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Friday Bird Walk
Friday,
AUG
2, 2013
7:30 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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The Ecosystems of Rockville Trails Preserve
Saturday,
AUG
3, 2013
8:30 AM SOLANO LAND TRUST — Rockville Trails Explore the ecosystems of Rockville Trails Preserve with docent Steve Pressley on a free guided hike. Those who enjoy a rugged hiking experience are encouraged to take advantage of this special opportunity because Rockville Trails Preserve is brand new and only accessible by docent-led hikes at this time. Participants of all ages are welcome on this adventure, but they must be prepared for an intermediate to strenuous pace hiking four to six miles up and down rugged, steep, and slippery hills on rough, rocky, uneven ground full of sticky seeds, thorny plants, and thistle. In addition to wildlife, free-range cattle may be out and about. There is no water, and there are no bathrooms or parking lots yet. Since there is no parking, space is limited and registrants meet off-site to then carpool to the trailhead. Guests can register online from the “events calendar” on the Solano Land Trust website, or by calling Cathy at 707-745-1913. The meeting place is provided upon registration. Leader: Steve Pressley Location: Fairfield DIRECTIONS: Meeting location provided upon registration. |
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Hike at King-Swett Ranches
Saturday,
AUG
3, 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
Saturday,
AUG
3, 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. 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). By email, Ken Poerner, or 707-580-6277. 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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Garden Volunteer Day
Saturday,
AUG
3, 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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Friday Bird Walk
Friday,
AUG
9, 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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A Night with the Stars
Friday,
AUG
9, 2013
7:30 PM RUSH RANCH EDUCATIONAL COUNCIL AND SOLANO LAND TRUST — Rush Ranch Curious about constellations? Pondering the planets? If so, come enjoy the night sky with local astronomy enthusiast, Jim Jerrell, who will be your host for this stargazing event. The evening begins at 7:30pm with a short presentation in the Rush Ranch Nature Center. Outdoor viewing begins when darkness falls. Telescopes will be on hand. What to bring: warm clothing, mosquito repellant, children are welcome, but must remain supervised at all times, flashlights must be covered with red cellophane, personal scopes and binoculars are welcome, but be familiar with their setup and use. In order to preserve night vision, we ask that all latecomers use only parking lights when entering the parking lot. 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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6th Annual Mare Faire
Saturday,
AUG
10, 2013
8:00 AM MARE ISLAND HERITAGE TRUST — Mare Island Shoreline Heritage Preserve Guided hikes, outings and tours throughout the Island. Exhibits, demonstrations and presentations at the Visitors Center. For more information, see our schedule online Location: 1595 Railroad Ave Mare Island Vallejo DIRECTIONS: Preserve Visitor Center, Building A-167 |
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Coyote Club
Saturday,
AUG
10, 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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A Walk at Mare Island Shoreline Heritage Preserve
Saturday,
AUG
10, 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,
AUG
10, 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,
AUG
10, 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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6th Annual Mare Faire
Sunday,
AUG
11, 2013
8:00 AM MARE ISLAND HERITAGE TRUST — Mare Island Shoreline Heritage Preserve Guided hikes, outings and tours throughout the Island. Exhibits, demonstrations and presentations at the Visitors Center. For more information, see our schedule online Location: 1595 Railroad Ave Mare Island Vallejo DIRECTIONS: Preserve Visitor Center, Building A-167 |
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Volunteer Opportunity: Phenology
Sunday,
AUG
11, 2013
12:00 PM SOLANO LAND TRUST — Solano Land Trust Properties Help Solano Land Trust notice changes in our native tree species over time and thereby contribute valuable information to a nationwide climate monitoring project, all while exploring magnificent local landscapes and having fun! No experience is necessary. You'll learn about phenology, the study of seasonal changes in plants and animals from year to year, with a focus on the leafing and flowering of our live oaks, blue oaks, and buckeyes. ADVANCE REGISTRATION REQUIRED: Contact Paige by email or at 530-514-1773. DIRECTIONS: Location varies. Meeting place provided upon registration. |
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Friday Bird Walk
Friday,
AUG
16, 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,
AUG
16, 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! ADVANCE REGISTRATION REQUIRED: Sue at 707-432-0150 x 207 or by email. Leader: Sue Wickham DIRECTIONS: Provided upon RSVP. |
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3rd Annual Aim for Ag & Open Space Sporting Clay Shoot & Luncheon
Saturday,
AUG
17, 2013
8:30 AM SOLANO LAND TRUST — Birds Landing Hunting Preserve & Shooting Clays Join us for our second annual sporting clay shoot! This year we are offering either 50- or 100-target options. Awards will include: High Overall, Labor Division, Ladies, Under 18, and Duck-and-Cover! The 50-target shoot is $75 and includes: 50-target sporting clay shoot (registration opens at 10 a.m.), Vinnie's Smokin' BBQ lunch & hosted beer and wine after the shoot, safety instruction, and free beginner's clinic (optional). The 100-target shoot is $110 and includes: all of the above plus an additional 50-targets (registration opens at 8:30 a.m.). Do you know a non-shooter that wants to come along and enjoy the day? "Lunch Only" tickets are also available for $15 each. Register online now. We will also be selling tickets for our BIG DRAWINGS: a gun-safe and shotgun, which can be pre-purchased (need not be present to win) and a GENERAL RAFFLE for lots of other great prizes (must be present to win). Entrance Fee: $75 Location: 2099 Collinsville Rd Birds Landing, CA 94512 |
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Mid-Summer Hike at Rockville Trails
Saturday,
AUG
17, 2013
8:30 AM SOLANO LAND TRUST — Rockville Trails Celebrate the first day of summer with a hike at Rockville Trails! Join Richard & Cathy Christo for this tour of Solano Land Trust’s newly acquired Rockville Trails property! 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 (for example, rattlesnakes). Register online or call Cathy at 707-745-1913. Space is limited. Leader: Richard & Cathy Christo Location: Fairfield DIRECTIONS: Directions will be given upon registration. |
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Rockville Hills Regional Park Trail Crew
Saturday,
AUG
17, 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,
AUG
17, 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,
AUG
17, 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,
AUG
17, 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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Friday Bird Walk
Friday,
AUG
23, 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: Phenology
Saturday,
AUG
24, 2013
9:00 AM SOLANO LAND TRUST — Solano Land Trust Properties Help Solano Land Trust notice changes in our native tree species over time and thereby contribute valuable information to a nationwide climate monitoring project, all while exploring magnificent local landscapes and having fun! No experience is necessary. You'll learn about phenology, the study of seasonal changes in plants and animals from year to year, with a focus on the leafing and flowering of our live oaks, blue oaks, and buckeyes. ADVANCE REGISTRATION REQUIRED: Contact Paige by email or at 530-514-1773. DIRECTIONS: Location varies. Meeting place provided upon registration. |
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Garden Volunteer Day
Saturday,
AUG
24, 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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Tree Volunteer Day
Sunday,
AUG
25, 2013
9:00 AM BENICIA TREE FOUNDATION — Joe Henderson Elementary School Come out and help with weeding, pruning and staking. The young trees are growing quickly and need some TLC! Register online. Bring gloves. Come on out and spend a glorious morning with the young trees! For more information, email us. Registration is required. Location: 650 Hastings Drive Benicia |
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Friday Bird Walk
Friday,
AUG
30, 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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Garden Volunteer Day
Saturday,
AUG
31, 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 |
