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Friday Bird Walk
Friday,
MAY
4, 2012
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. |
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Native Plant Sale
Saturday,
MAY
5, 2012
9:00 AM CALIFORNIA NATIVE PLANT SOCIETY - WILLIS LINN JEPSON CHAPTER — Benicia City Park Perennials, Trees, Shrubs & Groundcovers for a drought tolerant, wildlife friendly and attractive garden. For more info call (707) 747-5815 or visit our website for a plant list at cnpsjepson.org. Location: Corner of Military & First Street Downtown Benicia Benicia |
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Volunteer Day at Rush Ranch
Saturday,
MAY
5, 2012
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. |
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Wildflower Hike
Saturday,
MAY
5, 2012
9:00 AM SOLANO LAND TRUST — King-Swett Ranches Come look for wildflowers and explore the hills between Fairfield, Benicia, and Vallejo with volunteers James Chang and Maggie Ingalls. Take advantage of this special opportunity if you can because this area—known as the King-Swett Ranches—is otherwise closed. This will be a strenuous 4-6 mile 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. Also recommended: Binoculars, camera, bug repellent, hiking sticks, gaiters. 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. Heavy rain cancels. Leader: James Chang and Maggie Ingalls 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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Garden Volunteer Day
Saturday,
MAY
5, 2012
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 |
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Wildflower & Aquatic Life Walk
Saturday,
MAY
5, 2012
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 |
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4th Annual Kite Festival
Saturday,
MAY
5, 2012
11:00 AM SOLANO COUNTY PARKS / SOLANO LAND TRUST — Lynch Canyon The ingredients needed for a perfect kite-flying experience are wind, an open grassy field, and a lack of Kiteus Eatemupus (more commonly known as kite-eating trees). Solano County Parks and Solano Land Trust provide these ingredients at Lynch Canyon’s 4th Annual Kite Festival on Saturday, May 5 from 11am to 4pm. All you need to bring are your kites and kids. It’s a family-friendly event, and kids of all ages and ability levels are welcome. The festival is free; parking is only $5. Bring a picnic lunch to enjoy while watching dancing kites. Parking Fee: $5 Location: 3100 Lynch Road Vallejo |
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Wildflower Train
Saturday,
MAY
5, 2012
11:00 AM BAY AREA ELECTRIC RAILROAD ASSOCIATION — Western Railway Museum Every Saturday, Sunday, and Wednesday from March 31 - April 29. Departs at 11am, 12:30pm, and 2pm. Museum members ride free in the coach car. For $5 extra you get cookies and lemonade in the first class Parlor Observation Car! RSVP's only accepted for groups of 10-or-more who are riding first class by calling 707-374-2978 ext 114. Location: 5848 State Highway 12 Suisun City DIRECTIONS: Between Fairfield and Rio Vista |
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A Night with the Stars
Saturday,
MAY
5, 2012
7:00 PM RUSH RANCH EDUCATIONAL COUNCIL AND SOLANO LAND TRUST — Rush Ranch Join astronomy enthusiast, Jim Jerrell, for a night of stargazing at Rush Ranch. Jim, with more than 30 years experience, will give a brief lecture and answer questions on all things celestial, as well as offer insight into the popular field of amateur astronomy. Outdoor viewing begins when darkness falls. Several telescopes will be on hand, but please feel free to bring your own scopes and binoculars. Please be familiar with the setup of your own scope. Children are welcome, but must remain supervised at all times. Please bring warm clothing and mosquito repellent. NOTE: To protect night vision, all flashlights must have a red bulb or be covered with red cellophane. Latecomers please dim headlights or use only parking lights once inside the parking area. 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. |
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Wildflower Hike at Lynch Canyon
Sunday,
MAY
6, 2012
9:00 AM SOLANO LAND TRUST — Lynch Canyon Join docent Mimi Fleige for a hike focused on wildflowers — Bee Plant, Yarrow, Buttercups, Morning Glory, Lotus & Monkey Flowers should be blooming, to name a few. This hike will also reward participants with commanding views of Vallejo, American Canyon, San Pablo Bay, sloughs, marshes & Marin County. WHAT TO BRING: A backpack with plenty of water, and snacks or lunch, hiking boots or sturdy closed-toe shoes, a hat and windbreaker, and other protection from sun, wind, fog and rain. Also recommended: bug repellent. WHAT TO BE PREPARED FOR: Participants of all ages are welcome, but they must be prepared for a route about 5 miles long which entails elevation gains & losses. Lynch Canyon is a working ranch—cattle are free range so they roam as they please. The guided hike is free, and parking is only $5 per vehicle. Leader: Mimi Fleige Parking Fee: $5 Location: 3100 Lynch Road Vallejo |
