Upcoming Events List

	Friday Bird Walk Friday, MAY 2, 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.

	Hike at King-Swett Ranches Saturday, MAY 3, 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.

	Volunteer Opportunity: Trail Crew Saturday, MAY 3, 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. Ages 12 and up are welcome; under 18 must be accompanied by an adult. Tools are provided. 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 (appreciated, not required) to Ken Poerner at 707-580-6277 or email. 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, MAY 3, 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

	6th Annual Kite Festival Saturday, MAY 3, 2014 11:00 AM SOLANO COUNTY PARKS / SOLANO LAND TRUST — Lynch Canyon The ingredients needed for a perfect kite-flying experience are wind, an open grassy field, and a lack of Kiteus Eatemupus (more commonly known as kite-eating trees). Solano County Parks and Solano Land Trust provide these ingredients at Lynch Canyon’s 4th Annual Kite Festival on Saturday, May 5 from 11am to 4pm. All you need to bring are your kites and kids. It’s a family-friendly event, and kids of all ages and ability levels are welcome. The festival is free; parking is only $5. Bring a picnic lunch to enjoy while watching dancing kites. Rain cancels Parking Fee: $5 Location: 3100 Lynch Road Vallejo

	Peña Adobe Open House Saturday, MAY 3, 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.

	Friday Bird Walk Friday, MAY 9, 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.

	Friday Fitness Hike Friday, MAY 9, 2014 9:00 AM SOLANO LAND TRUST — Rockville Trails Preserve Join docents Richard & Cathy Christo for a 4 to 5 mile quick-paced hike through the oaks and grassland with some hill climbs. We will take a few short breaks to enjoy the views and catch our breath. Enjoy this beautiful open space while getting in shape! Take advantage of this opportunity if you can because Solano Land Trust's 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. 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. Extreme weather (e.g., heavy rain or red flag conditions) may cancel. Call Cathy if the weather is uncertain. Leader: Richard & Cathy Christo 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.

	Coyote Club Saturday, MAY 10, 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.

	Volunteer Opportunity: Trail Crew Saturday, MAY 10, 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, MAY 10, 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

	Suisun Marsh Walk Saturday, MAY 10, 2014 9:30 AM SUISUN MARSH NATURAL HISTORY ASSOCIATION — Peytonia Ecological Reserve As the seasons change in the Suisun Marsh, it cycles through many different conditions. And all year it is alive with the many resident birds and plants. Now is a good time to take a trek through Peytonia Ecological Reserve in Suisun and learn more about the flora and fauna of these unique wetlands. The Suisun Marsh Natural History Association has scheduled a 1-1/2 hour guided walk through the reserve on Saturday. The walk will begin at 9:30 a.m. and will highlight the current and past uses of plants growing there as well as the natural history of resident birds and animals. Binoculars and walking shoes are recommended. This walk is likely to fill early, so enroll today! For more information or to register, call the Wildlife Center at: (707) 429-4295. This event is free to members and $5.00 for non-members. All proceeds assist the Suisun Marsh Natural History Association in its Suisun Wildlife Center. Entrance Fee: $5 Registration is required. Location: 1171 Kellogg St Suisun City

	Lynch Nature Hike Monday, MAY 12, 2014 9:00 AM SOLANO LAND TRUST — Lynch Canyon WHAT TO BRING: $5 for parking, plenty of water and snacks, closed-toe shoes that grip well, trekking poles if you find them helpful, protection from sun, wind, fog, and binoculars and camera if you wish. WHAT NOT TO BRING: Pets, flip-flops, anything involving a flame or smoke. WHAT TO BE PREPARED FOR: Pollen, insects, hills, perhaps a little mud. Meet your guide in the parking lot when the gate opens at 9:00 a.m. No registration required. Leader: Linda 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.

	Friday Bird Walk Friday, MAY 16, 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, MAY 16, 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.

