Monterey Peninsula Regional Park District Your adventure activities guide for all ages - Monterey ...
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FALL 2022/WINTER 2023 mprpd.org
Monterey Peninsula Regional Park District
LET’S GO
OUTDOORS!
Your adventure activities guide for all ages
Preserving and Protecting Parks and Open Space since 1972
Welcome What’s Inside
Welcome
Registration & Information
JOIN US
2 WELCOME MESSAGE
50 Years and Beyond! Let’s Keep Going!!!
As we celebrate 50 years!
3 REGISTRATION/INFORMATION
Saturday, December 3
Dear Friends, 4 CELEBRATING 50 YEARS!
6 GET TO KNOW YOUR MPRPD PARKS All Ages
As Monterey Peninsula Regional Park District (MPRPD) celebrates 50 years of conservation, restoration,
education, and recreation, it is imperative we recognize the region’s rich history and utilize this knowledge to Palo Corona Regional Park
7 OUT OF THIS WORLD! STARGAZING
design a sustainable future. 4860 Carmel Valley Rd., Carmel
8 GET OUT, GET HEALTHY
Centuries ago, indigenous people were the first stewards of this land and continue that legacy today. Since
November 1542, newcomers from around the world have witnessed the region’s natural beauty and resources. 10 FAMILY DISCOVERIES
Despite many new arrivals not living sustainably with these treasures, community members subsequently 12 WORKSHOPS, SEMINARS, & EXPLORATIONS
rallied, protecting natural and cultural resources that had often been misused.
Photo by Karen Bilgrai Cohen
13 ACT LOCALLY IN VOLUNTEER EFFORTS
MPRPD’s mission “To acquire and maintain open space in the District for preservation and use, collaborating
with partners and the community, for public benefit and enjoyment, and environmental protection” continues 14 COMMUNITY HAPPENINGS
to guide our resources’ protection and making these public lands accessible to all.
18 MPRPD PARK MAP
We shall continue to develop and sustain strong coalitions with many not-for-profit, private, and governmental
19 ADVENTURE PLANNER
organizations, collaboratively researching, planning, and implementing solutions to challenges and
opportunities as they arise.
We sincerely thank our highly valued instructors and partners, recognized as the greatest subject matter experts
in their respective fields of expertise. We thank you, our community, for being the driving force for providing
safe accessible open spaces for recreation and education, protection of our natural and cultural resources,
and creation of a vast array of programs, excursions, facilities, and places to be enjoyed by current and future
How to Register PROGALL
R AM
generations. REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED FOR ALL PROGRAMS! FREE S
Together, we shall continue our commitment to build a more inclusive, environmentally literate society –
because, inextricably, nature belongs to everyone – and we belong to nature. Congratulations for being part of Online | Go to our website at mprpd.org
this legacy! or scan an MPRPD QR code. Cancellations | MPRPD may cancel programs due to
Happy Anniversary! low registration, weather conditions, or unforeseen
Walk-in | Available weekends from 10 am-4 pm at circumstances. Cancellations will be sent by email.
Palo Corona Discovery Center or Garland If you must cancel a program, please let MPRPD
Visitor Center. staff know by email or telephone at least one
Dr. Rafael Payan Phone | Call 831-372-3196, extension 102. calendar day prior to the class. Registration cannot
MPRPD General Manager be canceled online.
Email | pena@mprpd.org
Reminders | Email reminders will be sent
Registration | Opens 1 calendar month prior to
approximately 3-5 days prior to the start of class.
the activity and closes at 4 pm the day before
the activity. Important: You must register for
Policies | Only service dogs are allowed at
all programs unless otherwise stated. An email
activities, unless otherwise indicated. All policies
confirmation is sent upon successful online
are available online.
registration. Contact staff if you do not receive
a receipt.
Waitlist | Waitlisting does not guarantee
Registration
admittance. If a spot becomes available, you will Required
be contacted by either email or phone and have 24 Scan here
hours to respond. Generally, this occurs within 1-5 to register
days of the program start.
ICON KEY
California condor photo by Karen Bilgrai Cohen. Physical Binoculars Seated Virtual Flashlight Pack Additional
Activity Advised Activity Activity Advised Materials
2 MPRPD Activities Fall 2022/Winter 2023 3
Since 1972, our mission has been to acquire, preserve, Wetland Preserve (2020). We’ve preserved world-famous
protect, and maintain open spaces, coastal lands, scenic views from Marina north to Big Sur south and
beaches, creeks, streams, wildlife habitats, local parks, inland to Carmel Valley.
and playgrounds for public benefit, enjoyment, and We continue to strive for the restoration and
environmental protection. conservation of natural ecosystems, while
MPRPD has successfully protected over 13,000 acres, simultaneously enhancing our community’s health
acquired or helped to acquire 24 parks and open spaces, by providing rich, recreational and educational
starting with our first acquisition, Garland Ranch opportunities.
(1975) to our latest, the eastern extension of Frog Pond
Celebrating 50 Years of Preserving and Protecting Parks and Open Spaces
RESTORATION EDUCATION CONSERVATION RECREATION VISION FOR THE FUTURE...
