The activities below are offered by a variety of organizations and their dedicated volunteers. All programs are FREE unless noted below. Programs led by IRC-Certified Volunteers require pre-registration, which closes at 4 p.m. on the day prior to the event. No walk-up registrations will be permitted for these events. For policies of other organizations, please use the sign-up information provided. For mobility device policies click here.
Note: Minors must be accompanied by a parent or guardian for these events. For programs requiring online registration, each adult and child must be registered. |
Need help? For the fastest answers, look for organization-specific contact information in each event listing (click More Information for full listing). If no contact information is listed, email info@irconservancy.org for assistance.
Updated Difficulty Ratings: The Hiking and Fitness Difficulty Ratings have been updated to reflect our current activities. Please click below to read the ratings.
Click here to learn more about IRC-Certified Volunteers. • Click here to learn more about the Difficulty Ratings.
Search & Filter Activities
Wednesday, August 5, 2020
Friday, August 14, 2020
Sunday, August 16, 2020
CANCELLED: Peters Canyon Habitat Restoration Event

Join OC Parks staff and other volunteers in enhancing habitat at Peters Canyon Regional Park! Activities may include watering, removing invasive plants, planting native plants, mulching, or weeding.
• No experience is necessary.
• Water will be provided.
• Tools will be available.
• Minors aged 16 and younger must have a legal guardian present at all times.
• Rain or heat advisories will cancel the event.
Please Wear: long pants, closed-toe shoes, and a hat.
Please Bring: sunscreen, work gloves, reusable water container, and any tools you may have.
Tuesday, August 18, 2020
Tuesday, September 1, 2020
Volunteer Only Invasive Removal: Orchard Hills

One of the most problematic weed species in Orange County aggressively competes with our native plants for resources and spreads rapidly once established. Therefore, removal of Sahara Mustard helps suppress new invasions and creates opportunities for native species to thrive. This activity will involve removing mustard using long hand-held tools. No previous experience is necessary, just a desire to work outside and get dirty! Bring your own gloves. Please note that participants must wear long sleeves and long pants, as well as sturdy closed-toe shoes or boots. A hat and sunscreen is highly recommended. Note: This is a wilderness area, there are natural hazards. Snakes, including rattlesnakes, are occasionally seen here.
- Before leaving your home to report for volunteer work, conduct a self-assessment by
responding to the following questions (current as of May 31, 2020, from the CDC).
1. Are you experiencing any of the following?
a. Fever or chills
b. Cough
c. Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
d. Fatigue
e. Muscle or body aches
f. Headache
g. New loss of taste or smell
h. Sore throat
i. Congestion or runny nose
j. Nausea or vomiting
k. Diarrhea
2. Have you had contact with anyone within the last 14 days who has been
sick?
If you answered YES to any item above, stay HOME. And stay HOME if you are
not feeling well, even if your symptoms are not on the list above. Please contact
the volunteer management team at activityoperations@irconservancy.org or (714)
508-4760 (call, do not text). Seek medical attention by contacting your doctor or
medical provider. - Seek emergency medical care immediately if you are experiencing any of the
- following (current as of May 31, 2020, from the CDC):
- Trouble breathing, Persistent pain or pressure in the chest, New confusion, Inability to wake or stay awake, Bluish lips or face.
● Pre-fill your personal water containers at home and bring them with you. If you need
to eat during your work shift, bring that with you. IRC is not providing food or beverages.
Do not bring food or beverages to share with others.
● Wear your approved IRC volunteer uniform while on duty, including your IRC
volunteer ID badge. Carry your provided CPR/first aid kit in case you are injured.
If tools or other equipment or supplies are required, you must make arrangements in
advance.
- Employees will provide sanitized tools and equipment for you to use and will maintain
an inventory of the items provided to you.
● Ideally, you will keep the items in your possession for future use to avoid the need for
sanitizing after each use.
● If you are not able to keep the items in your possession, then you must sanitize all items
upon returning to the IRC bin or a storage site. Your employee contact will arrange
sanitation supplies at IRC or the storage site for your use.
You are not to share any tools, equipment, or other items with any other person, including
other volunteers.
While Working in the Field
● Face coverings may be required. According to the OC Health Officer’s order of May
28, 2020: “All Orange County residents and visitors shall wear a cloth face-covering
outside their home when they are not able to maintain at least 6 feet of physical
distance from another person who is not a family/household member or does not reside
in the same living unit.”
● Tools and equipment are not to be shared. Volunteers who are working in small
groups should use only the tools and equipment they brought with them. Under no
circumstances should any tools or equipment be shared.
● There will be a limited supply of hand sanitizer. If available, please use it to clean your
hands after touching commonly handled surfaces and fixtures like gates, locks, portable
restrooms, etc. If hand sanitizer is not available, a cleaning solution and paper towels
should be used.
