OPEN SPACES
Quarterly Newsletter
Ojai Valley Land Conservancy
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Stefanie Coeler President
Sandy Buechley Vice President
Martha Groszewski Treasurer
Sarah Sheshunoff Secretary
Bret Bradigan
Dave Comfort
Fiona Hutton
Jerry Maryniuk
Larry Rose
Lizzy Chouinard
Lu Setnicka
STAFF
Tom Maloney Executive Director
Tania Parker Deputy Director
Brendan Taylor Director of Field Programs
Vivon Sedgwick Restoration Program Director
Adam Morrison Development Manager
Nathan Wickstrum Communications & Outreach Manager
Rhett Walker Grants Manager
Ethan Van Dusen Office Manager
Carrie Drevenstedt Development Database Coordinator
Christine Gau Land Protection Specialist
Linda Wilkin Preserve Manager
Keith Brooks Land Steward
Sophie McLean Native Plant Specialist & Nursery Manager
Claire Woolson Rewild Ojai & Volunteer Coordinator
Martin Schenker Restoration Field Crew Manager
Tyler Willibrand Restoration Field Crew
Anthony Gomez Restoration Field Crew
Madison Moore Nursery Assistant/Restoration Field Crew
Celeste Ayala Nursery Intern
Lilac Feliciano Nursery Intern
Mission:
To protect and restore the natural landscapes of the Ojai Valley forever.
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Learn more at ovlc.org/donate
Cover photo by Nathan Wickstrum
FROM THE DIRECTOR
OVLC and Ojai’s Agora Foundation marked the 75th anniversary of Aldo Leopold’s A Sand County Almanac with a joint event on February 1. It is clear that the Ojai Valley is entering a time of profound intersection of legacy and responsibility. Leopold’s vision, a call for a “land ethic” that regards soil, water, plants and animals as a community, remains as relevant as ever. Our two organizations came together to promote the understanding of Leopold’s land ethic in this time when individual and collective responsibility can advance profound benefits.
Leopold’s land ethic, a radical idea in 1949, challenged us to broaden our view of “land.” Leopold wants us to embrace land as a community to which we belong and to which we owe responsibility. This land ethic transcends the notion of simple stewardship; it is a commitment to conservation and restoration as a moral responsibility. In a time of climate change, this expansion of ethics couldn’t be timelier.
Leopold’s message was never solely for farmers, ranchers, and other land managers. It was, and is, a call to society. In society at large, the land ethic struggles to take hold. Many of us enjoy the benefits of conservation—scenic vistas, clean air and water, and trails—without fully appreciating the responsibilities that come with these privileges. This imbalance poses a challenge, especially as urban areas grow, rural lands shrink, and pressures on natural resources increase.
One of my favorite Leopold quotes is, “A thing is right when it tends to preserve the integrity, stability and beauty of the biotic community. It is wrong when it tends otherwise.” In a time when environmental news is so dire, I find this quote as intensely hopeful. It is a clear guidepost for individual decisions. Indeed, as OVLC has rolled out the Rewild Ojai program, we have been inspired by how many people have embraced “going native” as a meaningful way to help Ojai “preserve the integrity, stability and beauty of the biotic community.” In today’s vernacular of climate change, “stability” can be thought of as “resilience.”
Leopold’s significance as a forefather of modern conservation cannot be overstated. Through his writings he is now recognized as the father of wildlife management, wilderness preservation, ecological restoration, and remains a seminal voice in environmental ethics. Despite that lofty perch, A Sand County Almanac remains completely accessible as a guide to each of us to extend our notion of community to include the soil, water, plants, and animals that comprise “the land.”
Tom Maloney, Executive Director
An Ancient Bristlecone Forest
The trees chose 10,000 feet
In a soil that nothing but that And some penstemons grow
Maybe a buckwheat
The oldest beings in the world
Choose old old rock
570 million years old
Where mollusks and trilobites crawled and swelled
Ancient microbes and mud
Compressed and built
To grey dolomite
The ancient sea floors now sit
Windswept and cold on the White Mountains
Reminiscing when they were once the youngest beings
In Cambian dark beds
These trees embed within
The cracks in beings
Wedged between the compacted volcanic rock and ash
I sat under an old old tree
Where her bark gnarled and swam in the air
Her years pinched so thin
But there she grew and grew
For 5,000 years
I sat under her for a moment
And saw crystals gathered
At her rooted, folded, criss crossed legs
It seems the mud shot deep Into the earth
Heated and pressured
Then made her red tourmaline crystals
They laid like an offering at her feet
All of this raised to be the White Mountains
To sit and watch the Sierras punch and bite the sky
Across a volcanic and yellow
Cottonwood valley
All of these beings watch and feel the wind
Then carry pinecones down canyons
Like a river of young
A poem written by Sophie McLean for Betsy Vanleit on her birthday
REMEMBERING BETSY VANLEIT
It is with heavy hearts that we honor the life and contributions of our dear friend and board member, Betsy Vanleit, who passed away on January 8. Betsy was a dedicated community leader, a passionate environmental advocate, an inspiring mentor, and a true force for good. She devoted her time and energy to organizations across the Ojai Valley, including the Ojai Valley Land Conservancy, the Ojai Valley Green Coalition, Ojai Trees, and HELP of Ojai. Her absence leaves a profound void—not only within our organization, but throughout our entire community.