Carmel River, Wetlands, Beaches, Let’s Go Outdoors Protecting Open Space in the District Multi-use Trails, Playgrounds, Connecting open spaces and trail
Forests, Shrubland, & Grasslands and Community Outreach The planning-conservation and and Infrastructure systems that link Big Sur, the
Volunteers, staff, and community The education team provides administration teams foster projects Our ranger team continues to build former Fort Ord property, and the
members have planted and cared numerous special events and throughout the District in an effort and maintain trails, facilities, and city of Marina to provide multiple
for native plants, eliminated volunteer opportunities, as well to combine public needs with infrastructure at District properties, corridors for wildlife, public access,
old golf course trails, removed as hosts or co-hosts annual environmental protection. Partners including benches, restrooms, and environmental and cultural site
invasive plants, collected trash celebrations like California Wildlife continue to be essential to the learning centers, and office protection.
from various watersheds, and Day and the Summer Wildflower acquisition, protection, preservation, buildings. Designing inclusive and educational
managed wildfire fuels, all in Show. and maintenance of parks and open Assessment District funding programing, inspiring the next
order to maintain the sensitive The Let’s Go Outdoors! program, spaces throughout and even beyond provides for playground safety and generation of stewards, working
and beautiful beaches, forests, field trips, and permits bring the District boundaries. improvement, historical site and with community and partners, and
wetlands, and other habitats in together groups of all ages, abilities, landmark restoration, and hiking following the legacy of our region’s
the District. and backgrounds to experience Protecting Wildlife and nature trail enhancement. indigenous people, farmers, and
open spaces and learn about our folks who came before us and are
Open spaces and quality habitats Dog lovers can currently enjoy over still here today.
region’s precious resources. allow various common, rare, 50 miles of multi-use trails. Future
endangered, and threatened species plans include the addition of an off- Continuing these efforts with your
to roam and thrive in our region. A leash dog park at Palo Corona. support and like minded partners!
condor feeding station is maintained The new multi-benefit Community
at Palo Corona Regional Park to help Trail at Palo Corona Regional Park
prevent lead-poisoning of California now provides access to previously
condors. Critical dune habitat provides closed sections of the former Rancho
resources for the endangered Smith’s Cañada Golf Club.
blue butterfly. Restoring wetlands
and floodplain connectivity provides
homes for a variety of amphibian
species.
4 Background image: Garland Ranch Regional Park, named the best hiking trails in the County year after year by the Weekly’s Best of Monterey. 5
Get to Know Your MPRPD Parks Out of this
Out of this World! Stargazing
Get to Know Your MPRPD Parks
Children MUST register and be accompanied by a registered adult. World!
Nature Night Hike San Jose Creek Hike Discover Kahn Ranch Medicinal Plant Tour Stargazing
Come to the dark side! Quietly prowl Take a short shuttle ride to the Enjoy a strenuous yet relaxed-paced There’s plant medicine all around us!
the woodlands and meadows in trailhead of this scenic hike along the hike with breathtaking views. Come meet some of our plant allies Programs presented in cooperation
search of the life that only comes out San Jose Creek. Meander through Located on the southeastern end of while taking a leisurely stroll through with the Santa Cruz Astronomy
after the hikers leave. Learn about our fields of flowers, lush redwood groves, Garland Ranch Regional Park, Kahn a lovely nature preserve. We’ll meet Club and the Monterey Institute for
nocturnal neighbors and their habits, and grassy meadows that lead uphill Ranch boasts spectacular vistas and several non-native plants, and a few Research in Astronomy (MIRA) Club.
prey, and animals. Reconnect with the to a picnic spot. Pack food, enjoy a an enchanting waterfall. Enjoy the native ones too. Some are medicine,
skills of moving and listening like a snack at Inspiration Point, then drink beautiful scenery as you hike to Fern some are food...some are both! Learn
wild thing, while observing owls, bats, in spectacular views of the coast. Falls, up the Manzanita Trail, and down how to identify and understand the
and other predators. Instructor: Instructor: Mary Dainton and Cath Hitchcock Loop. Instructors: Mary uses for these plants. Instructor:
Rick Berg, MPRPD Volunteer Naturalist. Farrant, MPRPD Volunteer Naturalists. Whisler Overlook Dainton and Cath Farrant, MPRPD Lianne Neptune, Herbalist.
Ages 12-Adult Ages 12-Adult Get your heart pumping while hiking Volunteer Naturalists. Ages 8 - Adult
Saturday | 30 minutes prior to Thursday | 9:00 am-1:30 pm up Palo Corona Trail and get a view of Ages 13-Adult Saturday | 10:30 am-12 pm
sunset Oct. 6; Nov. 3; Dec. 1; Jan. 5; Carmel Bay from Whisler Overlook. Sunday | 10 am-2 pm Oct. 29; Mar. 11
Sep. 30; Oct. 1; Jan. 7; Feb. 2; Mar. 9 See spectacular views from Inspiration Nov. 13; Dec. 11; Jan. 15; Feb. 5; Frog Pond Wetland Preserve
Feb. 4; Mar. 4 Palo Corona Park Flag Pole Point, pass by Animas Pond, and enter Mar. 12 Elevation change: Approx. 10 ft. Star Party
Elevation change: 600-700 ft. the backside of San Jose Creek as Distance: Approx. 1.5 miles. Look up at the night sky and revel in its
Palo Corona Park Flag Pole Kahn Ranch, Carmel Valley
Elevation change: Approx. 100 ft. Distance: Approx. 6 miles. you work your way around Whisler Elevation change: Approx. 1,100 ft. vast and seemingly endless mysteries.
Distance: Approx. 3 miles. Trail. Instructor: MPRPD Volunteer Distance: Approx. 4 miles. Come and join us as amateur
Naturalists. astronomers share their knowledge
Ages 13-Adult of the cosmos. Observe details on
Tour the Visitor Center the moon and faint objects such as
Saturday | 9 am-1 pm
Bird Walks What are those fish on the wall? Nov. 26; Dec. 10, Dec. 17 galaxies and star clusters.
