Bring water, snacks, and insect repellent. Wear pants and sturdy closed-toe shoes, preferably hiking boots. Come prepared for variable weather by bringing layered clothes and protection from sun, wind, fog, and rain. Meet promptly at 9AM. Be ready to carpool or caravan from there to the trailhead. No reservations necessary. For questions, contact Sue at 707-590-0307. Leader: Sue Wickham Location: Vallejo DIRECTIONS: 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). |
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Walk at Jepson Prairie
Saturday,
MAY
7, 2011
10:00 AM SOLANO LAND TRUST — Jepson Prairie Jepson Prairie Preserve is just over 1500 acres and is one of California’s best remaining examples of vernal pools and native grasslands. Enjoy an easy, meandering walk in a portion of the Preserve only accessible with a Jepson Prairie docent. Under wide-open skies, 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. Bring: Backpack, water snacks or bag lunch, insect repellent. Be prepared for variable weather (bring layered clothes including pants, boots or sturdy closed-toe shoes, and protection for sun, wind, fog and rain. RSVP to Natalie at 707-432-0150 x200, volunteer@SolanoLandTrust.org. Location: Dixon DIRECTIONS: Cook Lane off Highway 113 South 12 miles south of Dixon |
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Wildflower & Aquatic Critters Walk
Sunday,
MAY
8, 2011
10:00 AM SOLANO LAND TRUST — Jepson Prairie Jepson Prairie Preserve is just over 1500 acres and is one of California’s best remaining examples of vernal pools and native grasslands. Enjoy an easy, meandering walk in a portion of the Preserve only accessible with a Jepson Prairie docent. Under wide-open skies, 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. Bring: Portable drinking water, insect repellent. (Optional: snacks or a bag lunch). Be prepared for variable weather (bring layered clothes including pants, boots or sturdy closed-toe shoes, and protection for sun, wind, fog and rain). A donation is suggested but not required. Donations contribute to the sustainability of Jepson Prairie and the Jepson Prairie Docents. Location: Dixon DIRECTIONS: Cook Lane off Highway 113 South 12 miles south of Dixon |
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Green Valley Falls Hike
Wednesday,
MAY
11, 2011
9:00 AM BAY AREA RIDGE TRAIL COUNCIL — Green Valley Falls One of the most picturesque places in Solano County, this waterfall vies for the title of most beautiful in the Bay Area. Our Solano County Committee has obtained permission for three hikes to visit this lovely spot in the Vallejo watershed, on trails the Council helped to repair after the winter storms of 2005-2006. The falls flow all year long and it is cool and inviting even on a hot day. The hike is fairly short, but there are some steep and difficult spots. Ridge Trail Council founder Doris Klein will again lead the hikes this year. The start time is 9 am and the hike should last about 3 hours. The City of Vallejo limits each hike to 30 people. We'll take reservations on a first-come first-served basis. You must bring a photo ID, be older than 12 years old, and be accompanied by a parent or guardian if you are under 18. Register online; discounts for Ridge Trail Council members. Leader: Doris Klein Entrance Fee: $21.39 Location: Vallejo DIRECTIONS: Details upon registration. |
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Gates Canyon Field Trip
Saturday,
MAY
14, 2011
7:00 AM NAPA - SOLANO AUDUBON SOCIETY — Gates Canyon Mid-May is the height of the breeding season for songbirds of the inner Coast Range. Gates Canyon offers a diversity of nesting habitat for about 60 species of birds. There is no traffic on the canyon road, and birds nest all along its length. We will auto shuttle to the top of the forested part of the canyon, continue up on foot a further 1/2 mile before turning back down for the 2.5 mile walk to the bottom. Short sections of the road are moderately steep with loose gravel; it is otherwise paved and easy going. Please try to carpool. Car-poolers will share driving expenses (recommended $.30/mi to be split by the number of riders). Leader: Murray Berner DIRECTIONS: Carpool Times & Locations: Napa - 6:00 AM Sweeney's Sport Store, 1537 Imola Ave West, Napa; Cordelia - 6:30 AM Solano Education Building, 5100 Business Center Drive, Fairfield |
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Community Work Day along the Ridge Trail
Saturday,
MAY
14, 2011
9:00 AM SOLANO LAND TRUST / BAY AREA RIDGE TRAIL — Lynch Canyon Join Solano Land Trust and the Bay Area Ridge Trail Council for this community workday along the Ridge Trail. We'll be maintaining trails in more remote areas -- these are gorgeous and lesser-known parts of Lynch Canyon and the Ridge Trail. Help us cleanup and re-contour these trails so that they continue to be stable, safe, and beautiful for all to enjoy! RSVP requested (so we know how many tools, snacks etc we need). To RSVP, or for more information, contact Natalie at 707-432-0150 x 200 or volunteer@solanolandtrust.org. Location: 3100 Lynch Road Vallejo |
