California Naturalist Course with Pepperwood Preserve
About the Event
This California Naturalist course will introduce you to the wonders of Sonoma County ecology and natural history through guided observation and stewardship. The course combines a science-based curriculum with guest lecturers, field excursions, and project-based learning to immerse you in the natural world of the Mayacamas Mountains where Pepperwood resides. This 10-session course meets in person on Saturdays to explore Pepperwood and learn from local experts in geology, soils, and the plants and animals that call this area home. Each session includes indoor classroom time and outdoor field exploration.
Those completing the 40-hour course along with a stewardship project will receive their California Naturalist Certification through the UC certification program. Participation in the California Naturalist course at Pepperwood also serves as one pathway to becoming a Pepperwood Steward. Our Stewards are a special team of dedicated volunteers who support Pepperwood’s work through regular involvement in our classes & events, stewardship workdays, and community/citizen science. Through this course, you will join a vibrant community of committed volunteer naturalists and community scientists trained and ready to take an active role in natural resource conservation, education and restoration.
Dates: January 17 - March 28, 2026
Fees: $500 per person (limited scholarships available)
Delivery Mode: In-Person
Contact: Summer Swallow, sswallow@pepperwoodpreserve.org
Organization Description: Pepperwood Preserve is a 3,200 acre nature preserve, and serves as a living laboratory to engage students, volunteers, and scientists in applied conservation. With many different ecosystems to explore, including grasslands, vernal ponds, oak woodlands, mixed evergreen forests, and serpentine chaparral, the preserve serves as a Watershed Sentinel Site dedicated to tracking ecosystem health over time by systematically monitoring things like weather, soil moisture, stream flow, and the diversity and vitality of local plant and animal populations.