What’s in the Carmel River? What Palo Corona Park Flag Pole
Discover our feathered residents at all
animals and plants can you find at Elevation change: Approx. 1000 ft. All Ages
times of the year. Each season features
Garland? Come on by for a short Distance: Approx. 9 miles. Nov. 19 | 5 pm-7 pm
different species and behaviors. Prowl
guided tour of the Garland Park Visitor Jan. 21 | 5:15 pm-7:15 pm
the oak woodlands of Palo Corona
Center to find out more. Instructor: Garland Park Visitor Center
and Garland Ranch in search of the
Savannah Peña, MPRPD Program
400+ species of birds that inhabit our
wonderful region. Instructor:
Coordinator. Whisler Overlook
Rick Berg, MPRPD Volunteer Naturalist. All Ages to the Redwoods
Tuesday | 2 pm-4 pm* Get a breathtaking view of the Carmel
Ages 12-Adult Bay from the Whisler Overlook, then
Jan. 3, Jan. 10, Jan. 17
Saturday | 8 am-11 am hike down to the redwood trees of the
Garland Park Visitor Center
Jan. 7; Feb. 4; Mar. 4 *Drop-in anytime between these hours. San Jose Creek and back up to Animas
Palo Corona Park Flag Pole Pond and Inspiration Point. This heart
Elevation change: 20-80 ft.
Distance: Approx. 1.5 miles. pumping and strenuous trek to the
Whisler Overlook is sure to get you
racing. Instructor: MPRPD Volunteer
Portable chair, warm
Naturalists.
clothing, and hot drinks
encouraged.
Ages 18+
Rain, fog or cloud cover
Saturday | 9 am-2:30 pm cancels event.
Jan. 28
Palo Corona Park Flag Pole For up to date weather
Elevation change: Approx. 1600 ft. conditions, call 831-659-6065
Distance: Approx. 10 miles. within an hour of program.
Bring a red light flashlight.
Registration
Required Minors must be accompanied
by an adult.
Scan here Only service dogs permitted.
to register
6 MPRPD Activities Fall 2022/Winter 2023 Icon key on back cover. 7
Get Out, Get Healthy
Get Out, Get Healthy
Get Out, Get Healthy
Mindful Walking & Tai Chi for Energy I
Meditation Tai Chi for Energy combines the
Mindfulness in nature cultivates oldest style of tai chi, Chen, with the Community Events – Hosted by Blue Zones Project Monterey County
awareness of whatever is taking place newest style, Sun, to improve energy, Looking to Get Out, Get Healthy and meet new friends in your community? Monterey Peninsula Regional Park District
within and around you: thoughts and balance, awareness, relaxation and has partnered with the Blue Zones Project Monterey County. Be a part of the movement, together we can make
emotions, the breeze, the sounds increase strength and flexibility. Tai our community a healthier and happier place to learn, live, work, and play. Instructors: Blue Zone Project staff and
of nature, the warmth of the sun, chi principles will be introduced with volunteers.
invite wonder and awe. Join us for each session. Tai chi and the principles
this mindful outdoor experience provide tools to assist with daily All Ages Welcome!
combining nature meditation, activities. Instructor: Liana Olson, For more information and registration:
mindful walking, sensory activation, Senior Trainer & Board-Certified Tai VISIT: bit.ly/BZPMCEventbrite
and informal discussion. Instructor: Chi for Health Institute. Qi Gong SCAN: QR code
Katie Dutcher. Ages 10-Adult Pronounced “chi-gong,” it is a simple
See BZPMC Eventbrite for more October-February dates & locations
Ages 18+ Saturday | 9 am-10 am practice with profound results that
Tuesday | 9:30 am-11:00 am Oct. 22, Oct. 29; Nov. 5, Nov. 12, combines movements, postures,
Oct. 18; Nov. 15; Jan. 17; Feb. 14 Nov. 19 breathing and meditation for the Community Clean-ups Walking Groups Purpose Workshops
Palo Corona Regional Park Palo Corona Discovery Center purpose of physical, emotional and Walking groups or ‘moais’ encourage People with purpose are happier,
Elevation change: Approx. 60 ft. Help make a positive difference by
Elevation change: Approx. 60 ft. spiritual improvements. No martial social support while adding the extra more successful, and live longer -
Distance: 1-1.5 miles. Distance: 2-3 miles. volunteering in your community,
arts knowledge necessary. All physical emotional and physical benefits of That means more time to focus on
gain experience helping others, and
levels are welcome. Instructor: walking. Groups will walk together at what matters most to you. Join Blue
add years to your life!
Michelle Polkabla. least once a week for 10 weeks. It’s Zones Project Monterey County for
Oct. 1 | Central Park, Gonzales
Fitness for the Trail & for Life All Ages an active timeout with new friends, these free community workshops,
Oct. 8 | Oak Woodland
Tuesday | 9 am-9:30 am coworkers, neighbors, and others where we will help you pinpoint your
Nature Immersion Learn exercises, movements, and
Feb. 7, Feb. 14, Feb. 21, Feb. 28
Community Garden, Marina
who share similar interests. purpose.
Walking slowly and sensing the programming basics designed to Oct. 15 | Monterey Beach
Online Various Locations Oct. 14 | King City
natural world can refresh, inspire, enhance your longevity and ability to Oct. 25 | Salinas Soccer Complex
and even heal our bodies, hearts, enjoy the outdoors. Foundational and Nov. 1 | Natividad Creek Park, Oct. 22 - Oct. 29 | Trick o’ Hike
and minds. With invitations from functional training will improve your Salinas Nov. 17 | National Take a Hike Day
the practice of Shinrin-yoku (Forest joint health, spine structure, balance, Nov. 5 | Salinas Valley Fairgrounds,
Bathing), participants are guided posture, endurance, strength, and Walk with the Doc: King City
into a way of mindfully relating with flexibility. Strengthen and lengthen! Inspiration Point Nov. 5 | Monterey Beach
the world around and inside of us Bring your body. Hiking poles Be inspired by breathtaking views Nov. 19 | Pacchetti Park, Seaside
-- evoking a deep sense of relaxation, sessions featured on the Community while learning to boost your energy
belonging, and sometimes, awe. Happenings page. Instructor: Jayah level, improve your metabolism,
Instructor: Marianne Rowe. Faye Paley. tone your muscles and reduce your
Ages 18+ Ages 15-Adult stress. Join local physicians for a walk
Saturday | 10 am-12 pm Saturday | 10 am-1 pm outdoors to discuss the importance of
Dec. 3; Jan. 14 Jan. 21 incorporating a manageable fitness
Palo Corona Regional Park Garland Ranch Regional Park routine into your busy life. Eating
Elevation change: Approx. 60 ft. better, exercising more, taking time
Distance: 1-2 miles. for you – the benefits are unlimited.