	Astronomy Night Friday, MAY 16, 2014 7:00 PM RUSH RANCH EDUCATIONAL COUNCIL AND SOLANO LAND TRUST — Rush Ranch CURIOUS ABOUT CONSTELLATIONS? PONDERING THE PLANETS? If so, then don’t miss a Rush Ranch stargazing event led by local astronomy enthusiast, Jim Jerrell, who will share his 30+ years of celestial knowledge. The evening begins at 7:00 pm with a short presentation in the Rush Ranch Nature Center. Outdoor viewing begins when darkness falls. Telescopes will be on hand. Personal scopes & binoculars are welcome, but be familiar with their setup and use. Mosquito repellant and warm clothing are a must. Children are welcome, but must remain supervised at all times. In order to preserve night vision, flashlights should be covered with red cellophane, and all latecomers should dim their headlights. For more information call 707-422-4491. Free but donations appreciated! Leader: Jim Jerrell 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.

	Owls - Silent Hunters of the Night Friday, MAY 16, 2014 7:30 PM SUISUN MARSH NATURAL HISTORY ASSOCIATION — Suisun Wildlife Center The Suisun Marsh Natural History Association is offering an exciting two evening event! See and learn about the fascinating owls of the night. The first evening will include a audio-visual presentation, viewing of native California species of owls, and hands-on exploration. Join us on Friday from 7:30-9:30 pm; and then on Saturday for an afternoon-to-evening field trip led by Robin Leong, local Napa-Solano Audubon expert. Registration is limited to 30; sign up today! Those interested in participating should call the Wildlife Center at 707-429-4295, to register. No walk-ins will be accepted. This special event is $15.00 per person or $25 for two for both nights - one child free with each adult, $5 each for extras. All proceeds assist the Suisun Marsh Natural History Association in its Suisun Wildlife Center. Entrance Fee: $15 Registration is required. Location: 1171 Kellogg St Suisun City

	Rindler Creek Cleanup Saturday, MAY 17, 2014 9:00 AM VALLEJO WATERSHED ALLIANCE — Rindler Creek Rindler Creek flows out of the hills to the east of Vallejo, down into Lake Chabot. It attracts a fair amount of trash, unfortunately, and it's time for a spring cleaning! Meet at the corner of Fairgrounds Drive and Coach Lane. Wear sturdy clothes and closed-toe shoes, gloves, hat and sunscreen. We will provide tools, trash bags, water, and refreshments. Location: Vallejo DIRECTIONS: Meet at the corner of Fairgrounds Drive and Coach Lane.

	Rockville Hills Regional Park Trail Crew Saturday, MAY 17, 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

	Trails and Tales: From Charmstones to Counterfeiters Saturday, MAY 17, 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 John at 707-718-3498. 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.

	Garden Volunteer Day Saturday, MAY 17, 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, MAY 17, 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, MAY 17, 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. Volunteer-run activities may include a guided walk alongside tidal marsh and through upland grasses (timing varies), a traditional blacksmith shop in action (10am-1pm), an interpretive display of Native American tools and decorations (10am-1pm), and horse-drawn wagon rides that are wheelchair accessible (11am-1pm). BRING: Water, snacks or picnic lunch, bug repellent. Be prepared for variable weather by bringing layered clothes, sturdy closed-toe shoes, and protection from sun, wind, fog, and rain. Optional: binoculars, camera. 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, MAY 23, 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.

	Geology Trek: Where Did All These Rocks Come From? Saturday, MAY 24, 2014 8:30 AM SOLANO LAND TRUST — Rockville Trails Preserve Explore the rock types and sources at Rockville Trails Preserve with docent Lorenzo Burch. Are the rocks related to the collision of the Pacific Plate and underlying movement beneath the North American Plate? What is under the ground of the Preserve? Did you know you can see a portion of the Cordelia Fault line at the Preserve? What is the relationship of that fault and the nearby Green Valley fault to the San Andreas Fault? Where was the nearest volcano? When were these rock formations created? This is not a technical geology hike--it is a layperson’s physical geography trek. 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, protection from the elements (sun, wind, fog, rain). Recommended: Hiking sticks, bug repellent, binoculars, camera. Participants of all ages are welcome, but they must be prepared an intermediate to strenuous pace hiking 4 to 6 miles up and down rugged, steep, and slippery hills that are full of sticky seeds, thorny plants, and thistle. Rockville Trails 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. There are no bathrooms. ADVANCE REGISTRATION REQUIRED: Click here to register online, or call Cathy at 707-745-1913. Space is limited. Leader: Lorenzo Burch 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.