Betsy’s impact on the valley can be compared to that of a mighty oak. Oaks foster extraordinary biodiversity: they provide nourishment for wildlife and pollinators, shelter for countless species, and create a foundation for vibrant ecosystems. Similarly, Betsy enriched our community by offering support, guidance, and opportunities for growth. Her deep commitment and unwavering dedication cultivated new ideas and initiatives, much like an oak’s deep roots prepare the soil for future growth.
Like the oak’s generous canopy that offers shade for new plants, Betsy provided the space and support for emerging leaders and
community projects to flourish. The acorns of an oak—small yet full of promise—symbolize the seeds of hope and renewal she planted through her mentorship and vision. Even in her absence, her legacy will continue to thrive. Just as when we lose an oak it is often transformed into a standing snag and it still nourishes its surroundings—providing homes for wildlife, serving as a granary for acorn woodpeckers, and offering perches for raptors—Betsy’s influence endures. Her work remains embedded in the growth and resilience of our valley, inspiring all who continue the journey she so passionately championed as we, like seedlings, grow into mighty oaks in her honor.
At OVLC, we are committed to carrying Betsy’s legacy forward, nurturing the community and environment with the same care and dedication she exemplified. As we honor her memory, may we all draw strength from her example and work together to create a more beautiful and resilient Ojai Valley.
Left to right: Sophie McLean, Mark Silbernagel, and Betsy Vanleit
BOARD AND STAFF CHANGES
We have some transitions on the OVLC Board to share. Stepping into the role of Board President is Stefanie Coeler, who has been a dedicated board member and active supporter of OVLC for many years. Stefanie, a retired business executive and passionate equestrian, has been involved in environmental conservation throughout her life. Born and raised in Germany, she moved to Ojai to be with her sweetheart, Willi—now her husband. Stefanie brings two valuable strengths to OVLC: a career background in business and a deep love for the outdoors. She especially enjoys horseback riding and hiking at the Ventura River Preserve, which she is lucky to call her backyard. She has been instrumental in watching over the VRP on our behalf. With her leadership, we look forward to continuing our mission with the same dedication and vision that have long defined OVLC.
As we welcome Stefanie as President, we also extend our heartfelt gratitude to Roger Essick, who is terming off as Board President. Roger has served on the board since the dawn of time,
and his dedication to OVLC has left a lasting impact. While he may be stepping down from this role, we know this won’t be the last we see of him!
With Stefanie moving into the President’s role, Sarah Sheshunoff will be taking over as Board Secretary. Sarah has been deeply involved with OVLC for years, particularly in helping Tania Parker bring Mountainfilm on Tour to Ojai as a fundraiser. Originally from San Diego, she spent twelve years in Alaska before moving to Ojai with her husband and two boys. An attorney by training, Sarah has clerked for both the Superior and Appellate Courts of Alaska and practiced criminal defense for seven years. In Ojai, she has been active in her children’s school, numerous local nonprofits, and, of course, OVLC. When she’s not busy helping to protect and restore Ojai’s open spaces, you can find her hiking, running, camping, and enjoying the outdoors as much as possible. Please join us in thanking Roger for his years of leadership and in welcoming Stefanie and Sarah into their new roles!
Sarah Sheshunoff
Roger Essick
Stefanie Coeler
This past fall, we said goodbye to Dan Pizano as he set off for Italy to pursue his dream of flying commercially in Switzerland. Before joining OVLC, Dan had already taken an adventurous path—working in Silicon Valley startups, studying astrophysics, and moving abroad to pursue a career in aviation and international disaster relief. Dan first connected with OVLC as a volunteer before the Thomas Fire. After the fire, he put his ultra-running endurance and technical expertise to work, mapping and documenting our trails and infrastructure. In late 2019, he officially joined as Operations Director, guiding us through a rigorous reaccreditation process and modernizing our cyber and office security. A dedicated problem solver with a deep love for the outdoors, Dan’s passion for protecting wild places was reflected in everything he did for OVLC. We are incredibly grateful for all that Dan contributed and wish him nothing but clear skies ahead!
