[Sep 25]
Over two-thirds of the UC Hopland Research and Extension Center (HREC) was burned on July 27 and 28 as the River Fire moved through the 5,358 acre ranch. All homes and structures were saved alongside the ranch animals thanks to the efforts of staff, neighbors, CALFIRE and the Hopland Fire Protection District. Now, the site and it’s team are working towards recovery and aim to learn as much as possible from the wildfire.
On Tuesday, September 25 HREC will welcome volunteers to support post-fire recovery and data collection. “We really appreciate the time and support of volunteers as we work to clean up some of the damaged areas left behind by the fires and to begin to collect important data on how our landscape is recovering from the fire. This data can be useful to help others manage and prepare for wildfire.” commented Hannah Bird, Community Educator at HREC.
Volunteers are asked to sign up before 2pm, Monday, September 24 by following this link http://bit.ly/PostFireVolunteer. Tasks will range from monitoring kestrel nesting boxes to supporting cleanup of burned research equipment and collecting acorns for replanting in burned areas. Volunteers are asked to come prepared for hiking and working in the field.
“We appreciate that not everyone can make it on a week day and hope to have another weekend volunteer effort soon. For those who would like to help, but do not have the time to volunteer, we also appreciate donations to support our recovery at http://bit.ly/SupportHREC” concluded Bird.
Due to the nature of the research with sheep and a commitment to using guard dogs as part of a predator control program, no dogs are allowed at HREC. For more information contact Hannah Bird (707) 744 1424 ext. 105 or e-mail hbird@ucanr.edu.
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