Upcoming Events List

	Hike at King-Swett Ranches Saturday, MAR 1, 2014 9:00 AM SOLANO LAND TRUST — King-Swett Ranches Come explore the hills between Fairfield, Benicia, and Vallejo! You'll be led by Jim Walsh and/or James Chang, both expert Solano Land Trust guides who know this area—known as the King-Swett Ranches—inside out. They'll share insights about the birds and other wildlife that call this area home, and give you a great workout! Take advantage of this special opportunity if you can because the King-Swett Ranches are otherwise closed. Bring: a backpack with plenty of water and snacks, boots or sturdy closed-toe shoes with tread for rugged, steep, and slippery off-trail terrain, long, sturdy pants and layered clothes that you don't mind getting dirty, protection from the elements (sun, wind, fog, rain). Recommended: binoculars, camera, bug repellent, hiking sticks, gaiters. Participants of all ages are welcome, but they must be prepared: a strenuous pace hiking 4-6 miles off-trail, up and down rugged, steep, and slippery hills that are full of sticky seeds, thorny plants, and thistle. The King-Swett Ranches are working ranches—cattle are free range so they roam as they please. Very heavy rain cancels—call Jim at 916-870-4824 if the weather is uncertain. Leader: Jim Walsh or James Chang Location: Vallejo DIRECTIONS: Meet Jim and/or James promptly at the Park-and-Ride lot where McGary Road, Hiddenbrooke Parkway, and American Canyon Road intersect (on the Hiddenbrooke side of the American Canyon/Hiddenbrooke Parkway exit, off Interstate 80). (Jim has a white "TruGreen" pickup truck). Be ready to carpool or caravan from there.

	Tree Volunteer Day at Benicia Middle School Saturday, MAR 1, 2014 9:00 AM BENICIA TREE FOUNDATION — Benicia Middle School Please join Benicia's team of volunteer tree stewards and help us plant new trees at Benicia Middle School! No experience necessary - we'll provide tools and instruction. Bring your own gloves if you have them. All ages welcome - minors must be accompanied by adult. Questions? Call 745-4546 or email info@beniciatrees.org. Location: 1100 Southampton Rd Benicia

	Volunteer Opportunity: Trail Crew Saturday, MAR 1, 2014 9:00 AM SOLANO LAND TRUST — Rush Ranch Our land is our future, so jump in with your boots on! Rush Ranch is over 2,000 acres of tidal marsh and upland grasses. Help Solano Land Trust's Land Steward, Ken Poerner, maintain it through trail maintenance, construction, litter removal, and other improvement projects. WHAT TO BRING: a backpack with plenty of water and snacks, heavy work gloves, eye protection (e.g., sunglasses), boots or sturdy closed-toe shoes with tread for rough, steep, and slippery terrain, long, sturdy pants and layered clothes that you don't mind getting dirty, protection from sun, wind, fog and rain. Meet Ken promptly in the Rush Ranch courtyard. RSVP to Ken Poerner at 707-580-6277 or email so he can bring enough tools. Ages 12 and up are welcome. Under 18 must be accompanied by an adult. Leader: Ken Poerner Location: 3521 Grizzly Island Road Suisun City DIRECTIONS: From Hwy 12 in Suisun City, take Grizzly Island Road south approximately 2 miles. Entrance/driveway will be on the right.

	Garden Volunteer Day Saturday, MAR 1, 2014 9:30 AM BENICIA STATE PARKS ASSOCIATION — Forrest Deaner Native Plant Botanic Garden We meet every Saturday from 9:30-11:30am in the Forrest Deaner Native Plant Botanic Garden located at the Benicia State Park Recreation Area for planting, weeding, and tending. Parking is free on Saturday Volunteer Days. Tell the Gate Attendant that you are going into the Park to work at the Garden. Location: I-780 at Columbus Parkway Benicia State Park Recreation Area Benicia