WELCOME ETHAN VAN DUSEN, OFFICE MANAGER
Ethan grew up on the rugged coast of Maine. Searching tide pools and flipping downed trees in search of hidden critters sparked a deep love within him for the plants, animals, and wild spaces that shape our world. Coming from a family of avid birders, nature artists, and outdoor enthusiasts, fresh air was a staple in his life. He spent his childhood skiing, surfing, mountain biking, hiking, kayaking, and collecting as many grass stains as possible. After high school, he moved to Florida to study Marine Biology at Eckerd College but soon felt the pull of the wild. Trading classrooms for open water, he packed a canoe and spent a month paddling from the northern tip of the Everglades to the southern, living off powdered milk, sesame snacks, spam, beans, and saltwater showers. Upon a crusty return to civilization, he moved back to Portland, Maine, where he discovered a passion for photography. That passion led him to study Journalism at the University of Southern Maine—until nature called again. This time, it took him to Costa Rica, where he spent four months surfing, whitewater kayaking, and assisting with an Olive Ridley Turtle project. After Costa Rica, he bounced between Maine and Vermont, working restaurant jobs, before landing at the Patagonia Outlet in Freeport, Maine, in 2014. Four years later, he transferred to Patagonia HQ, where he spent another six years as a Receptionist and Experience & Culture Ambassador. Now, he’s thrilled to be part of OVLC, supporting a mission that aligns with his lifelong love for the outdoors. On weekends, you’ll find Ethan at Prospect Coffee, hiking with his fiancée Megan and their golden retriever Ellie, surfing, or wandering with a camera in hand.
WELCOME ANTHONY GOMEZ, RESTORATION FIELD CREW
Hailing originally from Oxnard, California, Anthony attended university at California Polytechnic Humboldt where he majored in wildlife biology, with an emphasis in ecological restoration. He understands that in order for the fauna of this world to survive beyond the 21st century, we must protect, conserve and nurture their native habitat, which consists of flora. For him, ecological restoration has a meditative quality to it, seeing it as a way to help mitigate the damage that has been done to both the natural world and the individual. His understanding comes from years of experience thanks to his time spent both in academia and working out in the field with different conservancies in Ventura County. Anthony joins OVLC’s restoration program to contribute his knowledge and experience to ongoing projects. He hopes that his actions speak louder than his words: Anthony wants to do his part to ensure that species and the systems they depend on have a fighting chance to make it to the end of the century and onwards. For Anthony this is truly the bread and butter for why he joined OVLC, to be among those that give a voice to the voiceless and be the bulwark that provides species with the universe’s scarcest resource, hope.
STEWARDSHIP
PARKWAY PRESERVE: RESTORING LAND AND COMMUNITY
Parkway Preserve has the potential to become a thriving native ecosystem within the industrial stretch of north Ventura Avenue. This transformation requires repurposing the 22-acre parcel into a space that both protects and enhances the surrounding community. Before OVLC took ownership, the site had been used as a dumping ground for construction materials. While that is no longer the case, the land remains overrun with invasive plants. By clearing the property down to bare earth, then grading and recontouring it, we can shape the landscape to welcome seasonal flooding whenever Cañada Larga Creek overflows.
Encouraging flooding on a property might seem counterintuitive, but in this case, it offers multiple benefits. Most notably, it will help reduce flooding on developed properties downstream in the Ventura Avenue community. Additionally, allowing water to move slowly through the preserve will provide sustained moisture, essential for restoring a diverse meadow habitat. Another key environmental benefit is improved water quality. By capturing runoff from Cañada Larga Creek—often laden with cattle manure
and other pollutants—and filtering it through a series of catch basins, we can ensure that cleaner water flows into the Ventura River and, ultimately, to the ocean.
Beyond flood mitigation and water purification, Parkway Preserve will create new opportunities for the community to connect with the land. Planned trails will link the existing bus stop on Ventura Avenue to the Ventura River Bike Path, which runs through the property. Scenic gathering areas will be created on higher ground overlooking the Ventura River, where invasive giant reed ( Arundo donax) will be removed to restore open views. Recreational features will be designed with flooding in mind, meaning hardscape infrastructure like benches will be minimal and placed in areas outside the 100-year flood zone. Some facilities, such as restrooms, may not be feasible due to flooding concerns or permitting challenges, but wherever possible, OVLC will remain responsive to the needs of the community—especially those who have helped shape this vision. Over the past six months, OVLC has actively sought community input to guide the design
Photo by Rich Reid
of Parkway Preserve. Last June, we hosted a Spanish-language outreach event at the preserve to gather ideas specifically from the Ventura Avenue community. In November, we held a followup Spanish-language event at Bell Arts Factory, along with an English-language public meeting at Leashless Brewing in Ventura. Throughout this process, we have also engaged in discussions with Chumash Tribal representatives to incorporate their perspectives.
Using this collective input—along with guidance from city and county officials regarding permitting requirements—we have
developed a first-draft conceptual plan. This plan outlines the locations of catch basins, visitor pathways, and key restoration features. While still in the early stages and subject to refinement over the next three to four years as we secure funding and move toward construction, one thing remains certain: Parkway Preserve will support a thriving native ecosystem while strengthening the connection between people, water, and land for generations to come.
Brendan Taylor, Director of Field Programs
CONCEPTUAL DESIGN OF PARKWAY PRESERVE
Ventura
FIRE AND RIPARIAN FOREST MANAGEMENT
IMPLICATIONS OF ARUNDO DONAX ON COMMUNITY RESILIENCE
Fire has consistently shaped and driven ecological processes for millions of years. We observe this first in charcoalified plants in the late Silurian, about 425 million years ago, which record some of the first forest fires on the planet. Fast forward to the early Cretaceous, 145 million years ago, continuous fire aided in the diversification of early angiosperms, which quickly adapted. More recently in the late Pliocene, around 3 million years ago, uplift in California established a mediterranean climate, with wet winters and dry summers. Oak woodlands and associated sclerophyllous vegetation began to dominate Southern California, including the establishment of chaparral and coastal sage scrub ecosystems following the last glacial maximum, 20,000 years ago.
