January 2020
Guided Elephant Seal Walks
Stroll over sand dunes on a moderate 3-mile, 2.5 hour hike with a docent naturalist to visit a large colony of Northern elephant seals. In the month of December, male elephant seals arrive and establish hierarchy, while pregnant females come ashore to birth to their pups. These popular daily guided walks take place rain or shine, so be prepared for windy, rainy conditions as well as muddy trails. Layered clothing, sturdy shoes, and rain gear are strongly advised. Umbrellas and…
Find out more »Ultraviolet Night Hike from Hunting Hollow
Come explore a surprising world of color at night! There are a number of animals, plants, and minerals in the park that fluoresce under long-wave ultraviolet light. Millepedes that glow blue-green, lichen that radiates bright pink, pinecones speckled with neon-green tree sap, flowers with interesting patterns. What we find will amaze you. We'll meet in the Hunting Hollow parking lot at 5pm and hand out ultraviolet flashlights. From there we'll explore the various creek crossings and trails to see what's…
Find out more »Guided Elephant Seal Walks
Stroll over sand dunes on a moderate 3-mile, 2.5 hour hike with a docent naturalist to visit a large colony of Northern elephant seals. In the month of December, male elephant seals arrive and establish hierarchy, while pregnant females come ashore to birth to their pups. These popular daily guided walks take place rain or shine, so be prepared for windy, rainy conditions as well as muddy trails. Layered clothing, sturdy shoes, and rain gear are strongly advised. Umbrellas and…
Find out more »Kid’s Hike: Ring in the MOO year! at Lynch Canyon
Spend the day off with the kids to join Solano Land Trust and the amazing kid’s hike docents on a hike to learn all about the free range cows at Lynch Canyon! Meeting location: Lynch Canyon Parking lot at 9:45. Wear good walking shoes and bring water and snacks. If it is raining, mud boots are advised. Rain may cancel hike. RSVP recommended. Free. *NOTE: There is a separate parking fee of $6 at Lynch Canyon, cash or check,…
Find out more »Exploring Historic Coe Ranch and Trails, 5 miles, Morgan Hill
Turn back time on Monday afternoon. Join Coe Volunteers as we investigate old ranch buildings and local scenic trails of the Coe Ranch. About 5 miles, 700 ft elevation gain. Back to cars by 4 pm. Check out the Coe residence, cook house, cold storage, blacksmith shop, and barns. Hike out and back on Live Oak trail. Hike up to views on top of Pine Ridge, and a monument to Henry Willard Coe. Return with a stop at the old…
Find out more »Mission Strategy Game
Gather round the table and play a board game set in the 18th century. Spend Spanish real coins and roll the sheep’s knucklebone to determine the fate of your mission. Geared for ages 8 and older. Free event. For more information, please call (831) 425-5849.
Find out more »Guided Elephant Seal Walks
Stroll over sand dunes on a moderate 3-mile, 2.5 hour hike with a docent naturalist to visit a large colony of Northern elephant seals. In the month of December, male elephant seals arrive and establish hierarchy, while pregnant females come ashore to birth to their pups. These popular daily guided walks take place rain or shine, so be prepared for windy, rainy conditions as well as muddy trails. Layered clothing, sturdy shoes, and rain gear are strongly advised. Umbrellas and…
Find out more »When Water Dreams – Art Exhibition
Canadian artist/photographer Bill Peters presents large-scale color images of the salt ponds, sloughs and wetlands of San Francisco Bay shot from a helicopter from 2009 through July of this year. The shoreline of San Francisco Bay is a crucible where the human forces that work on land and water intersect with nature. Infused with the graphic power and emotional sensibilities of formalist abstract art and color field painting, Peters’ work surprises: at first glance it appears fully abstract, indistinguishable from…
Find out more »Exploring Big Basin
Learn about redwoods, forest plants, fires, geology, history and more on these fun, varied hikes with docent Diane Shaw. Hikes are 5-8 miles and last up to 5 hours. Meet at park headquarters. Rain or shine, but strong winds may cancel. Free event. Vehicle day-use fee is $10. For more information, call (831) 338-8883.