	Peña Adobe Open House Saturday, MAR 1, 2014 11:00 AM PEÑA ADOBE HISTORICAL SOCIETY & RUSH RANCH EDUCATIONAL COUNCIL — Peña Adobe Park Visitors are invited to tour the national- and state-recognized historic Peña Adobe built in 1842 and the Mowers-Goheen Museum. Meet our friendly and knowledgeable volunteers at the Adobe--one of the few pre-gold rush era structures remaining in the county--from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Docents will be on hand to answer questions and provide insight into Vacaville’s past. Learn about the early people that inhabited the region from our special guest, Little Bear, as he shares Native American tools and artifacts. For questions in advance, call (707) 451-7699. For same day information, call (707) 470-9975. A camera, binoculars and snacks are recommended as wildlife is often spotted in the park, or bring a picnic, enjoy the beautiful scenery, and take a hike. This is a great family friendly opportunity to have fun. Location: Vacaville DIRECTIONS: The park is located at Peña Adobe Road just off of Interstate 80.

	Over-wintering Birds of Prey Hike Sunday, MAR 2, 2014 10:00 AM SOLANO LAND TRUST — Lynch Canyon Open Space Park Join Larry Broderick and the Solano Land Trust Raptor Team for the 2013 fall raptor migration. The tour will be focused on resident, migrating and over-wintering birds of prey. Previous sightings include Golden Eagles, Bald Eagles, Rough-legged Hawks, Cooper's Hawks, Sharp-shinned Hawks, Ferruginous Hawks, Peregrine Falcons, Prairie Falcons and other more common birds of prey. Broderick has over 25 years of experience with birds of prey. All ages are welcome, but participants must be prepared for a moderate pace covering about 4 miles, possibly off-trail in places, up and down rugged, steep, and slippery hills that are full of sticky seeds, thorny plants and thistle, and passing free range cattle along the way. An RSVP is requested to Mary Beth at mbcrittendon@comcast.net or 707-685-5908. Meet at the Lynch Canyon parking lot by 10am sharp. Bring $5 cash for parking, a backpack with plenty of water and snacks; boots or sturdy closed-toe shoes with tread for rough, steep and slippery terrain; long, sturdy pants, layered clothes that you don't mind getting dirty, and protection from sun, wind, fog and rain. Binoculars, a camera, bug repellent and hiking sticks are also recommended. A donation is suggested to help sustain these tours. Constant or heavy rain cancels the hike. Call (707) 685-5908 if the weather is uncertain. Leader: Larry Broderick Parking Fee: $5 Location: 3100 Lynch Road Vallejo

	Coyote Club Saturday, MAR 8, 2014 9:00 AM GVRD — McIntyre Ranch For ages 4-14 -- The McIntyre Ranch is home to several different habitats, farm animals and an educational garden. Explore nature through activities, games and crafts. Getting up close to nature helps us to understand the balance we have with the environment. Studies have found that children who spend time exploring nature are more focused and interested in school. Families are encouraged to come to every meeting. Bring a snack, water and your curiosity! For more information contact the Coordinator at 648-4552. Cost: $5/class resident, $6/class nonresident. Adults must register at no cost. Leader: Dee Davis Entrance Fee: $5 Location: Vallejo DIRECTIONS: Off St. John's Mine Road.

	Trails and Tales: From Charmstones to Counterfeiters Saturday, MAR 8, 2014 9:00 AM SOLANO LAND TRUST — Rockville Trails Preserve Join docent John McVicar for a moderate hike while he shares stories and lore about the local human history--from Patwin Indian charmstones to pioneer rock walls--along the way. Wear hiking boots or sturdy closed-toe shoes with good tread, and long, sturdy pants and layered clothes that provide protection from the elements (sun, wind, fog, rain, cold). Hiking sticks, bug repellent, binoculars and a camera are also recommended. Heavy rain cancels. Call John if the weather is uncertain: 707-718-3498. Advance registration is required. Register online or call Cathy at 745-1913. Leader: John McVicar Registration is required. Location: Fairfield DIRECTIONS: Meet promptly at the big red "Ice House" building on Suisun Valley Ct, near the intersection of Rockville Rd and Suisun Valley Rd, Fairfield, CA. Be ready to immediately carpool or caravan from there to the trailhead.

