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Mare Island Aglow Summertime Lighted Trail Walk
Thursday,
JUL
4, 2013
5:00 PM MARE ISLAND HERITAGE TRUST — Mare Island Shoreline Heritage Preserve Walk the one-mile paved trail to the Spirit Ship atop Mare Island Hill. Holiday lights glow in the darkness of the Preserve with the backdrop of the lights of the Carquinez Bridge, the historic C & H Sugar Marquee and the surrounding communities at the Naval Cemetery, Reservoir Oak, Rowser Garden, Spirit Ship and along Bunkers Trail. Come for the sunset–stay for the stars! Stars shine in the magnificence of the night sky and this year, stars of lights glow along Bunkers Trail and in the Rowser Garden. Location: 1595 Railroad Ave Mare Island Vallejo |
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Friday Bird Walk
Friday,
JUL
5, 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. |
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Mare Island Aglow Summertime Lighted Trail Walk
Friday,
JUL
5, 2013
5:00 PM MARE ISLAND HERITAGE TRUST — Mare Island Shoreline Heritage Preserve Walk the one-mile paved trail to the Spirit Ship atop Mare Island Hill. Holiday lights glow in the darkness of the Preserve with the backdrop of the lights of the Carquinez Bridge, the historic C & H Sugar Marquee and the surrounding communities at the Naval Cemetery, Reservoir Oak, Rowser Garden, Spirit Ship and along Bunkers Trail. Come for the sunset–stay for the stars! Stars shine in the magnificence of the night sky and this year, stars of lights glow along Bunkers Trail and in the Rowser Garden. Location: 1595 Railroad Ave Mare Island Vallejo |
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A Night with the Stars
Friday,
JUL
5, 2013
7:00 PM RUSH RANCH EDUCATIONAL COUNCIL AND SOLANO LAND TRUST — Rush Ranch Don’t miss a Rush Ranch stargazing event led by local astronomy enthusiast, Jim Jerrell, who will share his 30+ years of celestial knowledge.The evening begins at 7:30 pm in the Rush Ranch Nature Center with a presentation covering all things celestial. Outdoor viewing begins when darkness falls. We encourage you to bring and use your own telescope, but please be familiar with setup and use as instruction will not be available. It is best to dress in layers and have bug repellent with you. Children are welcome, but must remain supervised at all times. NOTE: To protect night vision, all flashlights must have a red bulb or be covered with red cellophane. Red cellophane may be provided to those without the above mentioned items Latecomers please turn off headlights and use only parking lights once inside the parking area. Free but donations appreciated. Leader: Jim Jerrell Location: 3521 Grizzly Island Road Suisun City DIRECTIONS: From Hwy 12 in Suisun City, take Grizzly Island Road south approximately 2 miles. Entrance/driveway will be on the right. |
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Hike at King-Swett Ranches
Saturday,
JUL
6, 2013
9:00 AM SOLANO LAND TRUST — King-Swett Ranches Come explore the hills between Fairfield, Benicia, and Vallejo! You'll be led by Jim Walsh and/or James Chang, both expert Solano Land Trust guides who know this area—known as the King-Swett Ranches—inside out. They'll share insights about the birds and other wildlife that call this area home, and give you a great workout! Take advantage of this special opportunity if you can because the King-Swett Ranches are otherwise closed. Bring: a backpack with plenty of water and snacks, boots or sturdy closed-toe shoes with tread for rugged, steep, and slippery off-trail terrain, long, sturdy pants and layered clothes that you don't mind getting dirty, protection from the elements (sun, wind, fog, rain). Recommended: binoculars, camera, bug repellent, hiking sticks, gaiters. Participants of all ages are welcome, but they must be prepared: a strenuous pace hiking 4-6 miles off-trail, up and down rugged, steep, and slippery hills that are full of sticky seeds, thorny plants, and thistle. The King-Swett Ranches are working ranches—cattle are free range so they roam as they please. Very heavy rain cancels—call Jim at 916-870-4824 if the weather is uncertain. Leader: Jim Walsh or James Chang Location: Vallejo DIRECTIONS: Meet Jim and/or James promptly at the Park-and-Ride lot where McGary Road, Hiddenbrooke Parkway, and American Canyon Road intersect (on the Hiddenbrooke side of the American Canyon/Hiddenbrooke Parkway exit, off Interstate 80). (Jim has a white "TruGreen" pickup truck). Be ready to carpool or caravan from there. |
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Volunteer Opportunity: Community Workday at Rush Ranch
Saturday,
JUL
6, 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. |
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Garden Volunteer Day
Saturday,
JUL
6, 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 |
