Ojai, CA 5/12/2026 – The Ojai Valley Land Conservancy (OVLC) is collaborating on an ecological restoration research project aimed at assessing the effectiveness of prescribed burning and broadcast seeding in restoring native species richness and cover, reducing the density of invasive species, and maintaining a healthy ecosystem. The project will also evaluate the impact of prescribed burns on specific target species and investigate the long-term effects of consecutive burns and seeding.

One of my personal heroes is the late, great Edward O. Wilson. In addition to being the father of the field of conservation biology, Wilson was also a two-time Pulitzer Prize winning author and professor/mentor to a legion of noteworthy biologists who quite literally shaped conservation practice. 

For those who have had the privilege of volunteering at OVLC, Don Jackson is a familiar and beloved figure. His involvement as a volunteer with the organization started circa 2008. Don most notably participated in nearly every outing during the construction of the Allan Jacobs Trail. At the age of 78, Don stands as a testament to the notion that age poses no obstacle when it comes to making a substantial impact through volunteering. We are proud to highlight Don’s contributions to the OVLC, in an interview he had with Preserve Manager, Linda Wilkin.