Artist Selected for Ensen Community Park Mural
Big Sur Land Trust is honored to announce that East Salinas-based nonprofit arts organization Hijos Del Sol Arts Productions (HDS) has been selected to create a mural at Ensen Community Park!
HDS has been providing art instruction and mentorship for youth and families across Salinas and Monterey County for 32 years. HDS’s Open Arts Studio in East Salinas uplifts artists ages 4+ with a mentor, quality materials, and a supportive space to build skills and confidence. All are welcome at the studio, which is open three days a week and is always free.
José G. Ortiz is the Founder and Art Director for HDS. He and the HDS team have shared their skills with thousands of youth and young adults in illustration, painting, sculpture, and fabrication. HDS also creates and teaches mural painting, emphasizing history and philosophy with lessons on tolerance, teamwork, and diversity. Over 80 mobile and permanent mural works can be seen on public buildings and structures around Monterey County and beyond.
This month, the HDS team will be connecting with the Salinas community—especially residents and students neighboring Ensen Community Park—to gather feedback and inspiration for the project. Once the painting phase begins, they will incorporate multiple opportunities where the community will be invited to participate.
From its multicultural history, Indigenous heritage and ecological resilience, to its agricultural roots and vision for a healthy, connected community—we are so excited to celebrate the unique spirit of Salinas. The mural will complement the newly opened 6-acre public park and 67-acre restoration area (currently under construction), which is part of a larger transformative effort to turn Carr Lake into a welcoming public space for all. Learn more >>
Stay tuned for more exciting updates during this process!
In community,
Jeannette Tuitele-Lewis
President/CEO
Big Sur Land Trust
Calling All Volunteers
Spend a meaningful day at Palo Corona Regional Park by volunteering at this year’s Race for Open Space on Saturday, May 9. Last year, over 40 volunteers helped make the event a huge success. Many of them have become “legacy volunteers,” returning year after year to support the lands and this event that we all love. This year, add your name to that list!
Whether you’re cheering on participants as a course monitor, keeping the trails clear as a course sweep, or capturing shots of the day as a photo coordinator—your time will make a difference. Enjoy the day in nature while helping runners, hikers, and families safely experience Palo Corona Regional Park and its backcountry.
Upcoming Events & Volunteer Opportunities
California Wildlife Day 2026
Sunday, March 29
11:00am – 3:00pm
Palo Corona Regional Park, Carmel
Immerse yourself in a day filled with eye-opening environmental exhibits, presentations, nature walks, hands–on activities, culture, food for purchase, and more. Hosted by our friends at Carmel River Watershed Conservancy and Monterey Peninsula Regional Park District, this event is FREE for the whole family. Learn more >>
831 Cares Non-Profit Night & Teddy Bear Toss
Saturday, April 4
7:00pm
Cardinale Stadium, Seaside
Bring a teddy bear or stuffed animal to the Monterey Bay FC game on Saturday, April 4 and toss it onto the field at halftime to support local children in need. All donated bears go to Jacob’s Heart Children’s Cancer Support Services and Partnership for Children to bring comfort to kids and families in our community. Use our special link to secure discounted tickets in the Big Sur Land Trust section. Learn more >>
Friends of Ensen Community Park Monthly Meeting
Friday, April 10
5:30pm – 7:30pm
Ensen Community Park, Salinas
Join the Friends of Ensen Monthly Meetings every 2nd Friday of the month for our Friends of Ensen community gathering! Learn more >>
Monthly Park Clean-up
Saturday, April 18
10:30am – 11:30am
Ensen Community Park, Salinas
Join Big Sur Land Trust and Friends of Ensen Community Park Volunteers for our Monthly Park Clean-up at Ensen Community Park! This is a great opportunity to meet your neighbors, get some fresh air, and hear updates on the restoration project. Help clean up our local park and make our community a better place for everyone! Register >>