Intro to Open Space: Earth Day Work Party and Hike in Russian Ridge

Get Connected Icon Happens On Apr 22, 2026
Get Connected Icon 9 a.m. - 2 p.m.

Description

Join Midpen staff for a fun morning learning about restoration work and connecting to nature through a little nonnative, invasive plant removal followed by an interpretive hike through Russian Ridge Preserve.
Staff will provide training on plant identification, removal techniques, and education about why we want to remove French broom from our local landscape and then lead you on a hike among beautiful oak woodlands highlighting the natural and cultural history of the area. This project/outing is an excellent opportunity new outdoor enthusiasts and first-time volunteers!


MINORS: All participants under the age of 18 must provide parent/guardian approval (signed Volunteer Agreement and Release of Liability form through registration) prior to the project day and have their own transportation to/from the project site. Minors may not be dropped off; minors who do not drive must be accompanied by a registered parent/guardian for the duration of the project. 


DIFFICULTY RATING: MODERATE


REGISTRATION

  • Advance registration is required
  • First time Midpen volunteers:
    • Step 1 - Create a Volunteer Profile and 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 form
    • Step 2 - Return to the project posting 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've created a volunteer profile and signed the waiver,  simply reserve your spot through the "Register" button.  
  • All volunteers - Our volunteer waiver expires every 2 years; returning volunteers will be prompted to review and resign at the automated expiration date.

MEETING LOCATION

Please meet staff at the Russian Ridge parking lot at the intersection of Alpine Rd.& Skyline Blvd. We will walk to Pinky's from here. For the exact meeting location, copy and paste this Google Plus Code into a new browser: 8R86+5H Palo Alto, California 94062

OTHER DETAILS and NEED-TO-KNOW

What You'll Need
Please bring or wear the following:

      • Sturdy shoes (no sneakers, sandals, or open-toed shoes)
      • Layered clothing (long pants [no leggings], a long-sleeved shirt, jacket, etc.)
      • Weather appropriate gear (hat, sunscreen, insect repellent, rain gear, etc.)
      • Snacks, lunch, water

Hazards and Safety
While working outdoors in natural areas, you may encounter the following:

  • Critters: ticks, rattlesnakes, etc.
  • Poison oak and other plants that can cause dermatitis
  • Uneven, steep ground with tripping hazards
  • Sharp tools and equipment
  • Unfavorable weather conditions (heat, wind, rain)

Details

Get Connected Icon 14 and older
Get Connected Icon Register by Apr 22, 2026
Get Connected Icon Is Outdoors
Inclement Weather Plan: On the morning of the project, check your email for a message from ccaldwell@openspace.org that will provide information on whether the project has been canceled due to unfavorable weather or other conditions.
Get Connected Icon Requires: Volunteer Agreement and Release and Waiver of Liability

Location

Get Connected Icon Russian Ridge Open Space Preserve
8R86+5H
Palo Alto, CA  94062