Explore a western pond with City Water Resources Analyst,  Jenny Viera. As essential ecosystem engineers, turtles maintain ecological balance, such as cycling nutrients and creating burrows for other wildlife. Protecting them also preserves biodiversity and cultural heritage.

The monthly “Loch Walks” are included in the entry fee for the Recreation Area. There is a $10.00 charge per vehicle for entrance to the park. Walk participants are encouraged to dress for variable weather conditions and to wear proper footwear for hiking on dirt trails and for changes in elevation.   

The Loch Lomond Recreation Area is a 180-acre reservoir and part of the 2,800-acre watershed land holdings that the City of Santa Cruz Water Department manages in the Newell Creek watershed. Loch Lomond serves as Santa Cruz City’s only drinking water reservoir.   

To RSVP for the Loch Walk, please call 831 335-7424.