THE KNEE-HIGH grass looks lush now. By June 1, it turns brown and is a fire hazard. Come help prevent future fires and give the grounds at Meher Mount some much-needed tender loving care. (Photo: Sam Ervin, April 20, 2018)
HELP PROTECT MEHER MOUNT
The Thomas Fire - the largest wildfire in California's history - struck Meher Mount on December 4, 2017. The damage to the buildings was minimal because of all the previous efforts for fire abatement.
Spring has arrived. The burned and charred hills of December are now covered in flowers, green grasses, and weeds. That's the good news - life returns.
The challenging news is that the tall grasses turn brown and become a fire hazard. And the green weeds in the gardens need tending.
One recent visitor said seeing the sprouting weeds at Meher Mount was heartbreaking. He returned the next several days to begin weeding the garden. There is still more to be done.
BY JUNE 1 of every year, Meher Mount must clear away brush and tall grasses at least 150 feet from every building for fire protection.
Come volunteer for the Fire Prevention & TLC Weekend to clear away brush and give the grounds at Meher Mount some needed tender loving care (TLC).
All fire abatement work must be accomplished before June 1, 2018, in preparation for inspection by the Ventura County Fire Department.
You will feel a sense of accomplishment and joy in helping to preserve this place made sacred by Avatar Meher Baba's presence.
FIRE PREVENTION VOLUNTEER WEEKEND
Fit your volunteer time to your schedule. Meher Mount will be open for two days of volunteer work. Pick a time that works for you and join the group for another fun and productive volunteer event. RSVP to volunteer coordinator Jim Whedon.
- DATE: Saturday, May 19, 2018
- TIME: 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
- PLACE: Meher Mount, 9902 Sulphur Mountain Road, Ojai
- DATE: Sunday, May 20, 2018
- TIME: 8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
- PLACE: Meher Mount, 9902 Sulphur Mountain Road, Ojai
WHAT TO BRING
CLEARING THE EMERGENCY access road at Meher Mount during Restoration Weekend. James Whedon, Homayar Gandhi, Brad Spurr, Sam Ervin (on the tractor), Khushnam Crawford and Kyle Morrison. (Photo: Margaret Magnus, March 11, 2018)
- Bring layers, including a windbreaker, as the temperature changes throughout the day
- Wear work clothes and sturdy, close-toed shoes that can get dirty
- Bring a hat, work gloves if you have them, and sunglasses
- If you have pruning shears or loppers, mark your name on them and please bring them
- Please bring your own lunch and water
TRAVEL GUIDELINES
If you are coming from out-of-the area, staying at Meher Mount is not possible, even camping. There are nearby camp grounds and motels in Santa Paula and Ojai. See Area Information.
NO-HOST DINNER - SATURDAY, MAY 19, 2018
For those who are interested, there is a no-host dinner at Boccali's restaurant in Ojai on Saturday, May 19, 2018, at 5:30 p.m. Please bring cash. The bill is totaled with tax and tips added, and then divided evenly between the members of the group.
WHAT TO TAKE AWAY
When Meher Mount passes inspection with flying colors there is the sense of a job well done. As a valued volunteer, you have helped to maintain this semi-wilderness area in honor of Meher Baba, been a good Ojai neighbor, and helped preserve the habitat of the wildlife - not to mention help prevent the spread of wildfire.