Upcoming Events

Walk on the Wild Side

Carpinteria Bluffs Photo Linda Krop

New to EDC’s event calendar last year, the goal of the Walk on the Wild Side series is to gather community members from the tri-counties to get out and experience, learn about, and connect with the numerous places EDC has been instrumental in preserving over the years.  These events are intended to be family-oriented--a free and relaxed activity for you and the family to familiarize yourselves with the pristine areas along out coast, learn about their history, and take some time to frolic in the sun, have a picnic lunch, or take a hike along the bluffs. 

We will have naturalists available at all of our Walk on the Wild Side events to educate you about the unique habitat and sensitive species that inhabit the area.  EDC staff will also be present to speak about our work in preserving the area as well as our current projects. 

UPCOMING WALKS ON THE WILD SIDE

San Marcos Foothills: March 28, 2010, 2-4 PM
Come join EDC for the newest addition to our Walks on the Wild Side series....the San Marcos Foothills Preserve. Two hundred acres of native grasslands, heritage oak trees, and blooming wildflowers, roll gently above Santa Barbara. 360 degree views of the Pacific Ocean, the Channel Islands and the Santa Ynez Mountains are truly spectacular. It is one of the most ecologically valuable sites on the South Coast, and is home to an abundance of wildlife and a variety of rare species and ecological associations. These include the White-tailed Kite, Burrowing Owl, Grasshopper Sparrow and many species of owls, raptors and songbirds. Miles of hiking trails offer an adventure for all ages.

The Preserve was conveyed to the County of Santa Barbara in early 2007 and it is indeed a local treasure for all to enjoy. Come hear Environmental Analyst, Brian Trautwein and Chief Counsel, Linda Krop give a brief but informative talk on the history of the Preserve and EDC’s work to protect it. Bring the whole family and spend some time soaking up the beauty that is right in our own backyard.

2:00-4:00 PM-- Self-guided tours with EDC staff and naturalists available to answer questions
2:30 PM-- Informational Program: EDC Staff Environmental Analyst Brian Trautwein & Chief Cousel Linda Krop, as well as naturalist Mark Holmgren.

DIRECTIONS
Entrance to San Marcos Foothills Preserve is at the end of Via Gaitero, just north of  Santa Barbara. From Cathedral Oaks Road, near the Highway 154 intersection, turn onto Via Chaparral. Take the next right onto Salvar Road, taking the bridge going across Highway 154. Turn left onto Via Gaitero. Park along the shoulder and proceed to the gate at the top of the hill

Please stay tuned for additional upcoming Walks on the Wild Side to places such as Ormond Beach, Douglas Family Preserve, Sedgwick Preserve and many more of the treasures right here in our backyard!

These events are all free and open to the public!