Every year it seems the summers begin early and stretch into the fall. Record-breaking temperatures occur like clockwork as California’s drought continues and efforts to cut usage and reduce our personal impacts seem to make little difference. It’s easy to feel discouraged. But your local Resource Conservation District of the Santa Monica Mountains (RCDSMM) may have a solution: Get out and volunteer! The RCDSMM hosts volunteer events twice a month throughout the spring and summer and into the fall and we’re always looking for helping hands. During these events, participants help RCD staff care for and water more than 275 coast live oaks planted throughout Trippet Ranch in Topanga State Park to replace many mature oaks that have succumbed to the drought. Our volunteers spend the day hiking mountain trails, orange water buckets in tow, in search of thirsty young oak trees. They may feel exhausted by day’s end but invigorated thanks to the positive impact they’re having on our local ecosystem. Next time you’re feeling a little helpless about the changing climate, grab your hat, some hiking shoes and a water bottle and join us in Topanga’s oak woodland! For the full list of event dates, visit: rcdsmm.org/upcoming-events. For more information: (818) 597-8627; info@rcdsmm. Jelly Kahler is Education & Communications Specialist for RCDSMM, (661) 269-6901, akahler@rcdsmm.org.