Instructors: Cindy Lee MD and Jay
. Edmonds, Jr., MD.
Ages 12 - Adult
Registration Jan. 7 | 9 am-11 am
Palo Corona Park Flag Pole
Required Elevation gain: Approx. 650 ft.
Distance: Approx. 4 miles.
Scan here
to register
8 MPRPD Activities Fall 2022/Winter 2023 Icon key on back cover. 9
Family Discoveries
Family Discoveries
Family Discoveries
Children must be registered and be accompanied by a registered adult.
Farm Discovery: Finding Frogs Moon Adventures
Family Farm Field Trip
Come explore Live Earth’s 150-acre
Search for frogs in the wetlands at
Palo Corona Regional Park. Learn
Learn about the features and phases
of the moon with a local astronomer! Healthy Habitats
organic farm! Learn farming and
gardening skills, play with farm
about which species share their
home with you, their importance in
You will draw, organize, and move
through the phases of the moon Pilot Program
animals, and taste some of our our community, how you can help in this hour-long, moon-themed
seasonal harvests. With each tour, them, and more. Instructor: Rachel adventure. We will finish our journey
we cultivate relationships to nature Anderson, Biologist. with a look at the moon through a
and our food system and incorporate telescope. Instructor: Jean Perkins, Teachers and youth leaders, are you looking for
Ages 8-Adult a learning experience for your students that is
environmental stewardship and Friday, Feb. 17 | Saturday, Feb. 25 Astronomer.
Exploring Nature nutrition. Instructor: Farm
hands-on, inquiry, and standards based? We’ve
with Children 5 pm-6:30 pm Ages 9-15 got local knowledge and resources we want to
Discovery Staff. Palo Corona Park Flag Pole Saturday share with you and your secondary students
Join an experienced outdoor educator (6th-12th grade).
All Ages Oct. 1 | 3 pm-4 pm
and learn new ways to engage
Saturday | 10 am-12 pm Dec. 17 | 10 am-11 am TO LEARN MORE OR SCHEDULE
children in the outdoors. We’ll cover
Nov. 5; Dec. 10; Jan. 28; Feb.25 Garland Park Visitor Center A FIELD TRIP, CONTACT:
fun, educational and reflective
activities to help all ages engage
Farm Discovery at Live Earth, Discover San Jose Creek: Savannah Peña, EE Program Coordinator
meaningfully with nature. Instructor:
Watsonville Ishxenta State Park pena@mprpd.org
Optional picnic lunch opportunity from 831-372-3196 x114
Ventana Wildlife Society Educator. 12 pm-1 pm. Crisscross this vibrant coastal stream
over a series of wooden bridges Monarch Sanctuary Stroll
All Ages Enjoy a guided walk of Pacific Grove’s
on this out and back interpretive
Sunday | 4 pm-5 pm Monarch Grove Sanctuary. Learn
adventure. Immerse yourself
Oct. 23; Jan. 29 what makes monarch butterflies so
Nature Journaling in diverse plant life, including
Palo Corona Park Flag Pole unique and the latest science behind
iconic coast redwoods; wonder at
Explore the outdoors with a nature monarch and pollinator conservation.
the curious clues of animal life;
journal. Learn to find more wonder, Instructor: Natalie Johnston, PG
experience the remarkable geology
record your observations using a Museum Coordinator.
within this truly unique California
Herps of Fort Ord combination of words, pictures
Fort Ord is a hot spot for snakes,
and numbers. Bring your curiosity,
pencil, and sketchbook to connect
ecosystem. Instructor: CA State Parks
Staff.
All Ages
Sunday | 10 am-11 am California Wildlife Day
lizards, salamanders, and other
herps in Monterey County. Observe
with nature. No previous experience Ages 10 – Adult Nov. 6 Wildlife & Watersheds
required. Instructor: Melinda Saturday | 9:30 am-12:30 pm Monarch Butterfly Sanctuary,
these animals up close and look for Pacific Grove
evidence of them around Fort Ord.
Instructor: BLM Staff.
Nakagawa.
Ages 8-Adult
Oct. 15; Nov. 12; Feb. 18; Mar. 18
Palo Corona Parking Lot SAVE THE DATE | Sunday, March 26
Monday | 10 am-12 pm
Elevation: Approx. 80 ft.
Distance: Approx. 3 miles. Palo Corona Regional Park
Ages 8-Adult
Oct. 17
Saturday | 9 am-12 pm FUN FOR ALL AGES
Palo Corona Park Flag Pole
Jan. 7 Elevation change: 20-60 ft. Interactive Booths • Special Presentations
Creekside Terrace Trail Head, Distance 1-2 miles.
Nature and Discovery Walks • Arts and Crafts
Ft. Ord National Monument
Elevation change: 200-300 ft.
Distance: Approx. 3 miles.
California celebrates its wildlife every spring equinox!
Celebrate with us!
Registration
Required FOR MORE INFORMATION
VISIT: cawildlifeday.net
Scan here
to register FOLLOW: @californiawildlifeday
10 MPRPD Activities Fall 2022/Winter 2023 Icon key on back cover. 11
Workshops, Seminars, & Explorations Community ALIVE!
