Upcoming Events List

	Suisun Marsh Walk Saturday, MAY 4, 2013 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

	Vintage Games and Ice Cream Thursday, MAY 9, 2013 5:00 AM BENICIA STATE PARKS ASSOCIATION — Benicia State Capitol The Benicia State Parks Association cordially invites you to join us for Vintage Games and Ice Cream on the lawn area of the historic Benicia State Capitol during the Benicia Main Street Farmers Market Day. All ages are invited and admission is free! (Adults must accompany their children - no child care provided.) Some of the 1850's era games to play are: Croquet, Jacks, Marbles, Roll the Hoops, Jacob's Ladders, Games of Graces, Yo-Yo's, Bilbos and MORE! SPONSORS: Benicia State Parks Association, City of Benicia and California State Parks - Silverado-Diablo District. Location: First and G Streets Benicia DIRECTIONS: On the lawn area of the historic Benicia State Capitol, First & G Streets.

	Coyote Club Saturday, MAY 11, 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

	Spring-time Guided Hike at Rockville Trails Saturday, MAY 11, 2013 9:00 AM SOLANO LAND TRUST — Rockville Trails Join a guided hike that explores Solano County’s newest natural park, Rockville Trails. Extensively trained docents will give you a great workout as they lead you up and down this hilly and rocky terrain. You’ll learn about the area’s majestic oak trees, wildflowers and wildlife, and rich human history. These guided hikes are offered weekly each Saturday in May. The start time, duration, and route may vary from week to week. Since there are no parking lots on the property, each hike is limited to 20 registrants who will meet off-site and then carpool to the trailhead. Reservations for these 20 spots open two weeks before each hike date on a first-come, first-served basis. Guests can register online from the at events calendar, or by calling Cathy Christo at 707-745-1913. WHAT TO BRING: a backpack with plenty of water and snacks, boots or sturdy closed-toe shoes with tread for rugged, steep, and potentially slippery terrain, long, sturdy pants and layered clothes, protection from the elements (sun, wind, fog, rain. Also recommended: binoculars, camera, bug repellent, hiking sticks. There is no drinking water anywhere at Rockville Trails. There are no bathrooms anywhere at Rockville Trails. All trails are unimproved—expect rough, rocky, uneven ground. Location: Fairfield DIRECTIONS: Directions will be given upon registration.

	Volunteer Opportunity: Trail Crew Saturday, MAY 11, 2013 9:00 AM SOLANO LAND TRUST — Lynch Canyon Looking for a way to fit exercise, fresh air, and volunteering into your schedule? Look no further than Solano Land Trust’s new trail crew. This volunteering is much needed to help the Land Trust care for trails on the 10,000+ acres of land it owns and protects in Solano County. If you have expertise in maintaining trails, or want to gain experience, join the team. The group will be led by Solano Land Trust’s Land Steward, Ken Poerner. Their first location will be Lynch Canyon Open Space Park and their first project will be prepping existing trails for spring events. Tasks will include removing weeds, mowing, and re-contouring trails.Volunteers will meet Poerner at the kiosk in the Lynch Canyon parking lot for orientation and training. Volunteers should bring a backpack with plenty of water and snacks or a bag lunch. They should wear work gloves, boots, long pants, and layered clothes, and bring protection from sun, wind and fog. Bringing tools is appreciated, especially hoes and cordless trimmers. To join this new trail crew for one day or more, RSVP to Natalie DuMont or 707-432-0150 x200. Plans are canceled if it’s raining; call Poerner at 707-580-6277 if the weather is uncertain. Volunteers get a free parking pass for the day, so they can enjoy the afternoon at Lynch Canyon after volunteering that morning. Leader: Ken Poerner Location: 3100 Lynch Road Vallejo DIRECTIONS: From I-80, take the Hiddenbrooke or Red Top Road exit and follow the signs.

