On Saturday, September 29, a group of ForestWatch volunteers ventured out into the Ojai backcountry to remove trash and illegal fire rings from around Sespe Creek and Piedra Blanca in the Los Padres National Forest. Altogether they removed approximately 40 pounds of trash from this beautiful area. We were excited to see this number drop from last year’s fall cleanup at the same site.
Volunteers helped clean up trash around the trailhead before setting off along the trail. Working as two teams, the volunteers tackled trash at popular Sespe Creek swimming holes left behind by summer recreationists, cleaning up two miles of trail along the way. The usual trash was found: beer bottles, cans, cigarette butts, plastic wrappers, and the occasional frisbee. We also broke up several illegal fire rings, which is especially important during these heightened fire restrictions across the national forest.
The group also ventured into the Sespe Wilderness to remove the small amount of trash around Piedra Blanca and enjoy the sights. It was a beautiful, clear day — perfect for exploring the boulders and seeing leaves on the cottonwoods along Wild and Scenic Sespe Creek just begin to change colors.
Thanks to these awesome forest stewards for spending their Saturday morning cleaning up such a special place. We look forward to another cleanup there next year, and we hope the trend of less trash continues.
If you want to get involved with our volunteer projects, visit our Upcoming Projects page to find out how to sign up.
Check out more photos from the cleanup:
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