Now that summer has begun, we are starting to see many ferns growing in Claremont Canyon. You can find Western Bracken Ferns (Pteridium aquilinum), like the one above, growing alongside trails and clinging to the hillsides of the park. These beautiful ferns are one of the largest species of ferns, with deep-growing underground rhizomes that can grow to a quarter of a mile long! Bracken ferns are hardy plants that can be found almost worldwide, they tolerate various soil conditions, and provide habitat for many birds, reptiles, and mammals. A great addition to your garden!Visit this article by Bay Nature to learn more about Bracken Ferns and other ferns growing in the Bay Area.
Geology Walk attendees listen intently to Andrew Alden (right) as he describes Claremont Canyon’s geological features. | Photo by Nancy Mueller
Thank you to our attendees!
On Saturday, June 21st we held our fun Geology Walk in Claremont Canyon led by Andrew Alden, creator of oaklandgeology.com. 31 attendees showed up and enjoyed a short hike under a sunny sky, while learning about the different geological features found in the area—the chert cliff, conglomerate, sandstone, and lava rocks. Thank you to everyone who signed up to the event and to all our attendees.Your support helps us continue hosting events like these. If you didn't get a chance to join the walk but would like to learn more, visit Andrew’s website and take a look at his article “Claremont Canyon Geology Meets Geography”. If you're unable to attend events like these, you can also support us by making a donation.
The recent wildfires in southern Alameda County and eastern Contra Costa serve as a reminder of the steps we need to take to make our homes here in the Berkeley and Oakland hills safer.
What we can do:
Put screens over vents and gutters to prevent flying embers from entering.
Reduce or remove vegetation from within five feet of our homes and garages.
Remove wooden fences within five feet as well. Ideally, remove or fireproof wooden decks.
Scout Salius Resetz (left) from Berkeley Troop 19, nailing down wooden boards for a trail crossing on a section of the upper Willow Trail. | Photo by Ruby J. Soto Cardona
Shout out to Troop 19!
Last month, Scouts from Berkeley Troop 19 worked in the Upper Canyon to help make the trails more accessible and fire-safe. A group led by Salius Resetz (left) restored a section of the upper Willow Trail that has been affected by water runoff during the rainy season. Scouts also built a crossing along the trail to make it easier to walk on. We hope the trail will now reroute water into the vegetated areas during the fall and wintertime so that we may safely use this trail as a fire trail in case of a wildfire. Thank you for all your hard work!
If you're interested in volunteering with us, and/or have a group who would like to come out and steward the Upper Canyon, send us an email at info@claremontcanyon.org.
All levels of fitness are welcome! Wear sturdy shoes, dress in layers, and bring your favorite water bottle. Tools and gloves are provided.
Visit this 13-acre park and help restore its native wild habitat (we meet year-round). Meet at the Fireplacebelow the Evergreen Lane entrance (Map). For more informationor questionscontactWyllie.
Join us in the upper canyon as we work to restore and maintain pathways, remove invasive broom, and collect litter. We meet at Signpost 29, 1.5 miles up Claremont from the intersection of Ashby/Tunnel Rd. More information Here. Questions? Contact us at info@claremontcanyon.org.
Help restore native plants and maintain a popular trail! Weed invasive plants, plant seeds, and-if it comes to it-water native seedlings. Located in the small side canyon just north of Claremont Canyon, which is above the Clark Kerr campus. No prior experience needed. Gloves and tools are provided.
Please contact Jim Rosenau or call at (510) 845-0106.
Hiking the Canyon
We would love to hear from our members and others who are out hiking or otherwise observing nature in the canyon. Send us your pictures at info@ClaremontCanyon.org and we will feature one each month.
This Western Fence Lizard (Sceloporus occidentalis) above was curious about our visit to the Upper Canyon. Although they are small reptiles, they are native to the area and help lower Lyme disease in tick populations. After a tick feeds on their blood, they are cured of Lyme disease. Volunteer with us or donate to help us continue restoring their habitat in the Canyon | Photo by Ruby J. Soto Cardona.
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Redwood Sorrel (Oxalis oregana) growing in Garber Park's Fern Glade. Last year the Garber Park Stewards planted Redwood Sorrel in the park. This year it continues to grow and thrive among the native ferns. Visit Garber Park to see this and other native plants! | Photo by Ruby J. Soto Cardona.
Trails are open
All trails are open and accessible throughout Claremont Canyon. For maps and complete information on trails click here. You can also take a guided tour here. Please stay safe and take all items and pet waste out with you.
