Ensen Grand Opening
Sunday, August 17 was an unforgettable day at the grand opening of the neighborhood park at Ensen Community Park in Salinas. We had 1,500 visitors join us to celebrate! All corners of the park were buzzing thanks to our exhibitors, activity leaders, and community partners. Visitors enjoyed Zumba, folklorico dancing, pickleball lessons, dog caricature drawings, and so much more.
In the middle of the celebration, the formal ceremony allowed us to share the story of this project and thank all of those who helped make it possible. The audience at the amphitheater grass were able to witness a land blessing with the Ohlone/Costanoan Esselen Nation. Then, the history and significance of this park were shared through the words of Jeannette Tuitele-Lewis (BSLT), Joel Hernandez Laguna (CCA), Mayor Dennis Donohue, Councilmember Gloria De La Rosa, Senator John Laird, Gloria Sandoval (CNRA), Armando Quintero (California State Parks), Amy Hutzel (Coastal Conservancy), Dr. Jennifer Norris (Wildlife Conservation Board), and Colleen Bailey (Salinas Valley Chamber).
With the ribbon cut, we now hope this park provides a welcoming space for families and residents to play, relax, and enjoy the great outdoors. Check out this awesome recap video of the grand opening >>
Semana de la Conservación Latina – Latino Conservation Week
Latino Conservation Week: Disfrutando y Conservando Nuestra Tierra is an initiative of the Hispanic Access Foundation that takes place September 13–21, celebrating Latino engagement in the outdoors and in conservation of our natural resources. Since launching in 2014 with just nine events, the week has grown to more than 360 nationwide activities including hikes, camping, film screenings, and community discussions. The initiative highlights the Latino community’s passion for protecting land, water, and air while elevating their role as environmental stewards across media and by public officials.
“Floreciendo Juntos” – Blooming Together
Saturday, September 13
11:00am – 2:00pm
Elkhorn Slough Reserve, Watsonville
We will be tabling at this family and community event with many other local organizations. The day is centered around building relationships, sharing resources, celebrating culture, and expanding access to nature.
Salinas River Day Celebration
Saturday, September 20
9:00am – 4:00pm
Nob Hill Foods, Salinas
Join us for a field trip to celebrate the Salinas River, the backbone of the Salinas Valley. During the field trip, we’ll enjoy a day of recreation, art, exploration and reflection on our public lands. We will also hear from experts about the history, hydrology, ecology, conservation of the Salinas River, and ways to care for the river through nature-based solutions, climate adaptation, and environmental justice. Register >>
Volunteer with Big Sur Land Trust
Big Sur Land Trust Volunteer Orientation
Thursday, September 4
12:00pm – 1:00pm
Online
Join our virtual orientation to learn more about Big Sur Land Trust’s mission, history, programs, organizational structure, and volunteer opportunities so that you are more fully informed about the organization you hope to so generously support through volunteering. This will also be your chance to interact with staff members and ask questions. Register >>
Iceplant Removal
Saturday, September 13
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 >>
Trail Work at Mittledorf
Wednesday, September 24
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 Events
California Biodiversity Day Bioblitz
Saturday, September 6
9:00am – 12:00pm
Marks Ranch, Salinas
Celebrate California Biodiversity Day 2025 with us at Marks Ranch! Join our bioblitz volunteers for a morning of ‘iNatting’, collecting iNaturalist observations of the biodiversity found on and under the beautiful Coastal Live Oaks at Marks Ranch. Register >>
Carmel River FREE Tours!
Big Sur Land Trust’s Carmel River FREE is one of the most extensive and important multi-benefit flood protection and riparian habitat restoration efforts on the Central Coast. After the site visit, you may opt to continue hiking a variety of regional park trails, including heading up to Animas Pond and Inspiration Point for amazing views of Point Lobos State Natural Reserve and the Carmel Lagoon.
| Friday, September 19 9:00am – 11:30am Palo Corona Regional Park, Carmel Register >> | Friday, September 19 10:00am – 12:30pm Palo Corona Regional Park, Carmel Register >> |
Thank You!
We’re sending out an enthusiastic THANKS to all of our sponsors and partners who have kindly supported the Grand Opening of Ensen Community Park. You helped make this exciting event possible!