● Wash hands frequently, including before eating. Some field sites may have running
water; if liquid soap and paper towels are available, please use them. If not, completely
cover your hands with hand sanitizer and rub vigorously for a minimum of 20 seconds.
● Transportation. All volunteers must be able to drive or otherwise transport themselves
to a staging area, trailhead, or entry point. Transportation of other people is prohibited.
All worksites must be reachable on foot or bike, as there are no IRC vehicles available
for volunteers.
● Do not share food or beverages.
● Maintain six-foot physical distancing at all times.
After Working in the Field
● Wash your hands. Immediately wash your hands with soap and water for a minimum
of 20 seconds. If soap and water is not available, use hand sanitizer.
● Clean all tools. If returning tools to the IRC bin or a storage area, wearing disposable
gloves, and using spray or wipes, clean tools and equipment. See instructions above.
Reviewing the 1-through-5 Difficulty Ratings will help you evaluate your readiness to participate in this level-4 activity on the land.
Friday, September 18, 2020
Sunday, September 20, 2020
CANCELLED: Peters Canyon Habitat Restoration Event

Join OC Parks staff and other volunteers in enhancing habitat at Peters Canyon Regional Park! Activities may include watering, removing invasive plants, planting native plants, mulching, or weeding.
• No experience is necessary.
• Water will be provided.
• Tools will be available.
• Minors aged 16 and younger must have a legal guardian present at all times.
• Rain or heat advisories will cancel the event.
Please Wear: long pants, closed-toe shoes, and a hat.
Please Bring: sunscreen, work gloves, reusable water container, and any tools you may have.
Tuesday, September 29, 2020
Monday, October 12, 2020
Sunday, October 18, 2020
CANCELLED: Peters Canyon Habitat Restoration Event

Join OC Parks staff and other volunteers in enhancing habitat at Peters Canyon Regional Park! Activities may include watering, removing invasive plants, planting native plants, mulching, or weeding.
• No experience is necessary.
• Water will be provided.
• Tools will be available.
• Minors aged 16 and younger must have a legal guardian present at all times.
• Rain or heat advisories will cancel the event.
Please Wear: long pants, closed-toe shoes, and a hat.
Please Bring: sunscreen, work gloves, reusable water container, and any tools you may have.
Thursday, October 22, 2020
Sunday, November 15, 2020
CANCELLED: Peters Canyon Habitat Restoration Event

Join OC Parks staff and other volunteers in enhancing habitat at Peters Canyon Regional Park! Activities may include watering, removing invasive plants, planting native plants, mulching, or weeding.
• No experience is necessary.
• Water will be provided.
• Tools will be available.
• Minors aged 16 and younger must have a legal guardian present at all times.
• Rain or heat advisories will cancel the event.
Please Wear: long pants, closed-toe shoes, and a hat.
Please Bring: sunscreen, work gloves, reusable water container, and any tools you may have.
Sunday, December 20, 2020
CANCELLED: Peters Canyon Habitat Restoration Event

Join OC Parks staff and other volunteers in enhancing habitat at Peters Canyon Regional Park! Activities may include watering, removing invasive plants, planting native plants, mulching, or weeding.
• No experience is necessary.
• Water will be provided.
• Tools will be available.
• Minors aged 16 and younger must have a legal guardian present at all times.
• Rain or heat advisories will cancel the event.
Please Wear: long pants, closed-toe shoes, and a hat.
Please Bring: sunscreen, work gloves, reusable water container, and any tools you may have.
Tuesday, March 2, 2021
Volunteer Only Invasive Control: Weir Canyon

One of the most problematic weed species in Orange County aggressively competes with our native plants for resources and spreads rapidly once established. Therefore, removal of Sahara Mustard helps suppress new invasions and creates opportunities for native species to thrive. This activity will involve removing mustard using long hand-held tools. No previous experience is necessary, just a desire to work outside and get dirty! Bring your own gloves. Please note that participants must wear long sleeves and long pants, as well as sturdy closed-toe shoes or boots. A hat and sunscreen is highly recommended. Note: This is a wilderness area, there are natural hazards. Snakes, including rattlesnakes, are occasionally seen here.
- Before leaving your home to report for volunteer work, conduct a self-assessment by
responding to the following questions (current as of May 31, 2020, from the CDC).
1. Are you experiencing any of the following?
a. Fever or chills
b. Cough
c. Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
d. Fatigue
e. Muscle or body aches
f. Headache
g. New loss of taste or smell
h. Sore throat
i. Congestion or runny nose
j. Nausea or vomiting
k. Diarrhea
2. Have you had contact with anyone within the last 14 days who has been
sick?
