Natural History Wanderings

Jepson Prairie reports

CORRECTION: Due to road closures, docent-led tours won’t begin until Sat. March 18.  Please see below for the update. We sincerely apologize for the earlier confusion.

 

Enjoy Wildflower & Water Critter Walks at Jepson Prairie

Every Saturday and Sunday at 10 a.m., starting March 18 and lasting through May 14

Wildflower season is here, and Solano Land Trust’s Jepson Prairie docents are ready to share the first wave of vernal pool flowers with you. Weather permitting, there will be two-hour guided walks starting at 10 a.m. every Saturday and Sunday, from March 18 through Mother’s Day, May 14.

A vernal pool is a world of exceptional diversity and an ecological system of great complexity, and Jepson Prairie Preserve is one of the best remaining examples of vernal pools in all of California. Enjoy an easy, meandering walk under wide-open skies with knowledgeable docents while exploring the bunchgrass prairie and walking alongside the claypan vernal pools. The prairie is transformed by winter rains into fields of stunning wildflowers including white meadowfoam, yellow carpet, and miniature lupine. Docents are also on hand to introduce you to the rare aquatic life that live in the ephemeral pools, including vernal pool fairy shrimp, Conservancy fairy shrimp, and the larvae of the California tiger salamander.

Jepson Prairie Preserve is located on Cook Lane, off Highway 113, about ten miles south of Dixon and eight miles north of Highway 12. For groups of 5 or less, no RSVP is necessary to join a tour. For groups of 6 or more, RSVP to Kate Mawdsley at wfm-kfm@pacbell.net or 530-758-5093. You’ll want to bring a backpack with plenty of water, and snacks or a picnic lunch. Wear boots or sturdy closed-toe shoes, layered clothes, and protection from the elements. It is often windy at Jepson Prairie, so be prepared for wet trails and the chance of fog. Rain may cancel. You may also want to bring a hand lens, binoculars and a camera. For directions and additional details, visit solanolandtrust.org.

Solano Land Trust protects land to ensure a healthy environment, keep ranching and farming families on their properties, and inspire a love of the land. For more information about Solano Land Trust, its upcoming events and to make a donation, visit solanolandtrust.org.