Ojai Farmer's Market, Wildlife in Matilija Creek, & Libbey Park Drum Circle

http://photos4.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/a/d/5/8/event_8084376.jpeg9AM-5PM

Meet at Rio Gozo Farm (the actual organic farm of The Farmer and the Cook Market and Cafe), carpool to the Ojai Farmer's Market for some local produce, carpool to Matilija Canyon trailhead for a nature tour, carpool to Farmer and the Cook to eat lunch, and join an open drum circle at Libbey Park to finish the day. In the shade of the riparian forest occurs Matilija Creek, a flowing village of vibrant life. As alder, maple, and bay leaves decompose in the sandy streambed, organisms of all shapes, sizes, and colors inhabit the underwater ecosystem. Beetles, dragonfly larva, amphibians, fish, and reptiles are amongst an eclectic cast of characters performing an underwater extravaganza. Follow a professional naturalist along the icy creek to observe the remarkable daily activities of a thriving freshwater community. Learn how their quality of life is influenced by certain human activities. Participants will have opportunities to stand and wade through a flowing creek with water levels reaching 3-4 feet.

Who: Kids and up (Minors must be accompanied by parent or guardian.)

Where: Meet at Rio Gozo Farm parking lot, 370 W Baldwin Rd, Ojai, CA 93023, (805) 290-0988. The farm is located past Frontier Paint (Rice Rd) on left hand side. When road bends to left, look for large white sign on left side of road which reads Help of Ojai.

Difficulty: Easy to moderate (multiple shallow creek crossings, possibility of getting wet, very gradual elevation gain, 3-4 miles round-trip)

Special Instructions/Supplies: Please arrive at least 15 minutes before start time. Bring a minimum of 1 quart (32 oz) of water per person. Bring snacks and/or full meal. Wear weather protection (jacket, hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, etc.), durable hiking socks and close-toed hiking shoes (extra pair for wet tours), long pants, and backpack for snacks. Bring swimsuit and towel for wet tours. Bring first aid kit (Band-Aids, antiseptic, allergy medicine, tweezers, etc.) and cell phone. Bring flashlight/headlamp and layered clothing for evening tours. Walking sticks are recommended for tours with stream crossings or uneven terrain.

RSVP: If unable to RSVP through Meetup, please email jrobinson@naturalist-for-you.org or call 714-649-9084, unless otherwise noted in description. Donations are appreciated (suggested amount of $10/adult, $5/child). Please leave your name, contact information, and total # in your party. We cannot be reached by cell phone at tour locations, so please ask questions and confirm tour details well in advance.

See http://www.naturalist-for-you.org/calendar.htm or join https://www.meetup.com/naturalist-for-you/ for upcoming tours. You can also follow our fan page on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/pages/Naturalist-For-You/355183848682?ref=ts