Find out more »Guided Elephant Seal Walks
Stroll over sand dunes on a moderate 3-mile, 2.5 hour hike with a docent naturalist to visit a large colony of Northern elephant seals. In the month of December, male elephant seals arrive and establish hierarchy, while pregnant females come ashore to birth to their pups. These popular daily guided walks take place rain or shine, so be prepared for windy, rainy conditions as well as muddy trails. Layered clothing, sturdy shoes, and rain gear are strongly advised. Umbrellas and…
Find out more »When Water Dreams – Art Exhibition
Canadian artist/photographer Bill Peters presents large-scale color images of the salt ponds, sloughs and wetlands of San Francisco Bay shot from a helicopter from 2009 through July of this year. The shoreline of San Francisco Bay is a crucible where the human forces that work on land and water intersect with nature. Infused with the graphic power and emotional sensibilities of formalist abstract art and color field painting, Peters’ work surprises: at first glance it appears fully abstract, indistinguishable from…
Find out more »Sutro Native Plant Nursery Volunteer Day
PROPAGATION AND TRANSPLANTING at Mt. Sutro Native Plant Nursery Every Wednesday, 9:30am – 12:30pm Come enjoy a morning of Stewardship at the Sutro Nursery! Nursery activities include sowing seeds, transplanting plants, tending to our demonstration gardens, planting out on the mountain, and more, depending on the needs of the day. No experience necessary, tools and instruction provided. Please bring water and wear clothes you don’t mind getting a little dirty, sturdy shoes, and layers. Long pants and closed toe shoes are required.…
Find out more »State of the Watershed 2020: Sausal Creek Watershed
Who else is working in the Sausal Creek Watershed? Join Friends of Sausal Creek and other county and city groups working in the Sausal Creek Watershed for presentations on their projects efforts and their long term goals. Please join us to learn more about our larger community! Schedule: 6:30 – 7:00 p.m. Poster session featuring Adopt-A-Spot site leaders and nonprofit partners 7:00 – 9:00 p.m. Presentations include Councilmembers, City of Oakland Staff, Oakland Fire Department, and Alameda County Flood Control…
Find out more »Conservation Committee Meeting
The Conservation Committee discusses and reviews conservation issues that are affecting Santa Cruz County, including conservation topics such as forestry, wildlife habitats, water, transportation, pollution, preservation of heritage trees, and more. This Committee provides recommended actions to the Executive Committee regarding how to address these issues, such as writing letters to officials stating the Sierra Club Group's position. Open to the public. Meeting agendas and notes posted here: https://www.sierraclub.org/ventana/santa-cruz/conservation-committee-meetings-agendas-and-minutes
Find out more »Guided Elephant Seal Walks
Stroll over sand dunes on a moderate 3-mile, 2.5 hour hike with a docent naturalist to visit a large colony of Northern elephant seals. In the month of December, male elephant seals arrive and establish hierarchy, while pregnant females come ashore to birth to their pups. These popular daily guided walks take place rain or shine, so be prepared for windy, rainy conditions as well as muddy trails. Layered clothing, sturdy shoes, and rain gear are strongly advised. Umbrellas and…
Find out more »When Water Dreams – Art Exhibition
Canadian artist/photographer Bill Peters presents large-scale color images of the salt ponds, sloughs and wetlands of San Francisco Bay shot from a helicopter from 2009 through July of this year. The shoreline of San Francisco Bay is a crucible where the human forces that work on land and water intersect with nature. Infused with the graphic power and emotional sensibilities of formalist abstract art and color field painting, Peters’ work surprises: at first glance it appears fully abstract, indistinguishable from…
Find out more »Mount Madonna Fetid Adder’s Tongue Hike, CNPS
It’s a stinky little flower but an exciting one since it’s one of the first of the new year! Let’s see if the intriguing Fetid Adder’s Tongue is blooming at Mount Madonna. If not, we’ll have a nice hike in a lovely forest. We'll do ±4.5 mile loop with ±800 feet ascent. Bring water and lunch. Arrive early; we depart on time. Led by Andy Werner. This is a CALIFORNIA NATIVE PLANT SOCIETY field trip. Please don’t sign-up unless you…