If you answered YES to any item above, stay HOME. And stay HOME if you are
not feeling well, even if your symptoms are not on the list above. Please contact
the volunteer management team at activityoperations@irconservancy.org or (714)
508-4760 (call, do not text). Seek medical attention by contacting your doctor or
medical provider. - Seek emergency medical care immediately if you are experiencing any of the
- following (current as of May 31, 2020, from the CDC):
- Trouble breathing, Persistent pain or pressure in the chest, New confusion, Inability to wake or stay awake, Bluish lips or face.
● Pre-fill your personal water containers at home and bring them with you. If you need
to eat during your work shift, bring that with you. IRC is not providing food or beverages.
Do not bring food or beverages to share with others.
● Wear your approved IRC volunteer uniform while on duty, including your IRC
volunteer ID badge. Carry your provided CPR/first aid kit in case you are injured.
If tools or other equipment or supplies are required, you must make arrangements in
advance.
- Employees will provide sanitized tools and equipment for you to use and will maintain
an inventory of the items provided to you.
● Ideally, you will keep the items in your possession for future use to avoid the need for
sanitizing after each use.
● If you are not able to keep the items in your possession, then you must sanitize all items
upon returning to the IRC bin or a storage site. Your employee contact will arrange
sanitation supplies at IRC or the storage site for your use.
You are not to share any tools, equipment, or other items with any other person, including
other volunteers.
While Working in the Field
● Face coverings may be required. According to the OC Health Officer’s order of May
28, 2020: “All Orange County residents and visitors shall wear a cloth face-covering
outside their home when they are not able to maintain at least 6 feet of physical
distance from another person who is not a family/household member or does not reside
in the same living unit.”
● Tools and equipment are not to be shared. Volunteers who are working in small
groups should use only the tools and equipment they brought with them. Under no
circumstances should any tools or equipment be shared.
● There will be a limited supply of hand sanitizer. If available, please use it to clean your
hands after touching commonly handled surfaces and fixtures like gates, locks, portable
restrooms, etc. If hand sanitizer is not available, a cleaning solution and paper towels
should be used.
● Wash hands frequently, including before eating. Some field sites may have running
water; if liquid soap and paper towels are available, please use them. If not, completely
cover your hands with hand sanitizer and rub vigorously for a minimum of 20 seconds.
● Transportation. All volunteers must be able to drive or otherwise transport themselves
to a staging area, trailhead, or entry point. Transportation of other people is prohibited.
All worksites must be reachable on foot or bike, as there are no IRC vehicles available
for volunteers.
● Do not share food or beverages.
● Maintain six-foot physical distancing at all times.
After Working in the Field
● Wash your hands. Immediately wash your hands with soap and water for a minimum
of 20 seconds. If soap and water is not available, use hand sanitizer.
● Clean all tools. If returning tools to the IRC bin or a storage area, wearing disposable
gloves, and using spray or wipes, clean tools and equipment. See instructions above.
Reviewing the 1-through-5 Difficulty Ratings will help you evaluate your readiness to participate in this level-4 activity on the land.
Friday, March 5, 2021
Volunteer Only Invasive Species Pull: Bommer Canyon

One of the most problematic weed species in Orange County, Tree Tobacco, aggressively competes with our native plants for resources and spreads rapidly once established. Therefore, removal of tree tobacco helps suppress new invasions and creates opportunities for native species to thrive. Past efforts to remove tree tobacco in Bommer Canyon have made a difference but eradication can only happen with further support. This activity will involve removing tree tobacco using long hand-held tools. No previous experience is necessary, just a desire to work outside and get dirty! Bring your own gloves. Please note that participants must wear long sleeves and long pants, as well as sturdy closed-toe shoes or boots. A hat and sunscreen is highly recommended. Note: This is a wilderness area, there are natural hazards. Snakes, including rattlesnakes, are occasionally seen here.
- Before leaving your home to report for volunteer work, conduct a self-assessment by
responding to the following questions (current as of May 31, 2020, from the CDC).
1. Are you experiencing any of the following?
a. Fever or chills
b. Cough
c. Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
d. Fatigue
e. Muscle or body aches
f. Headache
g. New loss of taste or smell
h. Sore throat
i. Congestion or runny nose
j. Nausea or vomiting
k. Diarrhea
2. Have you had contact with anyone within the last 14 days who has been
sick?
If you answered YES to any item above, stay HOME. And stay HOME if you are
not feeling well, even if your symptoms are not on the list above. Please contact
the volunteer management team at activityoperations@irconservancy.org or (714)
508-4760 (call, do not text). Seek medical attention by contacting your doctor or
medical provider. - Seek emergency medical care immediately if you are experiencing any of the
- following (current as of May 31, 2020, from the CDC):
- Trouble breathing, Persistent pain or pressure in the chest, New confusion, Inability to wake or stay awake, Bluish lips or face.