	Garden Volunteer Day Saturday, MAY 24, 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

	Memorial Day Weekend Tour Saturday, MAY 24, 2014 10:00 AM SOLANO COUNTY PARKS — Lake Solano County Park Be prepared for variable weather and trail conditions by bringing water, wearing sturdy closed-toe shoes, and dressing in layers. A camera, binoculars and snacks are also recommended. Continue to enjoy the beautiful scenery and wildlife at Lake Solano Park & Campground by picnicking or by renting a campsite for the weekend (on a first-come, first-served basis). In this two hour, easy-paced tour, Lake Solano volunteers Cricket Kanouff and Kitty Van Newkoop will walk you back through the mists of time to learn about the Patwin Indians, the Berryessa brothers, and John Wolfskill’s impact on the region. Discover how Putah Creek was transformed into Lake Solano, bringing water to farmers and residents of Solano County. Learn about the native trees and plants, and some of their medicinal secrets, passed down through the generations by Native Americans. Look for Great Blue Herons, Snowy Egrets, Peacocks or other wildlife on the tour. Your guides will also show you what the resident beavers have been up to! It’s sure to be a fun and educational experience for all ages. For questions in advance, call Sara Tremayne at Putah Creek Council, 530-795-3006. For same-day information, call 435-760-9326. Leader: Cricket Kanouff and Kitty Van Newkoop Parking Fee: $5 Location: 8685 Pleasants Valley Road DIRECTIONS: Lake Solano Park straddles Pleasants Valley Road, north of Vacaville and near the town of Winters. Pay the $5 parking fee and park on the east-side of Pleasants Valley Rd. Cross the road and meet in front of the Nature Center.

	Nature Journaling Field Trip with John Muir Laws Sunday, MAY 25, 2014 10:00 AM SOLANO LAND TRUST — Lynch Canyon Open Space Park Grab your sketchbook and join a free nature journaling field trip with John Muir Laws at Lynch Canyon. The field trip is part of John's Nature Journal Club, a free, family friendly, intergenerational community who connect with nature through art and field journaling. The field trip will combine nature exploration, sketching demonstrations, a potluck lunch, and time to explore and create your own work. No experience necessary. All ages are welcome, but participants must be prepared for uneven dirt trails, rugged, steep, and slippery hills, sticky seeds and thorny plants, and free-range cattle. Bring water and snacks. The field trip is also a potluck lunch. Bring a spoon, bowl, and something delicious to share. We often stray far from our vehicles so make sure you have everything packed and portable. You do not need a lot of expensive materials to get started. At the most basic level, a field journal and a pencil is all you need. If you want to go further, John has prepared a suggested equipment list. You do not need everything on his list. Keep your kit light and accessible. Also, boots or sturdy closed-toe shoes with good tread, protection from the elements. Also recommended: Long, sturdy pants, layered clothes, hiking sticks, bug repellent. The field trip is free! Parking is $5 per motorized vehicle. If rain is forecast, the trip may be relocated to an indoor venue. Check the event listing on the morning of the event for updates and changes. No registration necessary. Leader: John Muir Laws 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. Meet John in the parking lot.

	Friday Bird Walk Friday, MAY 30, 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.

	Pre-Trail-Run Power Hike Saturday, MAY 31, 2014 8:00 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.

	Nature Hike: See Spring Happening! Saturday, MAY 31, 2014 9:00 AM SOLANO LAND TRUST — Rockville Trails Join docent James Chang for a 4-5 mile, moderately-paced hike with stops to explore the local ecosystem. Discover if mistletoe is part of an ecosystem or only for kissing. Take advantage of this opportunity if you can because Solano Land Trust's Rockville Trails Preserve is only accessible by docent-led hikes at this time. Participants of all ages are welcome, but they must be prepared for: moderate to intermediate pace hiking 4-5 miles up and down rugged, steep, and slippery hills that are full of sticky seeds, thorny plants, and thistle. Rockville Trails 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, no bathrooms, and no pets allowed. Be prepared with a backpack with plenty of water and snacks, boots or sturdy closed-toe shoes with good tread, long, sturdy pants and layered clothes, protection from the elements (sun, wind, fog, rain). Recommended: hiking sticks, bug repellent, binoculars, camera. Space is limited. Advance registration required. Click here to register online, or call James at 707-980-3678. Leader: James Chang Registration is required. Location: Fairfield DIRECTIONS: Meet your guide 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.

	Garden Volunteer Day Saturday, MAY 31, 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