Join the Ventura Land Trust on Saturday, January 20th from 9 am - 12 noon to plant in areas that were damaged in the recent Thomas Fire. Many of the trees and almost of the plants on the upper terrace at Big Rock were burned on December 4th.

On Monday, January 15th, the MLK Holiday, we began our restoration of Big Rock by planting over 200 trees and plants. On Saturday, January 20, we will put an additional 35 mule fat plants in the ground along the Ojai-Ventura Bike Path to complete the first stage of restoration planting. We will also clear trails, spread mulch to prevent invasive species from taking root and work to minimize erosion. The Ventura Land Trust is committed to quickly finishing Phase 1 of the project and reopening the preserve to the public as soon as possible.

River Restoration events are a part of VLT's ongoing efforts to bring the Ventura River back to its natural state and make it more welcoming to human and wildlife visitors alike. Please wear pants, long sleeves, closed-toe shoes, and don't forget sunscreen and water. We'll provide the tools, you provide the enthusiasm! Hope you can join us!

Location: Big Rock Preserve is located just south of Foster Park along the Ojai-Ventura Bike Trail. There are two entrances to Big Rock.

North Entrance: Take Hwy 33, exit at Casitas Vistas Road, turn right and park underneath the HWY 33 overpass. Walk towards the bike trail and turn left. Continue south for approx. 1/4 mile along the dirt path adjacent to the Ojai-Ventura Bike Trail until you see the Big Rock preserve entrance on the right (look for the kiosk, bench and bike rack under the pepper tree).

South Entrance: Take Hwy 33, exit at Casitas Vistas Vista Road. Turn right and continue straight (under the highway) on North Ventura Ave. Parking is available along North Ventura Ave. Walk north to the break in the fence and take a right along the dirt path adjacent to the Ojai-Ventura Bike Trail. Continue north for approx. 1/4 mile until you see the Big Rock preserve entrance on the left (look for the kiosk, bench and bike rack under the pepper tree).

Please note: Children, 6 years and older, are welcome if accompanied by an adult. All volunteers must complete and submit a Ventura Land Trust liability waiver.  Either print, complete the waiver at home and bring it to the event or we will have waivers on hand to fill out there.