Wetland Wednesday Herb Walk in Ojai

Join author and plant educator Lanny Kaufer for the third in a series of leisurely evening strolls on the historic wetland that is now the Ojai Meadows Preserve on Wednesday, June 29, from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. He’ll identify native plants that have been used for centuries by the Chumash and other Indigenous people of California for food, medicine, fiber, housing, ceremony and much more. Gardeners will see how these plants can be used in home yard and garden landscapes. Participants will view first-hand the many benefits of the preservation and restoration of this special piece of land by the Ojai Valley Land Conservancy (OVLC). In the pond at the low spot in the wetland, the group may see waterfowl and typical wetland plants such as tules. This walk is presented under a Special Use Permit from OVLC.

For decades the wetland was buried under sediment and fill dirt from nearby construction. A grove of non-native Eucalyptus trees was planted in the 1950s, negating the possibility of native habitat returning on its own. The property also was threatened with the possibility of a shopping center and parking lots. The OVLC acquired the meadows in 2000 with an outpouring of community support to protect them. Most of the $1.35M came from 140 citizens and businesses, who demonstrated their commitment to preserving the meadows’ natural beauty. Flood waters from Nordhoff High School and Maricopa Highway were diverted onto the meadows bringing wildlife back to the area. Native plant restoration is an ongoing project.

Before the walk, Kaufer will have copies of his book, Medicinal Herbs of California, available for sale and signing. A number of plants that the group will meet can be found in the book. He’ll also have Milt McAuley’s classic Wildflowers of the Santa Monica Mountains which includes every plant they’ll see.

Paid registrants will receive a confirmation email with parking directions, what to bring, weather forecast, etc. Afterwards, they will get a follow-up email with a list of all plants and wildlife seen. No dogs or smoking, please. Light rain will not cancel. Heavy rain will.

The cost for the walk is $25/person. Senior, student and child discounts are available by request. Register now at HerbWalks.com or by calling 805-646-6281.