Workshops, Seminars, & Explorations
Act Locally in Volunteer Efforts
Birding on Odello West How to Become a Field Act Locally In Volunteer Efforts
Migration brings in some of the Naturalist
most interesting birds, and so does Dive into nature and become a field
What’s your volunteer style?
© Monterey County Weekly
a mosaic of diverse habitat. Gain in- naturalist. You will learn how to keep a
depth knowledge about wetland fowl notebook to record your observations
and other bird species in a changing in nature, use binoculars, use online
landscape that melds the natural with resources, and learn about the local
human-made structures. Instructor: natural history of the Central Coast. STEWARDS EDUCATORS
Bruce Elliot, Ecologist. Inspired by the California Naturalist Tend to and care for the land Enjoy sharing stories
Ages 13-Adult program from the University of • Monitor trail conditions • Greet and interact with visitors
Saturday | 8 am- 12 pm California. Instructor: Patrick Furtado, • Remove invasive species & keep parks clean • Lead hikes, outdoor activities, school trips
Oct. 1
Mushroom Mania Naturalist. • Assist with fuel management • Conduct community outreach
Palo Corona Parking Lot Set out for a morning of exploration • Care for native gardens • Create educational resources/exhibits
Ages 13-Adult
Elevation change: approx. 50 ft. in search of the elusive fungi of
Saturday | 9:30 am-12:30 pm
Distance: approx. 2 miles. Garland Ranch Regional Park. Join a
Nov. 12 | Earth & Water
local expert as he deciphers these
Dec. 10 | Birds
mysterious life forms. Learn how to
Jan. 21 | Amphibians, Reptiles,
detect which mushrooms are friend
Mammals
or foe on this informative hike in the
Feb. 11 | Plants
woods. Instructor: Phil Carpenter,
Garland Park Visitor Center
Naturalist. Elevation change: 80-100 ft.
Distance: 1-2 miles.
Ages 13-Adult
Saturday | 10 am-1 pm
Dec. 17; Jan. 14, Jan. 28
Garland Park Visitor Center
Elevation change: 80-200 ft.
Distance: 2-3 miles.
Program is weather (rain) dependent.
Registration
Required
Scan here
to register
Raptor Encounter
Raptor populations throughout the
Whether you are a roll-up-your-sleeves, hands-on doer or a communicator, we have a
world are just a fraction of what they
Superb Owl Sunday place for you to express yourself! Contact our volunteer coordinator for more information
Rather than watching football on
were a few hundred years ago. Meet
TV, join the excitement of a dusk-
and to sign up to become a volunteer with MPRPD!
several of our native birds, up-close
and personal, as we discuss some to-dark pursuit of our nocturnal
of the challenges these magnificent apex predators. Our parks are the Debbie Wyatt • wyatt@mprpd.org • 831-372-3196 • ext 113
creatures face in our ever-changing year-round home of great horned and
barn owls, and other seasonal species.
world. Instructor: Antonio Balestreri,
Master Falconer. This event will involve slow walking, UPCOMING VOLUNTEER EVENTS & OPPORTUNITIES: NEW
crouching, and sitting on rough
Ages 12-Adult
Friday | 6 pm- 8 pm
terrain. Instructor: Rick Berg, MPRPD Eucalyptus Removal at LGO! Instructor Training Volunteer Info & Orientation
Volunteer Naturalist. Garland Go on an interpretive walk, learn to Want to learn more about becoming
Oct. 28; Jan. 13; Feb. 24
Garland Park Visitor Center Ages 12-Adult Help us make Garland Ranch Regional create your own program, network a volunteer? Get information and
Sunday, Feb. 12 | Dusk Park more fire safe by thinning and with current instructors, and learn get oriented to what MPRPD has to
Palo Corona Park Flag Pole removing invasive eucalyptus trees. about becoming an LGO! instructor. offer. You can become a steward,
Elevation change: 20-80 ft. Instructor: MPRPD Education Staff. an educator, or BOTH! We have
Distance: Approx. 1 mile.
Instructor: MPRPD Ranger & Planning-
Bring warm clothes, a flashlight, and an easily Conservation Staff. Ages 18+ many exciting ways to get involved.
carried folding chair.
Saturday | 9:30 am-1:30 pm Instructor: MPRPD Education Staff.
Ages 15-Adult
Saturday | 9 am-12 pm Oct. 15 Ages 18+
Oct. 22; Feb. 18 Palo Corona Discovery Center Sunday | 2 pm-4 pm
Refreshments provided. Feb. 26
Garland Park Visitor Center
Garland Park Visitor Center
12 MPRPD Activities Fall 2022/Winter 2023 Icon key on back cover. 13
Community Happenings Free Events & Programs Offered by Community Organizations
Community Happenings
Community Happenings
BUREAU OF LAND MANAGEMENT BIG SUR LAND TRUST CALIFORNIA STATE UNIVERSITY, CARMEL RIVER WATERSHED CITIZENS FOR SUSTAINABLE MARINA ELKHORN SLOUGH RESERVE
MONTEREY BAY CONSERVANCY
EcoCrew Events International Day of Climate Oak Woodland and Tours and Volunteer
Celebrate 10 years of Fort Ord National Action Hike Docents of Native Species Watershed Educational Tour Community Garden Opportunities
Monument. The EcoCrew invites you Opt outside on this important day to Assist in Return of the Natives’ native The Carmel River Watershed Plant natives, harvest and plant Join us for a variety of tours and
to participate in workshops, webinars, enjoy the gifts of conserved natural plant greenhouse and garden. Help Conservancy will lead small groups community garden beds, spread opportunities each month! Discover
tours, and planting events. lands! We’ll hike from Palo Corona sow seeds, transplant, weed, water, on a driving tour of key sites within mulch, water, and remove European the “ins and outs” of native plant
Regional Park to Inspiration Point and and care for native plants grown for the watershed, such as the Los grasses from this oak woodland and landscaping at our Garden Day
All Ages
Animas Pond then down along San habitat restoration (RON’s DONS). Padres Reservoir and the former San community garden project. volunteer events, take a sensory
Fort Ord National Monument
Jose Creek (and back) while we share All Ages Clemente Dam, while explaining the exploration along the trails, or learn
(FONM) All Ages
ideas on climate action. Tuesdays | 10:30 am-12:30 pm rich history and ecology of the area. about the history, research, and new
Saturdays | 9 am-1 pm
Watershed Institute, CSU This program is approximately four restoration of California’s second
Volunteer Ages 18+ Marina Library-Oak Woodland
Monterey Bay hours and available upon request largest estuary.