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2nd Saturday Public Access Day
Saturday,
MAY
14, 2011
9:30 AM MARE ISLAND HERITAGE TRUST — Mare Island Shoreline Heritage Preserve 9:30am Hike the Historic Southshore Sierra Club led hike with Brian Collett, Sierra Club hike leader. Meet at Palmer’s Hut for Navy escorted 4-mile hike on flat terrain on gravel and dirt roads. Meet at Palmer’s Hut. 3:30pm nature and history walk led by Myrna Hayes. This one will be along the main road with a possible side trip along the old lighthouse road and pretty leisurely. Meet at the Visitors Center. Leader: Brian Collett and Myrna Hayes Location: 1595 Railroad Ave Mare Island Vallejo |
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Suisun Marsh Walk
Saturday,
MAY
14, 2011
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 Location: 1171 Kellogg St Suisun City |
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Nature Walk at Lake Solano
Saturday,
MAY
14, 2011
10:00 AM SOLANO COUNTY PARKS — Lake Solano Join a hike in the hills to a beautiful lookout point, and then along the forest that borders the lake. Participants will learn about Lake Solano's history - when and how it was created, where its water comes from, and where it goes. They'll also explore which plants, critters, and animals live in the hills, at the water's edge, or in the water, and why. Be prepared for variable trail conditions and weather by bringing layered clothes, sturdy closed-toe shoes, and protection from sun, wind, fog, and the chance of rain. A camera and binoculars are also recommended. The hike will begin in the courtyard next to the Lake Solano Park Nature Center The hike is free but parking is $5 per vehicle, payable across the road on the other side of the park. No RSVP is necessary. For questions in advance, call 707-432-0150 x200 or email volunteer@SolanoLandTrust.org. For same-day information, call 530-795-2990. Leader: Emerson Kanawi Parking Fee: $5 Location: 8685 Pleasants Valley Road Winters, CA DIRECTIONS: Meet at Lake Solano Park Nature Center. |
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'Citizen Science Friday' Land Stewardship Volunteer Opportunity
Friday,
MAY
20, 2011
8:30 AM SOLANO LAND TRUST — TBA Put your thinking cap on for Citizen Science Friday! Led by Solano Land Trust staff scientist, Sue Wickham, this outdoor volunteer opportunity includes restoration, maintenance, and monitoring. You’ll learn about the importance of native species, the impact of introduced species, and how soil, plants, animals, light and moisture levels interact in an ecosystem. RSVP to Natalie at 707-432-0150 x200 or volunteer@SolanoLandTrust.org. Bring water, a snack or bag lunch, and gloves. Come prepared for variable weather (bring layered clothes you don't mind getting dirty, and protection from sun, wind, fog, and rain). Be sure to wear pants and sturdy, closed-toe shoes (preferably waterproof boots). Leader: Sue Wickham |
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Owls - Silent Hunters of the Night
Friday,
MAY
20, 2011
7:30 PM SUISUN MARSH NATURAL HISTORY ASSOCIATION — Suisun Wildlife Center The Suisun Marsh Natural History Association is offering an exciting two evening event! See and learn about the fascinating owls of the night. The first evening will include a audio-visual presentation, viewing of native California species of owls, and hands-on exploration. Join us on Friday from 7:30-9:30 pm; and then on Saturday for an afternoon to evening field trip led by Robin Leong, local Napa-Solano Audubon expert. Registration is limited to 30; sign up today! Those interested in participating should call the Wildlife Center at 707-429-4295, to register. No walk-ins will be accepted. This special event is $10.00 per person for both nights - children free with an adult. All proceeds assist the Suisun Marsh Natural History Association in its Suisun Wildlife Center. Parking Fee: $10 Location: 1171 Kellogg St Suisun City |
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Green Valley Falls Hike
Saturday,
MAY
21, 2011
9:00 AM BAY AREA RIDGE TRAIL COUNCIL — Green Valley Falls One of the most picturesque places in Solano County, this waterfall vies for the title of most beautiful in the Bay Area. Our Solano County Committee has obtained permission for three hikes to visit this lovely spot in the Vallejo watershed, on trails the Council helped to repair after the winter storms of 2005-2006. The falls flow all year long and it is cool and inviting even on a hot day. The hike is fairly short, but there are some steep and difficult spots. Ridge Trail Council founder Doris Klein will again lead the hikes this year. The start time is 9 am and the hike should last about 3 hours. The City of Vallejo limits each hike to 30 people. We'll take reservations on a first-come first-served basis. You must bring a photo ID, be older than 12 years old, and be accompanied by a parent or guardian if you are under 18. Register online; discounts for Ridge Trail Council members. Leader: Doris Klein Entrance Fee: $21.39 Location: Vallejo DIRECTIONS: Details upon registration. |