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Mare Island Aglow Summertime Lighted Trail Walk
Saturday,
JUL
6, 2013
5:00 PM MARE ISLAND HERITAGE TRUST — Mare Island Shoreline Heritage Preserve Walk the one-mile paved trail to the Spirit Ship atop Mare Island Hill. Holiday lights glow in the darkness of the Preserve with the backdrop of the lights of the Carquinez Bridge, the historic C & H Sugar Marquee and the surrounding communities at the Naval Cemetery, Reservoir Oak, Rowser Garden, Spirit Ship and along Bunkers Trail. Come for the sunset–stay for the stars! Stars shine in the magnificence of the night sky and this year, stars of lights glow along Bunkers Trail and in the Rowser Garden. Location: 1595 Railroad Ave Mare Island Vallejo |
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Mare Island Aglow Summertime Lighted Trail Walk
Sunday,
JUL
7, 2013
5:00 PM MARE ISLAND HERITAGE TRUST — Mare Island Shoreline Heritage Preserve Walk the one-mile paved trail to the Spirit Ship atop Mare Island Hill. Holiday lights glow in the darkness of the Preserve with the backdrop of the lights of the Carquinez Bridge, the historic C & H Sugar Marquee and the surrounding communities at the Naval Cemetery, Reservoir Oak, Rowser Garden, Spirit Ship and along Bunkers Trail. Come for the sunset–stay for the stars! Stars shine in the magnificence of the night sky and this year, stars of lights glow along Bunkers Trail and in the Rowser Garden. Location: 1595 Railroad Ave Mare Island Vallejo |
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Friday Bird Walk
Friday,
JUL
12, 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. |
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Coyote Club
Saturday,
JUL
13, 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. |
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Volunteer Day at Semple School
Saturday,
JUL
13, 2013
9:00 AM BENICIA TREE FOUNDATION — Robert Semple Elementary School Join us and help with weeding, staking, pruning, watering and more! No experience necessary. Spend some time outdoors with your Benicia neighbors and make the world a better place! Location: 2015 East 3rd Street Benicia |
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A Walk at Mare Island Shoreline Heritage Preserve
Saturday,
JUL
13, 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 likely to be seen. There are also various historical features and wildflowers along the way. 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 Hwy 29 to Hwy 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. Leader Brian Collett 530-220-3121. 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 |
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Garden Volunteer Day
Saturday,
JUL
13, 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 |
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History & Nature Walk at Lake Solano Park
Saturday,
JUL
13, 2013
10:00 AM SOLANO COUNTY PARKS & SOLANO LAND TRUST — Lake Solano Lake Solano volunteers Cricket Kanouff and Kitty Van Newkoop will lead this short, easy-paced tour. Walk back through the mists of time to learn about the Patwin Indians, the Berryessa brothers, and John Wolfskill’s impact on the region. 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 Native Americans. Help us look for Great Blue Herons, Snowy Egrets, Peacocks or other wildlife on the tour. Your guides will also show you what the resident beavers have been up to! Participants should bring portable drinking water, and be prepared for variable weather by bringing layered clothes, sturdy closed-toe shoes, and protection from sun, wind, fog and rain. A camera, binoculars and a notebook for recording observations are also recommended. Snacks, bag lunches, and picnics are welcomed as well. 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. |
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San Francisco Bay Osprey Day
Saturday,
JUL
13, 2013
4:00 PM MARE ISLAND HERITAGE TRUST — Mare Island Shoreline Heritage Preserve Join an exciting gathering to celebrate and learn about the growing curious phenomenon of osprey nesting in San Francisco Bay. On Saturday, Robin Leong will guide a driving and scope viewing tour of the Mare Island osprey nests on former shipyard cranes, buildingways, lightpoles and even palm trees! Learn about longtime island nesting Great Blue Herons and the newcomer osprey. Meet at the corner of G St. and Nimitz Ave. at 3:45pm to form carpools. More events on Sunday, July 14! Leader: Robin Leong Location: 1595 Railroad Ave. Mare Island Vallejo |
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San Francisco Bay Osprey Day
Sunday,
JUL
14, 2013