	Volunteer Opportunity: Trail Crew Saturday, MAR 8, 2014 9:00 AM SOLANO LAND TRUST — Lynch Canyon Open Space Park Help us take care of Lynch Canyon's 1,000 plus acres. Projects include improving trails, fixing fences, weeding, and the like. WHAT TO BRING: a backpack with plenty of water and snacks, heavy work gloves, eye protection (e.g., sunglasses), boots or sturdy closed-toe shoes with tread for rough, steep, and slippery terrain, long, sturdy pants and layered clothes that you don't mind getting dirty, protection from sun, wind, fog and rain. Meet Ken promptly in the parking lot. RSVP to Ken Poerner at 707-580-6277 or email so he can bring enough tools. Leader: Ken Poerner Location: 3100 Lynch Road Vallejo DIRECTIONS: From I-80 East, take the Hiddenbrooke Parkway exit and follow the Lynch Canyon signs. From I-80 West, take the Red Top Road exit and follow the Lynch Canyon signs.

	Garden Volunteer Day Saturday, MAR 8, 2014 9:30 AM BENICIA STATE PARKS ASSOCIATION — Forrest Deaner Native Plant Botanic Garden We meet every Saturday from 9:30-11:30am in the Forrest Deaner Native Plant Botanic Garden located at the Benicia State Park Recreation Area for planting, weeding, and tending. Parking is free on Saturday Volunteer Days. Tell the Gate Attendant that you are going into the Park to work at the Garden. Location: I-780 at Columbus Parkway Benicia State Park Recreation Area Benicia

	Friday Bird Walk Friday, MAR 14, 2014 8:00 AM NAPA - SOLANO AUDUBON SOCIETY — Napa and Solano Counties The destination for each Friday bird walk is not decided until a few days before the trip. An email is sent out each week describing the destination for the upcoming trip. If you would like to be added to the email list for Friday Bird Walks, you can submit your information on our sign-up page. Car-poolers will share driving expenses (recommended $.40/mi to be split by the number of riders). Leader: Murray Berner DIRECTIONS: Meet at Sweeney's Sport Store, 1537 Imola Ave West, Napa, to carpool.

	Blue Rock Springs Creek Corridor Saturday, MAR 15, 2014 9:00 AM VALLEJO WATERSHED ALLIANCE — Hanns Park Meadow This is the last big planting day of the season, so grab your boots and come on out! We’ll meet in Hanns Park. Park in the lot on Sklyline just off Redwood Parkway, and follow the signs up the bike path. Wear sturdy shoes and clothes, hat, gloves, and sunscreen. We’ll provide tools, water, and refreshments. Location: Vallejo DIRECTIONS: Skyline Drive at Redwood Parkway

	Marsh Walk: The Patwin Perspective of Suisun Marsh Saturday, MAR 15, 2014 9:00 AM RUSH RANCH EDUCATIONAL COUNCIL — Rush Ranch Learn about the Patwin Indians--the first human inhabitants of the Suisun Marsh and surrounding Solano County. Discover how they didn't just survive, but thrived by building their communities in and around what is now known as Rush Ranch. See an outcropping used for grinding fish and/or acorns, an example of a Patwin dwelling, and find out what a typical day in the life of the Patwin might have been like. WHAT TO BE PREPARED FOR: This hike is easy and moderately-paced. Ages 8 and up are welcome. WHAT TO BRING: A backpack with plenty of water and snacks, boots or sturdy closed-toe shoes with good tread, long, sturdy pants and layered clothes that provide protection from the elements (sun, wind, fog, rain, cold). Also recommended: Hiking sticks, bug repellent, binoculars, camera. Meet in the courtyard outside the Nature Center. Heavy rain cancels. Location: 3521 Grizzly Island Road Suisun City DIRECTIONS: From Hwy 12 in Suisun City, take Grizzly Island Road south approximately 2 miles. Entrance/driveway will be on the right.

