2024 Q2 Volunteers
Pax Environmental Inc. Volunteers at Middle Stewart Canyon.
In collaboration with the Concerned Resource Environmental Workers (C.R.E.W.) and The City of Ojai, Pax is supporting the ongoing Middle Stewart Canyon (MSC) Creek Restoration Project. Restoration efforts include the removal of invasive species and planting of California natives in five restoration areas. The project aims to enhance critical habitat for special-status species and supports local youth workforce development at C.R.E.W. Pax provides environmental permitting, regulatory compliance, coordination, outreach, surveying, monitoring, and long-term maintenance/analysis.
Invasive species like black mustard (Brassica nigra) found at MSC and in many local waterways have the power to reduce biodiversity, compete with native species for resources, and alter habitats. Invasive species can cause native species to become endangered, create a burden on water resources, and limit viable food sources. Through focused species removal, weeding, and planting events, native species such as willow (Salix) have thrived and provided necessary habitat in MSC.
On Friday, June 28th members of the Pax team, joined by local community members Jerry and Tree Bear, volunteered at MSC to remove invasive species from the creek bed and allow for further growth of native species. The volunteer team focused on removing umbrella sedge (Cyperus alternifolius), black mustard (Brassica nigra), rabbits foot grass (Polypogon monspeliensis), Mexican fan palm (Washingtonia robusta), and curly dock (Rumex crispus).
Projects like Middle Stewart Canyon are at the heart of Pax’s sustainability program, highlighting the intersectionality of community; helping maintain open public lands through ecological restoration; enhancing critical habitat for special-status species and volunteerism; and providing stewardship opportunities for our employees and community. Pax volunteers will return to MSC this winter to continue the restoration efforts by planting native trees.
Post written by Pax Project Administrator/Special Initiatives Coordinator, Stephanie James.