Sierra Azul Preserve: Hicks Creek Ranch - Habitat Restoration: French Broom Removal

Get Connected Icon Happens On Jan 22, 2026
Get Connected Icon 9:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m.

Description

Join Midpen staff for a fun workday removing invasive French broom at Hicks Creek Ranch, a closed area of Sierra Azul Open Space Preserve. Staff will provide training on plant identification, removal techniques, and information about why we want to remove this plant from our local landscape. This project is an excellent opportunity for first-time volunteers!  

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 or be accompanied by a parent/adult for the duration of the volunteer project. Minor children may not be dropped off at a project. 

Project difficulty:  MODERATE  


Project Details, Requirements and Qualifications 

  • Advance registration is required.

  • First time Midpen volunteers – 1) Create an Account to submit required forms. 2) Return to this project posting and click the "Register" button, and on the Opportunity Response page scroll to the bottom and click "Submit Opportunity Response."

  • Returning volunteers - Reserve your spot for this project by clicking the "Register" button, log in if needed, and on the Opportunity Response page scroll to the bottom and click "Submit Opportunity Response."

Meeting Location 

Please meet staff at 18711 Reynolds Rd. (gate SA05) at 9:30 am.

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, refillable water bottle 

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  

 

Details

Get Connected Icon 14 and older
Get Connected Icon Is Family Friendly
Get Connected Icon Register by Jan 22, 2026
Get Connected Icon Is Outdoors
Inclement Weather Plan: On the morning of the project, check your email for a message from egartside@openspace.org after 7:30 am to find out if the project has been cancelled for any reason.
Get Connected Icon Requires: Volunteer Agreement and Release and Waiver of Liability

Location

Get Connected Icon Sierra Azul Open Space Preserve
18711 Reynolds Rd.
Los Gatos, CA  95032