Around the same time, stewardship of lands by indigenous peoples across the state, utilizing fire for proliferation of native plants, drastically increased the levels of diversity throughout the state. When we talk about fire, we talk about ecological
succession. Native ecosystems are well prepared to follow fire, as they always have. It is the introduction of non-native species, combined with fire suppression, which has drastically impacted the cycle of disturbance in the landscape. Indigenous peoples use cultural fire to burn in mosaics, creating varied fire intensities—high, mixed, and low—each resulting in a unique post-fire landscape. This is where the most diversity occurs. After the Thomas Fire, the hillsides around Ojai revealed parts of its character that had been buried for so long. The soil was awakened and expressed in multitudes of Humboldt lily (Lilium humboldtii ssp. ocellatum), fire following campion (Silene multinervia), largeflowered phacelia (Phacelia grandiflora), chaparral snapdragon ( Antirrhinum thompsonii ), golden eardrops (Ehrendorferia chrysantha), and deerweed ( Acmispon glaber).
As the charred hillsides lit up with color, riparian ecosystems painted a vastly different story. Columns of matchsticks, giant
A work crew takes on a dense stand of giant reed along San Antonio Creek.
reed ( Arundo donax), choked riparian zones and lined edges of the floodplains, encouraging the spread of fire. Did you know that giant reed’s flammability and height can facilitate the spread of embers for up to two miles in large wind events? As the plant matures and stems desiccate, stands of giant reed become riddled with dry material, and the fuel builds up fast. Moisture content within giant reed, especially during its dormancy through late fall and winter, increases fire susceptibility dramatically.
In comparison to an arroyo willow thicket, which has a relatively high moisture content and lower surface to volume ratio, giant reed acts as kindling. Not only does giant reed alter fuel loads and increase the intensity and spread of fires through the riparian zone, but the consequences of these fires are also a concern.
Traditionally, fire moves through these ecosystems at low intensity, allowing riparian vegetation to survive and recolonize post-fire. During high intensity fires encouraged by giant reed, surrounding plant communities suffer, resulting in destabilization of banks and upland areas.
Timing of these fire events are often followed by rainfall, which can completely wipe out large portions within the channel. Stands of giant reed, in areas that are supposed to be firebreaks, actively pose a major threat to the wildfire resilience of the Ojai Valley. Our work in collaboration with CAL FIRE, Pax Environmental and Ventura County Resource Conservation District addresses the urgent necessity to restore our watershed’s corridors, and replace stands of giant reed with lush riparian forest.
Martin Schenker, Restoration Field Crew Manager
Strong scouring storm flows can dislodge and create large mats of giant reed. This can lead to flooding by damming channels and blocking flows at bridges and culverts. Giant reed can also colonize new areas when it washes downstream, spreading its negative impacts. Just north of Highway 33, flooding from piled-up arundo caused severe erosion on San Antonio Creek’s north bank.
Giant reed was the first species to regrow after the Thomas Fire in this stretch of San Antonio Creek, outcompeting native species, hindering their natural recovery, and forming a dense monoculture.
2025 GARDEN NATIVE TOUR TOUR 2025 NATIVE GARDEN
SATURDAY, APRIL 26 9AM-3PM
Join OVLC for our second annual Rewild Ojai Native Garden Tour, featuring 16 superb native plant gardens across the Ojai Valley. From formal gardens to wildflower meadows, see what your neighbors are planting and get inspired!
TICKETS ON SALE AT OVLC.ORG
NATIVE GARDEN TOUR
LET’S GET THIS GARDEN PARTY STARTED!
• 16 native plant gardens around the Ojai Valley are on this year’s tour.
• Before the start of the tour, you will receive a Rewild Ojai Native Garden Tour book (104 pages!) including the tour map, info about the gardens, how to care for native plants, and so much more!
• Docents will be available at the gardens to answer questions.
• Connect with fellow gardeners and nature enthusiasts. Get inspired to Rewild Ojai!
GETYOURGARDENTOURBOOK!
GARDEN TOUR SNEAK PEEK
WHY REWILD YOUR GARDEN?
• Rewild Ojai celebrates the vital role of native plants in the local ecosystems, promoting biodiversity and resilience.
• In Ojai we have around 200 bird species, 64 bee species, and 168 moth and butterfly species, all of which depend on native plants for survival.
• Creating habitat in your garden will connect you to surrounding wild landscapes and increases the likelihood of survival for precious local fauna.
• Learn more about how you can rewild your garden today by visiting our website at rewildojai.org
REWILD YOUR GARDEN – REWILD YOUR HEART
When you add native plants to your garden, you join the movement to build habitat connectivity and increase climate resilience in the Ojai Valley—and you will see the life that fills your garden. Be a leader and join us to Rewild Ojai.
HOW DO I GET STARTED?
