Field Notes | Spring 2026

Mild winter weather led to some prolific planting days at Crescent Beach, Turtleback Mountain, Upright Head, and Westside Preserves. During the months of January and February, staff and volunteers, along with help from the Islands and Youth Conservation Corps’, Black Cap Restoration, and Chihuahua Team, planted a total of 7,200 trees and shrubs, 2,500 plants, 400 bulbs, 2,350 plugs, and 150 Garry oaks. By choosing native plants, habitat value increases, and in the case of Turtleback Mountain, the Garry oaks planted near the South Trailhead parking area will eliminate the need for mowing and provide an appealing environment for a future loop trail for folks who struggle with steep trails. Additional enhancements over the last few months include trail work, noxious weed removal, deer fencing installation, and the development of a Cooperative Management Agreement with the Bureau of Land Management for the Watmough Bay area.