Work Completed So Far

The Ojai Youth Council began this project in Spring 2026 by researching urban heat islands and identifying areas of Ojai that could benefit from additional shade and tree canopy.

Throughout the spring and fall programs, students have:

• Mapped urban heat islands: Created a map of Ojai highlighting areas that absorb and retain higher levels of heat, helping identify neighborhoods where additional trees could make a meaningful difference.

• Conducted site assessments: Visited potential planting locations to document existing conditions, take photographs, and evaluate opportunities for new trees.

• Presented research to community leaders: Shared their heat island map, site observations, and proposed planting locations with the Ojai City Council and Ojai Trees.

• Created a native plant garden: Designed and planted a garden at HELP of Ojai, replacing selected ornamental plants with native species to support pollinators and local wildlife.

• Participated in community tree planting: Began planting native trees at Daly Ranch Park and surrounding neighborhoods, helping expand Ojai's urban tree canopy.

• Conducted neighborhood outreach: Canvassed residential areas to inform community members about upcoming tree planting and coordinate planting locations.

• Built community partnerships: Collaborated with Ojai Trees and the City of Ojai Public Works Department to coordinate tree selection, planting locations, and community planting events.

These activities have allowed students to apply their research to real-world environmental challenges while developing leadership, communication, and conservation skills.

What's Next?

The Ojai Youth Council is continuing its efforts to expand tree canopy coverage through a series of community tree-planting events in Fall 2026.

Planting events are scheduled for October 18, October 25, and November 1, bringing together Youth Council members, local residents, and community volunteers to plant trees in neighborhoods identified through the project's heat island research.

Students will take active leadership roles during these events, helping coordinate volunteers, plant trees, and educate community members about the benefits of native trees and urban shade.

The Green Valley Project is partnering with Ojai Trees and the City of Ojai Public Works Department to support the planting effort. Following installation, The C.R.E.W. will provide ongoing watering and maintenance to help newly planted trees become established.

By increasing tree canopy coverage in areas with limited shade, the Youth Council hopes to contribute to cooler neighborhoods, healthier ecosystems, and more comfortable public spaces for Ojai residents.

Get Involved!

Creating a greener, more climate-resilient Ojai takes a community effort! Whether you're interested in planting trees, supporting local wildlife, or helping improve neighborhood shade, there are opportunities to make a difference.

Join one of our Community Tree-Planting Events!

Fall 2026 Planting Dates:

• October 18

• October 25

• November 1

Volunteers will have the opportunity to work alongside Youth Council members, learn about native trees, and contribute directly to increasing Ojai's tree canopy.

Interested in volunteering? Email tara@thecrew.org to receive event details and volunteer updates.

Stay connected with the Green Valley Project to follow the Ojai Youth Council's progress and learn about future opportunities to participate in environmental projects throughout Ventura County.