Open Spaces
OJAI VALLEY LAND CONSERVANCY NEWS
Winter 2008 Volume 15 Number 2
53More Acres Preserved! OVLC is pleased to announce the conservation of an additional property in the Ventura River watershed. As part of its continuing efforts to conserve a naturally functioning Ventura River, OVLC has purchased a 53 acre Ventura River bottom property in Oak View. Previously owned by the Drapeau Family Trust, this is a key parcel located along 3/4 of a mile of the bike trail, less than ½ mile north of OVLC’s Confluence Preserve. “This property is an important piece of the puzzle in protecting a free-flowing river and wildlife corridor” said Larry Rose, chair of OVLC’s Land Committee. “Plus, its proximity to the bike path makes it an important scenic resource as well.” The property contains a mix of high-quality riparian hardwood habitat, alluvial scrub and endangered Bell’s Vireo habitat, along with areas that have been degraded by invasive arundo. Though acquisition funding for the property was provided through grant funding from the California Coastal Conservancy, the OVLC will be responsible for continued upkeep and ecologic restoration. Restoration plans include: • Working with the Ventura Watershed Protection district to remove arundo from the riparian corridor. • Stabilizing streambanks along the bike path using bioengineering methods rather than hard impermeable methods. Bioengineering employs the use of natural rock, soils and plant materials to provide diversion of water flow. At this time plans do not include public access. OVLC staff and volunteers look forward to getting started on restoration efforts in 2009.