● Pre-fill your personal water containers at home and bring them with you. If you need
to eat during your work shift, bring that with you. IRC is not providing food or beverages.
Do not bring food or beverages to share with others.
● Wear your approved IRC volunteer uniform while on duty, including your IRC
volunteer ID badge. Carry your provided CPR/first aid kit in case you are injured.
If tools or other equipment or supplies are required, you must make arrangements in
advance.
- Employees will provide sanitized tools and equipment for you to use and will maintain
an inventory of the items provided to you.
● Ideally, you will keep the items in your possession for future use to avoid the need for
sanitizing after each use.
● If you are not able to keep the items in your possession, then you must sanitize all items
upon returning to the IRC bin or a storage site. Your employee contact will arrange
sanitation supplies at IRC or the storage site for your use.
You are not to share any tools, equipment, or other items with any other person, including
other volunteers.
While Working in the Field
● Face coverings may be required. According to the OC Health Officer’s order of May
28, 2020: “All Orange County residents and visitors shall wear a cloth face-covering
outside their home when they are not able to maintain at least 6 feet of physical
distance from another person who is not a family/household member or does not reside
in the same living unit.”
● Tools and equipment are not to be shared. Volunteers who are working in small
groups should use only the tools and equipment they brought with them. Under no
circumstances should any tools or equipment be shared.
● There will be a limited supply of hand sanitizer. If available, please use it to clean your
hands after touching commonly handled surfaces and fixtures like gates, locks, portable
restrooms, etc. If hand sanitizer is not available, a cleaning solution and paper towels
should be used.
● Wash hands frequently, including before eating. Some field sites may have running
water; if liquid soap and paper towels are available, please use them. If not, completely
cover your hands with hand sanitizer and rub vigorously for a minimum of 20 seconds.
● Transportation. All volunteers must be able to drive or otherwise transport themselves
to a staging area, trailhead, or entry point. Transportation of other people is prohibited.
All worksites must be reachable on foot or bike, as there are no IRC vehicles available
for volunteers.
● Do not share food or beverages.
● Maintain six-foot physical distancing at all times.
After Working in the Field
● Wash your hands. Immediately wash your hands with soap and water for a minimum
of 20 seconds. If soap and water is not available, use hand sanitizer.
● Clean all tools. If returning tools to the IRC bin or a storage area, wearing disposable
gloves, and using spray or wipes, clean tools and equipment. See instructions above.
Reviewing the 1-through-5 Difficulty Ratings will help you evaluate your readiness to participate in this level-4 activity on the land.
Tuesday, March 23, 2021
Volunteer Only Invasive Species Pull: Bommer Canyon

One of the most problematic weed species in Orange County, Tree Tobacco, aggressively competes with our native plants for resources and spreads rapidly once established. Therefore, removal of tree tobacco helps suppress new invasions and creates opportunities for native species to thrive. Past efforts to remove tree tobacco in Bommer Canyon have made a difference but eradication can only happen with further support. This activity will involve removing tree tobacco using long hand-held tools. No previous experience is necessary, just a desire to work outside and get dirty! Bring your own gloves. Please note that participants must wear long sleeves and long pants, as well as sturdy closed-toe shoes or boots. A hat and sunscreen is highly recommended. Note: This is a wilderness area, there are natural hazards. Snakes, including rattlesnakes, are occasionally seen here.
- Before leaving your home to report for volunteer work, conduct a self-assessment by
responding to the following questions (current as of May 31, 2020, from the CDC).
1. Are you experiencing any of the following?
a. Fever or chills
b. Cough
c. Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
d. Fatigue
e. Muscle or body aches
f. Headache
g. New loss of taste or smell
h. Sore throat
i. Congestion or runny nose
j. Nausea or vomiting
k. Diarrhea
2. Have you had contact with anyone within the last 14 days who has been
sick?
If you answered YES to any item above, stay HOME. And stay HOME if you are
not feeling well, even if your symptoms are not on the list above. Please contact
the volunteer management team at activityoperations@irconservancy.org or (714)
508-4760 (call, do not text). Seek medical attention by contacting your doctor or
medical provider. - Seek emergency medical care immediately if you are experiencing any of the
- following (current as of May 31, 2020, from the CDC):
- Trouble breathing, Persistent pain or pressure in the chest, New confusion, Inability to wake or stay awake, Bluish lips or face.
● Pre-fill your personal water containers at home and bring them with you. If you need
to eat during your work shift, bring that with you. IRC is not providing food or beverages.
Do not bring food or beverages to share with others.
● Wear your approved IRC volunteer uniform while on duty, including your IRC
volunteer ID badge. Carry your provided CPR/first aid kit in case you are injured.
If tools or other equipment or supplies are required, you must make arrangements in
advance.
