Microhabitats
Fairfield Osborn Preserve
11:30 am
– 2:30 pm
Admission Fees: This is a free event.
Concepts such as human impacts on habitats and climate change often focus on large scale processes and regional or global spaces. Rarely is there active consideration of the small and typically unseen. There are multitudes of microcosms in the nature around us. Microhabitats with complex food webs exist in a cup of pond water, a patch of moss, in the leaf litter, in the smallest of tide pools. In this community event we will search for biodiversity in these small spaces, taking samples from our adventure and bringing them back to our indoor learning space where we can use microscopes to have a closer look. We will make connections to crucial topics within biological science and discuss how our daily actions and choices directly and indirectly interface with the microcosms that surround us.
Leader
Shannon Lee, Lecturer, Sonoma State University Biology Department
Logistics
SSU’s Fairfield Osborn Preserve is a 15-minute drive from SSU’s main campus. This event will 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.