On the 3rd Saturday in August, we are mixing things up! The Ventura Hillsides Conservancy and the Ocean-Friendly Gardens team of the Surfrider Foundation Ventura County Chapter have teamed up to re-landscape and reinvigorate the entrance to the Willoughby Nature Preserve. Located next to the "Welcome to Ventura" sign along the Ventura-Ojai bike path (adjacent to the parking lot located at Main St. and Peking St.), the landscaping will be updated using Ocean-Friendly Garden techniques to capture rainwater and eliminate runoff.

The project, funded by the City of Ventura's Community Partnerships Grant Program, seeks to beautify the area and educate the public about Ocean-Friendly Gardening. Volunteers are needed to help remove old vegetation to prepare the area for future plantings.

We provide the tools; you provide the enthusiasm! Meet VHC staff at 9 a.m. next to the Conservancy's beautiful informational kiosk at the Main St. Bridge along the bike path near downtown Ventura (at Main St. & Peking Streets). All volunteers should wear pants, long sleeves, closed-toe shoes, and don't forget sunscreen and water!

Because of the physical nature of the work, volunteers should be at least 12 years of age. Minors must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.

* Photo is is a "before shot" of the area where the ocean-friendly garden will be installed *