- Employees will provide sanitized tools and equipment for you to use and will maintain
an inventory of the items provided to you.
● Ideally, you will keep the items in your possession for future use to avoid the need for
sanitizing after each use.
● If you are not able to keep the items in your possession, then you must sanitize all items
upon returning to the IRC bin or a storage site. Your employee contact will arrange
sanitation supplies at IRC or the storage site for your use.
You are not to share any tools, equipment, or other items with any other person, including
other volunteers.
While Working in the Field
● Face coverings may be required. According to the OC Health Officer’s order of May
28, 2020: “All Orange County residents and visitors shall wear a cloth face-covering
outside their home when they are not able to maintain at least 6 feet of physical
distance from another person who is not a family/household member or does not reside
in the same living unit.”
● Tools and equipment are not to be shared. Volunteers who are working in small
groups should use only the tools and equipment they brought with them. Under no
circumstances should any tools or equipment be shared.
● There will be a limited supply of hand sanitizer. If available, please use it to clean your
hands after touching commonly handled surfaces and fixtures like gates, locks, portable
restrooms, etc. If hand sanitizer is not available, a cleaning solution and paper towels
should be used.
● Wash hands frequently, including before eating. Some field sites may have running
water; if liquid soap and paper towels are available, please use them. If not, completely
cover your hands with hand sanitizer and rub vigorously for a minimum of 20 seconds.
● Transportation. All volunteers must be able to drive or otherwise transport themselves
to a staging area, trailhead, or entry point. Transportation of other people is prohibited.
All worksites must be reachable on foot or bike, as there are no IRC vehicles available
for volunteers.
● Do not share food or beverages.
● Maintain six-foot physical distancing at all times.
After Working in the Field
● Wash your hands. Immediately wash your hands with soap and water for a minimum
of 20 seconds. If soap and water is not available, use hand sanitizer.
● Clean all tools. If returning tools to the IRC bin or a storage area, wearing disposable
gloves, and using spray or wipes, clean tools and equipment. See instructions above.
Reviewing the 1-through-5 Difficulty Ratings will help you evaluate your readiness to participate in this level-4 activity on the land.
Wednesday, March 31, 2021
Volunteer Only Invasive Species Pull: Bommer Canyon

One of the most problematic weed species in Orange County, Tree Tobacco, aggressively competes with our native plants for resources and spreads rapidly once established. Therefore, removal of tree tobacco helps suppress new invasions and creates opportunities for native species to thrive. Past efforts to remove tree tobacco in Bommer Canyon have made a difference but eradication can only happen with further support. This activity will involve removing tree tobacco using long hand-held tools. No previous experience is necessary, just a desire to work outside and get dirty! Bring your own gloves. Please note that participants must wear long sleeves and long pants, as well as sturdy closed-toe shoes or boots. A hat and sunscreen is highly recommended. Note: This is a wilderness area, there are natural hazards. Snakes, including rattlesnakes, are occasionally seen here.
- Before leaving your home to report for volunteer work, conduct a self-assessment by
responding to the following questions (current as of May 31, 2020, from the CDC).
1. Are you experiencing any of the following?
a. Fever or chills
b. Cough
c. Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
d. Fatigue
e. Muscle or body aches
f. Headache
g. New loss of taste or smell
h. Sore throat
i. Congestion or runny nose
j. Nausea or vomiting
k. Diarrhea
2. Have you had contact with anyone within the last 14 days who has been
sick?
If you answered YES to any item above, stay HOME. And stay HOME if you are
not feeling well, even if your symptoms are not on the list above. Please contact
the volunteer management team at activityoperations@irconservancy.org or (714)
508-4760 (call, do not text). Seek medical attention by contacting your doctor or
medical provider. - Seek emergency medical care immediately if you are experiencing any of the
- following (current as of May 31, 2020, from the CDC):
- Trouble breathing, Persistent pain or pressure in the chest, New confusion, Inability to wake or stay awake, Bluish lips or face.
● Pre-fill your personal water containers at home and bring them with you. If you need
to eat during your work shift, bring that with you. IRC is not providing food or beverages.
Do not bring food or beverages to share with others.
● Wear your approved IRC volunteer uniform while on duty, including your IRC
volunteer ID badge. Carry your provided CPR/first aid kit in case you are injured.
If tools or other equipment or supplies are required, you must make arrangements in
advance.
- Employees will provide sanitized tools and equipment for you to use and will maintain
an inventory of the items provided to you.
● Ideally, you will keep the items in your possession for future use to avoid the need for
sanitizing after each use.
● If you are not able to keep the items in your possession, then you must sanitize all items
upon returning to the IRC bin or a storage site. Your employee contact will arrange
sanitation supplies at IRC or the storage site for your use.
You are not to share any tools, equipment, or other items with any other person, including
other volunteers.