	A Walk at Mare Island Shoreline Heritage Preserve Saturday, MAY 11, 2013 9:30 AM SIERRA CLUB REDWOOD CHAPTER — Mare Island Shoreline Heritage Preserve Our walk takes us along a historic road to the highest point on Mare Island with spectacular views towards the Carquinez Strait, San Pablo and San Francisco Bays. Fledgling ospreys, perhaps great blue herons and other raptors/wildlife are very likely this time of year. There are also various historical features to be seen and we will do a short detour along the old Lighthouse Rd to see some of the finer wild flower areas of the Preserve. This walk is a fairly easy 3.5 mile r/t walk mostly along a gradually inclined paved road from 9:30-11:00. Class E-4-A. Take US 101, I-80 or Hwy29 to Highway 37 and take the Mare Island exit just west of Vallejo. Follow Walnut Ave south to ‘G’ St (1st stop sign) and turn left. Take the 2nd right at Nimitz and go to 15th S stop sign and turn right. Go to Railroad Ave and turn left. Follow Railroad through the South Gate to the Park kiosk where there is ample parking space. Participants are free to bring lunch and eat at the picnic tables and then explore other trails on Mare Island. There are also museums. Leader: Brian Collett Location: 1595 Railroad Ave. Mare Island Vallejo

	Garden Volunteer Day Saturday, MAY 11, 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 Sunday, MAY 12, 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

	Mother's Day Tea Sunday, MAY 12, 2013 2:30 PM MARE ISLAND HISTORIC PARK FOUNDATION — Mare Island Shoreline Heritage Preserve Here's a lovely photo from our May 2012 Mother's Day Tea in the Rowser Garden. Last year we served 45 mothers and their friends and families tea. What a lovely event our annual little tea has become. Join us May 12th at 2:00pm for another Mother's Day Tea. We expect that it will continue to grow and that means we seriously need some extra help that day serving, setting-up, of course, and donations of scones, strawberry jam and other ingredients for our simple "cream tea". It's also most helpful to have some help cleaning up! As always our tea is free of charge, but donations are appreciated. There are no reservations required. Walk to the garden or if you aren't able to walk, there is limited parking. Plan to join us as our guest or as our volunteer. You will be delighted! Location: 1595 Railroad Ave. Vallejo

	Friday Bird Walk Friday, MAY 17, 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.

	Volunteer Opportunity: Citizen Science Friday Friday, MAY 17, 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 Sue Wickham. Leader: Sue Wickham DIRECTIONS: Provided upon RSVP.

	A Night with the Stars Friday, MAY 17, 2013 7:00 PM RUSH RANCH EDUCATIONAL COUNCIL AND SOLANO LAND TRUST — Rush Ranch Enjoy a night with our stars, constellations, planets, and maybe a peek at a faraway Galaxy. The evening will begin at 7:00PM with a short presentation in the Rush Ranch Nature Center. Telescope viewing starts at dark--around 8:15PM. Telescopes will be on hand. Personal scopes and binoculars are welcome, but you need to be familiar with the set up of your personal scopes. Bring warm clothing, as it can get chilly after dark, and mosquito repellant. Children welcome! To protect viewers night vision, flashlights should be covered with red cellophane, and late comers are asked to dim their headlights. For more information call 422-4491 or visit our website. 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.

	Gates Canyon Field Trip Saturday, MAY 18, 2013 NAPA - SOLANO AUDUBON SOCIETY — Gates Canyon Gates Canyon is one of the best places to see songbirds in all of Solano County. In mid-May we will see and hear in full spring song Ash-throated Flycatcher, Western Wood-Peewee, the three vireo species, a few warblers, Western Tanager, Black-headed Grosbeak and Bullock's Oriole. Phainopeplas are sometimes found near the bottom of the road, and Wrentits and Blue-gray Gnatcatchers at the top. Pileated Woodpecker may be heard or seen, as well as Mountain Quail and Northern Pygmy-owl. This is 2.0 mile downhill walk. Very short segments of the road are gravelly and steep. Directions: Please carpool if you can. If not, be at the corner of Pleasants Valley Road and Gates Canyon Rd. at 7:15 am. From Vacaville, take the Cherry Glen exit off I-80. Proceed north on Pleasants Valley Rd. Gates Cyn Rd is about one mile north of Foothill Dr, or 0.3 mile south of Vaca Valley Rd. From there, we will arrange an auto shuttle to take birders to the top of the road for the walk down its length. At each carpool location, please be prepared for departure at the time indicated. Carpool Times & Locations: Napa - 6:30 AM Sweeney's Sport Store, 1537 Imola Ave West; Cordelia - 6:50 AM Solano Education Building, 5100 Business Center Drive, Fairfield. A reminder from the Field Trip Coordinator: Car-poolers will share driving expenses (recommended $.30/mi to be split by the number of riders). Leader: Murray Berner Location: Vacaville