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Wildflower & Aquatic Life Walk
Sunday,
MAY
6, 2012
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 |
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Wildflower Train
Sunday,
MAY
6, 2012
11:00 AM BAY AREA ELECTRIC RAILROAD ASSOCIATION — Western Railway Museum Every Saturday, Sunday, and Wednesday from March 31 - April 29. Departs at 11am, 12:30pm, and 2pm. Museum members ride free in the coach car. For $5 extra you get cookies and lemonade in the first class Parlor Observation Car! RSVP's only accepted for groups of 10-or-more who are riding first class by calling 707-374-2978 ext 114. Location: 5848 State Highway 12 Suisun City DIRECTIONS: Between Fairfield and Rio Vista |
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Friday Bird Walk
Friday,
MAY
11, 2012
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. |
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Volunteer Day at Lynch Canyon
Saturday,
MAY
12, 2012
9:00 AM SOLANO LAND TRUST, SOLANO COUNTY PARKS, BAY AREA RIDGE TRAIL — Lynch Canyon Help Solano Land Trust, Solano County Parks and the Bay Area Ridge Trail Council prepare Lynch Canyon for our 5th Annual Lynch Canyon Trail Run & Community Hike on Sat. June 2nd. Projects include removing weeds, maintaining trails, and mowing. WHAT TO BRING: a backpack with plenty of water and snacks, heavy work gloves, 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. RSVP requested, but not required: Natalie at volunteer@solanolandtrust.org or 707-432-0150 x200. Free with a 1-day parking pass! Request your pass from Land Trust or County Parks staff when you arrive. Location: 3100 Lynch Road Vallejo |
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Garden Volunteer Day
Saturday,
MAY
12, 2012
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 |
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Suisun Marsh Walk
Saturday,
MAY
12, 2012
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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On Safari for Lake Solano’s Wild Peacocks
Saturday,
MAY
12, 2012
10:00 AM SOLANO COUNTY PARKS & SOLANO LAND TRUST — Lake Solano Come out and explore the natural history, myths and symbolism of these majestic birds. Docent Barbara Cooper will take you on this journey. She's creative, entertaining, and wonderful with children. All ages welcome. The walk is free, and parking is only $5 per vehicle. Make a day of it and bring a picnic lunch for afterwards! WHAT TO BRING: binoculars (if you have a pair), a backpack with water and snacks, sturdy closed-toe shoes, protection from sun, wind, fog and rain. Also recommended: camera and bug repellent. Park on the east-side of Pleasants Valley Rd. Then walk to the courtyard next to the Nature Center on the west-side. Leader: Barbara Cooper Parking Fee: $5 Location: 8685 Pleasants Valley Road DIRECTIONS: Near Winters, CA. |
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Wildflower & Aquatic Life Walk
Saturday,
MAY
12, 2012
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 |
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Wildflower & Aquatic Life Walk
Sunday,
MAY
13, 2012
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 |
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Friday Bird Walk
Friday,
MAY
18, 2012
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. |
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'Citizen Science Friday' Land Stewardship Volunteer Opportunity
Friday,
MAY
18, 2012
8:30 AM SOLANO LAND TRUST — Lynch Canyon / King-Swett Ranches Join our Citizen Science Friday team! Solano Land Trust's staff scientist, Sue Wickham, leads you on this outdoor volunteer opportunity where together you restore, maintain, and monitor the health of Lynch Canyon and the King-Swett Ranches. You learn about the importance of native species, the impact of invasive non-native species, and how soil, plants, animals, light and moisture levels interact in an ecosystem. No experience necessary! Heavy rain will cancel—call Sue's cell phone if the weather is uncertain: 707-590-0307. Bring: A backpack with plenty of water and snacks, heavy work gloves, 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, and protection from sun, wind, fog and rain. RSVP: Sue at 707-432-0150 x 207 or sue@SolanoLandTrust.org. Leader: Sue Wickham DIRECTIONS: Provided upon RSVP. |
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Evening Hike at Lynch Canyon
Friday,
MAY
18, 2012