8:30 AM MARE ISLAND HERITAGE TRUST — Mare Island Shoreline Heritage Preserve 8:45am-10:45am Come aboard Dolphin Charters for a 2-hour boat cruise in the Mare Island Strait getting up close to osprey nests. Space is limited. The cruise is $20 per person. Call 707-249-9633 to register. 11:30am-1:30pm Harv Wilson and Tony Rake report on ospreys in the Bay and discuss next steps in monitoring and protecting nest sites. Eric Dugan and Tim Buckley kick off the lunchtime event at the Mare Island Preserve visitors center with an all osprey slide show. Bring your lunch or purchase. 2:00pm-4:00pm Harv Wilson and Tony Rake lead a guided birdwatching walk in the Mare Island Preserve to view osprey nests. Bring binoculars, scopes, and cameras. 4:30pm-6:30pm Brian Collett leads a guided birdwatching walk in the Mare Island Preserve to view osprey nests. Bring binoculars, scopes, and cameras. Location: 1595 Railroad Ave. Mare Island Vallejo |
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Nature Trek at Rockville Trails
Sunday,
JUL
14, 2013
9:00 AM SOLANO LAND TRUST — Rockville Trails Trek Solano Land Trust’s newly acquired Rockville Trails property with Richard and Cathy Christo. Take advantage of this opportunity if you can because access to Rockville Trails is only by docent-led hikes at this time. Space is limited and registration is required. 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, and the chance of rain). Also recommended: Binoculars, camera, bug repellent, hiking sticks. WHAT TO BE PREPARED FOR: Participants of all ages are welcome, but they must be prepared to hike up and down hills at an intermediate pace. Rockville Trails is a working ranch—cattle are free range so they roam as they please. Visitors must be accompanied by a docent at all times. Since the park is otherwise closed, the entry and exit gate will be locked except for the start and end times of the hike. There is no drinking water. There are no bathrooms. Take only pictures, leave only footprints, and maintain a safe distance from wildlife (e.g., rattlesnakes). RSVP REQUIRED: Click here to register online, or call Natalie at 707-432-0150 x200. Leader: Richard & Cathy Christo Location: Fairfield DIRECTIONS: Directions will be given upon registration. |
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Friday Bird Walk
Friday,
JUL
19, 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. |
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Volunteer Opportunity: Citizen Science Friday
Friday,
JUL
19, 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. |
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Annual Alliance BBQ and Park Cleanup
Saturday,
JUL
20, 2013
9:00 AM VALLEJO WATERSHED ALLIANCE — Blue Rock Springs Park Each year, we meet at Blue Rock Springs Park to clean the little lake there and celebrate another year of helping Vallejo's waterways. Come at 9:00 for the quick cleanup, then enjoy a BBQ on us! Wear sturdy clothes and shoes, glove, hat and sunscreen. We will provide tools and refreshments. Please RSVP to info@VallejoWatershedAlliance.org so we know how much food to prepare! Location: 650 Columbus Parkway Vallejo |
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Rockville Hills Regional Park Trail Crew
Saturday,
JUL
20, 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 |
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Garden Volunteer Day
Saturday,
JUL
20, 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 |
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Horse Day at McIntyre Ranch
Saturday,
JUL
20, 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 |
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Rush Ranch 'Get the Rush'
Saturday,
JUL
20, 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. Activities offered by trained volunteers may include a guided walk alongside tidal marsh and through upland grasses, a traditional blacksmith shop in action, an interpretive display of Native American tools and decorations, or horse-drawn wagon rides that are wheelchair accessible. 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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Volunteer Opportunity: Community Workday at Lake Solano
Sunday,
JUL
21, 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. |
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Friday Bird Walk
Friday,
JUL
26, 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. |
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Volunteer day at Henderson School
Saturday,
JUL
27, 2013
9:00 AM BENICIA TREE FOUNDATION — Joe Henderson Elementary School help care for the Urban Forest! We'll be watering, weeding and adjusting stakes on our young trees from 9 AM to Noon. Please bring gloves! We'll provide tools and instruction. Help us make the world a better place and enjoy some morning sunshine! Registration is required. Location: 650 Hastings Drive Benicia |
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Garden Volunteer Day
Saturday,
JUL
27, 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 |