	Rockville Hills Regional Park Trail Crew Saturday, MAR 15, 2014 9:00 AM CITY OF FAIRFIELD — Rockville Hills Regional Park The Rockville Trail Crew volunteer work days are scheduled for the third Saturday of every month from 9-12noon, rain or shine! Trail Crew volunteers provide technical assistance with trail maintenance and construction activities on the trails. Trail Crew volunteer duties consist of clearing rocks, trees, brush and other debris from proposed trail routes; build/repair walk ways, bridges or other structures; grade/fill existing trail paths to ensure user safety; and attend all required meetings and training sessions. Volunteers should bring water, gloves and a tool if available. Volunteers should wear layered clothing and sturdy shoes. A snack and beverage provided for volunteers. Meet at the parking area. If you are not a regular volunteer, please RSVP to Ranger Teri, (707) 249-3613, or by email. Location: 2149 Rockville Rd Fairfield

	Garden Volunteer Day Saturday, MAR 15, 2014 9:30 AM BENICIA STATE PARKS ASSOCIATION — Forrest Deaner Native Plant Botanic Garden We meet every Saturday from 9:30-11:30am in the Forrest Deaner Native Plant Botanic Garden located at the Benicia State Park Recreation Area for planting, weeding, and tending. Parking is free on Saturday Volunteer Days. Tell the Gate Attendant that you are going into the Park to work at the Garden. Location: I-780 at Columbus Parkway Benicia State Park Recreation Area Benicia

	Horse Day at McIntyre Ranch Saturday, MAR 15, 2014 10:00 AM GVRD — McIntyre Ranch For ages 8-17 -- Learn about the friendly horses and goats, and participate in their daily care. Wear sturdy work clothes and tough shoes because this is a "hand-on" experience. You will put a halter on a horse, learn to lead horses safely, brush them, clean their feet and clean their stalls. Everyone will have a chance to sit on a horse (helmet are required and provided, keep hairstyle simple for easy fit). Kids will receive a souvenit t-shirt! Eat a good breakfast, bring water bottle and wear layers. For more information contact the Coordinator at 648-4552. Leader: Jane Mitchell Entrance Fee: $25 Location: Vallejo DIRECTIONS: Off St. John's Mine Road

	Rush Ranch 'Get the Rush' Saturday, MAR 15, 2014 10:00 AM SOLANO LAND TRUST AND RUSH RANCH EDUCATIONAL COUNCIL — Rush Ranch Get the Rush is a series of fun and free activities for the whole family, offered on the third Saturday of every month at Rush Ranch. All ages and mobility levels are welcome! This event is 100% volunteer-run and activities vary month-to-month. Location: 3521 Grizzly Island Road Suisun City DIRECTIONS: From Hwy 12 in Suisun City, take Grizzly Island Road south approximately 2 miles. Entrance/driveway will be on the right.

	Fitness Hike Sunday, MAR 16, 2014 9:00 AM SOLANO LAND TRUST — Rockville Trails Preserve Take a docent-led quick paced hike through the oaks and grassland with some hill climbs. We will take a few short breaks to discuss the flora, fauna, history, and geology of this beautiful open space. Rockville Trails Preserve is only accessible by docent-led hikes at this time.There is no drinking water, and there are no bathrooms or parking lots yet. Dogs are not permitted. Since the preserve is otherwise closed, the entry and exit gate will be locked except for the start and end times of the hike. Heavy rain cancels. Call Cathy if the weather is uncertain: 707-745-1913. Bring a backpack with plenty of water and snacks or lunch. Wear hiking boots or sturdy closed-toe shoes with good tread, and long, sturdy pants and layered clothes that provide protection from the elements (sun, wind, fog, rain, cold). Hiking sticks, bug repellent, binoculars and a camera are also recommended. Advance registration required. Register online, or call Cathy at 707-745-1913. Leader: Cathy Registration is required. Location: Fairfield DIRECTIONS: Meet promptly at the big red "Ice House" building on Suisun Valley Ct, near the intersection of Rockville Rd and Suisun Valley Rd, Fairfield, CA. Be ready to immediately carpool or caravan from there to the trailhead.

