The recent January rain events were much needed for the flora and fauna on OVLC preserves, although they also created much destruction. The Ventura River and its tributaries raged, taking out large swaths of native vegetation (including mature trees), and sending massive boulders tumbling. The river forged new paths, creating deeply-incised channels all along the river corridor. The swimming hole in the Ventura River Preserve filled in with sediment, and the river, which previously collected there, now runs 100 yards away to the east. 

Well-versed volunteers have been invaluable at Valley View Preserve over the past few months. A substantial amount of work has been underway on the network of trails at the preserve, and all of this incredible work has been made possible thanks to our Volunteer Crew Leaders. Earlier this year, Volunteer Crew Leaders led our trail reroutes on Luci’s Trail, and are spearheading projects on Foothill Trail.