Oak Woodland Phenology Hike at Irvine Regional Park

Now that we've finally received some much needed rain, let's observe how the local plants and animals are responding.

This hike is part two of the series we started last month, but prior participation is NOT necessary. We'll be exploring the east end of the park this time, and I'll be doing a bit more teaching than last month.

See the end of this description for an explanation of phenology and why it's important and somewhat ingrained in us.

Location: Irvine Regional Park.

Starting point: Grassy area adjacent to Parking Lot P located in the far east end of the park. Look for the guy with long hair, beard, and cowboy hat. I'll also have a sign and/or other flagging devices.

Distance: Approximately four miles.

Elevation gain: Minimal

Terrain: Dirt trail, rocky trails, pavement, concrete

Difficulty: Beginner

We start with introductions, share our hiking and science experiences and interests. I'll provide a quick "how to" for keeping a field journal, specifically the elements needed in a phenological study. Then we'll start walking. This might take 30 minutes or there abouts, so I'll try to snag a picnic table. Feel free to bring a chair, too, as there will be time to put them away before we start hiking.

Recommended gear:
- Footwear suitable for dirt paths, creek beds, and pavement
- Clothing suitable for the weather
- Water
- Snacks (if desired)
- Notebook and writing instruments
- Hand lens / magnifying device
- Ruler
- Binoculars, monocular, or spotting scope
- Phone or tablet with ID apps (Not a necessity, as Irvine Regional Park can be a bit spotty when it comes to data service)

Phenology is the study of how an ecosystem changes through the seasons. It involves observing changes in nature and recording those observations for comparison at a later date. When do buds appear on trees? When do trees begin changing color? When do they drop their leafs? When do migrating birds arrive and leave? When do wild flowers bloom? When do oaks drop their acorns?

Humans have studied phenology longer than the term has existed. It allowed hunter-gathers to track food sources. It facilitated agricultural development.

Today, it helps to restore and preserve habitats, recover species, and track climate change.

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