Middle Ridge – Tiburon Open Space

Friday, May 10, 2024, 1 to 3 pm       Leader: Eva Buxton

Castilleja affinis ssp. neglecta,  Tiburon paintbrush,   Ann Elliott

Please sign up for this field trip on Meetup.  Registration Link

Middle Ridge, the most ecologically valuable of the Town of Tiburon’s open space parcels, is composed of serpentine grassland and rock outcrops, which support species that are endemic (restricted) to serpentine, including some rare species, as well as more common spring wildflowers.

This two-hour plant walk will be a gentle stroll on mostly level ground.  If warmer weather is in the forecast for the next couple of weeks, we will hopefully see some of the rare species. The plant list Old Saint Hilary’s Preserve is suitable to use for this preserve also.

As the Tiburon Peninsula was grazed by cattle until the 1960’s, much of the grassland have been converted to non-native, annual species.  In addition, the open space parcel is a favorite spot for dogwalkers.  We will discuss the impacts on native vegetation from these two disturbances.

Directions: From US 101, take exit 131 (Tiburon) and drive 2.7 miles.  Make a left turn on Gilmartin Drive and go uphill for 0.6 miles to entrance to preserve (no gate), approximately opposite 120 Gilmartin Drive. Parking available along the street.

Streptanthus glandulosus ssp. niger, Tiburon Jewelflower, Eva Buxton

Bring: Water and a snack. Dress in layers. Rain cancels.

Email Eva Buxton with any questions. evabuxton@sbcglobal.net

Text for day-of-trip questions or issues: 415-215-1774

If you have not yet signed the Waiver for Marin Chapter 2024, please do.

Limit 12.