Sonoma State University
April 18, 2026

Fairfield Osborn SOD Blitz

Bay leaves with symptoms of SOD

Fairfield Osborn Preserve
Sat, Apr 18, 10:00 am – 1:00 pm

Register for this event

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 walk to different spots to collect leaves and record basic data in teams of two or three people. We will be walking on a dirt paths that have 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. Participants can see 2025 SOD Blitz results online at https://sites.google.com/berkeley.edu/matteogarbelottolab/sod.

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

The maximum hike is 1.5 miles with a 100-foot elevation gain. The route is dependent on weather.

  • Fairfield Osborn Preserve is a 15-minute drive from Sonoma State University's main campus, on Lichau Road in Penngrove. Driving directions are available here English and Spanish
  • Parking is limited so please consider carpooling, and park close together. Let us know if you plan to carpool so we can open more registration spots accordingly.
  • The preserve gate will be unlocked 15-minutes prior to the start time of the event. The preserve gate will be locked 15-minutes after the start of the event time. It is not possible to join the event late or to leave the event early.
  • We will meet outside at the Federated Indians of Graton Rancheria Learning Center, which is across the footbridge on the east side of the parking lot.
  • A restroom, sink for hand-washing, and potable water are available on site.
  • 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).
  • Pets and smoking are not permitted.
  • Due to narrow, rocky, unpaved trails, sturdy shoes for hiking are required and no strollers are permitted.
  • This is a rain or shine event, though severe storm may cancel
  • Preserve regulations prohibit foraging for food.
  • No previous experience or knowledge is required to participate.
  • *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:

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.

Contact Email: [email protected]

Sonoma State University acknowledges the Coast Miwok, Central and Southern Pomo, and the Wappo as the traditional stewards of our preserved lands. Let it be acknowledged that the Sonoma State University campus is located within the traditional homelands of the Federated Indians of Graton Rancheria. Sonoma State offers deep gratitude to the original stewards of this land and recognizes its immense historical, spiritual, and personal significance to the Native nations and peoples of this region.