While Working in the Field
● Face coverings may be required. According to the OC Health Officer’s order of May
28, 2020: “All Orange County residents and visitors shall wear a cloth face-covering
outside their home when they are not able to maintain at least 6 feet of physical
distance from another person who is not a family/household member or does not reside
in the same living unit.”
● Tools and equipment are not to be shared. Volunteers who are working in small
groups should use only the tools and equipment they brought with them. Under no
circumstances should any tools or equipment be shared.
● There will be a limited supply of hand sanitizer. If available, please use it to clean your
hands after touching commonly handled surfaces and fixtures like gates, locks, portable
restrooms, etc. If hand sanitizer is not available, a cleaning solution and paper towels
should be used.
● Wash hands frequently, including before eating. Some field sites may have running
water; if liquid soap and paper towels are available, please use them. If not, completely
cover your hands with hand sanitizer and rub vigorously for a minimum of 20 seconds.
● Transportation. All volunteers must be able to drive or otherwise transport themselves
to a staging area, trailhead, or entry point. Transportation of other people is prohibited.
All worksites must be reachable on foot or bike, as there are no IRC vehicles available
for volunteers.
● Do not share food or beverages.
● Maintain six-foot physical distancing at all times.
After Working in the Field
● Wash your hands. Immediately wash your hands with soap and water for a minimum
of 20 seconds. If soap and water is not available, use hand sanitizer.
● Clean all tools. If returning tools to the IRC bin or a storage area, wearing disposable
gloves, and using spray or wipes, clean tools and equipment. See instructions above.
Reviewing the 1-through-5 Difficulty Ratings will help you evaluate your readiness to participate in this level-4 activity on the land.
Friday, April 2, 2021
Volunteer Only Invasive Control: Fremont Canyon

One of the most problematic weed species in Orange County aggressively competes with our native plants for resources and spreads rapidly once established. Therefore, removal of Sahara Mustard helps suppress new invasions and creates opportunities for native species to thrive. This activity will involve removing mustard using long hand-held tools. No previous experience is necessary, just a desire to work outside and get dirty! Bring your own gloves. Please note that participants must wear long sleeves and long pants, as well as sturdy closed-toe shoes or boots. A hat and sunscreen is highly recommended. Note: This is a wilderness area, there are natural hazards. Snakes, including rattlesnakes, are occasionally seen here.
- Before leaving your home to report for volunteer work, conduct a self-assessment by
responding to the following questions (current as of May 31, 2020, from the CDC).
1. Are you experiencing any of the following?
a. Fever or chills
b. Cough
c. Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
d. Fatigue
e. Muscle or body aches
f. Headache
g. New loss of taste or smell
h. Sore throat
i. Congestion or runny nose
j. Nausea or vomiting
k. Diarrhea
2. Have you had contact with anyone within the last 14 days who has been
sick?
If you answered YES to any item above, stay HOME. And stay HOME if you are
not feeling well, even if your symptoms are not on the list above. Please contact
the volunteer management team at activityoperations@irconservancy.org or (714)
508-4760 (call, do not text). Seek medical attention by contacting your doctor or
medical provider. - Seek emergency medical care immediately if you are experiencing any of the
- following (current as of May 31, 2020, from the CDC):
- Trouble breathing, Persistent pain or pressure in the chest, New confusion, Inability to wake or stay awake, Bluish lips or face.
● Pre-fill your personal water containers at home and bring them with you. If you need
to eat during your work shift, bring that with you. IRC is not providing food or beverages.
Do not bring food or beverages to share with others.
● Wear your approved IRC volunteer uniform while on duty, including your IRC
volunteer ID badge. Carry your provided CPR/first aid kit in case you are injured.
If tools or other equipment or supplies are required, you must make arrangements in
advance.
- Employees will provide sanitized tools and equipment for you to use and will maintain
an inventory of the items provided to you.
● Ideally, you will keep the items in your possession for future use to avoid the need for
sanitizing after each use.
● If you are not able to keep the items in your possession, then you must sanitize all items
upon returning to the IRC bin or a storage site. Your employee contact will arrange
sanitation supplies at IRC or the storage site for your use.
You are not to share any tools, equipment, or other items with any other person, including
other volunteers.
While Working in the Field
● Face coverings may be required. According to the OC Health Officer’s order of May
28, 2020: “All Orange County residents and visitors shall wear a cloth face-covering
outside their home when they are not able to maintain at least 6 feet of physical
distance from another person who is not a family/household member or does not reside
in the same living unit.”
● Tools and equipment are not to be shared. Volunteers who are working in small
groups should use only the tools and equipment they brought with them. Under no
circumstances should any tools or equipment be shared.