PLANT A NATIVE PLANT COME TO AN EVENT VISIT REWILDOJAI.ORG BECOME A HABITAT HERO!
WEAR YOUR WILD!
Represent the Rewild movement in and out of your garden! Rewild gear will be available at Birdsong Ranch during the Garden Tour, and you can shop ahead of time at our online store at ovlc.org. Don’t miss out on your chance to show your support for local conservation efforts!
JOIN US AT BIRDSONG RANCH!
Garden Tour attendees won’t want to miss a stop at Birdsong Ranch, where native plants and wildlife thrive in a landscape that’s coming back to life.
Since 2021, this land has been rewilded to support local birds, bees, butterflies, and even a resident bobcat family. The garden evolves with the seasons, offering an ever-changing display of color, movement, and life—an inspiring example of what’s possible with native plants.
While visiting, attendees can enjoy a tasting hosted by our 2025 Native Garden Tour sponsor, Wilder Gin / Ventura Spirits, and browse OVLC’s Rewild swag and information tables. Whether taking in the scenery, learning more about restoration, or simply pausing to appreciate the landscape, this stop is not to be missed.
Learn more about Birdsong Ranch at birdsongranch.com.
VOLUNTEER PROFILE
GREG MULL—HARDWORKING & HILARIOUS
Greg Mull is the kind of person who shows up—rain or shine, joke at the ready, and always willing to get his hands dirty. Since 2017, he’s been a dedicated OVLC volunteer, lending his problem-solving skills and sharp humor to every project. Whether it’s restoring trails, hauling materials, or simply enjoying the camaraderie of the crew, Greg embodies what it means to give back. A landscaper by trade and a lifelong lover of music and nature, he brings passion to everything he does. OVLC Preserve Manager, Linda Wilkin, recently caught up with him to talk about his journey, his love for the outdoors, and why volunteering means so much to him.
Hi Greg! Thanks for meeting with me on this crisp winter day. You’ve been a core OVLC volunteer since around 2017, always bringing light-hearted humor and a knack for problem-solving, no matter the project. To start, can you tell me a little about yourself?
I was born in Hollywood in 1961 and grew up in Burbank. I was lucky—I had a classic middle-class, bike-riding childhood, and right across the street was a mountain range. That was unusual for such a developed town. The land where I used to play is now covered in houses, but back then, we could hike straight from my house, cross a couple of ranges, and end up in La CrescentaMontrose. It was unstructured, wild, and an absolute blast. That’s where my love for nature started.
I moved up to Ojai about ten years ago when my wife followed an employer, and I tagged along. I love it here. I have a real fascination with rivers, river restoration, and steelhead trout. OVLC keeps me moving—it gets me off my butt and working! These days, I work as a professional landscaper, which lets me combine my love for the outdoors with hands-on, creative work. I spend my days shaping landscapes, restoring spaces, and—most importantly—getting my hands in the dirt.
What led you to working outdoors as a career?
Playing in the mountains as a kid. I’ve always had two passions: music and nature. I spent my twenties and thirties in Hollywood recording studios, working long hours indoors. When my daughter was born, I knew I couldn’t keep up with the 80-hour weeks. So, I pivoted. I started working at a nursery for a bit, and long story short, that led me to landscaping. It happened naturally—people kept asking me to do projects, and I kept saying yes.
No one complained, so I kept going! Eventually, I got my license, built a career, and raised my kid.
You’ve mentioned music as one of your two passions. Can you share more about that?
I’ve been obsessed with music for as long as I can remember. Even as a kid, I was always spinning records. When I was nine, my mom got a piano, and I just started banging on it instinctively. I took lessons for about a year, but I didn’t love being told what to play—I just wanted to play Skynyrd! My teacher had me repeating chords, and I was like, “This isn’t why I’m here!” A couple of years later, I got a guitar and taught myself how to play. I still write and play all the time—it’s just part of who I am.
What do you enjoy most about trail work?
There’s no single answer, but honestly, the number one thing is the camaraderie. It’s a wacky world these days, and it’s hard to find people who believe in what I believe in. The folks at the conservancy—the staff, the volunteers—they just get it. At least as far as I can tell, they’re rooted in reality. Sure, the fresh air and exercise are great, but mostly, it’s about being around good people.
Absolutely! And it’s the people who show up, too.
Exactly. There are two ways you can help—one is to throw money at something. And don’t get me wrong, nobody’s giving more than they can afford to a cause they believe in. But time? That’s a finite thing. You can always make more money, but you can’t make more time. The people who put in the hours—the ones who really show up—those are the winners for me. As for a favorite trail, I’d say Wills Canyon and El Nido Meadow. But honestly, I’m usually just enjoying the river.
What keeps you coming back after all these years?
Fear of dying—ha! I mean, that’s one way to stay motivated, right? Toby Keith had this song, “Don’t Let the Old Man In.” I didn’t know much about it until he passed, but I heard the story. He was at a pro-am golf tournament, and he got paired with Clint Eastwood. Clint was 88 at the time, still working, and said he was in the middle of writing and directing The Mule (2018). Toby asked him, “Why the hell do you keep doing this?” And Clint stopped, thought for a second, and said, “I don’t let the old man in.” I loved that. That’s me. I might be getting older, but if you tell anybody... well, I’ll just keep going until I can’t!
