Geology is for Everyone!
Fairfield Osborn Preserve
Sat, Oct 3, 11:00 am
– 1:00 pm
Admission Fees: none
Geology is more than you might think! It is the study of the Earth: its composition, history and physical processes. How can we figure out what lies underground? What can groundwater, soils, seismic waves, and other clues tell us about a landscape - and how do they help us understand where and how we build?
Come explore Osborn Preserve with an SSU Geology alum and professional field geologist who investigates soil and groundwater conditions for projects such as buildings, dams, and levees. We’ll look at how water moves through and interacts with the ground, how geologists use seismic waves and other techniques to investigate what we can’t see from the surface, and how faults, landslides, streams, and erosion continue to reshape Sonoma County. Along the way, you’ll discover how the geology beneath us influences everything from the water we depend on to the places we live - and you might just leave a “rock nerd” too!
This event is family friendly and part of SSU's Big Blue Weekend.
Presenter
Christine Anderson, CEI Naturalist and SSU Geology Department Alum
Logistics
The maximum hike will be 1.5 miles with a 100-foot elevation gain. The route is dependent on weather. We will be walking on trails over uneven, occasionally steep, ground.
- Fairfield Osborn Preserve is a 15-minute drive from Sonoma State's main campus, on Lichau Road in Penngrove. Driving directions are available here in English and in 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 (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 storms may cancel.
- No previous experience or knowledge is required to participate.
What to Bring
Sturdy footwear for hiking is required. Please bring a backpack, a water bottle, and snacks for the trail. Layered clothing, long pants, toe-covered shoes, rain gear, a hat, sun protection, and insect protection are recommended. Walking sticks may 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.