Project: Clean Water Matilija Schoolyard Habitat and OFG This
project was initiated by Renee Roth, an OFG activist with the
Ventura County Surfrider Chapter. Renee learned of the U.S.
Department of Fish and Wildlife’s Schoolyard Habitat Program
(SYH). SYH offers technical assistance and funding to non-
profits working to create school gardens that provide wildlife
habitat and an outdoor classroom. Ojai Unified School District
Green Schools Committee had been searching for strategies to
increase student participation in environmental education and
outdoor learning. The project is being phased in, and will
eventually transform 2/3rd of an acre. Through the project,
students observe, explore, and learn while restoring natural
habitat for wildlife and contributing to protecting our
watersheds. Directing rainwater from nearby buildings into the
garden and creating contours on the site reduces the need for
irrigating with local or imported drinking water and prevents
runoff – important objectives of the Ocean Friend