Rick Ridgeway at the East End Preserve at the Turtle Conservancy
The OVLC continues its celebration of Native Plant Month with a tour of the East End Preserve, led by local legends Rick Ridgeway and Tom Maloney. The East End Preserve is a 25-acre property previously owned by Philip Pierpont, and at one time was home to a hotel, cottages, and walnut, citrus, and avocado orchards. This parcel was purchased in 2020 by Eric Goode, in conjunction with the Turtle Conservancy, and restoration efforts on the property began in 2022 in partnership with the Ojai Valley Land Conservancy.
This is a unique opportunity to see OVLC's Rewild Ojai Private Lands Restoration program at work and to learn more about land restoration at this particular site and across the valley.
Rick Ridgeway is an outdoor adventurer, writer and advocate for sustainability and conservation initiatives. For 15 years, Rick was a VP at Patagonia developing environmental and sustainability initiatives including Freedom to Roam, the Footprint Chronicles and Worn Wear. In addition, Rick is recognized as one of the world’s foremost mountaineers. He has written seven books, many magazine stories and produced and directed dozens of television shows. His memoir Life Lived Wild was released in October 2021. National Geographic honored him with its “Lifetime Achievement in Adventure” award.
Tom Maloney is Executive Director of the Ojai Valley Land Conservancy.
This event involves a short, easy hike from the parking location to the restoration area. Total hike length is roughly 1 mile on varying terrain. Please bring your own backpack, water, snacks, sun protection, sturdy walking/hiking shoes, and hiking poles if desired.