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Ecology Center offers harvest moon hike

The Sonoma Ecology Center (SEC) will offer a public full harvest moon outing from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 29, at the Montini Open Space Preserve.

The outing will provide participants with an opportunity to view the full moon while learning about the natural history of the preserve.

Connor Ross and Megan FitzSimmons, Sonoma Ecology Center naturalists, will discuss the rich natural and cultural history of the Montini Open Space Preserve during this hike.

The harvest moon gets its name because it is the full moon nearest the autumnal equinox in the northern hemisphere. Traditionally, at the peak of the harvest, farmers can work late into the night by the light of the harvest moon. ?

The Montini Open Space Preserve was protected by the Sonoma County Agricultural Preservation and Open Space District in December 2005 for recreation and preservation of its natural and rich historical significance, having been a working ranch since the time of Gen. Vallejo.

Encompassing 152 acres, the property is in and adjacent to the City of Sonoma. With oak woodland, large rock outcroppings and open grassland, the property offers beautiful views of San Francisco and San Pablo Bays.

Due to some elevation gain and uneven footing, the hike is rated intermediate to advanced; however, there will be frequent pauses to take in the sights. There is no charge for this outing.

Space for this outing is limited and reservations are required by 5 p.m. on Friday, Sept. 28. To register online, visit www.sonomaecologycenter.org. For additional information, contact Jessica Glatt at 996-0712, ext. 110, or jessica@sonomaecologycenter.org.