Oak Stewardship Oct 24 | 9 am-4 pm Community Garden, Marina
throughout the year.
Oct. 5 | 9 am-1 pm Palo Corona Regional Park Ages vary by event
Elevation change: Approx. 1500 ft. Community FOR MORE INFORMATION Community Cleanup Elkhorn Slough Reserve,
Public Lands Day Distance: 9 miles RT Stewardship Events & TO REQUEST A TOUR
Be a part of the Marina Community. Watsonville
VISIT: carmelriverwatershed.org
Oct. 22 | TBA In partnership with Communities for a EMAIL: carmelriverorg@gmail.com Our 14.4 miles of roadside, recreational
SIGN UP: https://signup.com/go/ FOR MORE INFORMATION & REGISTRATION Sustainable Marina, MPRPD, and BLM, trail, and railroad tracks need a little Garden Days
ExMYuBt VISIT: bit.ly/BSLT-SJCreek-Hike help plant, weed, and restore native
EMAIL: info@bigsurlandtrust.org
tender loving care to maintain their 3rd Saturdays | 10 am-12 pm
habitat in your local parks. beauty in this open space. We meet
Pollinator Planting BIRD SCHOOL PROJECT All Ages once a month. Lunch provided to all Mindfulness Tour
Feb. 8 | 10 am-1 pm Saturday | 10 am-1 pm volunteers at noon. 4th Saturdays | 2 pm-4 pm
Community Nature Hubs All Ages
Learn We will provide you free resources Hilltop Park, Marina Weekend Tour
2nd Sunday of month | 10 am-12:30 pm
Webinar - Rare Plants and for nature journaling about birds, Dec 10; Feb 4 Saturdays & Sundays | 10 am & 11 am
Lapis Rd. and Del Monte Blvd.
Restoration of FONM introduce you to bird identification
Oct. 27 | 1 pm-2:30 pm through an online application, and Marina Dunes Preserve FOR MORE INFORMATION Early Bird Tour
Online lead introductory bird walks with Jan. 14; Feb. 18 VISIT: sustainablemontereycounty.org/ 1st Saturdays | 8:30 am-11:30 am
binoculars provided. There are fun marina-home/
Tour - Healing Planet Ord: FOLLOW: facebook.com/SustainableMarina/ FOR MORE INFORMATION & REGISTRATION
opportunities for all ages! Lookout for Fort Ord National Monument EMAIL: bdelgado62@gmail.com
Conservation on FONM VISIT: elkhornslough.org/calendar
the bright green tent! Jan. 28; Feb. 11, Feb. 25 CALL: 831-277-7690 EMAIL: ariel.hunter@wildlife.ca.gov
Nov. 12 | 10 am-1 pm No registration needed CALL: 831-728-2822
Sep. 30 | 3:30 pm-6 pm
FOR MORE INFORMATION & REGISTRATION
FOR MORE INFORMATION Marina VISIT: csumb.edu/ron
EMAIL: bdelgado@blm.gov EMAIL: friends.of.ron@gmail.com
CALL: 831-582-2200
Oct. 2 | 9:30 am-1 pm
OFFICE: 940 2nd Ave, Marina
Moss Landing
FOR MORE INFORMATION
VISIT: birdschoolproject.org
EMAIL: jess@birdschoolproject.org
14 MPRPD Activities Fall 2022/Winter 2023 15
Community Happenings Free Events & Programs Offered by Community Organizations
Community Happenings
Community Happenings
FARM DISCOVERY AT LIVE EARTH MONTEREY AUDUBON SOCIETY MONTAGE HEALTH PACIFIC GROVE MUSEUM SIERRA CLUB SPARK IN NATURE
OF NATURAL HISTORY
Volunteer Opportunities 123rd Annual Christmas Walk for Health Using POLES for Hiking, Monterey Bay
Farm Discovery hosts a variety of Bird Count Physical activity doesn’t need to be Inspiring Discovery, Wonder, Walking/Exercise Nature Journal Club
volunteer opportunities, like assisting This winter, participate in the nation’s hard. Walking boosts physical health, and Stewardship Special Training Session offered free Nature journaling is about exploring
with field trips, caring for the garden longest-running bird-monitoring aids mental well-being, and can help The Pacific Grove Museum of Natural to Veterans and their families. Learn nature, then documenting your
or animals, and working on the farm. project! This bird-watching activity manage serious health conditions. History has an incredible array of strategies for enhancing performance experience in a journal with sketches
Visitors can expect to be educated is fun for beginners and experts of Join Montage Health healthcare activities this fall and winter for and confidence on the trail. Uphill: and words. Melinda will teach
through farm immersions, field trips, all abilities. You can join a group or professionals for a 30-minute walk learners and volunteers of all ages. improve power, endurance, posture, strategies to help you to see more
farm walks, and animal care. We fly solo. Multiple counts occur in the over easy terrain at a local park. Enjoy family days, scientific talks, upper-body strength, spine function. in nature, simplify the process of
cultivate relationships to nature and Monterey Bay region. Contact us early Discuss and learn more about community science projects, day Downhill: Develop skills for feeling recording, deepen your ability to
our food system and incorporate to get involved! improving your health as you enjoy the camps, and lots of other wonderful safer and preserving joints – Save your observe, and find wonder and joy in
environmental stewardship and outdoors together. In partnership with opportunities at the Museum! knees! Short, lovely practice hike. Top the world around you. Artistic ability is
All Ages
nutrition. Blue Zones Project. All Ages quality POLES provided. not required. Each month is a different
Dates & times vary
FOR MORE INFORMATION & REGISTRATION All Ages Pacific Grove Museum of Natural theme.