	Spring-time Guided Hike at Rockville Trails Saturday, MAY 18, 2013 7:30 AM SOLANO LAND TRUST — Rockville Trails Join a guided hike that explores Solano County’s newest natural park, Rockville Trails. Extensively trained docents will give you a great workout as they lead you up and down this hilly and rocky terrain. You’ll learn about the area’s majestic oak trees, wildflowers and wildlife, and rich human history. These guided hikes are offered weekly each Saturday in May. The start time, duration, and route may vary from week to week. Since there are no parking lots on the property, each hike is limited to 20 registrants who will meet off-site and then carpool to the trailhead. Reservations for these 20 spots open two weeks before each hike date on a first-come, first-served basis. Guests can register online from the at events calendar, or by calling Cathy Christo at 707-745-1913. WHAT TO BRING: a backpack with plenty of water and snacks, boots or sturdy closed-toe shoes with tread for rugged, steep, and potentially slippery terrain, long, sturdy pants and layered clothes, protection from the elements (sun, wind, fog, rain. Also recommended: binoculars, camera, bug repellent, hiking sticks. There is no drinking water anywhere at Rockville Trails. There are no bathrooms anywhere at Rockville Trails. All trails are unimproved—expect rough, rocky, uneven ground. Location: Fairfield DIRECTIONS: Directions will be given upon registration.

	Rindler Creek Cleanup Saturday, MAY 18, 2013 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.

	Rockville Hills Regional Park Trail Crew Saturday, MAY 18, 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 Opportunity: Trail Crew Saturday, MAY 18, 2013 9:00 AM SOLANO LAND TRUST — Lynch Canyon Looking for a way to fit exercise, fresh air, and volunteering into your schedule? Look no further than Solano Land Trust’s new trail crew. This volunteering is much needed to help the Land Trust care for trails on the 10,000+ acres of land it owns and protects in Solano County. If you have expertise in maintaining trails, or want to gain experience, join the team. The group will be led by Solano Land Trust’s Land Steward, Ken Poerner. Their first location will be Lynch Canyon Open Space Park and their first project will be prepping existing trails for spring events. Tasks will include removing weeds, mowing, and re-contouring trails.Volunteers will meet Poerner at the kiosk in the Lynch Canyon parking lot for orientation and training. Volunteers should bring a backpack with plenty of water and snacks or a bag lunch. They should wear work gloves, boots, long pants, and layered clothes, and bring protection from sun, wind and fog. Bringing tools is appreciated, especially hoes and cordless trimmers. To join this new trail crew for one day or more, RSVP to Natalie DuMont or 707-432-0150 x200. Plans are canceled if it’s raining; call Poerner at 707-580-6277 if the weather is uncertain. Volunteers get a free parking pass for the day, so they can enjoy the afternoon at Lynch Canyon after volunteering that morning. Leader: Ken Poerner Location: 3100 Lynch Road Vallejo DIRECTIONS: From I-80, take the Hiddenbrooke or Red Top Road exit and follow the signs.

