OPEN SPACES
The latest news from the Ojai Valley Land Conservancy Working to Protect The Ojai Valley’s Future - Today Vol. 10 No. 3 Summer 2003
Its Official:Ventura River Preserve
1,591 Acres Protected
“We have waited a long time for this day,”exclaims Jim Engel, Executive Director.On Monday, June 16, the Ojai Valley Land Conservancy closed escrow on the two-and-a-half square mile, Ventura River Preserve-Rancho El Nido and with one fell swoop made open space history.The Conservancy’s protection effort was the biggest ever in Ventura County by a land trust and guarantees the largest parcel in the Ojai Valley will be available for future generations to enjoy and as a haven for vanishing wildlife, native trees and rare plants.The newest preserve includes three miles of the Ventura River, four miles of tributary streams and seven perennial springs along with more than 300 species of plants and animals. Ninety percent of the property will be owned and managed by the Conservancy, while the remaining lands will be protected under a conservation easement owned by a private landowner and monitored by the Conservancy.The protection effort was made possible by local donors and a $3.1 million grant from the State Coastal Conservancy and Conservation Bond Acts 12 and 40.
Fundraising Continues: 300 Donors and Counting
The Conservancy still needs more than $100,000 to ensure the long-term protection of the Preserve and hopes to raise those gifts and pledges before the end of 2003.This includes $10,000 for a challenge gift, which must be matched by additional donations.Contributors can use creative, conservative approaches such as requesting matching gifts from their employer, making a gift of appreciated assets (stock, mutual funds, real estate), irrevocable estate gifts and pledging their gifts over two years.Donors who make extraordinary gifts may be able to spread out gifts over a longer period.The Conservancy offers a limited number of naming rights to honor or memorialize family, friends or mentors.
Plenty of Work Ahead
Trailheads and recreational trails are being constructed on the property to ensure public safety and protection of the native habitats.At least a portion of the property will be open to public use this Fall.Meanwhile, guided walks and equestrian rides are being offered by Conservancy staff and volunteers.Janet Hanstad, Preserve Manager, is developing a resource management plan.She will seek to balance public needs with resource protection and the concerns of adjacent landowners.
Seeking Dedicated Volunteers
Ventura River Preserve Campaign Update Campaign
One of Janet’s primary responsibilities will be to work closely with volunteers to manage the Ventura River Property and other Ojai Valley Land Conservancy properties.There are many opportunities to get involved.Some of the positions available for volunteering include patrolling the properties, biological and other scientific surveys, leading nature hikes, other educational activities, and participating in preserve restoration and cleanup.Thirty volunteers have already offered their assistance to care for the Preserve. Please see Pages 2,5,9 and 10 or visit the Conservancy website at www.ovlc.org for more information about volunteering, guided trips, donations, and the new Preserve.
Ventura River Pool
Ventura River Preserve News
Good Resource Management:A Balancing Act
Public Access And Enjoyment
alley residents may be celebrating the protection of the Ventura River Preserve-Rancho El Nido, however the Conservancy who will manage the property, knows that the hard work has just begun.Much of the effort that needs to be completed before opening the Preserve falls onto the shoulders of dedicated volunteers and Preserve Manager, Janet Hanstad.“We have so much to do and yet we want to open the new Preserve to the public as soon as possible,”comments Hanstad.OVLC plans to have a portion of the Preserve open this Fall, while access to the remaining areas depends on the completion of easement agreements with private landowners and Casitas Municipal Water District.Presently, only trained volunteers, OVLC staff and sheriff patrols are allowed on the property.
The challenges that confront Janet and volunteers are varied.The most significant issue is the establishment of a trail system that guides visitors to the most scenic areas of the property.These trails must be safe for all users and protect the Preserve’s natural resources.“It’s a real balancing act,”explains Hanstad.An informal trail network has been established by cattle grazing, wildlife and recreation users who have used the property over the years, even though previous landowners have usually discouraged public use of the land.Although some of these trails are in good shape, others are dangerous, confusing or damaging to the environment.The Concerned Resource and Environmental Workers (C.R.E.W.) will help OVLC establish trails, fuel breaks and restore native habitats on the Preserve.Ultimately, safety is a primary concern.“Since the 9/11 terrorist attacks, our insurance premiums have soared and this requires us to be extra diligent,”says Jim Engel, OVLC Executive Director.“Recreation use has inherent risks which visitors must assume, but we are still required to respond to any identified hazards.During the next few months we will be addressing all these issues to make the Preserve a place that all people can enjoy.”
Welcome Janet!