Find out more »Favorite Edible Mushrooms of Sonoma County Presentation by Darvin DeShazer
Foragers, naturalists, and enthusiasts, join us for one of the most popular and timeless winter topics in natural history: edible mushrooms. If you’ve ever been stopped on a hike by a curious-looking mushroom and wondered, “Could I eat that?” this presentation is for you. The forests, grasslands, and woodlands of Sonoma County host about 3,000 species of mushrooms, half of which are edible. Local mushroom hunter, Darvin DeShazer, will take us on a visual journey through some of his favorite…
Find out more »Guided Elephant Seal Walks
Stroll over sand dunes on a moderate 3-mile, 2.5 hour hike with a docent naturalist to visit a large colony of Northern elephant seals. In the month of December, male elephant seals arrive and establish hierarchy, while pregnant females come ashore to birth to their pups. These popular daily guided walks take place rain or shine, so be prepared for windy, rainy conditions as well as muddy trails. Layered clothing, sturdy shoes, and rain gear are strongly advised. Umbrellas and…
Find out more »7-mile hike to Frog Lake & beyond, Coe Ranch, Morgan Hill
Join Coe Volunteers on this moderate 7-mile hike past Frog Lake to Middle Ridge with views to Mt Hamilton & Blue Ridge. About 1,500 feet elevation gain. Includes a creek crossing. Back to cars by 3 pm. Details: Walk along Manzanita Point Road, past ribbon-chert rocks. Stop to admire the acorn woodpeckers' oak tree granary at the grand junction. Head north on Flat FrogTrail, cross Little Fork Coyote Creek, and see what's swimming/ hopping at Frog Lake. Then it's up…
Find out more »When Water Dreams – Art Exhibition
Canadian artist/photographer Bill Peters presents large-scale color images of the salt ponds, sloughs and wetlands of San Francisco Bay shot from a helicopter from 2009 through July of this year. The shoreline of San Francisco Bay is a crucible where the human forces that work on land and water intersect with nature. Infused with the graphic power and emotional sensibilities of formalist abstract art and color field painting, Peters’ work surprises: at first glance it appears fully abstract, indistinguishable from…
Find out more »Redwood Grove Loop Walk
How do these grand redwoods grow to be so old? So tall? How are they important to humans? Join us for this fun and informative guided half-mile stroll through a magnificent old-growth redwood forest. Meet the famous Mother Tree, the Father of the Forest and the incredible Chimney Tree on this 1.5-hour walk. Bring water and good walking shoes. Meet at park headquarters. Stroller and wheelchair accessible. Free event. Vehicle day-use fee is $10. For more information, call (831) 338-8883.
Find out more »High School Earth Stewards at McClellan Ranch Preserve
Earth Stewards is a 16 week long high school afterschool program led by Grassroots Ecology that meets on Friday afternoons from 4-5:30 pm at McClellan Ranch Preserve. Throughout the program participants will: Assist in ongoing ecological restoration efforts on the preserve (pulling weeds, planting native plants, watering) Learn various environmental topics as well identify flora and fauna on the preserve Collect environmental data through surveying and vegetation monitoring Learn about college and career options in the environmental field Connect with…
Find out more »The Wild & Scenic Film Festival
The Wild & Scenic Film Festival On Tour is one of the largest environmental film festivals in North America and it’s coming to the Bankhead Theater in Livermore on January 24, 2020. These festivals are hosted globally by environmental groups such as ours whose mission is to bring awareness and education to a diverse audience and to inspire activism for a livable planet. The selected short films in our custom program portray beautiful, vital, and fragile environments, and introduce our…
Find out more »Wild Northern California Watersheds
Northern California is made up of whole areas that resemble large funnels. The rainy season can turn a babbling brook into a natural force that is both exciting and dangerous. Can the tides impact the natural flow of fresh water? Join Ranger Linda and learn more about our incredible geologic formations, changes in weather patterns, and unpredictable land and river conditions as tributary waters flow to the sea.
