Weed wipe out

Take a whack at protecting the natural beauty of the Van Hoosear Wildflower Preserve on May 7, a “Weed Wipe Out” day for volunteers. Participants will be treated to one of the best wildflower displays in Sonoma County in a private reserve normally only accessible through guided hikes.

With this backdrop, volunteers will join in an effort to weed out the invasive plant Parentucellia viscosa, a fierce competitor against native wildflowers. Restoring this habitat along Carriger Creek to its native condition will benefit the local birds, reptiles and salmon species. Following lunch, there will be an optional interpretive hike lead by a local naturalist.

Volunteers are encouraged to prepare to get dirty, wear sturdy shoes, bring a lunch, refillable water bottle and gloves. The Sonoma Ecology Center will provide water, snacks, handpicks and trash bags. This physically strenuous event is appropriate for volunteers age 14 and above. Space is limited; please RSVP before May 4 by contacting Summer Swallow at 707.996.0712 x 113 or [email protected].