Dec. 27 | Monterey Peninsula Ages 18+
VISIT: farmdiscovery.org
Dates, times and locations vary. History
EMAIL: education@farmdiscovery.org
Jan. 1 | Moss Landing Saturday | 9:45 am-2 pm Ages 8-Adult
CALL: 831-728-2032 TBA | Big Sur Dec. 10; Mar. 4 3rd Sunday of month
FOR MORE INFORMATION & REGISTRATION First Fridays: Museum Exploration
TBA | Panoche Valley Garland Ranch Regional Park 9:30am - 11:30am
VISIT: montagehealth.org/walkforhealth 1st Friday of month| 6 pm-9 pm
TBA | Pinnacles Online
FRIENDS OF SEASIDE PARKS CALL: 831-625-4505
FOR MORE INFORMATION & REGISTRATION
FOR MORE INFORMATION & REGISTRATION Garden Work Bee: Gardening VISIT: SierraClub.org/Loma-Prieta/
Pollinator Garden Park Saturday | 10 am-11:30 am
VISIT: montereyaudubon.org 1st Saturday of month | 10 am-12 pm Military-Outdoors
Clean-up Class size limited. Sep. 24; Oct. 22; Nov. 19; Dec. 3
EMAIL: montereyaudubon@gmail.com
CALL: 208-520-8794 Registration required. Marina Library
Join us each Saturday as we beautify Science Saturdays:
and create habitat in Seaside parks! Educational Activities FOR MORE INFORMATION & REGISTRATION
Help plant native plants and trees, Last Saturday of month | 10 am-3 pm VISIT: SparkinNature.com/events
remove weeds, prune, and water while Oct. 29 | Spooky Science Saturday EMAIL: sparkinNature@gmail.com
learning about how drought-resistant Nov. 26 | Monarch Migration
and pollinator-friendly gardening Jan. 28 | Migration and Sandy VENTANA WILDLIFE SOCIETY
benefits bees, birds, butterflies, and the Whale’s Birthday
people. Workdays rotate each week Feb. 25 | Amazing Animal Families Condor Zoom Chats
through nine different parks. Tune in for real-time answers to
All Ages Nature Exchange your burning condor questions as Sr.
Saturday | 10 am-12 pm Fridays - Sundays | 10 am-12 pm; Wildlife Biologist, Joe Burnett, and the
Locations vary, Seaside 1 pm-3 pm Ventana Wildlife Society Condor Crew,
take you through the latest updates on
FOR MORE INFORMATION & REGISTRATION
FOR MORE INFORMATION the central California condor flock.
VISIT: pgmuseum.org
VISIT: sustainablemontereycounty.org/
seaside-home
EMAIL: education@pgmuseum.org All Ages
CALL: 831-648-5716 Last Thursday of month | 4 pm
EMAIL: pkennedy1950@gmail.com
Online
FOR MORE INFORMATION & REGISTRATION
VISIT: ventanaws.org/zoom-chats.html
16 MPRPD Activities Fall 2022/Winter 2023 17
MPRPD Park Map Adventure Planner
MPRPD Park Map
Adventure Planner
Parks and properties owned and managed N
by the Monterey Peninsula Regional Park District MARINA Map not to scale.
SEPTEMBER 2022 PAGE 21 Sat Fitness for the Trail & for Life 8
For a complete map 30 Fri Nature Night Hike 6 21 Sat Star Party 7
Let’s Go Outdoors! is published by the
Monterey Peninsula Regional Park District of MPRPD parks,
visit mprpd.org. OCTOBER 2022 PAGE 28 Sat Whisler Overlook to the Redwoods 6
(MPRPD) © 2022 MPRPD. All rights reserved. Reservation Road 28 Sat Exploring Nature with Children 10
1 Sat Birding on Odello West 12
NEW ward alignments based on the 2020 Census.
1 Sat Moon Adventures 11 28 Sat Farm Discovery: Family Farm Field Trips 10
1 Sat Nature Night Hike 6 28 Sat Mushroom Mania 12
n
WARD 1 SAND CITY 6 Thu San Jose Creek Hike 6 FEBRUARY 2023 PAGE
Marina, northern Ft. Ord
PACIFIC GROVE
15 Sat Discover San Jose Creek: Ishxenta State Park 10 2 Thu San Jose Creek Hike 6
n
WARD 2 SEASIDE
Seaside, northern Sand City, 17 Mon Nature Journaling 10 4 Sat Nature Night Hike 6
southern Ft. Ord
18 Tue Mindful Walking & Meditation 8 5 Sun Discover Kahn Ranch 7
n
WARD 3
22 Sat Tai Chi for Energy I 8 7 Tue Qi Gong 8
Monterey, southwest Seaside,
southern Sand City, Del Rey Oaks MONTEREY 23 Sun Exploring Nature with Children 10 11 Sat How to Become a Field Naturalist 12
n
WARD 4
Highway 68 28 Fri Raptor Encounter 12 12 Sun Superb Owl Sunday 12
Pacific Grove, New Monterey, PEBBLE BEACH DEL REY
northern Pebble Beach 29 Sat Medicinal Plant Tour 6 14 Tue Mindful Walking & Meditation 8
OAKS
29 Sat Tai Chi for Energy I 8 14 Tue Qi Gong 8
n
WARD 5
Carmel, Carmel Valley, Big Sur,
Carmel Valley Road NOVEMBER 2022 PAGE 17 Fri Finding Frogs 10
southern Pebble Beach Laureles Grade 3 Thu San Jose Creek Hike 6 18 Sat Discover San Jose Creek: Ishxenta State Park 10
Board meetings are typically held 21 Tue Qi Gong 8
the first Wednesday of each month. CARMEL 5 Sat Farm Discovery: Family Farm Field Trips 10
Check mprpd.org for more information.