● There will be a limited supply of hand sanitizer. If available, please use it to clean your
hands after touching commonly handled surfaces and fixtures like gates, locks, portable
restrooms, etc. If hand sanitizer is not available, a cleaning solution and paper towels
should be used.
● Wash hands frequently, including before eating. Some field sites may have running
water; if liquid soap and paper towels are available, please use them. If not, completely
cover your hands with hand sanitizer and rub vigorously for a minimum of 20 seconds.
● Transportation. All volunteers must be able to drive or otherwise transport themselves
to a staging area, trailhead, or entry point. Transportation of other people is prohibited.
All worksites must be reachable on foot or bike, as there are no IRC vehicles available
for volunteers.
● Do not share food or beverages.
● Maintain six-foot physical distancing at all times.
After Working in the Field
● Wash your hands. Immediately wash your hands with soap and water for a minimum
of 20 seconds. If soap and water is not available, use hand sanitizer.
● Clean all tools. If returning tools to the IRC bin or a storage area, wearing disposable
gloves, and using spray or wipes, clean tools and equipment. See instructions above.
Reviewing the 1-through-5 Difficulty Ratings will help you evaluate your readiness to participate in this level-4 activity on the land.
Tuesday, April 13, 2021
Volunteer Only Invasive Removal: Black Star Canyon

One of the most problematic weed species in Orange County aggressively competes with our native plants for resources and spreads rapidly once established. Therefore, removal of Sahara Mustard helps suppress new invasions and creates opportunities for native species to thrive. This activity will involve removing mustard using long hand-held tools. No previous experience is necessary, just a desire to work outside and get dirty! Bring your own gloves. Please note that participants must wear long sleeves and long pants, as well as sturdy closed-toe shoes or boots. A hat and sunscreen is highly recommended. Note: This is a wilderness area, there are natural hazards. Snakes, including rattlesnakes, are occasionally seen here.
- Before leaving your home to report for volunteer work, conduct a self-assessment by
responding to the following questions (current as of May 31, 2020, from the CDC).
1. Are you experiencing any of the following?
a. Fever or chills
b. Cough
c. Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
d. Fatigue
e. Muscle or body aches
f. Headache
g. New loss of taste or smell
h. Sore throat
i. Congestion or runny nose
j. Nausea or vomiting
k. Diarrhea
2. Have you had contact with anyone within the last 14 days who has been
sick?
If you answered YES to any item above, stay HOME. And stay HOME if you are
not feeling well, even if your symptoms are not on the list above. Please contact
the volunteer management team at activityoperations@irconservancy.org or (714)
508-4760 (call, do not text). Seek medical attention by contacting your doctor or
medical provider. - Seek emergency medical care immediately if you are experiencing any of the
- following (current as of May 31, 2020, from the CDC):
- Trouble breathing, Persistent pain or pressure in the chest, New confusion, Inability to wake or stay awake, Bluish lips or face.
● Pre-fill your personal water containers at home and bring them with you. If you need
to eat during your work shift, bring that with you. IRC is not providing food or beverages.
Do not bring food or beverages to share with others.
● Wear your approved IRC volunteer uniform while on duty, including your IRC
volunteer ID badge. Carry your provided CPR/first aid kit in case you are injured.
If tools or other equipment or supplies are required, you must make arrangements in
advance.
- Employees will provide sanitized tools and equipment for you to use and will maintain
an inventory of the items provided to you.
● Ideally, you will keep the items in your possession for future use to avoid the need for
sanitizing after each use.
● If you are not able to keep the items in your possession, then you must sanitize all items
upon returning to the IRC bin or a storage site. Your employee contact will arrange
sanitation supplies at IRC or the storage site for your use.
You are not to share any tools, equipment, or other items with any other person, including
other volunteers.
While Working in the Field
● Face coverings may be required. According to the OC Health Officer’s order of May
28, 2020: “All Orange County residents and visitors shall wear a cloth face-covering
outside their home when they are not able to maintain at least 6 feet of physical
distance from another person who is not a family/household member or does not reside
in the same living unit.”
● Tools and equipment are not to be shared. Volunteers who are working in small
groups should use only the tools and equipment they brought with them. Under no
circumstances should any tools or equipment be shared.
● There will be a limited supply of hand sanitizer. If available, please use it to clean your
hands after touching commonly handled surfaces and fixtures like gates, locks, portable
restrooms, etc. If hand sanitizer is not available, a cleaning solution and paper towels
should be used.
● Wash hands frequently, including before eating. Some field sites may have running
water; if liquid soap and paper towels are available, please use them. If not, completely
cover your hands with hand sanitizer and rub vigorously for a minimum of 20 seconds.
● Transportation. All volunteers must be able to drive or otherwise transport themselves
to a staging area, trailhead, or entry point. Transportation of other people is prohibited.
