Autumn’s Story Across Our Landscapes
Even though fall in Monterey County might not bring the crisp air and leafy color show seen elsewhere, the change of season is still written across our landscapes in unmistakable ways.
Along the coast, flocks of shorebirds begin their journeys south, while monarch butterflies return to Pacific Grove, filling the eucalyptus groves with their bright orange clusters. In the oak woodlands, California ground squirrels and acorn woodpeckers busily tuck away acorns for the quieter months ahead. Just like our students heading back to school, local wildlife is immersed in a season of preparation—migrating, storing, and adapting for the months to come.
We invite you to stay connected with the rhythms of the season and discover the stories our local landscapes have to tell this fall.
Volunteer with Big Sur Land Trust
Ice Plant Removal
Saturday, October 11
10:00am – 1:00pm
Salinas River National Wildlife Refuge, Salinas
Join BSLT staff and volunteers in removing invasive species to restore and care for the lands we love at Martin Dunes. Water, snacks, gloves, and hand tools will be provided. Volunteers will work to manually remove as many satellite populations of iceplant as possible. Register >>
Native Pollinator Garden Planting at Ferrini Ranch
Wednesday, October 15
9:00am – 1:00pm
The Patch on River Rd, Salinas
Come volunteer with BSLT and Regenerative California to help enhance habitat for wildlife at Ferrini Ranch. Volunteers will help plant a suite of native pollinator plants within a 0.5-acre area and install irrigation. Plus, learn about Regenerative California’s wildlife-friendly farming practices and the ecology of the area from BSLT Restoration Ecologist Nicole Chrislock. Register >>
Trail Work at Mittledorf
Wednesday, October 22
2:00pm – 5:00pm
Palo Corona Regional Park, Carmel
Headwaters Road at Mittledorf Preserve is becoming quite overgrown and we would very much appreciate assistance trimming and clearing the trail. This work will keep the trail clear for hikers, remove invasive species, provide safe vehicle access, and act as fire mitigation. Register >>
Upcoming Community Events
Tabling at Ciclovía
Sunday, October 12
10:00am – 2:00pm
E. Alisal Street (from Sanborn Rd. to Front St.), Salinas
Come check out our table at this year’s Ciclovía event. Ciclovía means “bike path” in Spanish. This event first started in Bogotá, Colombia in 1976 and is now also held in Salinas to provide a safe and inclusive environment where families can come together to enjoy accessible recreation, establish a platform that encourages residents to adopt healthier habits and counteract major health issues like diabetes and obesity. It is designed to positively impact economic development in the local community through a sustainable event that promotes local businesses and fosters community-building. Learn more >>
Monterey Bay Half Marathon BSLT Green Team
Sunday, November 9
9:30am – 2:30pm
Monterey
BSLT is proud to be among the over 50 community groups that volunteer to make the Monterey Bay Half Marathon, a sustainable and eco-friendly event each fall. This partnership is a joyful part of our work for healthy lands, healthy people, and healthy communities.
On Sunday, November 9 volunteer with BSLT on the Monterey Bay Half Marathon’s “Green Team”, as we help the event ‘leave no trace’ by sweeping the start/finish and entire course of litter. Please sign up here using the password “BSLT”.
Kids are welcome (they do not need an RSVP), but must be accompanied by an adult. Volunteers should bring snacks, lunch, water, and sun protection. Sign Up >>