Pilkington Creek Seasonal Cleanup

"Before" and "during" photos taken at the same location in August and October 2010, respectively. Check back to see the "after" photos next year.

Join us as we launch a pilot project to restore the habitat in Pilkington Creek, located adjacent to the Museum in Tyrrell Park.

Why are invasive plants harmful? You may have noticed in the photos above that so far, we've removed a lot of pretty green vegetation and left behind a lot of empty space. That's the problem with nonnative plants like English ivy and Himalayan blackberry. They outcompete native plants and they are often inhospitable to native wildlife. Ivy can also strangle trees and prevent seedlings from growing.

Upcoming Work Days

When: Second Saturday of every month, 10am - 1pm. December 11, 2010 is the next work day.

Where: Meet at the whale sculpture on the east side of the Museum.

What: We will remove invasive English ivy and Himalayan blackberry, then replant with California natives. Volunteers should wear long sleeves and closed toed shoes. Bring gloves and tools if you have them. Otherwise we will provide gloves and tools.

 

For more information, contact Nancy Lenz (831) 426-5252 or nanlenz@cruzio.com

This project is a collaboration between local community members, Friends of Parks and Recreation, Seabright Neighborhood Association, City of Santa Cruz Parks Department, and the Santa Cruz Museum of Natural History. It is one of several in Santa Cruz County made possible by a grant from the Chuck Haugen Conservation Fund.