Volunteer Saturday, May 30 from 9:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
Spring is the perfect time to get outside, connect with nature, and make a meaningful impact close to home. The City of Goleta, Ellwood Friends, and the Santa Barbara Bucket Brigade are looking for volunteers on Saturday, May 30 at Ellwood Mesa Open Space & Butterfly Preserve.
Community members of all ages are invited to take part in hands-on restoration days, helping care for the landscape that supports monarch butterflies and other local wildlife. With the season in full bloom, this is an ideal way to enjoy the outdoors while contributing to a treasured local open space.
Volunteers will plant habitat-supporting trees and native plants, remove invasive species, and learn about Ellwood Mesa’s unique ecology through engaging, hands-on activities. Whether you’re a first-time volunteer or a returning participant, this event provides a rewarding and accessible way to get involved.
Ellwood Mesa is one of California’s most important monarch overwintering sites. While monarch populations fluctuate each year, restoring and maintaining habitat now helps ensure the best possible conditions for their return.
This project supports multiple community benefits, including:
- Restoring and improving monarch habitat
- Reducing wildfire risk through thoughtful vegetation management
- Building community connection through shared stewardship
- Providing family-friendly outdoor learning and restoration training
Volunteer activities may include:
- Tree planting
- Native seedling planting
- Drip irrigation education, installation, and repair
- Invasive plant removal
Why join? Enjoy fresh air, light exercise, and time in nature—while connecting with others and making visible progress in a place the community loves.
Spots are limited and advanced registration is encouraged. Sign up here.