The Conservancy has recently hired Janet Hanstad to manage the Ventura River Preserve and the other Conservancy preserves.Janet was born on the Navajo Indian Reservation in New Mexico, but spent most of her childhood in Modesto, California.She completed her B.S.at the University of Oregon in Biology.For her M.S.thesis at Utah State University she worked with the USDA Forest Service using prescribed fire to regenerate quaking aspen communities in Utah.After completing her M.S.in Forest Ecology, she went to University of California at Davis for her PhD to expand her knowledge of forest health.Her PhD research has focused on the health of Monterey Pine in the Monterey area.Her dissertation characterizes the genetic and morphological diversity within the Monterey pine population in the Monterey area, providing information needed to establish guidelines for reforestation and the preservation of native Monterey pine populations. Along with her research she has a variety of teaching experience ranging from preschool to college level classes.
Janet Hanstad NEW PRESERVE MANAGER
Janet’s expertise in understanding the intricacies of forest ecology and biology, along with extensive experience in ecosystem health and management, combined with her love of teaching and working with people are qualities that she feels are ideal for the position of Preserve Manager.She strongly believes in preserving our open space, ‘volunteer power’and protecting the ecosystems and communities that surround us.This challenge is one that requires everyone’s support.Welcome Janet!
Helping To Protect the Ventura River Preserve
VENTURA RIVER PRESERVE DONORS 300 STRONG!
Robert & Carole Adams
Tucker & Phil Adams
Stephen Aichele
Dolli Alexander
Kathryn & David Allen
David Allen & Co.
Sheila & Linc Anderson
Ramona Lee Andrews
Anonymous (4)
Brook & Everard Ashworth
Berkley Suzanne & Baker
Catherine & Gary Barnhart
Judy & Jim Barrett
Riverview Ranch
John Battel & Holly Richmond
Larry Beatty & Sultana Parvanta
Troy & Jeri Becker
Shed & June Behar
The Belknap Family
George Berg in memory of Leo G. & Florence L. Berg
Mary Bergen
Carol Bishop
Leri Bjornstedt
Jan Blakslee
Sharon Booth
Caryn & Charlie Bosson
Dennis Bowen
Zoerita & Clark Bowers
Gail Bradbury
Peter Brand in memory of Carla Bard
Nancy Breslin
John & Kathy Broesamle
David & Ann Littler Brown
Ron & Julia Bruns
Sandy & George Buechley
Robert Burco
David & Ronda Burrell in memory of Dean Hofman
Bob & Marqui Bury
George & BarBara Byrne
Vickie & David Byrne
California State
Coastal Conservancy
Myrna & Jim Cambianica in memory of Valerie Fraser
Doug & Leanne Campbell
Peter, Cindy, Chris & Jeff Cantle
Cindy Carrabine
Carole Cascio
Carol Castanon
Terry & Kathy Chaffee
Bettina & Otis Chandler
Carolyn Chandler
Norene Charnofsky
Peter & Susan Cheney
Church of the Living Christ
Martha Churchyard
Betsy & Aaron Clapp
Sarah Clark & Timothy Thomas
Sheila & Don Cluff
Willi & Stefanie Coeler in memory of Bruce Wallace
Tom & Becky Collins
James & Dottie Combs
Alan & Leslie Connell
Debra Cook
Jenny Cothran
The C.R.E.W.
James & Evelyn Cunningham in memory of Dazzle
B.D. & Liz Dautch
Crystal Davis
Stacy & Kevin Davis
Mary Jo Davy
Evie & Bain Dayman
Paul Dentzel
Richard & Kristal DeVillers
Mary, Lanyard & Hannah Dial
Margaret Dieges
Cathy Diorio
Kelvin Dodd & Debbie Gomez
Richard & Patricia Clark Doerner
Mike & Barbara Donohue
Paul & Patricia Doody
Jackie & Alan Dorfman
Cynthia Duncan & John Hall
Richard Dusckett
Connie Eaton
Linda & Hugo Ekback
Patricia Ellison
Marjorie Emerson
Janis Emhardt
Andy & Sharon Engel
Chris Engel
Jim & Dawn Engel
Environmental Defense Center
Equestrian Trails, Inc - Corral 57
Mary & David Essel
Jim & Kim Exon
Ray & Sylvia Faulstich
Dr. & Mrs. Fred Fauvre
Liam Ellwood Fealy
Kathryn & Lloyd Fellows
Jeff & Theresa Ferguson
Maudette & Frank Finck
Fred & Dana Fleet
Alan & Liz Forbess
James & Dorothy Fugle
Jerry & Dixie Fullerton in memory of Roger Thompson
Dr. David & Cindy Garber
Carol Garramone & Charles Massaro in honor of John Roger & John Morton
Donald E. Garrett
Saline Processors, Inc.
