On May 23rd, Earth Team interns from Arroyo High School and San Lorenzo High School returned to Castro Valley Creek Trail for another day of habitat restoration. The event coincided with World Fish Migration Day, a global celebration that raises awareness about the importance of healthy waterways and the migratory species that depend on them.
During the event, there were tables set up to educate community members on the ongoing habitat restoration in this area. Earth Team interns showcased their poster detailing all of the work they have completed this year. Many dog walkers, joggers, and other community members stopped to check out the site; some even signed up to volunteer at our next event!
After a quick snack, interns got to work improving the health of the creek corridor. Building on restoration efforts they began during their Earth Day event just one month ago, students partnered with Friends of San Lorenzo Creek to remove invasive plant species that threaten native habitat. Much of the work focused on removing ash trees, which can outcompete native vegetation and alter creek ecosystems. Interns also cleared non-native blackberry thickets and invasive ivy plants from the restoration area.
Meanwhile, a smaller team of interns focused on litter removal throughout the creek and surrounding trail areas. By collecting trash before it could be carried downstream, students helped improve water quality and create a healthier environment for wildlife. Through hands-on restoration and environmental education, interns gained a deeper understanding of the connection between healthy watersheds and thriving fish populations. Their efforts will help support native plants, improve habitat quality, and contribute to the long-term health of the San Lorenzo Creek watershed.
The day concluded with an educational presentation from Jennifer Trevis of the Alameda County Clean Water Program. Interns learned about the characteristics of healthy creek ecosystems and explored the fascinating life cycle of steelhead trout, the migratory form of rainbow trout native to local waterways. Students discussed the challenges these fish face, including habitat degradation, barriers to migration, and water pollution, while also learning about ongoing efforts to protect and restore their habitat.
Bonus: Alligator Lizard
Earth Team is grateful to Jennifer Trevis, the Alameda County Clean Water Program, and Friends of San Lorenzo Creek for providing students with meaningful opportunities to learn about and actively protect local ecosystems. We extend a huge thanks to the ACRCD and ACCWP for the funding that made this event possible. As future environmental leaders, these interns continue to demonstrate how youth action can make a positive impact on the health of our communities and waterways.
