On Sat., Jan. 28, the Ventura Hillsides Conservancy (VHC) will host a community tree planting party at the Big Rock Nature Preserve near Foster Park. VHC invites volunteers of all ages to join them from 9 a.m. – noon along the Ventura River Parkway to help plant 75 trees and beautify the trail head on property owned and managed by VHC.
“Planting trees adds additional aesthetic and wildlife value to the Big Rock Preserve,” said Derek Poultney, VHC Executive Director. “Trees are not only beautiful; they also produce oxygen, prevent erosion and provide homes for animals.”
Due to the unique geology of the area, the Big Rock Preserve is one of the only places between the Ventura River estuary and Matilija Canyon that has year-round water. The area is home to endangered steelhead trout, as well as western pond turtles, herons, deer, red-legged frogs and bobcats.
The first 30 volunteers to arrive will receive a free REI t-shirt. For directions and to RSVP, visit www.venturahillsides.org/events. For more information, call VHC at 643-8044.
The Ventura Hillsides Conservancy is dedicated to preserving and protecting Ventura’s hillsides, waterways and wildlife. Founded in 2003, the 501(c)(3) non-profit organization is supported by over 500 members, local business and government partners. The land trust currently manages 80 acres of land near the Ventura River and is working toward the purchase of its first hillside property. Further information about the Conservancy is at: www.venturahillsides.org.