	Volunteer Trail Work Party: Hiddenbrooke Trail Saturday, MAY 18, 2013 9:00 AM BAY AREA RIDGE TRAIL AND GVRD — Bay Area Ridge Trail through Hiddenbrooke Join the Ridge Trail Council's Trail Steward John Aranson and the Greater Vallejo Recreation District for a morning restoring the Hiddenbrooke Trail, which runs through the beautiful open space between Vallejo and Fairfield. Much needed repairs include widening the trail, installing rolling dips, and cutting invasive plants from the trail corridor. All tools and supervision will be supplied. Ages 14 and older are welcome to participate; under age 18 must be accompanied by a supervising adult. Please bring work gloves, sunscreen, and a water bottle (with water). and dress in laters for variable weather including rain gear, a hat/visor for sun protection. Event will proceed in light rain, but heavy rain cancels. There is limited parking at the trail head so please meet at the intersection of McGary Road and Hiddenbrooke Parkway so we can carpool the 0.5 miles to the trail. From interstate 80 northeast of Vallejo and west of Fairfield take the American Canyon exit east into Hiddenbrooke Parkway. Immediately turn right and park in the area at the entrance to the community that is Mc Gary road. We will meet at this intersection at 9am. Please bring sturdy shoes, work cloths, sunscreen and hat. refreshments will be supplied. Sign up online. Leader: John Aranson Location: McGary Rd and Hiddenbrooker Parkway Vallejo DIRECTIONS: From interstate 80 northeast of Vallejo and west of Fairfield take the American Canyon / Hiddenbrooke Parkway exit.

	Garden Volunteer Day Saturday, MAY 18, 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

	Experiential Walk and Picnic at Lake Solano Park Saturday, MAY 18, 2013 10:00 AM SOLANO COUNTY PARKS — Lake Solano Join Lake Solano Park volunteers to experience a new kind of walk at Solano Lake Park along the Shoreline Trail. Spring is in the air. Flowers are budding and there are new leaves on the trees. You may want to pause to study the California buckeye tree in bloom, or the cliff swallows swirling around the bridge. You may be inclined to grab your journal and sketch what captures your interest. Enjoy the view of the lake and the water birds from the shoreline bench. Follow the footsteps of the Native Patwin people and those who came after throughout the years. A poem may come to mind! Enjoy a brown bag or potluck lunch at noon on an available picnic table with peacocks looking on. After lunch, you are welcome to linger with your guides until 3pm (optional). Meet in front of the Nature Center at Lake Solano Park & Campground, located at 8685 Pleasants Valley Road, just off Highway 128 near the town of Winters. The Nature Center is at the west entrance of the park. Parking is $5 per vehicle, payable at the east entrance of the Park. The walk is free. Bring a journal, pencils, pens, and/or water colors, camera and binoculars, drinking water, sunhat, sun screen, insect repellent, closed-toe shoes, and a brown bag lunch or pot luck item. For more information on Solano County Parks and the fun, educational opportunities they offer, check out our website. Leader: Linda Elkins, Amanda Hicks 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.

	Horse Day at McIntyre Ranch Saturday, MAY 18, 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 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

	Nature Journaling and Sketching Walk Saturday, MAY 18, 2013 10:00 AM SOLANO LAND TRUST — Rush Ranch Tune in to your senses while walking alongside the tidal marsh at Rush Ranch. Close your eyes—what do you hear? Hold pickleweed in your hand—how does it look, feel, smell, and taste? Jot down thoughts, sketch or paint, or read or write a poem if you feel so inspired. Meet docents Jody Lane and Laurie Guest in the Rush Ranch courtyard to begin this experience of slowing down enough to truly observe nature. WHAT TO BRING: Journal or other paper; pencils, pens, and/or water colors; 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. THINGS TO KNOW: Some inhabitants of Nature are best observed and avoided! Watch for ticks, bees and wasps, and snakes. Leader: Jody Lane and Laurie Guest Location: 3521 Grizzly Island Road Suisun City DIRECTIONS: From Hwy 12 in Suisun City, take Grizzly Island Road south approximately 2 miles. Entrance/driveway will be on the right.

	Rockville Trails Exploration Saturday, MAY 18, 2013 10:00 AM GREENBELT ALLIANCE — Rockville Trails Come and explore the new 1500-acre preserve of Solano Land Trust. This beautiful open space is home to many species of raptor and contains many natural communities. Learn the fascinating connection between this parkland and the Pony Express! This is a moderate 4-mile hike with less than 1,000 feet gain in elevation. Bring binoculars, water, sun protection, and hiking poles if you normally use them. Rain cancels. Check back for meeting place and driving directions. Leader: Steven Chun Location: Fairfield DIRECTIONS: Meeting place to park & carpool to trailhead: Old County Road at the intersection of Suisun Valley Road and Rockville Road. Park alongside the big red “Ice House” building.