Find out more »FOOTRACE: China Camp Challenge 5K/10K/Half Marathon
Tucked behind the town of San Rafael and located along the San Francisco Bay sits China Camp State Park. A wonderful park for hikers, mountain bikers and of course, runners. Lots of single track trails to enjoy as well as views of the great landmarks of the Bay Area. We always like coming back to China Camp for its natural canopy of trees which protects you rain or shine, the diverse tidal marshes and the wild turkeys everywhere! Come join…
Find out more »Hike on the Fifield-Cahill Ridge Trail
Join SFPUC for a hike along the Fifield-Cahill Ridge Trail! Access to the Fifield-Cahill Ridge Trail, in the SF Watershed, is available only with a docent and we would love for you to be part of the adventure! You’ll experience lovely views of the Pacific, the Bay, and several reservoirs, and, if you’re lucky you may spot a bald eagle soaring above. Sign up for this hike through the SFPUC website! How to sign up: Register for the SFPUC site…
Find out more »Seal Adventure Weekend: Fundraiser for Coastside State Parks Association
Tickets available now! Experience a memory-making adventure by participating in a special fundraising event to support educational programs at Año Nuevo State Park and other California State Parks along the San Mateo coast. For one weekend only, visitors will have access to linger for an entire morning (8:30am-noon) or afternoon (1:30-5pm) to view the elephant seals at the peak of the breeding season. Only 100 visitors are allowed for each half-day session to enhance your experience. This rare opportunity is…
Find out more »When Water Dreams – Art Exhibition
Canadian artist/photographer Bill Peters presents large-scale color images of the salt ponds, sloughs and wetlands of San Francisco Bay shot from a helicopter from 2009 through July of this year. The shoreline of San Francisco Bay is a crucible where the human forces that work on land and water intersect with nature. Infused with the graphic power and emotional sensibilities of formalist abstract art and color field painting, Peters’ work surprises: at first glance it appears fully abstract, indistinguishable from…
Find out more »Birding Staten Island and Cosumnes River Preserve
It’s 90 minutes from Oakland and Berkeley to these Central Valley sites. The Nature Conservancy’s Staten Island is managed for the Sandhill Cranes, and the flooded fields are likely to have a variety of ducks, geese, and Tundra Swans. We’ll meet at Staten Island at 9:30 a.m. on Saturday. Participants have two options: A day trip to Staten Island and Cosumnes, with a lunch break on the porch at the Cosumnes Visitor Center. Continuing on, driving 100+ miles north, staying…
Find out more »Habitat Restoration: Saplings and Salmon
Join us in Lagunitas Creek to enhance salmon habitat by planting native trees! The goal of this event is to increase native tree cover above a newly created flood plain channel to provide shade and habitat for endangered Coho salmon which use our watershed to spawn. Increased tree cover will keep stream temperatures cool and provide lots of insects for young salmon to prey upon, while tree roots will provide sanctuary from fast-flowing water. We’ll be planting rain or shine,…
Find out more »Open House at the Castro Adobe: Beginnings at the Adobe
As your family begins a new year, please join us as we imagine the Castros’ experience as one of the first Spanish families to make their home in California. Warm up with some traditional hot chocolate from our cocina and keep out of the cold in the comfort of our adobe, where we will share the stories of this pioneering family and our pioneering park. When we finally open for regular days and hours, you can say you were there…
Find out more »Coast Nature Walk
We will explore the plants, animals, and geology of the spectacular coastal bluffs on this 2-mile family-friendly walk. Bring water, hat, closed toe shoes, and layered clothing. Meet at interpretive center. Trail stroller accessible. No pets. Free event. Vehicle day-use fee is $10. For more information, call (831) 426-0505.
Find out more »Sempervirens Falls Hike
Join us on a 4-mile hike to visit Sempervirens Falls, old-growth redwoods, Ohlone grinding rocks, the birthplace of Big Basin and more! Bring water, snacks, and good hiking shoes. Meet at park headquarters. Free event. Vehicle day use fee is $10. For more information, call (831) 338-8883.
Find out more »MUSHROOM HIKES AT FILOLI
Filoli’s mushroom hikes are for visitors new to the world of mushrooms and enthusiasts interested in discovering what fungi are fruiting on Filoli’s nature preserve. You’ll learn about the important ecosystems of fungi and how to spot mushrooms on the forest floor. This 90-minute hike traverses 2-3 miles of uneven terrain including moderate hills. The trails are not stroller or wheelchair accessible. Bring water, walking shoes, and clothing for light rain. Heavy rain cancels the hike. Children 5 and older…
Find out more »Old-Growth Redwood Tour
Are there different kinds of redwoods? How do coastal redwoods grow to become the tallest organisms on earth? Why are there so few old growth trees left? How important are banana slugs to the redwood ecosystems? Answer these questions and more every Saturday on our Redwood Grove Walks. One of our knowledgeable and friendly docents will lead you through the wondrous old growth forest and answer any questions you may have. Meet at the visitor center. Free event. Vehicle day-use…
Find out more »Discover Big Basin Redwoods Hike!