4:00 PM SOLANO LAND TRUST — Lynch Canyon Happy Friday! Join docent Linda Sonner for this late afternoon/early evening hike at Lynch Canyon when the park is otherwise closed. Enjoy spectacular views and learn about Lynch Canyon's natural and human history -- including the Native Americans, pioneers and ranchers who once called it home, and how it was saved from becoming a landfill and became a park instead! WHAT TO BRING: a backpack with plenty of water and snacks, boots or sturdy closed-toe shoes with tread for rugged, 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: binoculars, camera, bug repellent, hiking sticks. WHAT TO BE PREPARED FOR: Participants of all ages are welcome. Lynch Canyon is a working ranch—cattle are free range so they roam as they please. Heavy rain cancels. RSVP REQUIRED: Natalie at volunteer@solanolandtrust.org or 707-432-0150 x200. Leader: Linda Sonner Location: 3100 Lynch Road Vallejo |
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Green Valley Falls Hike
Saturday,
MAY
19, 2012
9:00 AM BAY AREA RIDGE TRAIL COUNCIL — Green Valley Falls SOLD OUT Leader: Doris Klein Entrance Fee: $20 Registration is required. Location: Vallejo DIRECTIONS: Details upon registration. |
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Rindler Creek Cleanup
Saturday,
MAY
19, 2012
9:00 AM VALLEJO WATERSHED ALLIANCE — Rindler Creek Rindler Creek flows out of the hills to the east of Vallejo, down into Lake Chabot. It attracts a fair amount of trash, unfortunately, and it's time for a spring cleaning! Meet at the corner of Fairgrounds Drive and Coach Lane. Wear sturdy clothes and shoes, glove, hat and sunscreen. We will provide tools, trash bags, water, and refreshments. Location: Vallejo DIRECTIONS: Meet at the corner of Fairgrounds Drive and Coach Lane. |
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Garden Volunteer Day
Saturday,
MAY
19, 2012
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 |
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Rush Ranch 'Get the Rush'
Saturday,
MAY
19, 2012
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! Choose from several activities: Travel back in time as you enter the historic Rush Ranch Blacksmith Shop. Learn about traditional blacksmithing tools and equipment, and see the forge in the center of the ranch. Join in an interactive demonstration with a smithy, and you may even get the opportunity to make your own iron nail or other keepsake! Or, if weather permits, visit Little Bear at his table full of Native American tools and decorations, most of which he hand-crafted himself. Ask him about his life experiences and the history and culture of Native Americans. Also, if weather and resources permit, take a horse-drawn wagon ride. Wheelchair users are encouraged and can board via a solar-powered wheelchair lift. These rides allow those with limited mobility to experience the freedom and excitement of exploring beautiful open spaces like Rush Ranch with highly trained horses and experienced drivers. 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. |
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Special Marsh Walk
Saturday,
MAY
19, 2012
10:00 AM SOLANO LAND TRUST — Rush Ranch Learn about the marsh, native plants, Native Americans, and pioneers of Rush Ranch. Join local herbalist Pam Nelson for a free guided walk at Rush Ranch this Saturday, May 19. Meet her at the native plant garden beside the Rush Ranch Nature Center at 10am. Learn why Suisun Marsh is special throughout the Bay Area and the Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta, and why Rush Ranch is unique. Leader: Pam Nelson 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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Friday Bird Walk
Friday,
MAY
25, 2012
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. |
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Owls - Silent Hunters of the Night
Friday,
MAY
25, 2012
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. Entrance Fee: $10 Location: 1171 Kellogg St Suisun City |
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Garden Volunteer Day
Saturday,
MAY
26, 2012
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 |
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Memorial Day Service
Monday,
MAY
28, 2012
9:00 AM MARE ISLAND HISTORIC PARK FOUNDATION — Mare Island Naval Cemetery The O'Kane Division of the Sea Cadets will again provide the Color Guard. Ceremony will include a wreath laying at the USS Boston Monument, which honors sailors killed while loading ammunition at Mare Island in 1892. Taps will be played. A souvenir photo of a Mare island event will be made available to attendees. Anyone needing guidance to the Cemetery should arrive to caravan at the Tennessee St. entrance to Mare Island by 8:45AM. A special History presentation for those who stay after the playing of Taps. Location: Vallejo DIRECTIONS: Located at the southern end of Railroad Avenue on Mare Island. |
