On top of Buckeye Knob (Photo: Sonoma Ecology Center)

News from the Sonoma Ecology Center:

“The public is invited to attend a Spring Hike and Picnic at Buckeye Knob, located near the top of Sonoma Mountain, on Saturday, April 27, 2013 from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.

Buckeye Knob (also known as the Eliot property) is a privately owned property protected in perpetuity through a conservation easement purchased by the Sonoma County Agricultural Preservation and Open Space District (the District) in 2004. The 71- acre property is located on a highly-visible, south-facing hillside and includes grassland, oak woodland, and the lush upper canyon of Carriger Creek. “The journey to the top of the mountain is absolutely enchanting,” says hike leader Connor Ross. “The entire North Bay emerges at your feet; from the Oakland skyline around to Napa, Sonoma, and Mount Tamalpais in Marin.”

The property also contains outstanding large oaks, bays, and madrones; intriguing volcanic rocks; hawks, deer, and other wildlife; and some surprising history. Outing leaders will share their deep knowledge of local plants and animals, ecology, and the human story of the site. We’ll first explore the canyon, and then climb to the top of the knob for a picnic lunch while enjoying the view.

This is an advanced level hike and is 4-miles in length. This hike contains some steep ascents and descents, switchbacks, loose rocks, a creek crossing. All participants are required to wear appropriate footwear.

There is no charge for the outing, as it is made possible by the voters of Sonoma County who fund the District’s work with a quarter-cent sales tax. Reservations are required by 5 p.m. Friday, April 26, 2013. For more information, or to register for the hike, visit the Sonoma Ecology Center website at www.sonomaecologycenter.org.

About Sonoma Ecology Center

The Sonoma Ecology Center, a non-profit organization based in Sonoma, California, was established in 1990 to achieve sustainable ecological health through community-supported research, restoration and education.

The Center promotes appreciation and stewardship of our remarkable natural heritage and creates measurable benefits in water resources, biodiversity, energy, and land use. Information about Sonoma Ecology Center can be found at www.sonomaecologycenter.org.”