Explore the park’s less traveled backcountry with Docent Barry Grimm. This moderately paced hike will be individually tailored to your group. Based on group size, experience level, and weather conditions, we will choose from the many trails that explore the park’s most scenic areas. Bring water and good hiking shoes. Meet at park headquarters. Free event. Vehicle day-use fee is $10. For more information, call (831) 338-8883.
Find out more »Snakes Alive!
Why are snakes important to us? How do they see, smell, taste, and hear? What and how do they eat? What does a snake feel like? Come to the Sempervirens Room at park headquarters, meet docent Diane Shaw and her snake, and learn about the fascinating world of snakes. Free event. Vehicle day-use fee is $10. For more information, call (831) 338-8883.
Find out more »Wildcat Canyon San Pablo Ridge 7.2 Mile Moderate Hike
HIKING TIME: 3.5 hours DISTANCE: 7.2 miles, Loop. ELEVATION GAIN: Approx. 1400 feet DIFFICULTY: Moderate terrain and elevation. RULES: Dogs allowed FACILITIES: Restrooms and water at trailhead. WEATHER: 55° - 60° Fhttps://www.wunderground.com/weather/us/ca/el-cerrito/KCAELCER23Sunset: 5:24pm WAIVER:Please sign the online waiver. You MUST do so for each event. This is required for our liability insurance. If you are bringing guests, they must sign separately. Select the Event Title and fill in the form. Thank you in advance for your cooperation. The form is…
Find out more »Ranch Tours
Discover what life was like a century ago on this innovative dairy ranch. This hour-long tour includes the 1897 Victorian home, 1859 Gothic Revival farmhouse, 1896 water-powered machine shop, barns and other historic buildings. Free event. Vehicle day-use fee is $10. For more information, call (831) 426-0505.
Find out more »Redwood Grove Loop Walk
How do these grand redwoods grow to be so old? So tall? How are they important to humans? Join us for this fun and informative guided half-mile stroll through a magnificent old-growth redwood forest. Meet the famous Mother Tree, the Father of the Forest and the incredible Chimney Tree on this 1.5-hour walk. Bring water and good walking shoes. Meet at park headquarters. Stroller and wheelchair accessible. Free event. Vehicle day-use fee is $10. For more information, call (831) 338-8883.
Find out more »Trekking the Model
Join a Ranger or docent on a guided tour of the Bay Model, a 1.5-acre hydraulic model of the San Francisco Bay and Delta. Discover the stories of the two major operations that took place at this location between 1942 –2000.
Find out more »Trekking the Model
Join a Ranger or docent on a guided tour of the Bay Model, a 1.5-acre hydraulic model of the San Francisco Bay and Delta. Discover the stories of the two major operations that took place at this location between 1942 –2000.
Find out more »Trekking the Model
Join a Ranger or docent on a guided tour of the Bay Model, a 1.5-acre hydraulic model of the San Francisco Bay and Delta. Discover the stories of the two major operations that took place at this location between 1942 –2000.
Find out more »Seal Adventure Weekend: Fundraiser for Coastside State Parks Association
Tickets available now! Experience a memory-making adventure by participating in a special fundraising event to support educational programs at Año Nuevo State Park and other California State Parks along the San Mateo coast. For one weekend only, visitors will have access to linger for an entire morning (8:30am-noon) or afternoon (1:30-5pm) to view the elephant seals at the peak of the breeding season. Only 100 visitors are allowed for each half-day session to enhance your experience. This rare opportunity is…
Find out more »Seal Adventure Weekend: Fundraiser for Coastside State Parks Association
Tickets available now! Experience a memory-making adventure by participating in a special fundraising event to support educational programs at Año Nuevo State Park and other California State Parks along the San Mateo coast. For one weekend only, visitors will have access to linger for an entire morning (8:30am-noon) or afternoon (1:30-5pm) to view the elephant seals at the peak of the breeding season. Only 100 visitors are allowed for each half-day session to enhance your experience. This rare opportunity is…
Find out more »The Road Less Traveled: A Dog-Friendly Walk
On this dog-friendly walk, we travel North Escape Road, a paved road closed to traffic. We tour stunning old-growth redwood groves along beautiful Opal Creek. We’ll discuss redwood ecology and park history while exploring the deep shade of the redwood forest. This is a fun and easy, 3- mile, 2-hour walk with docent Diane Shaw. Dogs not required, but welcome! Bring water. Meet at park headquarters. High winds cancel. Free event. Vehicle day-use fee is $10. For more information, call…
Find out more »Nature Journal Fieldtrip – Hawk Hill in Marin Headlands
Join the Nature Journal Club for a day of nature exploration, art, and journaling. The Nature Journal Club is a wonderful group of nature lovers, artists, biologists, families, and friends that meet together to explore, wonder, and create art in the field. Every month we take a field trip together somewhere in the Greater Bay Area (other journaling clubs have regular events and trips in other areas- check out some of those links here). The field trips are open to…
Find out more »Salamander Safari
Discover some of the secretive salamanders that live in the redwood forest on this 2-mile excursion to Eagle Creek! Learn all about salamander life cycles, behaviors, adaptations, and the current threats facing these astounding amphibians. Make sure to bring water, proper hiking shoes, and a sense of adventure! Meet at the visitor center. Free event. Vehicle day-use fee is $10. For more information, call (831) 335-7077.
