Sun shifts through the colossal skeletons of cottonwoods, leaves awaken, erupt. Like ancient text upon crisp paper, soil horizons inches thick enclose seed. Encoded within their furrowed coats are spirits with knowledge deeper than Miocene kelp forests. Piercing light through translucent green foliage greets the soil, welcoming emerging seedlings who carpet the brambled floor. The air thick with the scent of emergence, the anticipation of spring within lignin. We may have never walked across the silty lakeshores of the Pliocene; however, our footsteps make indentations within the Earth in an everlasting, parallel manner.

Small falcons frequent the Ventura River Preserve. Talons on wire, eyes dialed in, fixated on ruffles in bunchgrass.

Betsy Vanleit began her journey with OVLC in 2016, and she has been an invaluable member of our volunteer community ever since. As our first unofficial Volunteer Restoration Adopter, Betsy meticulously maintained oak circles, dedicating over 100 hours to our restoration efforts. Her passion for conservation and tireless work have significantly impacted our organization. This summer, Betsy is elevating her commitment to the organization by officially joining our Board of Directors. In this interview, Preserve Manager Linda Wilkin sits down with Betsy to discuss her experiences and insights from years of volunteering. Join us as we explore her dedication to preserving the beauty of Ojai and continuing the legacy of her father, Art Vander. Betsy’s efforts exemplify the spirit and dedication that drive our mission forward.