Mr. & Mrs. Dean Geiser
The Medicine Shoppe
Robert Jacob Geres
Carol Gibbons
Lee & Betty Gibson
Gary & Judith Girod
William Girvetz in memory of Bertha Girvetz
Anthony & Kathan Glassman
Patsy & Harold Glenn
Phyllis Glenn
Richard & Joan Glenn
Marilyn & Geoff Godfrey
Richard Godfrey
John & Jessica Grahm
Jurgen & Gerry Gramckow
Frank & Linda Granat
Great Pacific
Ironworks/Patagonia
Joyce & Roderick Greene
Carl & Marian Greenfield
Charley Griswold & Betsy Bland
Susan Gruber in memory of Bruce Wallace
Ellen Hall & Richard Handley
Bill & Nancy Hammond
Craig & Karin Harris
Wyatt & Claudia Harris
Larry Harrold
Pat & Larry Hartmann
Judith Hartshorn
Don & Ruth Hauser
Don & Julie Heath
Richard & Velvet Heller
Ed Henke
Mike & Elizabeth Hermes
Harriet Herrick
Priscilla Hickman
Linda Higginbotham & Brad Leftwich
Paul & Melanie Hirdler
Tony & Barbara Hirsch
Jerry & Kerry Holden
Trudy Huberman
Holly Humphrey & Jane Humphrey
Richard & Nina Hunt
Intell Management Investment Co.
Betty Izant
Jim & Susan Jackson
Allan & Janet Jacobs in memory of Carla Bard
Diane Jaffe
Contempo Hair Design
Paul Jenkin & Alisa Greenstate
Jennifer Jesu-Anter
Pete & Chris Johnson
Karen Johnson
Jerry & Kristayani Jones
Robert & Donna Jordan
Patricia Jump
Stefa Kalnins
Ms. Mary Kazmer
Dolores Keith
Jennifer & Niall Kelly
Joan Kemper
Randy & Glenda King
Ray King & Kale Starbird
James & June Kinney
Joseph & Virginia Kitko
Marcia Komaiko
Bruce & Patricia Kuebler
Tanya & Tim La Prelle in memory of Dean Scott
Jonathan & Linda Lambert
Julian & Susan Lange
Carol Langford in memory of Jack Segotta
Peter Lansby - Troll Avionics, Inc.
Lacey & David Lantz
Jacqueline Le Bourveau
Doug Levee
Eric & Wendy Lockwood
Jim & Dottie Loebl
Maren & Phil Long
Tom & Rebecca Lowe
David Magney
Tom & Barbara Malley in memory of Carla Bard
Ruthie Marks & Roger Conrad
Mike & Lisa Marshall
Gay Martin & Patricia Cluche
The Garden Terrace Restaurant
Wanda Martin
Heritage Financial
Leslie Marvin
David Mason & Family
The Village Florist in memory of Carla Bard
Matilija Canyon 4H Club
Deven May in memory of Millie Greenfield
& Kevin Schnoebelen
Jeff & Debra McComas
Barbara McDevitt
Marion & Donald McIsacc
Nila Rae McKinnon
Susan & Robert McMahon
Julie & Patrick McPherson
Janice Medart
John Melville in honor of the
National Disaster Search Dog
Foundation & Wilma Melville
Lawrence & Elizabeth Memel
Paul & Laura Meyer
Jerry & Char Michaels
Bill & Cookie Miley
Laurel Miller
Paul & Helen Miller
Robert & Denise Miller
Geraldine & Dean Miner
Lori & Larry Mohr in memory of John Melville
Vivienne Moody in honor of
Janet & Ross Hanstad
Stephen & Jenny Morrissey
Anita Hedy Muller
Michael & Joy Sawyer Mulligan
Mr. Gerald Murphy
Barbara Muska
The Ken Niessen Family
Karin & David Niles
Robert Noe
Linda & Bruce Nofrey
Nye-Powell-Honda Group
Pamala Nye
in honor of Ruric & Gwen Nye
Ruric & Gwen Nye
Oak Grove School
The Oaks at Ojai
Paxson & Susan Offield
Ojai Valley Family Medicine Group
The Ojai Valley Inn &Spa
Stephanie O’Neal
Ann & Harry Oppenheimer in memory of Robert & Janith Pulver
Jane Parkes
William & Laura Peck
Carol Pedersen
Gary Pemberton
Carol Peterson & Curt Mossestad
Jennifer Phelps & Richard Niles
Ronald & Linda Phillips
Judi & Ronald Polito
Larry, Laura & Walker Ragan
Alice & Earl Ragland
Robert Rail
Alan & Jan Rains
Frank & Maruja Real
R.E.A.P.
