Weed Walk

Galbreath Wildlands Preserve
Sat, Jun 13, 10:00 am – 4:00 pm

Register Here

Admission Fees: none

Photo Credit: Scotch Broom, (Cytisus scoparius) Photo 70985676, (c) Ina Siebert, some rights reserved (CC BY-NC) via iNaturalist

In this field-based conversation about “weeds”, we will talk about what they are – looking at several species that are widespread in this part of California - why we need to manage them, and how they affect both agriculture and natural ecosystems. We’ll begin with the big picture (ecology, land stewardship, and practical impacts), then get truly “into the weeds” by identifying and discussing priority species on the landscape such as Scotch broom, French broom, and yellow star thistle. Along the way, we’ll compare management approaches, from hand-pulling and targeted tools to the more complex and sometimes controversial role of herbicides.

We’ll tour parts of the preserve by car, stop to walk key areas, and wrap up in a group circle to share observations, resources, and real-world management techniques you can use.

This is a different kind of plant walk—and one you’re going to enjoy.

This event is produced in partnership with the Anderson Valley Land Trust.

Leader

Price Sheppy, Conservation Director at the Anderson Valley Land Trust, will be our guide, along with other community experts. Price’s previous role at the Golden Gate National Parks Conservancy as a Community Program Manager involved leading programs in community engagement and endangered species habitat restoration. He will be joined by Clebson Gomes Goncalves, Diversified Agriculture Advisor in Lake and Mendocino counties, University of California Agriculture and Natural Resources, UC Cooperative Extension.

Logistics

• We will meet at the main entrance to the Galbreath Preserve at 30720 Elkhorn Road in Yorkville, Mendocino County at the very end of this county dirt road, about 5.6 miles off Highway 128. Directions to the preserve can be found at this link.  The preserve is a 90-minute drive from Sonoma State's main campus.  
• Parking is limited so please consider caropooling
• It is not possible to join the event late or to leave the event early.
• AWD or 4-wheel drive vehicles are required on the preserve.
• You will receive more detailed information via email just before the event.
• Participant 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, and all minors must be registered individually for the event (the parent's/guardian's email can be used for their registration).
• There is a restroom (porta-potty) available a few miles from the entrance of the preserve.
• Pets and smoking are not permitted.
• Due to rocky, unpaved roads, sturdy shoes for hiking are required and no strollers are permitted.
• We will be walking over uneven and potentially steep ground in forested areas, but the walk will not be strenuous–perhaps half a mile total with minimal elevation gain. Walking sticks may be helpful.
• No previous experience or knowledge is required to participate.
• This is a rain or shine event, but if the weather forecast is concerning, we will notify you via email of cancellation.

What to Bring

Please bring a backpack, sun and insect protection, rain gear, a water bottle, a bag lunch, and sturdy shoes to hike in. Layered clothing and long pants are recommended. Layered clothing and long pants are recommended. Walking sticks might be helpful.

There is a restroom available at the Galbreath Preserve, but no drinking water.

How to Sign Up

See registration 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.