Naturalist Ed Series: Insects of Osborn Preserve
Fairfield Osborn Preserve
2:00 pm
– 5:00 pm
Admission Fees: This is a free event.
Come discover the vast range of insect sizes, shapes, colors, and behaviors! These animals play vital roles in ecosystems, including pollination, decomposition, and serving as food for other animals, and Osborn Preserve's nine plant communities are the home to a wide variety. Insects communicate through pheromones, sounds, and even light. Insects can be beneficial for humans, such as pollinators, or harmful, such as pests that damage crops.
**This event is part of the Naturalist Ed Series. The event within this series allows participants the option to become Osborn naturalists to address Nature Deficit Disorder.
Leader
Cameron Olson, Graduate Student, Sonoma State University Biology Department
Cameron is conducting research on the population dynamics and interactions of an insect food web in the Eastern Sierra Nevada under his advisor, Dr. Nathan Rank, who has investigated the willow leaf beetle and its natural variation and adaptation for decades.
Logistics
The events within the Naturalist Ed Series are held outdoors at SSU’s Fairfield Osborn Preserve, a 15-minute drive from SSU’s main campus. All events occur rain or shine.
The maximum hike is 2 miles with a 400-foot elevation gain.
Driving Directions can be found here. A sink for handwashing, potable water, and restrooms are available on site. Please arrive to park in advance of the registered event start time. The preserve gate will be unlocked 20 minutes before the event start time. You will be asked to sign a liability waiver upon your arrival. 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. Pets and smoking are not permitted.
Please consider carpooling, as parking at the preserve is limited. If you plan on bringing additional participants, please have them register as well.
What to Bring
Please bring a backpack, water bottle and snacks for the trail. We recommend layered clothing, covered shoes, a hat, rain gear and sun protection.
How to Sign Up
Register at the link above. Each participant 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
If you have any questions about the event/registration inquires please contact Kerry Wininger.