www.scparks.com • 15 INTERPRETIVE & OUTDOOR EDUCATION PROGRAMS Gentle Hike for Older Adults Join Park Docents Richard James and Cathy Hoeft for a gentle hike on the Discovery Trail and Italian Trail/Chaparral Trail loop – ¾ to 1 mile. The hike will include information about the park’s cultural history, natural points of interest, and time to stop and enjoy the park’s unique flora and fauna. Bring a hat, water, and sunglasses; binoculars and hiking poles/walking stick optional. Wear comfortable walking shoes and dress in layers. Location: Quail Hollow Ranch Ages: 60+ M 4/7 10-11:30am Free M 5/12 10-11:30am Free M 6/9 10-11:30am Free Th 4/24 10-11:30am Free Th 5/22 10-11:30am Free Th 6/26 10-11:30am Free For Goodness Snakes! In this exciting and interactive presentation, you’ll get a chance to see and hold (only if you want to!) a bluetongued skink, black and white Tegu, four different kinds of ball pythons, and a 9-ft. albino Burmese python! Brian will discuss snake senses and how these animals live and interact with the wild. For over 16 years Brian Gundy of For Goodness Snakes has been educating and entertaining children and adults with his reptile friends. He has worked with exotic animals such as birds of prey, African lions, Cheetahs, and domesticated animals of all kinds. Location: Quail Hollow Ranch Ages: 7+ Su 5/4 12-1pm Free Plant a Great Garden from Seed No matter where you live in Santa Cruz County, there's still plenty of time to plant and enjoy a big and bountiful garden! Learn which easy-care and versatile vegetables, culinary herbs and colorful flowers can be planted from seed now that will both feed the pollinators and sustain your family throughout summer and fall. Instructor Renee Shepherd is the founder of local seed company Renee's Garden. She seeks out the very best seeds from around the world, tests them in her own local trial garden, and shares them with other gardeners in the company's colorful seed packets. Her gardening values, enthusiasm and discerning taste have made Renee Shepherd a household name in the gardening world. Location: Quail Hollow Ranch Ages: 12+ Su 5/18 11am-1pm Free Nature Appreciation and Mindfulness During this 4-week course, we will practice mindfulness, grounding, and breath work while sitting and walking in nature. Practicing the cultivation of mindful moments and finding awe in the little and big may decrease anxiety, depression, and pain, and may increase connection, generosity, and overall well-being. Journal and pen will be provided. Location: Seascape County Park Ages: 18+ M 4/21-5/12 1-2pm $20/$22 Habitat Restoration French Broom is an invasive, exotic plant that takes over natural habitats. Join the local chapter of the California Native Plant Society and park volunteers for a broom bash, removing these (and other unwanted plants) from the park trails. Your help with this project will improve the natural system of the park as well as its beauty. Wear comfortable layered clothing, bring something to drink, and lots of enthusiasm! We work rain or shine, but if things get particularly unpleasant, we’ll call it a day. Tools will be provided. Bring work gloves and water. Ages: 16+ Chapter web site: http://www.cruzcnps.org
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