El Cerrito Hillside Natural Area Work Parties -- Tues, May 19, Wed, May 20, Sat May 23

[EBCNPS News List]

From Friends of the Hillside  https://www.echillsidefriends.org/

*******

This week, there are three opportunities to party at the Hillside — and yes, we have given our work parties new names...

Tuesday, May 19, 2026 — Warrior Party

10:00 AM – Noon
Joint work party with the Weed Warriors from Friends of Five Creeks
 End of Regency Court (GPS: 1590 Regency Court, El Cerrito)

We will tackle a dense patch of broom that was previously cut and is now trying to grow back. To make things more fun, we are considering working together in a coordinated line moving uphill — almost like a Roman army advancing against the broom invasion.

For those who prefer to work more independently, there will also be nearby broom patches to tackle on your own.

There are patches of poison oak in the area, so please come prepared.

---

Wednesday, May 20, 2026 — Flow Party

(Come and leave whenever you like)
4:00 PM – 7:00 PM
 End of King Drive (GPS: 1159 King Drive, El Cerrito)

Activities may include:

• Light hand-weeding of thistles in a meadow with strong restoration potential

• Exploring habitat beneath the nearby eucalyptus grove while removing broom

A more flexible and relaxed format for those who want to drop in for part of the evening.

---

 Saturday — WE Party

(For Week-End… and “We”)
10:00 AM – Noon
 South entrance of Regency Court (GPS: 1531 Regency Court, El Cerrito)

We will tackle broom beneath beautiful oaks in Hidden Valley.

We will also remove large poison hemlocks competing with nearby elderberry. Many are surprisingly easy to pull by hand — extremely satisfying work.

There is also some low-growing poison oak in the area, so come prepared. We are always happy to share guidance and best practices for working around it safely.

For this work party, please arrive on time so we can head out together, or coordinate with us if you plan to join later.

---

As always:

• No prior experience is needed

• Tools and guidance will be provided

• Please wear long sleeves, long pants, and sturdy shoes

• If possible, bring your own gloves

All are welcome: birders, plant enthusiasts, kids, curious neighbors, and anyone who simply enjoys being outside in community.

You can come to work, to learn, or simply to spend time outdoors with others who care about the Hillside.

Please also print and sign the Release for the City Volunteer Program.

Let us know if you plan to join and roughly when. You can also join our WhatsApp group to receive day-of updates and informal information.

Follow us for updates, photos, and more:

 Website: https://www.echillsidefriends.org/
 Facebook: Friends of the Hillside
 Instagram: @Hillside_Friends