Find out more »Open House at the Castro Adobe: Beginnings at the Adobe
As your family begins a new year, please join us as we imagine the Castros’ experience as one of the first Spanish families to make their home in California. Warm up with some traditional hot chocolate from our cocina and keep out of the cold in the comfort of our adobe, where we will share the stories of this pioneering family and our pioneering park. When we finally open for regular days and hours, you can say you were there…
Find out more »Lake Solano Canoe Tour
Enjoy the lovely weather with a guided canoe tour at Lake Solano Park! This canoe adventure is from 12:30 PM – 2:30 PM and will be led by volunteer docents Linda Allison & Zoey Heyer-Gray. Discover the wonders of Putah Creek through exploration, relaxation, and education. The tour is an opportunity to learn about life along the river and the special riparian forest that grows along its banks. The guided trip is limited to 14 guests. Children age 8 and older are welcome…
Find out more »Ranch Tours
Discover what life was like a century ago on this innovative dairy ranch. This hour-long tour includes the 1897 Victorian home, 1859 Gothic Revival farmhouse, 1896 water-powered machine shop, barns and other historic buildings. Free event. Vehicle day-use fee is $10. For more information, call (831) 426-0505.
Find out more »Redwood Grove Loop Walk
How do these grand redwoods grow to be so old? So tall? How are they important to humans? Join us for this fun and informative guided half-mile stroll through a magnificent old-growth redwood forest. Meet the famous Mother Tree, the Father of the Forest and the incredible Chimney Tree on this 1.5-hour walk. Bring water and good walking shoes. Meet at park headquarters. Stroller and wheelchair accessible. Free event. Vehicle day-use fee is $10. For more information, call (831) 338-8883.
Find out more »Seal Adventure Weekend: Fundraiser for Coastside State Parks Association
Tickets available now! Experience a memory-making adventure by participating in a special fundraising event to support educational programs at Año Nuevo State Park and other California State Parks along the San Mateo coast. For one weekend only, visitors will have access to linger for an entire morning (8:30am-noon) or afternoon (1:30-5pm) to view the elephant seals at the peak of the breeding season. Only 100 visitors are allowed for each half-day session to enhance your experience. This rare opportunity is…
Find out more »A State of Change: Forgotten Landscapes of California.