	Birds of Prey Identification Workshop and Hike Sunday, MAR 16, 2014 10:00 AM SOLANO LAND TRUST — Lynch Canyon Open Space Park The winter migration season for birds of prey is coming to a close. Join Larry Broderick and the Solano Land Trust Raptor Team for an interactive presentation covering raptor natural history and threats, the importance of habitat conservation, acquisition and restoration, identification methods, and a book review. The presentation will be held in the Rush Ranch Nature Center from 10am – noon. Following a brief social break, test your new identification skills on a short but steep hike up Suisun Hill to observe eagles, falcons and hawks. Broderick brings over 25 years of experience studying, identifying, researching, rescuing and rehabilitating birds of prey. Each fall and winter season he offers tours on Solano Land Trust lands. He’s a gifted and entertaining teacher who gives beginning and experienced birders easy ways to identify year-round and migratory raptors. He shares useful handouts on raptor information and identification, and brochures on where to spot them. Binoculars are highly recommended. Birds of prey are often seen at a distance and binoculars will enhance your experience. Bring snacks or a bag lunch. Wear boots or sturdy closed-toe shoes with tread for rough, steep and slippery terrain, long, sturdy pants and layered clothes that you don't mind getting dirty, protection from sun, wind, fog and rain. A camera and hiking sticks are also recommended. SPACE IS LIMITED. PRE-REGISTRATION REQUIRED. Click here to register online. Leader: Larry Broderick Entrance Fee: $10 Location: 3100 Lynch Road Vallejo DIRECTIONS: From I-80 East, take the Hiddenbrooke Parkway exit and follow the Lynch Canyon signs. From I-80 West, take the Red Top Road exit and follow the Lynch Canyon signs.

	Full Moon Hike Sunday, MAR 16, 2014 7:00 PM SOLANO LAND TRUST — Lynch Canyon Night hikes have returned to Lynch Canyon! Join Docent Captain Lawrence Sander for a full moon hike on the Bay Area Ridge Trail at Lynch Canyon Open Space Park from 5pm to about 9:30pm. Moonlight will illuminate the hike. This is the first opportunity to go on a night hike at Lynch Canyon since July. Space is limited. See registration instructions below. WHAT TO BE PREPARED FOR: Please check in at the Lynch Road entry gate between 6:45 and 7:05pm. Since the hike is after-hours, the park gate will be locked except for check-in time and for our exit at approximately 10:45pm. Expect cold, windy, and possibly foggy or wet conditions, so layer accordingly. Participants of all ages are welcome, but they must be prepared for a 7-mile round-trip hike at an intermediate pace, up and down steep hills at a steady pace. Lynch Canyon is a working ranch—cattle are free range so they roam as they please. WHAT TO BRING: Drinking water, snacks, flashlight and/or headlamp, hiking sticks/trekking poles (recommended if you find them helpful), bug repellent (if desired). WHAT NOT TO BRING: Pets, laser pointers, alcohol. WHAT TO WEAR: Layers for warmth, long pants, windbreaker, sturdy, closed-toe shoes/boots with good grip. WHAT NOT TO WEAR: Flip-flops or any other open-toe shoes. COST: $10 per person. Parking is free for registrants. ADVANCE REGISTRATION REQUIRED: Click here to register online. Entrance Fee: $10 Location: 3100 Lynch Road Vallejo DIRECTIONS: From I-80, take Hiddenbrooke or Red Top exit and follow the signs.

	Usher in Spring! A Guided Marsh Walk Thursday, MAR 20, 2014 9:30 AM SOLANO LAND TRUST — Rush Ranch Celebrate the spring equinox with a guided hike along the Suisun Marsh. The Suisun Marsh is the largest contiguous brackish water marsh remaining on the west coast of North America and is a critical part of the San Francisco Bay-Delta estuary ecosystem. See the animals and plants that live at Rush Ranch and how the seasonal rains are changing the landscape. Visit a Patwin Indian hut. Come see why Rush Ranch is a treasure and locally loved. This hike is easy and slow-paced, approximately 1 mile round trip. WHAT TO BRING: A backpack with plenty of water and snacks, boots or sturdy closed-toe shoes with good tread, long, sturdy pants and layered clothes that provide protection from the elements (sun, wind, fog, rain, cold). Also recommended: Hiking sticks, bug repellent, binoculars, camera. Meet your guides in the courtyard outside the Nature Center by 9:45 a.m. Rain cancels. Call Natalie at (707) 432-0150 x200 or (415) 517-2624 if the weather is uncertain. Location: 3521 Grizzly Island Road Suisun City DIRECTIONS: From Hwy 12 in Suisun City, take Grizzly Island Road south approximately 2 miles. Entrance/driveway will be on the right.

