In March of 2022, I had the opportunity to join OVLC’s Nursery intern program. Over the past year and a half I was mentored on a wide array of topics surrounding native botany and horticulture. I learned how to propagate from seedlings and cuttings, how to identify native plants, and how to really learn and listen from the natural world around me. This was an amazing opportunity to spark new passions, gain valuable experience, and participate in community outreach in an incredibly beneficial way. 

On October 4, local T-Mobile employees came out to volunteer at OVLC’s Native Plant Nursery and on our restoration sites at the Ojai Meadows Preserve. Robert Lobato Jr., Market Manager, SMRA Sales at T-Mobile, not only organized the day of service, but also applied for a grant for $5,000 from T-Mobile’s Volun-T Grant Program to benefit OVLC. This was the first time any of us had seen a giant check, and we are still super excited about it! These funds will go toward much needed equipment and supplies for OVLC’s volunteer program. Thank you so much to Robert and T-Mobile for your hard work and generous donation!

Restoration has grown a lot lately—in the coming months, we are focused on engaging the community through Rewild Ojai, laying the foundation for watershed-wide Arundo donax eradication, and kicking off new restoration projects at the Ventura River Preserve and Steelhead Preserve.