	Rush Ranch 'Get the Rush' Saturday, MAY 18, 2013 10:00 AM SOLANO LAND TRUST AND RUSH RANCH EDUCATIONAL COUNCIL — Rush Ranch All are invited to 'Get the Rush' at Rush Ranch. Get the Rush is a series of fun activities for the whole family, offered on the third Saturday of every month and it’s 100% volunteer-run. This month’s activities include a nature journaling and sketching walk. 10am: Tune in to your senses while walking alongside the tidal marsh at Rush Ranch. Close your eyes—what do you hear? Hold pickleweed in your hand—how does it look, feel, smell, and taste? Jot down thoughts, sketch or paint, or read or write a poem if you feel so inspired. Meet docents Jody Lane and Laurie Guest in the Rush Ranch courtyard to begin this experience of slowing down enough to truly observe nature. Bring a journal or other paper, pencils, pens, and/or water colors, water, snacks or picnic lunch, bug repellent and, optionally, binoculars and a camera. 10am to 1pm: 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. Take part in an interactive demonstration with a smithy, and you may even get the opportunity to make your own iron nail or other keepsake! Or 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. 11am to 1pm: Visitors of all ages and mobility levels are welcome to jump aboard 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. 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 Opportunity: Community Workday at Lake Solano Sunday, MAY 19, 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.

	Friday Bird Walk Friday, MAY 24, 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.

	Sunset & Full Moon Hike Friday, MAY 24, 2013 6:00 PM SOLANO LAND TRUST — Lynch Canyon Watch the sunset from the Bay Area Ridge Trail Friday, May 24 at Lynch Canyon Open Space Park in Solano County. Join Docent Captain Lawrence Sander for a full moon rise, North Bay sunset, extremely slight lunar eclipse, and an after-dark, moonlit hike back down. From I-80, take Hiddenbrooke or Red Top exit and follow the signs. Space is limited. Registration required. Because this hike is after hours, the park entrance gate will be locked shut except for check-in time and for exit at approximately 10:30pm. What to bring: drinking water, snacks, flashlight and/or headlamp, binoculars or telescope (recommended), hiking sticks/trekking poles (recommended if you find them helpful), collapsing camp chair (if desired), camera and tripod (if desired), bug repellent (if desired), closed-toe shoes that grip. What not to bring: flip-flops, pets, laser pointers, alcohol, anything involving a flame or smoke. Expect pollen and a little mud. It tends to get windy and chilly on the ridge. Register online now. Leader: Lawrence Sander Location: 3100 Lynch Road Vallejo DIRECTIONS: From I-80, take Hiddenbrooke or Red Top exit and follow the signs.

	Spring-time Guided Hike at Rockville Trails Saturday, MAY 25, 2013 9:00 AM SOLANO LAND TRUST — Rockville Trails Join a guided hike that explores Solano County’s newest natural park, Rockville Trails. Extensively trained docents will give you a great workout as they lead you up and down this hilly and rocky terrain. You’ll learn about the area’s majestic oak trees, wildflowers and wildlife, and rich human history. These guided hikes are offered weekly each Saturday in May. The start time, duration, and route may vary from week to week. Since there are no parking lots on the property, each hike is limited to 20 registrants who will meet off-site and then carpool to the trailhead. Reservations for these 20 spots open two weeks before each hike date on a first-come, first-served basis. Guests can register online from the at events calendar, or by calling Cathy Christo at 707-745-1913. WHAT TO BRING: a backpack with plenty of water and snacks, boots or sturdy closed-toe shoes with tread for rugged, steep, and potentially slippery terrain, long, sturdy pants and layered clothes, protection from the elements (sun, wind, fog, rain. Also recommended: binoculars, camera, bug repellent, hiking sticks. There is no drinking water anywhere at Rockville Trails. There are no bathrooms anywhere at Rockville Trails. All trails are unimproved—expect rough, rocky, uneven ground. Location: Fairfield DIRECTIONS: Directions will be given upon registration.

	Garden Volunteer Day Saturday, MAY 25, 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, MAY 31, 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.