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Tour at Lynch Canyon
Saturday,
MAY
21, 2011
9:00 AM SOLANO LAND TRUST — Lynch Canyon Solano County Parks and Solano Land Trust invite you to join a Solano County Park Ranger for a guided hike of Lynch Canyon. Learn about the animals and plants that live in the grassland, oak woodland, and riparian habitats, and about local human history. Be sure to pay the $5 parking fee. BRING: Backpack, water, snacks or bag lunch, insect repellent, boots or sturdy closed-toe shoes, and protection from sun, wind, fog, and rain. No RSVP required. For questions, contact Natalie at 707-432-0150 x200 or volunteer@SolanoLandTrust.org. Parking Fee: $5 Location: 3100 Lynch Road Vallejo |
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Blacksmith Demonstration
Saturday,
MAY
21, 2011
10:00 AM RUSH RANCH EDUCATIONAL COUNCIL — Rush Ranch Skilled docent, Virgil Sellars, displays traditional blacksmithing skills using authentic tools and equipment in the ranch’s historic blacksmith shop. Leader: Virgil Sellars 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. |
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Access Adventures
Saturday,
MAY
21, 2011
11:00 AM ACCESS ADVENTURES — Rush Ranch Access Adventure uses uniquely designed vehicles to offer a safe and comfortable ride to anyone living with a condition that affects their ability to get around. Access Adventures' specially built Thornlea Carriages are designed to accommodate wheelchair users and and others with limited mobility. 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. |
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Farm Fresh Feast
Saturday,
MAY
21, 2011
5:00 PM SOLANO LAND TRUST — Dixon Ridge Farms A farm-to-table meal prepared by James Aptakin, Award-Winning Executive Chef. Guest speaker Karen Ross, Secretary of the California Dept. of Food and Agriculture. Enjoy locally-sourced food & wine, including Castaneda Brothers Produce, Shooting Star CSA, Morningsun Herb Farm, Eatwell Farms, Soul Food Farm, California Vegetable Specialties, Dixon Ridge Farms, Capay Organic, Katz and Co. Olive Oil, King Andrews Vinyards, Ledgewood Creek Winery, Mangels Vineyards, Purple Pearl Vineyards, Winterhawk Winery, and Wooden Valley Winery. Also featuring live music by the Dirty Water Blues Band, carriage rides by Access Adventure, raffle, and wine tastings. Buy your tickets today online or call 707-432-0150 x209. Entrance Fee: $125 Performers: Dirty Water Blues Band Location: 5430 Putah Creek Road, Winters |
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Nature Walk at Lake Solano
Sunday,
MAY
22, 2011
10:00 AM SOLANO COUNTY PARKS — Lake Solano Join a hike in the hills to a beautiful lookout point, and then along the forest that borders the lake. Participants will learn about Lake Solano's history - when and how it was created, where its water comes from, and where it goes. They'll also explore which plants, critters, and animals live in the hills, at the water's edge, or in the water, and why. Be prepared for variable trail conditions and weather by bringing layered clothes, sturdy closed-toe shoes, and protection from sun, wind, fog, and the chance of rain. A camera and binoculars are also recommended. The hike will begin in the courtyard next to the Lake Solano Park Nature Center The hike is free but parking is $5 per vehicle, payable across the road on the other side of the park. No RSVP is necessary. For questions in advance, call 707-432-0150 x200 or email volunteer@SolanoLandTrust.org. For same-day information, call 530-795-2990. Leader: Emerson Kanawi Parking Fee: $5 Location: 8685 Pleasants Valley Road Winters, CA DIRECTIONS: Meet at Lake Solano Park Nature Center. |
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Tour at Lynch Canyon
Saturday,
MAY
28, 2011
9:00 AM SOLANO LAND TRUST AND SOLANO COUNTY PARKS — Lynch Canyon Solano County Parks and Solano Land Trust invite you to join a Solano Land Trust docent for a guided hike of Lynch Canyon. Learn about the animals and plants that live in the grassland, oak woodland, and riparian habitats, and about local rich human history. Be sure to pay the $5 parking fee. BRING: Backpack, water, snacks or bag lunch, insect repellent. Be prepared for variable weather (bring layered clothes including pants, boots or sturdy closed-toe shoes, and protection from sun, wind, fog, and rain. No RSVP required. For questions, contact Natalie at 707-432-0150 x200 or volunteer@SolanoLandTrust.org. Parking Fee: $5 Location: 3100 Lynch Road Vallejo |