Do you have a favorite memory or project you’ve worked on with OVLC?
Not one favorite—what I have are memories. I’ll be out hiking and suddenly think, “Oh man, I remember when we hauled that concrete up here for this bench!” Or I’ll see a section of trail and think, “This used to go a different way, and look how well it grew in after we rerouted it.” So for me, it’s not about one big moment. I just like checking up on “the kids” and seeing how they’re doing.
I’ve been thinking a lot about all of us who work on the trails— how it’s like we’re creating a living legacy. The sweat, the effort, the memories we tie to certain sections of trail...those places wouldn’t be the same, or even exist, without that work.
Exactly. Great societies are built by people who plant trees whose shade they will never sit under. I live by that.
That’s beautiful. I know you also volunteer with Los Padres Forest Association and the Ojai Raptor Center. What does volunteering mean to you?
I have a lot of thoughts about money, and one of them is this— volunteering puts you in control. Most of us go to work because we have to. I mean, I can tell you love what you do, but a lot of people wake up in the morning, drag themselves to work, and just do what they have to do to make a living. Volunteering? That’s my choice. Money or no money, this is valuable to me. This is what I want to do. I’m lucky enough to have the freedom to make that decision, and I don’t take it for granted.
And by the way—if you love something and then start doing it for a living, you might stop loving it. I heard about a study on parents who pay their kids to take piano lessons. Those kids almost never stick with it. It has to be organic—something you truly want to do. That’s how I feel about volunteering. I do it because it means something to me. Plus, you know...I’ll take the juice boxes and Nature Valley bars at the end of the day.
What would you say to someone who’s thinking about joining us for trail work but feels intimidated?
I’m a huge believer in the healing benefits of nature. There’s plenty of science to back it up—just being outdoors, doing something—it’s good for you. So don’t overthink it. Be a part of it. Be alive. A lot of us hesitate to step into something new because we don’t want to feel out of place or like we’re not pulling our weight. I get that. But here’s the thing—volunteering isn’t just about what you give, it’s about what you receive, too. I used to think saying no to help was the safe choice, but now I see that when you turn down an opportunity to connect, you’re actually taking something away from both sides. So don’t be afraid to jump in. And if I can make you laugh on the trail? Even better—because that means you’re already part of the team.
You do plenty of that! You always keep us laughing—honestly, one of the best reasons to show up is to hear one of your jokes. Greg, we really appreciate you. It’s always a highlight to see you roll in behind the wheel of that old International Harvester Scout, ready to get to work. You’re truly the best, and it’s a pleasure having you on the team.
Left to right: Greg Mull, Jon Hill, and Rob Young doing trail work
SPECIAL ACKNOWLEDGMENTS
IN MEMORY OF
Alan Ethier from Michael Ethier
Allan Jacobs from Ross & Patty Atkinson
Betsy Vanleit from Ann & Harry Oppenheimer, Bill Brothers & Susie Ault, David & Yoshiko Nowicki, Maritza Tafur, Paul Vander, Tania & Tobias Parker
Bettyanne Sessing OVLC volunteer, naturalist, and hiker extraordinaire! from David Wappler
Carol Toomer
Carol was my long-term hiking buddy all over the Los Padres and Sierras. We hiked many local peaks together, including Topatopa. from Katherine Regester
Don Lucas from Cristina Lucas
Hugo Ekback from Linda & Boris Chaloupsky
Jeanne Harvey from Suzanne Harvey
John Broesamle
John was a man fortunate enough to have lived in the Ojai Valley and the Valley was so very fortunate to have had him there. from Betlock Family Trust
Ken Delbo from Dennis & Holly Mitchem
Michael D. Hermes from Elizabeth Hermes
Sudha Rajasekaran from Rajasekaran Ramasubramanian
Tom & Dot Horton from Jean Meckauer
IN HONOR OF
Alexander Matranga from Angela Rondinella
Amos & Rita Dyson from Eric Dyson
Andrew Cornish from Shelley & David Cornish
Ann & Harry Oppenheimer from Anonymous
Ava Leupold from Julie Soske & Bill Falls
Barbara Horne-Petersdorf & Andrew Atallah
Happy Chanukah from Rikki Horne
Cookie Miley from Bill & Dan Miley
Emily See & Mike Mahon Love you guys! from Suzi & Larry See
Judy and Alan Wood
Helping to keep Ojai beautiful this Christmas and forever. from Laura Denne
Mom, Zena Braun with love, Lori Anaya
Pamela Barry with love, John Horne
PJ Parziale
In honor of PJ Parziale who works his tail off to help keep our valley’s trails in good shape! from Dan Parziale
Robbie Sheppard
Looking forward to more little hikes with you in 2025! xoxo Laurie Hope
Stephanie & Kevin McDevitt from Allison & Jeff Mirkin
The Moore Family
In honor of the Moore family who are always giving back to their community and supporting families and nature in everything they do. from Joyce Roberts
Zyanya Valora from Damaris Dac
Acknowledgments: 10/23/24-1/24/25
GROWING TOGETHER
NURSERY
INTERNS TAKE ROOT IN
CONSERVATION
This season has been a time of growth—both for our plants and our incredible Nursery Internship Program. As autumn arrived, we welcomed Nordhoff High School junior Lilac Feliciano to the team. Since her first day on October 16, Lilac jumped right into learning the ins and outs of nursery operations under the guidance of Celeste Ayala, our lead intern. From cleaning pots and tools to mastering propagation techniques, she’s already making her mark.
