Seed Collection and Birding Event at the San Marcos Foothills

Join us at the San Marcos Foothills for a special seed collection and birding event with the Ventura Audubon to celebrate California Biodiversity Day—a statewide initiative to discover and celebrate nature and contribute to our understanding of where plants and animals are found!. As one of just 36 biodiversity hotspots worldwide, Santa Barbara County offers a unique landscape worth protecting. This event is a great opportunity to contribute to preserving local plant species and learn about the importance of seed collection for ecosystem restoration. We will also be leading a bird walk to learn about the different bird species that visit the preserve.

During the event, our knowledgeable staff and trained volunteers will guide you to collect seeds from various native plant species. The seeds will be used for future restoration projects in the preserve and other areas needing ecological restoration.

This collaborative effort supports our local environment, and we encourage everyone to participate. No prior experience is necessary, and all ages are welcome. We will provide all the necessary tools and equipment, but we recommend bringing water, sunscreen, and a hat.

We look forward to seeing you at the San Marcos Foothills Preserve for this exciting and meaningful event.

Encompassing 301 acres the San Marcos Foothills Preserve offers extraordinary views of the Santa Ynez Mountains, Pacific Ocean, and the Channel Islands. The Foothills is the feeding ground for hawks, kestrels, kites, roadrunners, coyotes, bobcats, and hundreds of other animal species. It offers nesting locations for dozens of native bird species, and it provides connecting corridors for wildlife to Los Padres National Forest and Goleta Slough.

When You Volunteer With Us Please Remember:

• Wear long, sturdy pants for comfort and safety
• Wear a long sleeve shirt for protection
• Bring sunscreen and a sunhat
• Wear hiking shoes or boots for safety. No flip-flops or sandals allowed
• Bring plenty of water and snacks for the day
• Make sure to sign all required waivers before arrival

Have Photos From Your Volunteer Day?

• Tag @channelislandsrestoration on Instagram.
• Or send your photos to volunteer@cirweb.org for a feature.