5 Sat Tai Chi for Energy I 8 24 Fri Raptor Encounter 12
ENVIRONMENTAL EDUCATION AND COMMUNITY 6 Sun Monarch Sanctuary Stroll 11 25 Sat Farm Discovery: Family Farm Field Trips 10
OUTREACH (EECO) TEAM CARMEL VALLEY District Boundary 25 Sat Finding Frogs 10
12 Sat Discover San Jose Creek: Ishxenta State Park 10
Highway 1 Carmel Valley 28 Tue Qi Gong 8
Jackie Nelson | Environmental Education Supervisor 12 Sat How to Become a Field Naturalist 12
nelson@mprpd.org Village
Debbie Wyatt | Environmental Education 12 Sat Tai Chi for Energy I 8 MARCH 2023 PAGE
Coordinator-Volunteers 13 Sun Discover Kahn Ranch 7 4 Sat Bird Walks 6
wyatt@mprpd.org
Savannah Peña | Environmental Education BIG SUR
15 Tue Mindful Walking & Meditation 8 4 Sat Nature Night Hike 6
Coordinator-Programs 19 Sat Star Party 7 9 Thu San Jose Creek Hike 6
eecoordinator@mprpd.org
19 Sat Tai Chi for Energy I 8 11 Sat Medicinal Plant Tour 7
Claire Ackland | Environmental Education Specialist
eesgarland@mprpd.org Carmel River 26 Sat Whisler Overlook 6 12 Sun Discover Kahn Ranch 7
Jonathan David | Environmental Education Specialist DECEMBER 2022 PAGE 18 Sat Discover San Jose Creek: Ishxenta State Park 10
eespalo@mprpd.org
1 Thu San Jose Creek Hike 6
BACK
26 Sun California Wildlife Day 11
Rafael Payan, PhD | General Manager 3 SAT 50th CELEBRATION EVENT
payan@mprpd.org Cachagua COVER
3 Sat Nature Immersion 8
A special thanks to the MPRPD Volunteers and Lesley Hunter. Palo Colorado Road
10 Sat Farm Discovery: Family Farm Field Trips 10
10 Sat How to Become a Field Naturalist 12
10 Sat Whisler Overlook 6
Volunteer-led Activities
11 Sun Discover Kahn Ranch 7
Scenic/Env. Resources
Accessibility Trail Info
Children’s Play Areas
* Management Partnership 17 Sat Moon Adventures 11
Historic Resources
** Access Permit Required
Equestrian Trails
17 Sat Mushroom Mania 12
Meeting Room
Coastal Access
† Temporarily Closed
Visitor Center
Dogs Allowed
Bicycle Trails
Sports Fields
Hiking Trails
Picnic Areas
17 Sat Whisler Overlook 6
Restrooms
JANUARY 2023 PAGE
MPRPD Parks and Preserves 3 Tue Tour the Visitor Center 6
5 Thu San Jose Creek Hike 6
Cachagua Community Park* ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔
7 Sat Bird Walks 6
de Dampierre Park (unit of Garland Park)* ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔
7 Sat Herps of Fort Ord 10
Eolian Dunes Preserve ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔
7 Sat Walk with the Doc: Inspiration Point 8
Frog Pond Wetland Preserve ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔
7 Sat Nature Night Hike 6
Garland Ranch Regional Park (Garland Park) ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔
10 Tue Tour the Visitor Center 6
Photo by Mary Dainton
Kahn Ranch (unit of Garland Park)** ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔
13 Fri Raptor Encounter 12
Locke-Paddon Wetland Community Park* ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ 14 Sat Mushroom Mania 12
Marina Dunes Preserve ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ 15 Sun Discover Kahn Ranch 7
Mill Creek Redwood Preserve † ✔ TEMPORARILY
✔ CLOSED ✔ ✔ 17 Tue Mindful Walking & Meditation 8
Palo Corona Regional Park (Front Ranch) ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ 17 Tue Tour the Visitor Center 6
Rancho Cañada (unit of Palo Corona Regional Park) ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ 21 Sat How to Become a Field Naturalist 12
18 MPRPD Activities Fall 2022/Winter 2023 Icon key now
Register on back
at mprpd.org
cover. 19PRSRT STD
Monterey Peninsula Regional Park District U.S. POSTAGE
4860 Carmel Valley Road, Carmel, CA 93923 PAID
MONTEREY, CA
Post Office Box 223340, Carmel, CA 93922 PERMIT NO. 255
Tel: 831-372-3196
ECRWSS
www.mprpd.org
RESIDENTIAL CUSTOMER
Physical Seated Flashlight The MPRPD MISSION:
ICON Activity Activity Advised To acquire and maintain open space in the District for preservation
KEY and use, working with partners and the community, for public benefit,
Binoculars Virtual Pack Additional
Advised Activity Materials enjoyment and environmental protection.
SAVE THE DATE!
Celebrate 50 years
with MPRPD
Saturday, Dec. 3
All Ages
Palo Corona Regional Park
4860 Carmel Valley Rd., Carmel
BE GREEN! To reduce our carbon footprint and to be leaders in environmental sustainability, this guide is printed on recycled paper with soy based inks.
A paper version is sent to district residents via bulk mail and listings of our classes are available online. Please recycle.You can also read
