Naturalist Ed Series: Observation & Inquiry
Fairfield Osborn Preserve
Sun, Jan 25, 2:00 pm
– 4:30 pm
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 back to the basics of environmental education. Names and labels are important to communicate, 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 students are partners in discovering information.
This event is tailored for naturalists, teachers, and parents 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.
**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.
Osborn Naturalists
This event is part of the Naturalist Ed Series, a program that trains participants to become an Osborn Naturalists in perpetuity. You can learn more about becoming an Osborn Naturalist to address nature-deficit disorder here, or contact Suzanne Decoursey at [email protected] for more information. No experience required. Must be age 18 years or older.
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.
- 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.
- Must be age 18 years or older.
- Pets and smoking are not permitted.
- This is a rain or shine event, though a severe storm 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
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.