	Friday Bird Walk Friday, MAR 21, 2014 8:00 AM NAPA - SOLANO AUDUBON SOCIETY — Napa and Solano Counties The destination for each Friday bird walk is not decided until a few days before the trip. An email is sent out each week describing the destination for the upcoming trip. If you would like to be added to the email list for Friday Bird Walks, you can submit your information on our sign-up page. Car-poolers will share driving expenses (recommended $.40/mi to be split by the number of riders). Leader: Murray Berner DIRECTIONS: Meet at Sweeney's Sport Store, 1537 Imola Ave West, Napa, to carpool.

	Volunteer Opportunity: Citizen Science Friday Friday, MAR 21, 2014 8:30 AM SOLANO LAND TRUST — Solano Land Trust Properties Get involved in science on our lands! Solano Land Trust staff scientist Sue Wickham will teach you all you need to know. BRING: Water, snacks, sturdy gloves, pants, sturdy closed-toe shoes. Come prepared for variable weather (bring layered clothes you don't mind getting dirty, and protection from sun, wind, and fog). Optional: bug repellent, your favorite gardening tools, and binoculars to enjoy the birds! ADVANCE REGISTRATION REQUIRED: Sue at 707-432-0150 x 207 or by email. Leader: Sue Wickham Registration is required. DIRECTIONS: Provided upon RSVP.

	Garden Volunteer Day Saturday, MAR 22, 2014 9:30 AM BENICIA STATE PARKS ASSOCIATION — Forrest Deaner Native Plant Botanic Garden We meet every Saturday from 9:30-11:30am in the Forrest Deaner Native Plant Botanic Garden located at the Benicia State Park Recreation Area for planting, weeding, and tending. Parking is free on Saturday Volunteer Days. Tell the Gate Attendant that you are going into the Park to work at the Garden. Location: I-780 at Columbus Parkway Benicia State Park Recreation Area Benicia

	Friday Bird Walk Friday, MAR 28, 2014 8:00 AM NAPA - SOLANO AUDUBON SOCIETY — Napa and Solano Counties The destination for each Friday bird walk is not decided until a few days before the trip. An email is sent out each week describing the destination for the upcoming trip. If you would like to be added to the email list for Friday Bird Walks, you can submit your information on our sign-up page. Car-poolers will share driving expenses (recommended $.40/mi to be split by the number of riders). Leader: Murray Berner DIRECTIONS: Meet at Sweeney's Sport Store, 1537 Imola Ave West, Napa, to carpool.

	Lagoon Valley Half Marathon, 10K, 5K Saturday, MAR 29, 2014 8:00 AM BRAZEN RACING — Lagoon Valley Park The lagoon may or may not be home to a mysterious monster and lost treasure of pirates, but it is definitely home of riches in the form of trails to run! Bursting into spring, Brazen is heading to a park which encompasses a lagoon we're not entirely sure is uninhabited. All runners will be treated to some sweet single track in the surrounding park while half marathoners make their way up to the top of the mountain for a possible sighting of the lagoon critter. Start times will be: 8:00am for the Half Marathon, 8:20am for the 10K and 8:40am for the 5K. All races will be professionally timed. All runners will receive custom finisher medals and custom shirts (cotton and tech shirts available). Age group awards will be awarded to the top 3 finishers in 5 year categories (less for the younger ages). Hikers/walkers are welcome. A 7:30am start will be available for hikers. Hikers must carry water and be capable of following the course map on their own. Course monitors and aid stations may not yet be open for the first part of the course. Hikers are not eligible for overall or age group awards, but do receive official finish times, finisher medals, shirts, etc., exactly the same as all other runners. There are three prices: early bird (before 2/16), regular (until 3/16) and late/race day entry (after 3/16). Registration is required. Location: Vacaville DIRECTIONS: Peña Adobe Rd off I-80.