Robert & Alice Rene
Kay Renius
Chuck Richards
Curt Rischar
Ernie & Julie Rischar
Joan Roberts
Judy Ross
Fred & Ila Rothenberg
Kira Ryder LuLu Bandha’s
Laura Scheerer-Whitney
The Scheerer Family Foundation
Frederick Schmid
Valerie & Dietrich Schmidt
Amy Schneider
& Sarah Schneider
Joyce Schofield
Dewey V. Schorre
Marilyn & Larry Shames
Edward & Jane Shapiro
Michael & Ellen Shapiro
Heather Shoup
Dr. Daniel Silver
Scott & Jill Silver
Spencer & Linda Silver
Jay & Wendy Silverstein
Dave & Edie Skaggs
The Ranch House Restaurant
Howard Smith & Edie Simone
Sherry Smith
Lol & Linda Sorensen
Bill Spellman
Mannie & Chilant Sprague
Bruce & Julie Tumamait Stenslie
Robert & Judith Stix
Howard & Rita Stup
Paula & Rick Suddes
Steven Svete
Rincon Consultants
Bob Tallyn
Timothy Teague
Timothy Teague Photography
John & Caroline Thacher
Carl & Katie Thelander
Beryl & Carl Tognazzini
Nan Tolbert
The Traudt Family
Brian Trautwein
Paul & Ollie Turner
Terry & Cricket Twichell in memory of Carla Bard
Bob & Virginia Unruhe
Arthur & Judith Vander
Marcia Vaughan
Beverly Venable
Doug & Liz Vernand
Patrice Vernand
Tim Vierra
Waite, Jacobs & Atkinson, Attorneys at Law in memory of Carla Bard
Roger & Kathryn Wachtell
Linde Wainwright
Elizabeth & Patrick Walker
Emery & Helen Walker
Ruth Walker
Marilyn Wallace
Dave Wappler & Gisele Jones
Greg Wardle - Coast & Valley Land Surveying, LLC
Deric & Barbara Washburn
Barbara Watson
Eric & Karen Weihe
Patricia Weinberger in memory of Carla Bard
Jane & Richard Weirick
Ronald & Helayne White
John & Nancy Whitman
The Carmel M. &
John G. Whitman Foundation
Larry Wilde & Dennis Guernsey
Coldwell Banker
Property Shoppe
Huora L. Williams
Kathy & Larry Yee
Martha & Tom Zeiher
• $500
(2) 2 reserved
• $100,000 River Trails (2)
• $150,000 Rice Canyon Trail
• $200,000 Upper Wills Meadow
• $200,000 Oso Ridge Trail (near Rancho Matilija)
• $250,000 Wills Canyon Trail
• $250,000 Oso Ridge (High point of property)
• $300,000 Unnamed canyon
• $1.5 M Preserve Name
The OVLC is offering a limited number of gift naming rights for donors who wish to honor or memorialize family, friends, or mentors. All gifts can be made over a two-year period and will be used for the preservation and care of Ojai’s last remaining open spaces.
For a confidential discussion and a naming rights map, please call 646-7930 or ovlc@ojai.net and ask for Jim Engel, Executive Director
OJAI VALLEY LAND CONSERVANCY
Post Office Box 1092
Ojai, California 93024
Office Phone • (805) 646-7930
Fax • 646-0253
Events Hotline • (805) 646-0251
E-mail Address • ovlc@ojai.net
Street Address: 250 E.Ojai Ave.#B • Arcade Plaza Website • www.ovlc.org
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Jim Jackson • President
Carl Thelander/Spencer Silver Vice Presidents
Vickie Byrne • Treasurer
Allan Jacobs • Secretary
John Broesamle
Jim Exon
Ellen Hall
Marc Larson
Merrill Williams
David Trudeau
ADVISORY COUNCIL
Julie Bloomer
Caryn Bosson
David Bury
Fred Bysshe
Stacy Davis
Roger Essick
Thad Hyland
Richard Handley
Joan Kemper
Philip Moncharsh
Vivienne Moody
Steve Olsen
Alan Rains
Michael Shapiro
Nina Shelley
Mansfield Sprague
Pat Weinberger
Allan West
STAFF
Ronda Burrell • Membership Services ovlcmembership@ojai.net
Carole Cascio • Events and Volunteers ovlcevents@ojai.net
Jim Engel • Fundraising and Land Protection ovlc@ojai.net
Janet Hanstad • Land Protection and Management, ovlcpreserve@ojai.net
President’s Message
Now the hard work really begins! With escrow closed on the Ventura River Preserve-Rancho El Nido property, the OVLC’s staff, board and volunteers are working hard to develop a resource management plan that will both protect the property and open it up to hikers, equestrians and bicylists as soon as possible.
Providing access to Rancho El Nido is a delicate balancing act that will require careful study then patient implementation. You might say it’s like getting a complex birthday gift that needs ‘some assembly.’While you want to use the gift right away you know it’s better to read and follow the instructions before going off willy-nilly.
As our Executive Director Jim Engel and our Preserve Manager Janet Hanstead oversee the development of a resource management plan based on the long-term best interests of the property, we ask your patience as the property remains closed to the public for the next several months.When the property does open later this year, I’ll look for you on some of the most beautiful trails in all of Ojai.
If the Rancho El Nido project wasn’t enough work, this summer we’re also undertaking the restoration of our Ojai Meadows Preserve.This project is part of a larger effort to control flooding on and around Nordhoff High School.For years the school has been plagued by soggy playing fields.After winter storms the stadium track gets so wet that track meets have been postponed or cancelled.In addition, Highway 33 floods and becomes impassable.
