Solano Land Trust Seeks Citizen Science Volunteers

Solano Land Trust is recruiting volunteers to help with citizen science projects at Lynch Canyon and the King-Swett Ranches. This is a monthly opportunity to volunteer side-by-side with Solano Land Trust’s staff scientist, Sue Wickham.  No prior experience is necessary.  Training and tools are provided. 

Citizen science volunteers help make Lynch Canyon and the King-Swett Ranches as safe as possible for endangered species and other native plants and critters. They do this by restoring the habitat these species need to survive – and hopefully thrive.  

In the spring and summer months, citizen scientists helped restore a pond to meet the needs of the California red-legged frog.  Now is the time of year to help promote the growth of new oak trees and other important plants and trees.  Volunteers will collect seeds and cuttings to care for and soon plant.  This month’s collection of seeds and cuttings is part of a larger research study and restoration project.  For the past five years Solano Land Trust has been planting small oak trees and studying how to promote a greater diversity of native trees, how to protect young trees from being eaten, and where to plant future trees.

Take advantage of this very special opportunity to visit beautiful lands here in Solano County – Lynch Canyon is closed until March 2012 and the King-Swett Ranches are only accessible in the company of Solano Land Trust staff and trained guides.

Citizen Science volunteering involves hiking off-trail, through high grasses and thistle, on uneven ground and up and down hills.  Bring water and snacks. If you have your own pairs, bring sturdy work gloves and hand clippers.  Wear heavy pants and sturdy closed-toe shoes (preferably hiking boots). You can wear hiking gaiters too if you have them. This clothing will help protect your legs from thorny plants, weedy seeds, and ticks.  Come prepared for variable weather by bringing layered clothes, and protection from sun, wind, fog, and the chance of rain.  Note that these are working ranches, so cattle may be present.

RSVP to Sue at 707-432-0150 x207 or sue@SolanoLandTrust.org.  Directions are provided upon RSVP.

This year Solano Land Trust celebrates its 25th Anniversary protecting working farms and natural areas in Solano County. It has permanently protected over 20,000 acres of land for the current and future residents of Solano. Learn more and see a full list of outdoor adventures at www.SolanoLandTrust.org.