OPEN SPACES
The latest news from the Ojai Valley Land Conservancy Vol. 8 No. 4
Working to Protect The Ojai Valley’s Future - Today
Winter 2001
Conservancy Waits For Final Approval On Wetlands Grant
T
hanks to the joint efforts of The Conservancy and Ojai Unified School District, Ojai may soon benefit from better flood control, public safety, athletic facilities and enhancement of one of Ojai’s greatest treasures. All these goals are set forth in an ambitious, $2 million grant proposal being reviewed by the State Department of Water Resources. The funds would come via Proposition 13, a Clean Water Bond Act, which was overwhelmingly approved by California voters in 2000. “It’s a great project, where everyone in Ojai benefits,” said Joan Kemper, Conservancy President. “This project has caught the eye of State officials because we have a good track record of raising significant funds locally and for developing strong partnerships with organizations like the School District and City of Ojai.” The Conservancy will receive over $1 million to help restore the Ojai Meadows Preserve wetlands and protect an additional 14 acres of critical
grasslands habitat adjacent to the Maricopa Highway (33). The remaining grant money will be used by the School District for drainage and improvements to the athletic fields at Nordhoff High School. “We will be one of five pilot projects in the State of California,” remarked Michael Krumpschmidt, author of the grant and project coordinator for the School District. “Future projects in California will look to Ojai as an example of how to successfully combine many community goals.” Conservancy Board Member Carl Thelander and Restoration Committee Member David Magney contributed technical advice about the wetlands component of the grant. “This project will bring more water to the wetlands, which is one of the most important ingredients to the restoration’s success,”said Magney. Final approval of the grant is expected in early November.
Annual Event Raises More Fun, Friends and Funds Then Ever Before
O
jai Valley residents continue ALL SMILES! to generously support the protection of open space through the annual “Moonlight on The Meadow” fundraiser. Over 300 people feasted on delicious food and drink, socialized with new and old friends, tapped their feet to bluegrass music and contributed almost $50,000 to the Conservancy. This year’s event included better lighting and sound, a bigger tent, quicker check out for auction winners, all of which added to the enjoyment for the guests. “Last year’s event was so much fun, but this year was even better,” said Trent
AUCTIONEER, JEWELS EUBANKS
Greco, who attended the events of the last two years. “I don’t know how they do it.” This year’s live auction was the most successful ever with the entertaining, fast talking, auctioneer, Jewels Eubanks. Eubanks attended Oak Grove School and lived in Meiners Oaks for many IRON MOUNTAIN years and was familiar BOYS with the Ojai Meadows Preserve. “I had so much fun doing this event,” said Eubanks. “I whole heartily support what the Conservancy is doing to help protect the Valley.”