The problem can be traced to the fact that Nordhoff and the Ojai Meadows Preserve were originally one contiguous property.During heavy rains the storm runoff from the campus side of the property flowed naturally to the meadows, creating a rare and beautiful seasonal wetland.But the construction of the high school campus cut off the storm flows, robbed the meadow of needed moisture, and worsened the flooding at Nordhoff.
All this is set to change thanks to a $2.15 million dollar grant from the California State Department of Water Resources to the Ojai Unified School District and the Ojai Valley Land Conservancy.The OUSD will use its share of the grant money to build a storm drainage system on the Nordhoff campus.The OVLC will use its portion of the grant to restore the wetlands on the Ojai Meadows Preserve in such a way as to accept runoff water from the school and mitigate flooding on the highway.This is an exciting project, one we believe will benefit the entire Ojai Valley.
So, this is anything but a time to rest and sip lemonade.Our staff of four and our many volunteers will be working hard to keep our preservation, recreation and restoration efforts on schedule.And hey, we can always use another good volunteer, so give the office a call if you have some free time on your hands this summer.
Jim Jackson
Conservancy Events
Explore the Ventura River Preserve
Saturday,August 2
Time:5pm
Hike the Ventura River Preserve with preserve manager Janet Hanstad.This is a rare opportunity since this property is not yet open to the general public. Space is limited to the first thirty people.
Seed Collection for Wetland Restoration
August 17th • September 7th
September 21st
Time:10 am - 2 pm
Get involved and make a difference! Learn the fine art of seed collection on the Ventura River Preserve with the California Native Plant Society. Volunteers will meet at the corner of Rice and El Roblar at 10 a.m.Bring plenty of water and a lunch.Hiking boots and long pants are recommended.No experience necessary.
Explore the Ventura River Preserve
Saturday,August 23 Time:5pm
Hike the Ventura River Preserve with preserve manager Janet Hanstad.This is a rare opportunity since this property is not yet open to the general public. Space is limited to the first thirty people.
Moonlight On The Meadow
Saturday,September 13
Time:5pm
See description below.
Starting this September,
Explore the Ventura River Preserve Every Saturday
Sam Schuchat and Peter Brand of The State Coastal Conservancy hike and bird watch in Wills Canyon. Save the Date for Moonlight On The Meadow, The
Hike the Ventura River Preserve with our preserve manager, Janet Hanstad or one of our preserve educators:Crystal Davis, Rich Handley, or Cricket Twichell. Starting September, a guided hike will leave from the corner of Rice and El Roblar at 9 am every Saturday.These hikes will average 3-6 miles.Bring plenty of water and a snack.Hiking boots and long pants are recommended.
Join us, under the big white tent on the Ojai Meadows Preserve for an evening of great southwestern food, friends, margaritas and music.The event will be located in the magical meadow at sunset and held under a big autumn moon. Guests will have an opportunity to enjoy a specially prepared meal, refreshing drinks and delicious desserts.Our silent auction will be filled with new and unique items and followed by the charming and dynamic Jewels Eubanks, the auctioneer for our exciting and fun-filled Live Auction.Whether this will be your first Moonlight event or you’re a veteran, there is something for everyone to enjoy.Always a new twist and a great way to support our open space efforts! Tickets are $65 per person and $500 for a table of ten. All programs require pre-registration. CALL 646-0251 or email us at ovlcmembership@ojai.net
Moonlight on the Meadow Silent Auction.
New Members
Thank you to our new members for their exceptional support.The Conservancy’s success in the last year is due to the generous financial and volunteer support of our members.
Stephen Aichele
Ramona Lee Andrews
Anonymous (1)
Brook & Everard Ashworth
Berkley & Suzanne Baker
David Beales
Troy & Jeri Becker
Gail Bradbury
Nancy Breslin
Ron & Julia Bruns
George & Barbara Byrne
Cindy Carrabine
Carolyn Chandler
Otis & Bettina Chandler
Norene Charnofsky
Dottie & James Combs
Alan & Leslie Connell
Debra Cook
Jenny Cothran
James & Evelyn Cunningham
Cathy Diorio
Kelvin Dodd & Debbie Gomez
Mike & Barbara Donohue
Paul & Patricia Doody
Richard Dusckett
David & Caroline Ebers
Janis Emhardt
Chris Engel
Mary & David Essel
Dr. & Mrs. Fred Fauvre
Mike & Terry Fealy
James & Dorothy Fugle
Jerry & Dixie Fullerton
Carol Gibbons
Lee & Betty Gibson
Phyllis Glenn
Marilyn & Geoff Godfrey
William Girvetz
Craig & Karin Harris
Larry Harrold
Judith Hartshorn
Ed Henke
Paul & Melanie Hirdler
Matt & Christine Hill
Richard & Nina Hunt
Paul Jenkin & Alisa Greenstate
Jennifer Jesu-Anter
Karen Johnson
Robert & Donna Jordan
Stefa Kalnins
Ms. Mary Kazmer
Jennifer & Niall Kelly
Jim & June Kinney
Joseph & Virginia Kitko
Marcia Komaiko
Julian & Susan Lange
Peter Lansby - Troll Avionics, Inc.