took the lead in advising visitors on native plant choices, while Lilac handled transactions with confidence. They closed out the month by helping with a Community Restoration Day, assisting volunteers with acorn collection, soil amending, and seed sowing—critical steps in rewilding the Ojai Valley.
November, designated as Native Plant Month, kept our interns busy with hands-on learning and community engagement. On November 2, Lilac and Celeste put their teamwork to the test during our Sowing and Planting Workshop, where they helped community members get their hands dirty in the name of native plant restoration. As we geared up for plant sales, Celeste spearheaded the creation of a collaborative plant reference guide for the nursery team.
By November 9, the Rewild Plant Sale was in full swing. Both interns trained in plant identification and point-of-sale systems, ensuring a smooth and educational shopping experience for customers. A week later, at the Fall Native Plant Sale, Celeste
December brought new challenges and responsibilities. Celeste and Lilac focused on plant divisions, seed processing, and nursery maintenance, keeping the operation thriving as the holidays approached. With OVLC staff out of town, Celeste stepped up to oversee all watering operations while continuing to mentor Lilac in nursery protocols. She’s also hard at work planning her final project—a bioblitz volunteer event at OVLC’s Oranges to Oaks site, set for April 2025.
With each season, our interns grow into their roles as conservationists, gaining hands-on experience that extends far beyond the nursery. Stay tuned for more updates as they continue to nurture both native plants and their own expertise in ecological restoration!
Madison Moore, Nursery Assistant & Restoration Field Crew
Lilac Feliciano moving soil
Celeste Ayala watering plants
WELCOME NEW DONORS!
Alisha Musicant
Athena Tickell
Bernard Yin & Rebecca
Ramirez
Bob & Nora Ackerley
Bryn Phillips
Candice & James
Hartung
Carol LaBriola
Diane Jaffe
Diane Kinzek
Erik Gustafson
Ethan Van Dusen
Gary Berchenbriter
Heather Zimmerman
James McCormick
Jeff Green
Josh & Alicia Holm
Katie Reinman
Katie Sorensen
Lea Gonzalez
New!
Linda Fisher
Loeks Family Fund of Grand Rapids Community Foundation
Margaret Strobel
Michael & Anne Thomas
Mike Smolowe
Mike Steinbaum
Nancy Naftel
Rachel Davis
Rebecca Benard
Robert Sloss
Scott Warner
The Bill and Ginger Winder Family Foundation
Tree Wright From: 10/23/24-1/24/25
Bonnie LaForge
**Volunteer hours since 10/1/2018
Help keep OVLC’s trails and preserves safe, clean, and beautiful—on your own schedule! As a Volunteer Land Steward, you’ll maintain trails, signs, and waste stations, clean up litter, assist with river stewardship, and more. We provide training, tools, and support—plus perks like exclusive OVLC event access. Join us solo or with friends and make a lasting impact! Learn more and sign up at ovlc.org/volunteer-stewards.
UPCOMING EVENTS
MARCH 15: ALL ABOUT OJAI | EXPLORING CALIFORNIA’S AMPHIBIANS AND REPTILES: A NEW FIELD GUIDE
California’s stunning landscapes are home to an incredible diversity of amphibians and reptiles—over 200 species, including both native and exotic inhabitants. Join OVLC for a fascinating dive into the making of the Princeton Field Guide to California Amphibians and Reptiles, a groundbreaking new resource that brings the latest discoveries in herpetology to life.
APRIL 6: ALL ABOUT OJAI | NATURE JOURNALING AT OVLC
Discover the art of observation and deepen your connection with nature through journaling! Join OVLC and fellow nature enthusiasts for a guided journey into the world of nature journaling. Together, we’ll explore one of OVLC’s stunning preserves, using prompts to document our observations—whether through sketches, written reflections, or creative expressions of your choice. This is a wonderful opportunity to learn from others, exchange ideas on journaling techniques, and appreciate the science and beauty of the natural world.
APRIL 26: REWILD OJAI NATIVE GARDEN TOUR
Join us for our second annual Rewild Ojai Native Garden Tour, featuring a variety of native plant gardens across the Ojai Valley. From formal gardens to wildflower meadows, see what your neighbors are planting and get inspired! Don’t miss this day of learning, community, and celebrating the power of rewilding.
