Join Midpen staff for a fun day documenting flowering plants at Cherry Springs Pond, a closed area of Sierra Azul Open Space Preserve.
Led by Ellen Gartside, Volunteer Program Lead, this hike is moderate in length and grade following an old road that goes around Cherry Springs pond through wetland, mixed conifer, chaparral and grassland habitats. Approximately 2.25 miles, 3-4 hours.
This project will require shuttling and sharing a vehicle with staff and other volunteers. Please arrive on time and be available to stay for the entire project. Everyone will be required to wear masks during the shuttle ride, regardless of vaccination status.
All minors under the age of 18 must provide parent/guardian approval (signed Volunteer Agreement and Release of Liability form) prior to the project day or be accompanied by a parent/adult for the duration of the volunteer project. Minor children may not be dropped off at a project.
Project difficulty rating: MODERATE
Project Details, Requirements and Qualifications
Advance registration is required
- First time Midpen volunteers – Step 01: Create an Account to submit required forms. Go to the Qualifications tab in the drop-down menu in your account dashboard to complete the Volunteer Agreement and Release and Waiver of Liability. Step 02: Return to the project webpage and click the green "Respond" button in the upper right corner to register; be sure to scroll to the bottom and click "Submit Opportunity Response".
- Returning volunteers - Once you have created an account and completed all forms, reserve your spot for Land Steward projects by clicking the "Respond" button.
- NOTE (November 2, 2022): The Volunteer Agreement form was recently updated and all volunteers, both new and returning, are required to review and sign this updated version that will include an automatic 2-year expiration date reminder.
Meeting Location
Please meet staff at the Camden Park-n-Ride at 9:00 am. For the exact meeting location, copy and paste this Google Plus Code into a new browser: 63XR+V5 San Jose, California 95124. We will carpool to the trailheads.
What You Will Need
To get the most out of your day with us, please bring or wear the following:
- Mask or face covering (required when shuttling)
- Sturdy shoes (no sandals or open-toed shoes)
- Layered clothing: long pants, long-sleeved shirt, jacket, etc.
- Gear appropriate for that day’s weather (hat, sunscreen, insect repellent, rain gear, etc.)
- Snacks, lunch, re-fillable water bottle
Hazards and Safety
While working outdoors in natural areas, you may encounter the following:
- Poison oak and other plants that cause dermatitis (skin rash or irritation)
- Uneven, steep ground with tripping hazards
- Unfavorable weather conditions (sun, heat, wind, rain)
- Ticks
- Rattlesnakes
- Sharp tools and equipment