Join us as we discuss Laura Cunningham’s captivating book- A State of Change: Forgotten Landscapes of California. “Vernal pools, protected lagoons, grassy hills rich in bunchgrasses and, where the San Francisco Bay is today, ancient bison and mammoths roaming a vast grassland. Through the use of historical ecology, Laura Cunningham walks through these forgotten landscapes to uncover secrets about the past, explore wh at our future will hold, and experience the ever-changing landscape of California. Combining the skill of an…
Find out more »Guided Elephant Seal Walks
Stroll over sand dunes on a moderate 3-mile, 2.5 hour hike with a docent naturalist to visit a large colony of Northern elephant seals. In the month of December, male elephant seals arrive and establish hierarchy, while pregnant females come ashore to birth to their pups. These popular daily guided walks take place rain or shine, so be prepared for windy, rainy conditions as well as muddy trails. Layered clothing, sturdy shoes, and rain gear are strongly advised. Umbrellas and…
Find out more »Toro County Park Mushroom Walk, CNPS (Formerly Pt Lobos Walk, #2)
This ±4 mile ramble with ±500 feet ascent will be primarily amongst oaks. We’ll stop to look at anything of interest and discuss the symbiotic relationships that have evolved between some mushrooms and plants. We’ll also discuss the gastronomic relationships between specific fungi and animals (including Homo sapiens). Bring water, lunch and rain gear. Heavy rain cancels. Led by Stanley Dudek If you are a no show or last minute canceller on a California Native Plant Society field trip, you…
Find out more »Transportation Committee Meeting
Our Transportation Committee advocates for sustainable transportation options, including bicycle, pedestrian, and public transit improvements, and opposes large scale expansions for automobiles, with greenhouse emissions in mind. The Transportation Committee makes recommendations on transportation issues of concern to the Executive Committee. Open to the public. Meeting agendas and notes posted here: https://www.sierraclub.org/ventana/santa-cruz/transportation-committee-meetings-agendas-and-minutes
Find out more »Guided Elephant Seal Walks
Stroll over sand dunes on a moderate 3-mile, 2.5 hour hike with a docent naturalist to visit a large colony of Northern elephant seals. In the month of December, male elephant seals arrive and establish hierarchy, while pregnant females come ashore to birth to their pups. These popular daily guided walks take place rain or shine, so be prepared for windy, rainy conditions as well as muddy trails. Layered clothing, sturdy shoes, and rain gear are strongly advised. Umbrellas and…
Find out more »Exploring Big Basin
Learn about redwoods, forest plants, fires, geology, history and more on these fun, varied hikes with docent Diane Shaw. Hikes are 5-8 miles and last up to 5 hours. Meet at park headquarters. Rain or shine, but strong winds may cancel. Free event. Vehicle day-use fee is $10. For more information, call (831) 338-8883.
Find out more »SF Green Film Festival Presents: ICE ON FIRE by Leonardo DiCaprio
Join SF Green Film for a free screening of Leonardo DiCaprio’s new HBO documentary, Ice on Fire. Tuesday, Jan 28 Produced by Oscar-winner Leonardo DiCaprio, George DiCaprio and Mathew Schmid and directed by Leila Conners, Ice on Fire is an eye-opening documentary that focuses on many never-before-seen solutions designed to slow down our escalating environmental crisis. The film goes beyond the current climate change narrative and offers hope that we can actually stave off the worst effects of global warming. With sweeping…
Find out more »The Curious World of Seaweed, Josie Iselin – American Cetacean Society – SF Bay Chapter
Marine algae are the supreme eco-engineers of life: they oxygenate the oceans, create habitat for countless other organisms, and form the base of a food chain that keeps our planet unique in the universe as we know it. In this beautiful volume, Josie Iselin explores both the artistic and the biological presence of sixteen seaweeds and kelps that live in the thin region along our Pacific Coast. Historical botanical illustrations and Iselin’s signature portraits of each specimen reveal their vibrant…
Find out more »Astronomy lecture: Taking snapshots of planets around other stars
Please join the Mt. Diablo Astronomical Society on January 28 for our general meeting featuring Dr. Gaspard Duchene, Associate Researcher and Lecturer at UC Berkeley, who will discuss the methods used to obtained the first images of planets around other stars. Dr. Duchene also will review the development of techniques and instruments over the past few years that have been used to perform large-scale surveys of hundreds of nearby stars. The meeting starts at 7:15 p.m. with a short “What’s…
Find out more »Guided Elephant Seal Walks
Stroll over sand dunes on a moderate 3-mile, 2.5 hour hike with a docent naturalist to visit a large colony of Northern elephant seals. In the month of December, male elephant seals arrive and establish hierarchy, while pregnant females come ashore to birth to their pups. These popular daily guided walks take place rain or shine, so be prepared for windy, rainy conditions as well as muddy trails. Layered clothing, sturdy shoes, and rain gear are strongly advised. Umbrellas and…
Find out more »Sutro Native Plant Nursery Volunteer Day
PROPAGATION AND TRANSPLANTING at Mt. Sutro Native Plant Nursery Every Wednesday, 9:30am – 12:30pm Come enjoy a morning of Stewardship at the Sutro Nursery! Nursery activities include sowing seeds, transplanting plants, tending to our demonstration gardens, planting out on the mountain, and more, depending on the needs of the day. No experience necessary, tools and instruction provided. Please bring water and wear clothes you don’t mind getting a little dirty, sturdy shoes, and layers. Long pants and closed toe shoes are required.…
Find out more »Redwood Grove Loop Walk
How do these grand redwoods grow to be so old? So tall? How are they important to humans? Join us for this fun and informative guided half-mile stroll through a magnificent old-growth redwood forest. Meet the famous Mother Tree, the Father of the Forest and the incredible Chimney Tree on this 1.5-hour walk. Bring water and good walking shoes. Meet at park headquarters. Stroller and wheelchair accessible. Free event. Vehicle day-use fee is $10. For more information, call (831) 338-8883.
