There’s something special about an event when the sky clears up after rain. That was the case on Saturday, April 7, for the annual Wild Flower Day at Ulistac Natural Area Restoration & Education Project. This annual event is a free to the public. It’s a celebration of nature and the environment and gives visitors an opportunity to learn about the treasure that sits along the Guadalupe River in Santa Clara.
Even though the previous day saw downpours and harsh winter-like weather, the trails were open and no one’s spirits, or enthusiasm, was dampened. Over 1,000 people attended the event and enjoyed taking in the sights along the walking trails on the 40 acres of land.
Close to 20 organizations were on hand to present information to visitors including the Youth Science Institute, South Bay Clean Creeks Coalition, Santa Clara County Firesafe Council, Grant the Reptile Guy, San Francisco Bay Wildlife Society/Don Edwards Wildlife Refuge, Santa Clara Valley Audubon Society, Wildlife Center of Silicon Valley and Master Gardeners of Santa Clara County.
Visitors were treated to a special guest appearance by Smokey the Bear and music by South Bay Folks.
Tours were offered throughout the event and included information about birding, as Ulistac is a favorite location for bird watchers of all ages, and information about the Ulistac Natural Area itself, as well as the flowers found there and Monarch Butterflies.
Ulistac is currently being restored back to its natural state through the efforts of volunteers on the first Saturday and the third Sunday of each month. For more information on Ulistac Natural Area, or to find more information about volunteering, visit their website at www.ulistac.org.