Van Hoosear Weed Wipe Out

The Sonoma Ecology Center invites you to help protect the natural beauty of Van Hoosear Wildflower Preserve on Saturday, May 7^th from 9:30-1:30. Volunteers will be treated to one of the best wildflower displays in Sonoma County as we wind our way through the preserve to our worksite. Relish this opportunity to bask in the stunning beauty of our native wildflowers in this private reserve normally only accessible through guided hikes. Come help SEC with habitat restoration work as we weed out the invasive plant Parentucellia viscosa, a fierce competitor against our native wildflowers. Following lunch, embark on an optional interpretive hike to learn about native wildflowers from a local naturalist.

Work will be physically strenuous on uneven terrain. Volunteers should be prepared to get dirty, wear sturdy shoes, bring a lunch, refillable water bottle and gloves if you have them. SEC will provide water, gloves and trash bags. This event is appropriate for volunteers age 14 and above. Pre-registration is required due to limits on attendance. Please RSVP by May 4^th. This volunteer event is sponsored by Sonoma Ecology Center and AmeriCorps Watershed Stewards Project.

The Sonoma Ecology Center’s mission is to work with our community to enhance and sustain ecological health in Sonoma Valley. SEC has partnered with the property owners and the Sonoma County Agricultural Preserve and Open Space District to care for this remarkable wildflower preserve. The mission of the AmeriCorps Watershed Stewards Project (WSP) is to conserve, restore, and enhance anadromous watersheds for future generations by linking education with high-quality scientific practices. A special project of the California Conservation Corps, WSP is sponsored by California Volunteers and administered by the Corporation for National and Community Service. This project is funded in part by the California Department of Conservation and Proposition 50