California Naturalist Class

The California Naturalist Program promotes environmental literacy and stewardship through discovery and action. The class immerses participants in the natural history of Mendocino County from geology and botany to wildlife ecology. To become a certified California Naturalist, join our 2026 class at the UC Hopland Research and Extension Center.

Courses combine classroom and field experience in science, problem-solving, communication training and community service.

Class & Readings

The class runs across six Saturdays in 2026 (2/21, 3/7, 3/21, 4/11, 4/18, 5/2). Each class will include classroom and field time at the UC Hopland Research and Extension Center. Classes will run from 8:30am-5pm. 

Click here for more details on the class.

Cost

We are committed to building an inclusive community. Our equity pricing allows us to serve the community better and to recover the costs of this class. 

Registration is $490 per person (includes certification, instruction, some materials, and facility costs). If you are unable to pay this amount due to low income or extenuating circumstances, please use our income guide and sliding scale to adjust your course cost. Minimum payment is $320. 

Donor funds will support the costs of those who are unable to pay the total amount.

To assist you in determining an appropriate payment amount for your circumstances, 2024 Mendocino County U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development low income indicator data is provided as guidance.  

Early registration is recommended. This class typically sells out.

Scholarships

A limited number of need-based scholarships are available that will cover up to 50% of the registration costs. Applications for financial aid must be received by January 7.  All applicants will receive notification of their scholarship status January 9. Scholarships applicants only need fill out the scholarship question on the application form, no payment is required at this stage.

Click here to register.