Conserving the Gaviota Coast IN PICTURES AND STORIES

805-967-6030

vistas@vistaslifelonglearning.org

Presented by: Phil McKenna

Bethany Congregational Church

556 N. Hope Avenue, Santa Barbara

The Gaviota Coast is the largest intact example of our Southern California Mediterranean coastal environment. Its 200,000 acres span 73 miles of coastline and 43 watersheds. Internationally recognized as a “biological hotspot” for its diversity of plants and animals, it is a mosaic of landscapes—and it harbors many little-known stories: an epic development scheme stretching across 140 years; the largest ranch in Santa Barbara County preserved for restoration and scientific study; a coffee plantation in the foothills; a
ranch encompass­ing an entire watershed being restored through regenerative agriculture. Many photographers have dedicated their time and skills to awaken our interest, and this course will be richly illustrated to display the character, beauty, and conservation challenges facing the Gaviota Coast, at the edge of Southern California.

$20 Vistas members

$30 Non-Members

EITHER pay online on the VISTAS website by secure credit card through PayPal:

https://www.vistaslifelonglearning.org/current-courses

OR mail this form and your check to: VISTAS Lifelong Learning, Inc.

P.O. Box 23228, Santa Barbara CA 93121

Phil McKenna came to Santa Barbara in 1964 to study at UCSB and never left. It’s not a unique story, but he feels fortunate to have landed in this community of mountains and seashore. When his youngest child left for college, an opening presented itself; he wanted to add some­thing to the community that had nurtured him. For the past 25 years he has been a coastal advocate for the Gaviota Coast Conservancy. He was a financial consultant, but has retired and discovered that “work,” while important, is overrated.

IMPORTANT COVID-19 POLICY

The health and safety of our attendees and their families are of utmost importance to us. Accordingly, we are limiting attendance to those who are fully vaccinated. Proof of vaccinations and boosters (digital Covid-19 Vaccination Card or a photo of your printed card) must be sent to our business manager via email (vistas@vistaslifelonglearning.org) or text (805-967-6030). This needs to be done only once—your proof of vaccination will remain valid for all Vistas events. We appreciate your understanding and cooperation.