OC Habitats

03/31/2026

https://www.sierraclub.org/press-releases/2026/03/hegseth-invokes-national-security-seeking-exempt-gulf-oil-and-gas-activities

‘God Squad’ federal panel to meet next week to address exemption request

03/04/2026

02/25/2026

Species spotlight!
Meet California Sea Lavender, or Limonium californicum
This herbaceous perennial can be found along the coastline from Oregon down to Baja
California. These plants have a high salt tolerance and like to grow in salt marshes and on
beaches.
The base of the plant sprouts long leathery leaves from a single point that can reach 20cm in
length.
Flowering stalks sprout from this base and produce purple and white flowers that bloom from
summer to fall.
At the Upper Newport Bay project site OCH is partnering with Project grow to remove Algerian
Sea Lavender, an invasive species. These look similar to California Sea Lavender but have
more leaves which are darker and thinner, resembling a pom pom.
It is important for our team to remove this invasive species because if left unchecked, they
spread rapidly and steal nutrients from the native plants in the marsh.
At our most recent restoration at the UNB salt marsh site, our team of six removed 529 Algerian
ea lavender! Great work everyone!
Post Creator: Rebecca Cummings
Works Cited: Nature Collective
https://naturecollective.org/plant-guide/details/california-sea-lavender/

02/23/2026

Have you ever learned a weird piece of nature trivia and thought, “That can’t possibly be true?” Well, you may be right! There are many common myths and misconceptions out there about the natural world and how various plants and animals interact with each other and their environment. We here at OC Habitats are here to help clear the air by discussing some common myths about wildlife, where these myths originate, and the truth behind these fallacies.

Post Creator: OCH Intern Megan Steen
Sources:
https://extension.msstate.edu/publications/forestrywildlife-myths-and-misconceptions
https://allthingswildrehab.org/common-myths-about-wild-animals/
https://www.sierraclub.org/sierra/2015-2-march-april/green-life/9-myths-about-animals-you-probably-think-are-true
https://www.summitwildliferemoval.com/about-us/blog/common-myths-about-wildlife-debunked/

02/21/2026

What are eco-actions? 🌎
Eco-actions are positive, environmentally friendly activities that help reduce negative impacts on the planet. They can be small, everyday choices or larger commitments, such as supporting sustainable businesses and advocating for climate-friendly policies. Eco-actions are important because they help minimize negative human impacts on the planet and conserve resources such as water, food, and energy. By making these sustainable choices, we can protect our environments, reduce adverse human impacts like pollution, and create a healthier planet.
Here are some eco-action ideas that you can try out this weekend. Which ones will you try?
Walk or bike to nearby destinations instead of driving 🚴
Unplug electronics when not in use 🔌
Take shorter showers 🚿
Compost food waste ♻️
Use reusable shopping bags and water bottles 🛍️
Pick up trash 🚮
Volunteer at an OC Habitats event! Our next one is on 2/21, the HBWC Restoration this Saturday from 9-12 PM! Search “OC Habitats Eventbrite” in your browser to sign up to join us 🌿

Post Creator: Julia Bell
Works cited:
Sustainable Living Association
https://sustainablelivingassociation.org/25-easy-sustainable-actions/
Lifestyle Sustainability Directory
https://lifestyle.sustainability-directory.com/area/eco-friendly-action/

02/18/2026

Don’t forget to bring your reusable bag next time you shop! Here’s everything you need to know about California’s plastic bag ban in 2026. ♻️🛍️

02/17/2026

Just a few more days until the City of Mission Viejo’s Fun Run and Community Health Fair! Pre-register fees are available through the 20th, so don’t miss the chance to support OC Habitat’s conservation efforts, restoration projects, educational outreach, wildlife monitoring, and public service that protect habitats throughout Orange County. Make a difference by supporting local conservation efforts while having a great time at the Oso Fit 5k. We can’t wait to see you there!

Post Creator: Bea Arellano
Sources: https://osofit5k.org/
Photo credits: OC Habitats

01/21/2026

Some information about plastic bag laws in CA.

OAKLAND — California Attorney General Rob Bonta today announced settlements totaling $3.35 million with three major plastic bag producers, Novolex Holdings, LLC (Novolex), Inteplast Group Corporation (Interplast), and Mettler Packaging LLC (Mettler), resolving allegations that the companies violat...

01/21/2026

🎙️ New episode is live!
From the Hart with Ed Hart featuring Stacey Chartier-Grable, Founder of OCH ❤️
🎧 Find in our Link Tree

12/31/2025

Thanks to our incredible community, we’ve raised $14,241 toward protecting native habitats in Orange County 🎉

Only 1 day left to help us finish strong and support your local environment 🌱
Donate today via Give Butter or our website (link in bio).

12/24/2025

Only 7 days left to donate this year! Thank you so much to everyone who has donated so far and to those who have spread the word. Happy Holidays!