The sun has set, campfires crackle in nearby campgrounds, and the last glow of daylight fades from the Topatopa Mountains. As the evening air cools, hikers make their way back to the trailhead, and the Ojai Valley settles into evening. Once our preserves close for the night, they become something different: a quiet space where wildlife can move undisturbed until dawn. Nights have a way of revealing what daylight often keeps hidden, and this month we’re giving you a glimpse into that hidden world. Do you ever wonder what critters are out lurking after dark? We’re excited to acquaint you with a few nocturnal creatures that could scurry across your moonshadow. This month’s creature feature is dedicated to one of the best parts of summer in Ojai: the cooler nights. 

After four years of planning, fundraising, and careful research, we are thrilled to share that our Native Plant Nursery has officially expanded. This milestone gives us more than just extra room to grow—it gives us the ability to work more efficiently, protect plant health more rigorously, and welcome our community in new ways. Every part of this expansion was designed with one goal in mind: growing healthy, resilient native plants that give our restoration projects the best possible chance to succeed. 

Invasive plant management is an essential pillar of restoration. Without the removal of noxious weeds, creating space for diverse flora and fauna is impossible. There are many methods of managing invasive plants, all of which OVLC has utilized according to the nuances of each plant and the condition of the site. This year, OVLC is expanding its treatment efforts at the Ojai Meadows Preserve to address three invasive species: Russian knapweed (Rhaponticum repens), bristly ox tongue (Helminthotheca echioides), and Bermuda grass (Cynodon dactylon).