Join us Sun., Oct. 20, at Schoolhouse Creek and the North Basin Strip -- volunteer and think about the future as planning begins

Remove invasives, pick up trash, and enjoy a guided nature walk Sun., Oct. 20, 10 AM - 12:30 PM, as planning begins for the future of the "North Basin Strip" and the mouth of Schoolhouse Creek. This 20 acres on the Berkeley shoreline between the restored Berkeley "Meadow" and Tom Bates Sports Fields was a WW II-era dump; the pipe at its south end carried Berkeley's raw sewage to the Bay. For the past 20+ years, as part of now-huge McLaughlin Eastshore State Park, the strip had been tended mostly by volunteers. Along with fire-prone weeds, you'll find a rare shoreline not rocked with unfriendly boulders, a "glass beach" and miniature lagoon, a rich and unique gallery of native plants, a popular urban mountain-biking course, oak and willow groves, and native-grass meadows. Friends of Five Creeks hopes to see the creek freed from its pipe -- reducing flood risk in West Berkeley. The East Bay Regional Park District is expected to hold public workshops and an on-site Open House in November.. Read much more on history, nature, and possibilities in our October e-news.

Meet at 10 AM at the gate at the strip's north end on the shoreline, reached via the West Frontage Road between University and Gilman (map here). From the parking lot at the south end of the Tom Bates Sports Fields, follow the short dirt trail to the shoreline. Better, bike or walk via the Bay Trail, now easy via the pedestrian-bicycle bridges and Gilman or University.

Dress to get dirty, with layers for sun and wind protection. Bring a re-usable water bottle. Gloves, tools, and light snacks provided. Groups of 5+ please email F5creeks@gmail.com so we'll have enough. Please also email with questions!

Tuesday morning Weed Warriors and other opportunities: