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.

OVLC was recently awarded a $2.05 million grant from the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (CAL FIRE) to kick start our efforts to completely eradicate invasive Arundo (Arundo donax) from the Ventura River Watershed! 

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.