Join Midpen staff for a fun workday removing invasive yellow star thistle and malta thistle at Loma Prieta Ridge, a closed area of Sierra Azul Open Space Preserve. This project will help improve habitat for the recently discovered Santa Cruz Kangaroo Rat, which has not been seen in this area since 1947. Staff will provide training on plant identification, removal techniques, and information about why we want to remove these plants from our local landscape. This project is an excellent opportunity for first-time volunteers!
This project will require shuttling and sharing a vehicle with staff and other volunteers. Please arrive on time and be available to stay for the entire project.
Project Details, Requirements and Qualifications
Advance registration is required.
First time Midpen volunteers – Step 01: Create an Account to submit required forms. Go to the Qualifications tab in the drop-down menu in your account dashboard to complete the Volunteer Agreement and Release and Waiver of Liability. Step 02: Return to the project webpage and click the green "Register" button in the upper right corner to register; be sure to scroll to the bottom and click "Submit Opportunity Response".
Returning volunteers - Once you have created an account and completed all forms, reserve your spot for Land Steward projects by clicking the "Register" button.
All minors under the age of 18 must provide parent/guardian approval (signed Volunteer Agreement and Release of Liability form) prior to the project day and be accompanied by a parent/adult for the duration of the volunteer project. Minor children may not be dropped off at a project.
Meeting Location
Please meet staff at the Mt. Umunhum Summit parking lot at 9:00 am. To find the exact location paste this Google Plus code into a new browser: 535X+XQ San Jose, California, 95120.
What You Will Need
To get the most out of your day with us, please bring or wear the following:
- Sturdy shoes (no sandals or open-toed shoes)
- Socks that cover your ankles
- Layered clothing: long pants, long-sleeved shirt, jacket, etc.
- Gear appropriate for that day’s weather (hat, sunscreen, insect repellent, rain gear, etc.)
- Snacks, lunch, re-fillable water bottle
What Midpen Provides
- Gloves and safety glasses
- Tools
- Water refills
Hazards and Safety
While working outdoors in natural areas, you may encounter the following:
- Poison oak and other plants that cause dermatitis (skin rash or irritation)
- Uneven, steep ground with tripping hazards
- Unfavorable weather conditions (heat, wind, rain)
- Ticks
- Rattlesnakes
- Sharp tools and equipment
