This September, Los Padres ForestWatch marked Latino Conservation Week with two community gatherings, one in Santa Barbara and one in Oxnard. At both, families and partners came together to learn more about our public lands, native plants, wildlife, celebrate our heritage, and talk about how we can each help protect the places we love.
Elings Park, Santa Barbara
Los Padres ForestWatch, Latino Outdoors, Wilderness Youth Project, and the Santa Barbara Botanic Garden kicked off Latino Conservation Week with pan dulce and cafecito at Elings Park.
Participants joined a guided walk led by the Santa Barbara Botanic Garden to its restoration site. There, we learned about the benefits of native plants and how to collect their seeds for later use. We used all our senses to notice what the plants need and how the landscape around us is changing. A scavenger hunt was a hit and got everyone moving.
We wrapped up the day by talking about conservation, our neighbor the mountain lion, and ways to stay involved. Del Pueblo Café kept everyone fed during the conversation, generously donating burritos and agua fresca. It was a truly collaborative event.
‘olołkoy Beach Park, Oxnard · September 19
A week later, ForestWatch’s Outdoor Connections program gathered at ‘olołkoy Beach Park in Oxnard for a celebration of local culture, community, and art.
Families spent the morning observing their environment, building community, getting active, and learning simple, everyday ways to take part in environmental advocacy. We started with a name game, then competed in a scavenger hunt specific to the area. Next, attendees learned about California’s 30×30 initiative, and Oxnard artist Christian A. Quirino led an art workshop. Participants painted what connects them to nature, including beaches, mountains, birds, trees, and flowers. Their artwork will be used to support the initiative.
We closed with lunch provided by ForestWatch and Padres Juntos, an Oxnard-based parent advocacy group. Over tostadas and lemonade we shared laughs and jokes and celebrated the natural environment that belongs to all of us.
Thank You
Our thanks go to Padres Juntos, Latino Outdoors, the Santa Barbara Botanic Garden, Wilderness Youth Project, Del Pueblo Café, artist Christian A. Quirino, and to every family who joined us. We’ll see you on the trail!