Tim & Tanya LaPrelle
Doug Levee
Residential Design & Construction
Mike & Lisa Marshall
Roger McDivitt
Nila Rae McKinnon
Julie & Patrick McPherson
Janice Medart
Lawrence & Elizabeth Memel
Stephen & Jenny Morrissey
Rodney & Traci Mullen
Anita Hedy Muller
Karin & David Niles
Robert Noe
Paxson & Susan Offield
Jane Parks
Gary Pemberton
Jennifer Phelps & Richard Niles
Kay Renius
Chuck Richards
Curt Rischer
Lisa Robertson
Suzanne Cyrilla Roll
Judy Ross
Kira Ryder - LuLu Bandha’s
Laura Scheerer-Whitney
The Scheerer Family Foundation
Heather Shoup
Dr. Daniel Silver
Jay & Wendy Silverstein
Laurie & John Slade
Sherry Smith
Lol & Linda Sorensen
Bill Spellman
Howard & Rita Stup
Steven Svete - Rincon Consultants
Beryl & Carl Tognazzini
Marcia Vaughan
Beverly Venable
Patrice Vernand
Linde Wainwright
Dave Wappler & Gisele Jones
Eric & Karen Weihe
Martha & Tom Zeiher
Gift Memberships Given By Wendy Lockwood
David & Caroline Ebers
Matt & Christine Hill
Rodney & Traci Mullen
Paxson & Susan Offield Lisa Robertson
Corporate Matching Gift Program
Patagonia Great Pacific Ironworks on behalf of Sandy Buechley, Stacy Davis & Tom Lowe
3M Foundation on behalf of Spencer Silver
Verizon on behalf of Dawn and Jim Engel
New Member Form
Renewals
Every year, hundreds of our members choose to renew their membership.Thanks for your exceptional support!
Mike & Marjorie Ambarian
Anonymous (3)
Michael & Randi Bennett
Barry Betlock & Chris Bjornstedt
Tom Bostrom
Alex & Kris Brodie
Sue Broidy
Peter & Carla Brooks
Teena &Dar Broumand
Stan & Eleanor Brown
Sandy & George Buechley
Teresa & Chano Camarillo
Bert Collins
Barbara & Darrel Crowder
Peter & Linda D’Aprix
Kevin & Stacy Davis
Robert & Greta Davis, Jr.
Crooked Creek Ranch
Peter & Heidi DiCapua
Mary & Rene Diets
Ben Engle & Nancy Cane
George Farmer
Donn Gladstone & Kelly Newman
Frank & Linda Granat
Katharine & Jesse Grantham
Stan & Barbara Greene
Barbara & Peter Haggerty
Mark Halvorsen
Mr. & Mrs. Leo Hammerschmitt
Ruth Hemming & Joan Raymond
Priscilla Hickman
Rikki Horne & Rudy Petersdorf
Cal & Dot Houston
Jim & Susan Jackson
Dr. Michael Jauregui
& Susan Olson
Chris & Pete Johnson
Jerry & Anne Kaplan
John & Maggie Kaufman
Mike & Nancy Krumpschmidt
Jordan & Sandra Laby
Phil & Maren Long
Mindy & Stephen Maloon
George & Cheryl Moore
Darrell Nelson
Fruit Growers Laboratory, Inc.
Niels & Robin Nyborg
Marty & Barbara Pops
Robert Rail
Sylvia & Shlomo Raz
Nancy & Marty Schechtman
David Selby
Dan & Olga Singer
Suzanne’s Cuisine
Susan Speer & Gene Miller
Jane Spiller
Al Stroberg & Betsy Patterson
Nan Tolbert
Glenn & Kathleen McCann True
Mrs. Barbara Uniker
Dr. Eve Venturi
Carol Wade & Bill Hak
Dana White
Catherine Wilcox
Bill & Sue Wilmer
Blake & Susanne Wilson
Eric & Cathy Zacher
Brian & Chris Zeiner
Jim & Dawn Engel Angela & Anthony Ocone RAINS Department Store Harry & Margery Sims in memory of Carl Huntsinger
Yes! I’ll help preserve open space in the Ojai Valley • Enclosed is my annual tax-deductible pledge/gift of:
Steward Please make check payable to: The Ojai Valley Land Conservancy. P.O.Box 1092 • Ojai,CA 93024 or contribute through your Credit Card
Conservancy News Briefs
Petroglyph Tour
Kathy Broesamle, on behalf of the Conservancy and the Environmental Learning Series sponsored two trips to study Native American petroglyphs during April..The destination was Little Petroglyph Canyon, on the grounds of the China Lake Naval Weapons Station, near Ridgecrest, CA.The canyon is the location of one of the largest collection of Native American Rock Art and are only accessible by special permission of the U.S.government.Visitors were awestruck by the sheer number of petroglyphs etched into the canyon rocks by ancient Native Americans.No one knows what the purpose of the petroglyphs were - Storytelling? Religious rites? Hunting symbols? Everyone agreed it was a unique and thrilling experience. Additional trips will be organized by the Ojai Valley Land Conservancy, if there is further community interest.Please call Kathy Broesamle at 646-5948 if you would like to receive information about future trips.