Find out more »High School Earth Stewards at McClellan Ranch Preserve
Earth Stewards is a 16 week long high school afterschool program led by Grassroots Ecology that meets on Friday afternoons from 4-5:30 pm at McClellan Ranch Preserve. Throughout the program participants will: Assist in ongoing ecological restoration efforts on the preserve (pulling weeds, planting native plants, watering) Learn various environmental topics as well identify flora and fauna on the preserve Collect environmental data through surveying and vegetation monitoring Learn about college and career options in the environmental field Connect with…
Find out more »February 2020
Registration Opens – 2020 Portola to the Sea Backpacking Trip
Portola to the Sea: Portola Redwoods State Park to Waddell State Beach (June 11 – 14, 2020) LIMITED SPOTS AVAILABLE – REGISTRATION OPENS FEB. 1, 2020 Enjoy a naturalist-led hike to the top of the beloved Skyline to the Sea route on this 3-night, 4-day excursion. The route travels through some of the most remote trails in the Santa Cruz Mountains and includes two nights at the iconic Sunset Trail Camp. Beginning in Portola Redwoods State Park at peak elevation,…
Find out more »Sunrise Wetland Walk with “Duck Man” Dave Barry
Celebrate International Wetlands Day with an early winter morning on the Laguna de Santa Rosa with local wetland birder “Duck Man” Dave Barry! We will visit two sites along the Laguna, not normally open to the public, where waterfowl love to hang out during the winter months. Come learn basic identification techniques and key characteristics of waterfowl found in Sonoma County and along the Laguna de Santa Rosa at different times of year, as well as learn cool facts such…
Find out more »Registration Opens – 2020 Portola to the Sea Backpacking Trip
Portola to the Sea: Portola State Park to Waddell State Beach (June 11 – 14, 2020) LIMITED SPOTS AVAILABLE – REGISTRATION OPENS FEB. 1, 2020 Enjoy a naturalist-led hike to the top of the beloved Skyline to the Sea route on this 3-night, 4-day excursion. The route travels through some of the most remote trails in the Santa Cruz Mountains and includes two nights at the iconic Sunset Trail Camp. Beginning in Portola Redwoods State Park at peak elevation, you’ll…
Find out more »Sorrel Saturdays at Redwood Grove Nature Preserve
Sorrel Saturdays at Redwood Grove Nature Preserve Join your fellow community members on the 1st Saturdays of every month through winter 2019 and spring 2020 to bolster Adobe Creek’s banks and Redwood Grove’s native habitat. Depending on weather, we will be weeding, mulching, staking willows, and installing native plants. Registration: All participants must register & approve the online waiver. Youth under 18 must have their legal guardian approve the waiver on their behalf. Grassroots Ecology encourages people from all identities…
Find out more »Registration Opens – 2020 Skyline to the Sea Backpacking Trip
Skyline to the Sea: Castle Rock State Park to Waddell State Beach (July 16-19, 2020) LIMITED SPOTS AVAILABLE – REGISTRATION OPENS FEB. 1, 2020 This is the quintessential Santa Cruz Mountains backpacking experience. Find yourself on a legendary 3-night, 4-day adventure from Castle Rock to Waddell State Beach. The trek spans 30+ miles of stunning ridgeline panoramas, mixed oak, madrone and redwood forests, riparian habitats, grassy meadows, spring-fed waterfalls, and ends on the soft sandy beach. Adventurers will hike up…
Find out more »Registration Opens – 2020 In Pursuit of Perseids Backpacking Trip
In Pursuit of Perseids: Castle Rock State Park (August 11 – 12, 2020) LIMITED SPOTS AVAILABLE – REGISTRATION OPENS FEB. 1, 2020 Enjoy a mesmerizing backpacking trip under the stars. Scheduled around the annual Perseids meteor shower, this journey through Castle Rock enables you to view shooting stars in the quiet and darkness of the backcountry. Perseids are only clearly seen every other year due to a full moon, and this trip includes camping far away from any city lights.…
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