Sonoma State University
August 30, 2026

Naturalist Ed Series: How to Notice in Nature

girl in nature points to tree next to man

Fairfield Osborn Preserve
Sun, Aug 30, 10:00 am – 1:00 pm

Register for this event

Admission Fees: This is a free event.

"I’m not a scientist; I just like to go out and explore! Like Rachel Carson said: 'It’s twice as important to feel as to know.'" This quote from our leader and long-time Osborn naturalist "Jurassic John" gets to the heart of seeing nature with new eyes. Names and labels are important, but it can be just as important to observe what we’re noticing through our senses. Join us to learn about inquiry, in which you and your fellow wanderers are partners in discovering information. 

This event is tailored for those who want to share the outdoors with others without needing to be content "experts." It is also appropriate for those searching for the educational possibilities in ADA-accessible spaces. 

Leader

  • "Jurassic John" Branscome, Naturalist
  • Suzanne DeCoursey, Education Manager at Center for Environmental Inquiry, Sonoma State University

Logistics

The maximum walk will be 0.5 miles with a 10-foot elevation gain. 

  • 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 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.
  • Please arrive to park in advance of the registered event start time. The preserve gate will be unlocked 20-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.
  • Preserve regulations prohibit foraging for food.
  • 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.

Osborn Naturalists

We offer a Naturalist Ed Series to become an Osborn Naturalist every semester. You can also learn more about becoming an Osborn naturalist here.

Contact Email: winingek@sonoma.edu
Contact Phone: 7076644056

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.

Sonoma State University reconoce a los Miwok de la costa (Coast Miwok), los Pomo del centro y del sur (Central and Southern Pomo), y los Wappo como los guardianes tradicionales de nuestros terrenos preservados. Cabe destacar que el campus de Sonoma State University está ubicado dentro de las tierras tradicionales de los Indios Federados de Graton Rancheria (Federated Indians of Graton Rancheria). Sonoma State expresa su profunda gratitud a los guardianes originales de esta tierra y reconoce el inmenso significado histórico, espiritual, y personal a las naciones y pueblos indígenas de esta región.