The Irvine Ranch Conservancy recently honored its team of volunteers and partners at a celebration held in Limestone Canyon Nature Preserve.
Among those thanked were Joe Bramblett and Joan Steiner, who have each contributed more than 8,000 lifetime hours, and Irvine City Manager Oliver Chi, who was presented with IRC’s Most Valuable Partner Award.
“Oliver’s commitment to collaboration and his vision for Irvine’s Open Space Preserve fit perfectly with our mission,” said IRC President and CEO Michael O’Connell. “He has energized the city and our relationship, and it has been an honor to work with him on so many exciting projects, including the new 700-acre Gateway Preserve that will connect residents to the local mountains.”
Last year, 538 volunteers pitched in 30,468 hours of help, valued at over $1 million for the conservancy, which cares for tens of thousands of acres of open space on The Irvine Ranch.