Conservancy Mourns Loss of Two Former Board Members
The Conservancy and the Ojai Valley lost two great open space advocates in June with the passing of Carl Huntsinger and Nancy Myers.Both were former Conservancy board members, generous donors and local agricultural growers.The Conservancy will miss their wisdom and spirit.
Ventura River Preserve News
Community Pulls Together For Ventura River
The Conservancy was the lucky benefactor of two equestrian focused fundraisers that raised more than $10,000 for the protection of the Ventura River Preserve.On May 10, the buckaroos who saddled up for the Equestrian Trail, Inc.affair had one terrific time.The dedicated volunteers from ETI spent countless hours preparing for the event and silent auction.Trail rides on the Preserve and a western barbecue on the adjacent Church of the Living Christ property were the ‘order of the day’.Over 100 people ‘ponied- up’to ride out and see the beauty of the Conservancy’s newest purchase.“We are very grateful to all those that showed up and especially the ETI volunteers who gave of their time to making this event such a success,”says Carole Cascio, Conservancy Event and Volunteer Coordinator.
Then on Saturday, May 17, Vickie and David Byrne graciously hosted a wonderful “not your ordinary barbecue”fundraiser at their home.It was a lovely evening set in their garden, with delicious food, drink and live music.A small silent auction of select equestrian goodies rounded out the evening.Vickie is a Conservancy board member and equestrian trail rider and the Byrnes have been long time Conservancy supporters.
Besides raising funds for the Ventura River Preserve, equestrians from around the Ojai Valley are being trained as volunteers to patrol and care for the new Preserve.“We’ve seen a real surge in interest from the equestrian community, since we announced our plans to protect this property,”says Cascio.
Managing For Future Generations
OVLC is also preparing a comprehensive resource management plan for the property.The plan, which is funded by the State Coastal Conservancy, will identify recreational opportunities, critical natural and cultural resource protection areas and long-term planning objectives for the Preserve.The report will tackle tough issues such as:What should happen to the old orange grove?;Is grazing and prescribed fire a good management tool?;Are there sensitive habitat areas that should be off limits to the public?;What are the best ways to minimize conflicts with different recreation users?;And, Which areas should be restored first? During the coming year, Conservancy staff and board members will work with volunteers, neighboring landowners and government agencies to complete the plan.
Good Neighbors
Conservancy board, staff and volunteers are working with neighboring property owners to identify their concerns and minimize impacts from the potential new preserve.“We rarely get a complaint from a landowner about Preserve visitors trespassing onto adjacent private lands,”says Jim Engel.“We want to keep it safe and enjoyable for everyone.”OVLC has had plenty of experience implementing preventative measures to head off potential problems at other Preserves.“We listen to the landowner and once they understand that we sincerely want to work together, most of them become our biggest supporters,”adds Engel.
Young Riders at the Equestrian Fundraiser.
Black Bears
Nature Notes B
lack bears come in many colors, but in Ojai they all from the same species, Ursus Americanus.These generally shy creatures can be found at many of our Preserves.The Ventura River Preserve is an area that is especially well suited for black bears with plenty of water, cover, shelter and a variety of food sources.Berries, grass, acorns, and insects are the main diet for these animals.Locally, large males can weigh 650-700 lbs.and reach six feet in length.These males will range 15 miles and only tolerate females within their territory.In recent years, young males looking for a territory to inhabit, have been seen in Meiners Oaks only two blocks from the Ojai Meadows Preserve.
Grizzly Bears were the native bear of Ojai, but once they were hunted to extinction during the late 1800s, the black bear began to inhabit the Grizzly’s former territory throughout California.Today, close to 30,000 Black bears exist from Northern California to San Diego County.In Ventura County, bears inhabit all areas around the Ojai Valley, including the lower Ventura River, a mere five miles from the ocean.
Visitors to the Ventura River Property have experienced several bear sightings and have found evidence of bear tracks and scat.“It is quite a thrill to see a bear,”says Jim Engel, Conservancy Executive Director.“Even the sign of fresh tracks at the edge of a stream gets my adrenalin pumping.”Although generally harmless, encounters with bears should be handled with caution.Make as much noise as possible and slowly move away from the bear.These awkward looking mammals can reach speeds of 30 mph and can easily climb trees, so running is not an option.Extra caution should be used if there are cubs, food or an injured bear in the area and remember what John Muir said, “in my first encounter with a black bear, we were both surprised, but he was the better behaved of the two of us.”
Special Thanks
Bank of America for a $1,500 grant.
