Galbreath SOD Blitz
Galbreath Wildlands Preserve
Sun, Apr 19, 10:00 am
– 2:00 pm
Admission Fees: none
Help control this destructive forest pathogen! Now in its 19th year, this statewide community science project is vital to managing Sudden Oak Death, which is widespread in Sonoma and Mendocino counties. Join SSU students and staff in contributing to this ongoing citizen science project.
Leader
Kerry Wininger, Director of Center for Environmental Inquiry and former Sudden Oak Death Outreach Coordinator for the UC Cooperative Extension of Sonoma County.
Details
On the preserve, we will drive to different spots for a one-mile walk to collect leaves and record basic data in teams of two or three people. We will be walking on a rocky road that has varied terrain to accommodate different levels of fitness. All equipment will be provided and there is no previous experience required.
Collected samples will be sent to the UC Berkeley Forest Pathology Lab for analysis, and participants can see 2023 SOD Blitz results online at https://ucanr.edu/county/ucce-sonoma-county/sudden-oak-death-program.
This event is free of charge, family-friendly, and no previous experience or knowledge about Sudden Oak Death is required. CEI SOD Blitzes are in partnership with the UC Master Gardener Program of Sonoma County and UC Cooperative Extension, Sonoma County, with funding from the USDA Forest Service.
Logistics
- We will meet at the entrance to the Galbreath Preserve at 30720 Elkhorn Rd. in Yorkville, Mendocino County. The preserve is a 90-minute drive from Sonoma State's main campus. Driving directions are available here
- Parking is limited so please consider carpooling.
- It is not possible to join the event late or to leave the event early.
- All vehicles that enter the Preserve must be AWD or 4-wheel drive vehicle.
- You will receive more detailed information via email just before the event.
- Participants must sign a waiver upon arrival.
- This event is appropriate for minors 12 years and older. All minors must be accompanied by a legal guardian for the entire event, and all minors must be registered individually for the event (the parent’s/guardian’s email can be used for their registration)
- There is a restroom and (porta-potty) available a few miles from the entrance to the preserve.
- Pets and smoking are not permitted.
- Due to rocky, unpaved roads, sturdy shoes for hiking are required and no strollers are permitted.
- No previous experience or knowledge is required to participate.
- This is a rain or shine event, but if the weather forecast is concerning, we will notify you via email of cancellation.
- *IMPORTANT*: Before sampling, please spend about 30 minutes with these training resources to help you understand the characteristics of the pathogen and how to recognize the symptoms:
- Watch all videos and read all resources on the SOD Blitz Survey Training Page from Dr. Matteo Garbelotto's lab at UC Berkeley
- Please also download the SODMap Mobile app (see "What to Bring" below)
- More information available should you wish here:
What to Bring
Before leaving home, please download the SODMAP Mobile app if you have an iPhone (Android users, we'll pair you with someone who has the app).
Please bring a backpack, sun and insect protection, rain gear, a water bottle, a bag lunch or snacks, and sturdy shoes to hike in. Layered clothing and long pants are recommended. Walking sticks might be helpful.
How to Sign Up
See registration link above. Each person should register separately. This event is free of charge.
About the Center
Sonoma State University’s Center for Environmental Inquiry empowers university students to work with community members on the environmental challenges of the North Bay. Our mission is to create an engaged and environmentally ready society, one where all people have the skills to find solutions to the challenges facing our earth. SSU Preserves are open to everyone engaged in education or research. Reservations are required.