About the California Naturalist Course
This 9-week UC-certified course explores our local ecology, engages you in citizen science, and allows you to share your knowledge with others. The 40-hour course combines a science curriculum with guest lecturers, field trips, and project-based learning to explore the unique ecology and natural history of the Inner Coastal Range of Sonoma and Napa. If you enjoy exploring and learning about our local ecology, engaging in citizen science, and sharing your knowledge with others, this program is for you!
Click here to see the 2025 Syllabus
Click here to watch a short introductory video on the statewide California Naturalist program.
Overview
The California Naturalist Program aims to cultivate a community of volunteer naturalists and community scientists dedicated to natural resource conservation, education, and restoration. This course explores local ecology through a science-based curriculum combined with lectures, field trips, and hands-on projects.
Course Objectives
1. Understand the role of a naturalist.
2. Grasp the biotic, abiotic, and cultural elements of Sonoma Valley ecology.
3. Develop skills in field observation and record-keeping.
4. Interpret and communicate natural resource information.
5. Connect local ecosystems to broader environmental challenges.
Meeting Days & Times:
The Spring 2025 course runs from February 26 to April 26.
Bi-Weekly Zoom Classes Wednesdays, 6:00-8:30 pm.
Field trips are held on select Saturdays 8:30 am-12:30 pm, with an early morning session on April 26.
Fee:
$500 registration. Need-based scholarships are available. Students must purchase The California Naturalist Handbook (2013, UC Press).
Refund Policy
If you need to cancel your registration, please contact [email protected] as soon as possible. We aim to accommodate changes in participant availability while ensuring program resources are managed effectively. Full refunds, minus a $50 processing fee, are available if your cancellation request is received by February 19, 2025. Cancellations made by March 5 will be eligible for a 50% refund of the registration fee.
Course Benefits Include:
Classroom sessions and hands-on field trips with local expert lecturers, field biologists, and a UC curriculum
UC California Naturalist Certificate awarded upon completion of course requirements
Optional 4 UC academic credits for an additional fee
Future discounts on unique training opportunities
Opportunities to develop your CV and skillset
Lifetime membership to a statewide network of institutions and certified UC California Naturalists
For more information contact Lead Instructor Tony Passantino at [email protected].
If you need assistance with the enrollment process, please get in touch with the Human Resources Manager to see how we can best help, with reasonable accommodations when appropriate. Email [email protected]