MAY 16-18: RATTLESNAKE AVOIDANCE TRAINING FOR DOGS
Rattlesnakes are active year-round in Ojai, making avoidance training essential for dogs that spend time outdoors. Due to high demand, OVLC has added an extra half-day to our Rattlesnake Avoidance Training for Dogs, now taking place May 16–18. This training teaches dogs to recognize and avoid rattlesnakes, helping to keep both pets and owners safe on the trails. Appointments open one month before the event. To learn more and mark your calendar, visit ovlc.org/rattlesnaketraining.
JUNE 7: NATIONAL TRAILS DAY
OVLC is hosting National Trails Day® on June 7. This is the perfect opportunity to get out in nature with the people you love and give back to the trails that bring us together. National Trails Day® volunteer projects are fit for all ages and skill levels. We encourage you to invite the whole family! In the afternoon, we are hosting a Volunteer Appreciation Party to celebrate all of our wonderful volunteers. Save the date!
VENTURA RIVER SPONSORS
Las Palmas de Ojai
OJAI MEADOWS SPONSORS
Henry Land Surveying
Patagonia
Topa Topa Brewing Company
STEELHEAD SPONSORS
High on Kennels
Travis Agricultural Construction, Inc.
SAN ANTONIO CREEK SPONSORS
Aqua-Flo Supply
BANDITS Bandanas
Herring Imming LLP
Ojai Valley Inn
The MOB Shop
PARKWAY SPONSORS
Alpha Stone Inc.
Firestick Pottery
Laughing Dog Ranch LLC
Jim and Rob’s Fresh Grill
McDaniel Insurance Services
Ojai Valley Trail Riding Company
Pixie Candle Studio
SC&A Insurance Services LLC
Stay Wild Ventures
Tobias Parker—General Contractor
West Coast Air Conditioning
IN-KIND SPONSORS
California 101 Guide
Custom Printing
Hutchinson and Bloodgood
Maslina Ranch
Ojai Quarterly
Ojai Valley Directory
Ojai Valley News
Double Your Impact
TAKE ADVANTAGE
of your company’s matching gift program.
A matching gift means your contribution will go twice as far. Many companies will double (or sometimes triple) the value of their employees’ gifts to the Ojai Valley Land Conservancy. These matching gifts provide valuable funds as we work to protect and restore the natural landscapes of the Ojai Valley forever.
Some companies will still match your gifts even after you retire. To see if your company will match a gift to the Ojai Valley Land Conservancy, contact your company’s human resources department.
from 10/23/24-1/24/25
To donate today, visit our website at ovlc.org
CREATURE FEATURE
Not to be mistaken for the showy blue jay (Cyanocitta cristata) of eastern North America, the California scrub jay ( Aphelocoma californica) is a nonmigratory species that occupies a swath of the West Coast. Taxonomically, the California form was recently split from the Inter-Mountain west and mainland Mexico form that is now known as Woodhouse’s scrub jay. Ranging from Washington to Baja California, California scrub jays inhabit a variety of habitat types, including mixed evergreen forests, riparian and oak woodlands, chaparral, sage scrub, and suburban gardens.
Their diet is as varied as their habitats. Scrub jays forage on just about anything they can get their beaks on, ranging from small animals to nuts, grains, and berries. One particular nut that the species has a close bond with in our neck of the woodlands is the acorn. Many oak trees growing in the Ojai Valley, and across the state as a whole, owe their existence to these unlicensed gardeners.
The root of this behavior stems from the need to exploit ephemeral surpluses of food while also being wary of theft. This is done via scatter hoarding. Competition for acorns can be intense. As a result, scrub jays make several food caches. While some of these caches are real, others act as decoys to dupe their neighbors. An inevitable consequence of this is that many caches are forgotten,
giving the acorns time to germinate. Even a casual Ojai Valley gardener has found oak seedlings in their pots or beds. Over time, one can imagine that entire groves of oak trees might not stand where they do today if not for a few scrub jays simply looking for a place to stash their earnings. Indeed, in this time of climate change, we have a busy ally in helping to establish new stands of oak.
The next time you come across an oak tree, consider the scrub jay and give a brief thanks to these feathered stewards of the land. As with many other Corvids (the family of birds to which scrub jays, crows, and ravens belong), scrub jays are remarkably intelligent, with some research suggesting their cognitive abilities rival that of chimpanzees and Cetaceans. Many Corvids cache food suggesting an innate ability to plan for the future. Perhaps we can learn a thing or two about planning ahead to create a sustainable future for generations to come—definitely some food for thought.
To learn more about wildlife species that call the Ojai Valley home, visit our website at ovlc.org/wildlife.
Anthony Gomez, Restoration Field Crew
California Scrub Jay ( Aphelocoma californica)
PO Box 1092 • Ojai, CA 93024
ADDRESS SERVICE REQUESTED
NATIVE NATIVE GARDEN GARDEN
TOUR TOUR 2025 2025
SATURDAY, APRIL 26 9AM-3PM
Ready to rewild? Join OVLC for our second annual Rewild Ojai Native Garden Tour, featuring 16 native plant gardens across the Ojai Valley. From formal gardens to wildflower meadows, see what your neighbors are planting and get inspired!
TICKETS ON SALE AT OVLC.ORG