Late last month, ForestWatch hosted an all-community hike to see the spectacular ceanothus bloom and learn more about the rich chaparral ecosystem. Conservation Director Bryant Baker and Director of Community Engagement Graciela Cabello led a group of families through Rattlesnake Canyon in Santa Barbara to point out many of the fascinating plants and wildlife in the area. Families from the region joined for a day of exploring, sight-seeing, and learning.
One of the target species for the hike was bigpod ceanothus, which grows throughout the Santa Ynez Mountains. Along with a few other species of ceanothus—or California lilac as it is often called—this plant produces showy white blossoms during the months of January and February locally. At the height of the bloom, white flowers cover the slopes around Santa Barbara.
Along the hike, more than 20 attendees, including several young nature-lovers, learned about ceanothus and a variety of other native plant species. Walking through an area that burned 10 years ago, they also learned about fire ecology and the adaptations plants have to our local fire regime.
Learning about ceanothus soap is always exciting!
After the hike, the group enjoyed a potluck at Skofield Park and under the coast live oak trees. Attendees brought delicious snacks and entrees for everyone to enjoy. Thank you to all who joined us for this special day.
This hike was part of our ongoing effort to get community members out in nature for fun and educational experiences. Stay tuned for our next community hike!
Comments are closed.