Volunteer Planting Day: Ethnobotany Garden

Join us to help plant nearly 700 native plants at the San Marcos Foothills Preserve and bring ‘al-tipašumawiš—meaning “one at peace”—to life. Conceived by Chumash elder Ernestine Ignacio De Soto, this ethnobotanical garden will be a living tribute that teaches visitors about the plants the Chumash people have used for generations for food, medicine, and fiber.

All ages welcome; great for families, students, and service groups. No experience needed—training and leadership provided.

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 the Los Padres National Forest and the Goleta Slough. 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 the Los Padres National Forest and the 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.