The latest Fillmore Rotary speaker was Ron Merkord from Cienega Springs Ecological Reserve. He is part of the Habitat Restoration and Public Access Project taking place on 280 acres, in the riverbed, near the Fish Hatchery. He is working with the Santa Clara River Conservancy, and Santa Barbara University to conserve the rare and endangered wildlife which are making an area for residents to enjoy this ecological resource. They began by removing the Arundo plants that are very invasive. Volunteers are planting locally adapted plants and broadcasting many pounds of native seeds. They are putting in walking trails and wildlife platforms for visitors to watch birds, fish and wildlife. The area is not open to the public yet. Pictured right are President Scott Beylik, speaker Ron Merkord and Program Chair Renee Swenson. Photo credit Martha Richardson.