Tom Bostrom, Hope Frazier, Doug LaBarre and Spencer Silver for making the plaques at Cluff Vista Park a reality.
Kathy Broesamle for organizing the petroglyph tours near Ridgecrest.
Marqui and Bob Bury for providing dinner and refreshments for the Fourth of July volunteers.
Vickie and David Byrne for hosting a successful equestrian fundraiser at their home.
Otis and Bettina Chandler for donating an original 1928 photo of the Ventura River Preserve.
Vic Contreras of Grove Care and Jurgen and Martin Gramckow for helping with a smooth transition for the orange grove on the Ventura River Preserve.
Crystal Davis for leading guided hikes on the VRP.
ETI, Corral #57 for organizing a very successful equestrian fundraiser and trailride.
Jim and Kim Exon for donating a Chevy SUV 4x4.
Ray and Sylvia Faulstich for helping with fundraising in Rancho Matilija.
Fourth of July Volunteers for safeguarding the Preserve.
Ojai Valley News for running our cookbook recipes.
Patsy and Harold Glennand Marqui Bury for their help at the “Meet the Preserve Manager Event.”
Julie and Don Heath for hosting a Rancho Matilija fundraiser at their home.
Lanny Kaufer for leading a native herb walk fundraiser on the Ventura River Preserve.
Jerry Dean Miner for donating notary public services for the close the Ventura River Preserve escrow.
New Ventura River Preserve Volunteers for their leadership and enthusiasm.
Oak Grove School for sponsoring the Earth Day Walk and donating $2,000 for the Ventura River Preserve.
Larry and Laura Ragan for helping with the Rancho Matilija fundraiser.
Suzanne Roll, Kelsey Tribble, and Rob McCall for helping out at the office.
Save Ellwood Mesa and Ventura Hillside Conservancy Members who donated generously to the Ventura River Preserve Campaign.
Dewey Val Schorre for donating a new powerpoint projector.
Carl Thelander and David Trudeau for allowing us to use their vehicles for tours of the Ventura River Preserve.
Dave Trudeau and Michael Wilton for help mowing the Ojai Meadows Preserve.
Young Black Bear.
Preserve Volunteer Opportunities
The Ventura River and Other Preserves
Volunteers are needed for a wide range of jobs.Join our Preserve Manager, Janet Hanstad, and other volunteers on the Ventura River Preserve.We’d love your help a few hours each week or even once a month will do.
Preserve Host - As Preserve Host, you patrol the property, pick up litter, and notify us or the sheriff’s department of any problems.This is a fun way to explore the property, get some exercise on horseback, foot or bicycle, and help open space!
Preserve Restorationist - One of the goals of the Conservancy is to maintain the health and integrity of our preserves.This can only be done with your help! As a Preserve Restorationist, you keep the property clean by removing litter, graffiti, and non-native plant species (weeds).You can also help plant native plants on the property.If you are a gardener at heart, you would be an excellent Preserve Restorationist!
Preserve Educator - This is the perfect opportunity to share your love and knowledge of nature with others.You can lead hikes or nature walks at our Preserves.Other educational activities will occur, such as bringing classes onto the property.As a Preserve Educator, you can be involved in teaching and guiding others through various educational activities.
Trail and Property Maintenance Assistant - Help keep our trails in good shape for the public’s enjoyment and safety.As a Trail Maintenance and Property Assistant, you participate in a variety of tasks including trail clearing, weed whacking, removing downed shrubs and trees, and repair work after storms.
Natural Resource Assistants - One of the goals of the Conservancy is to improve the health of our Preserves.As a Natural Resource Assistant, you’ll help track ecosystem health by monitoring a variety of components, including flora, fauna, and other natural and man made features.This is a fun way to explore the property and learn about the ecology of the area while preserving open space! If you are interested in plant identification, bird watching, using GPS/GIS, photography, water monitoring, etc.you would make an excellent Natural Resource Assistant.
Mower - If you own a tractor mower and want to spend some time riding around the property, helping keep the Preserve trails open and safe.
We are looking for volunteers on all of our preserves, so if you would like to help, please call Janet at 646-7930 or email her at ovlcpreserve@ojai.net.
Event Assistant - During the year The Conservancy sponsors several fundraising and educational events.As an Event Assistant, you can submit press releases and “Down the Road”information, create and post flyers, and assist with events.
Sign Maintenance Assistant - Signs are important for everyone’s safety and enjoyment.As a Sign Maintenance Assistant, you help post, replace, and repair signs throughout the property.
Wish List
The Conservancy is seeking new and used items for managing our Preserves. Please consider donating any of the following:
◆ Four Wheel Drive Truck or SUV needed for management of the Preserve. DONATED!
◆ Power Point Projector for public education presentations. DONATED!
◆ Global Positioning System Units to help us in gathering data for resource management
◆ Trail Maintenance Tools (shovels, loppers, McLeods, and Pulaskis, etc.).Call us for a full list.
◆ Two Drawer Lateral File Cabinet.