All worksites must be reachable on foot or bike, as there are no IRC vehicles available
for volunteers.
● Do not share food or beverages.
● Maintain six-foot physical distancing at all times.
After Working in the Field
● Wash your hands. Immediately wash your hands with soap and water for a minimum
of 20 seconds. If soap and water is not available, use hand sanitizer.
● Clean all tools. If returning tools to the IRC bin or a storage area, wearing disposable
gloves, and using spray or wipes, clean tools and equipment. See instructions above.
Reviewing the 1-through-5 Difficulty Ratings will help you evaluate your readiness to participate in this level-4 activity on the land.
Wednesday, April 28, 2021
Volunteer Only Invasive Control: Shady Canyon

One of the most problematic weed species in Orange County aggressively competes with our native plants for resources and spreads rapidly once established. Therefore, removal of Sahara Mustard helps suppress new invasions and creates opportunities for native species to thrive. This activity will involve removing mustard using long hand-held tools. No previous experience is necessary, just a desire to work outside and get dirty! Bring your own gloves. Please note that participants must wear long sleeves and long pants, as well as sturdy closed-toe shoes or boots. A hat and sunscreen is highly recommended. Note: This is a wilderness area, there are natural hazards. Snakes, including rattlesnakes, are occasionally seen here.
- Before leaving your home to report for volunteer work, conduct a self-assessment by
responding to the following questions (current as of May 31, 2020, from the CDC).
1. Are you experiencing any of the following?
a. Fever or chills
b. Cough
c. Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
d. Fatigue
e. Muscle or body aches
f. Headache
g. New loss of taste or smell
h. Sore throat
i. Congestion or runny nose
j. Nausea or vomiting
k. Diarrhea
2. Have you had contact with anyone within the last 14 days who has been
sick?
If you answered YES to any item above, stay HOME. And stay HOME if you are
not feeling well, even if your symptoms are not on the list above. Please contact
the volunteer management team at activityoperations@irconservancy.org or (714)
508-4760 (call, do not text). Seek medical attention by contacting your doctor or
medical provider. - Seek emergency medical care immediately if you are experiencing any of the
- following (current as of May 31, 2020, from the CDC):
- Trouble breathing, Persistent pain or pressure in the chest, New confusion, Inability to wake or stay awake, Bluish lips or face.
● Pre-fill your personal water containers at home and bring them with you. If you need
to eat during your work shift, bring that with you. IRC is not providing food or beverages.
Do not bring food or beverages to share with others.
● Wear your approved IRC volunteer uniform while on duty, including your IRC
volunteer ID badge. Carry your provided CPR/first aid kit in case you are injured.
If tools or other equipment or supplies are required, you must make arrangements in
advance.
- Employees will provide sanitized tools and equipment for you to use and will maintain
an inventory of the items provided to you.
● Ideally, you will keep the items in your possession for future use to avoid the need for
sanitizing after each use.
● If you are not able to keep the items in your possession, then you must sanitize all items
upon returning to the IRC bin or a storage site. Your employee contact will arrange
sanitation supplies at IRC or the storage site for your use.
You are not to share any tools, equipment, or other items with any other person, including
other volunteers.
While Working in the Field
● Face coverings may be required. According to the OC Health Officer’s order of May
28, 2020: “All Orange County residents and visitors shall wear a cloth face-covering
outside their home when they are not able to maintain at least 6 feet of physical
distance from another person who is not a family/household member or does not reside
in the same living unit.”
● Tools and equipment are not to be shared. Volunteers who are working in small
groups should use only the tools and equipment they brought with them. Under no
circumstances should any tools or equipment be shared.
● There will be a limited supply of hand sanitizer. If available, please use it to clean your
hands after touching commonly handled surfaces and fixtures like gates, locks, portable
restrooms, etc. If hand sanitizer is not available, a cleaning solution and paper towels
should be used.
● Wash hands frequently, including before eating. Some field sites may have running
water; if liquid soap and paper towels are available, please use them. If not, completely
cover your hands with hand sanitizer and rub vigorously for a minimum of 20 seconds.
● Transportation. All volunteers must be able to drive or otherwise transport themselves
to a staging area, trailhead, or entry point. Transportation of other people is prohibited.
All worksites must be reachable on foot or bike, as there are no IRC vehicles available
for volunteers.
● Do not share food or beverages.
● Maintain six-foot physical distancing at all times.
After Working in the Field
● Wash your hands. Immediately wash your hands with soap and water for a minimum
of 20 seconds. If soap and water is not available, use hand sanitizer.
● Clean all tools. If returning tools to the IRC bin or a storage area, wearing disposable
gloves, and using spray or wipes, clean tools and equipment. See instructions above.
Reviewing the 1-through-5 Difficulty Ratings will help you evaluate your readiness to participate in this level-4 activity on the land.