	Nature Hike: See Spring Happening! Saturday, MAR 29, 2014 9:00 AM SOLANO LAND TRUST — Rockville Trails Join a docent-led hike through the fields and woods, over hill and dale. Enjoy the oak trees, the grass that is finally green again, the views and the fresh air. Learn about nature and local history and geology on this moderate 4-mile hike. Children who are experienced hikers are welcome. Rockville Trails Preserve is only accessible by docent-led hikes at this time. There is no drinking water, and there are no bathrooms or parking lots yet. Dogs are not permitted. Since the preserve is otherwise closed, the entry and exit gate will be locked except for the start and end times of the hike. Advanced registration is required. Click here to register online, or call Lorenzo at 707-330-7263. Heavy rain cancels. Call Lorenzo if the weather is uncertain: 707-330-7263. Leader: Lorenzo Registration is required. Location: Fairfield DIRECTIONS: Meet your guide, Lorenzo, promptly and be ready to leave immediately from the big red "Ice House" building on Suisun Valley Ct, near the intersection of Rockville Rd. and Suisun Valley Rd., Fairfield, CA.

	Nature Journaling Hike Saturday, MAR 29, 2014 9:00 AM SOLANO LAND TRUST — Rockville Trails Like to sketch or photograph nature, or just take a gently paced hike outdoors? Join docents Jody Lane, nature journalist, & Jane Hawkes, bird enthusiast, for this leisurely guided hike. The pace allows participants plenty of time to observe wildflowers, oaks, sweeping vistas and perhaps resident wildlife. Bring cameras, sketchbooks, watercolours and journals to enjoy this day and capture your memories. Arrive on time and be prepared to immediately carpool or caravan from the meeting place to the trailhead. Participants of all ages are welcome, but they must be prepared for the following: a leisurely pace hiking 4 miles up and down rugged, steep, and slippery hills that are full of loose rocks, sticky seeds, thorny plants, and thistle. Rockville Trails Preserve is a working ranch—cattle are free range so they roam as they please. All trails are unimproved—expect rough, rocky, uneven ground. Visitors must be accompanied by a docent at all times. Since the preserve is otherwise closed, the entry and exit gate will be locked except for the start and end times of the hike. There is no drinking water or bathrooms. Dogs are not allowed. Bring a backpack with plenty of water and lunch, boots or sturdy closed-toe shoes with good tread, layered clothes with long, sturdy pants, and protection from the elements.Also recommended: hiking sticks, bug repellent, binoculars, camera, sketchbooks, watercolours, journals and sitting pads. Advance registration required. Click here to register online, or call Cathy at 707-745-1913. Heavy rain cancels. Call Cathy if the weather is uncertain: 707-745-1913. Leader: Jody Lane & Jane Hawkes Registration is required. Location: Fairfield DIRECTIONS: Meet your guides promptly and be ready to leave immediately from the big red "Ice House" building on Suisun Valley Ct, near the intersection of Rockville Rd. and Suisun Valley Rd., Fairfield, CA. Be prepared to carpool from there.

	Garden Volunteer Day Saturday, MAR 29, 2014 9:30 AM BENICIA STATE PARKS ASSOCIATION — Forrest Deaner Native Plant Botanic Garden We meet every Saturday from 9:30-11:30am in the Forrest Deaner Native Plant Botanic Garden located at the Benicia State Park Recreation Area for planting, weeding, and tending. Parking is free on Saturday Volunteer Days. Tell the Gate Attendant that you are going into the Park to work at the Garden. Location: I-780 at Columbus Parkway Benicia State Park Recreation Area Benicia

	Pre-Trail-Run Power Hike Saturday, MAR 29, 2014 9:30 AM SOLANO LAND TRUST — Lynch Canyon Open Space Park Get in shape for the Lynch Canyon Trail Run! Today it's a 5K power walk/jog with docent Karen Peitz. Bring cash for parking ($5), plenty of water and snacks, trail-running shoes, protection from the elements (sun, wind, fog, rain). There is no drinking water on the property. Lynch Canyon is a working ranch—cattle are free range so they roam as they please. Dogs are not allowed. Meet in the Lynch Canyon parking lot. RSVP if you would like to join this event. Rain cancels. Leader: Karen Peitz Parking Fee: $5 Location: 3100 Lynch Road Vallejo DIRECTIONS: From I-80 East, take the Hiddenbrooke Parkway exit and follow the Lynch Canyon signs. From I-80 West, take the Red Top Road exit and follow the Lynch Canyon signs.