Community Education
Walks, Talks, and ClassesThe Laguna Foundation is proud to collaborate with local biologists, artists, educators, naturalists, and partner organizations to offer a wide range of natural and cultural history online programs, presentations, and outings all year long. Whether you’d like to learn a new skill, enjoy the beautiful Laguna scenery, or attend a fun event with your family, the Laguna Foundation has a variety of offerings to deepen your appreciation for the Laguna de Santa Rosa, connect with nature, and inspire a vibrant community dedicated to lifelong learning.
Please note: Heavy smoke, excessive heat, or heavy rain cancels outdoor programs. Lastly, please let us know in advance if you can no longer attend an outing so we can offer a spot to someone on the wait-list.
Select webinar recordings can be found on our YouTube channel.
For more information, contact Ashley Carreño, Education Coordinator, at (707) 527-9277 xt. 108 or by email
March
Sold Out - Please join the waitlist.
California Tiger Salamander Terrestrial Ecology
With Dave Cook and Jeff Alvarez
Friday, March 7, 2025. 8:30 am – 5:00 pm
$325. Registration required.
Lecture Location: Laguna Environmental Center, Heron Hall, 900 Sanford Road, Santa Rosa, CA
Field Trip Location in Sonoma CountyThis workshop is designed to provide practical training to professional biologists, resources managers, and students on the terrestrial ecology, land use management, and regulations of the California tiger salamander (CTS). The lecture session will include a review of the biology, upland habitat use, and migration patterns of CTS, the theory and design of roadway tunnels to facilitate safe passage of migrating salamanders; design of pitfall trap arrays; U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and California Department of Fish and Wildlife approved survey protocols; and implementing and monitoring land use management practices. The afternoon will consist of field trips that will provide training and hands-on experience. A pitfall trap and fence array will be constructed by attendees. Three CTS tunnel systems along roadways will be visited and discussed.
Guest Speakers:
Dave Cook and Jeff Alvarez are experts on amphibian and reptile ecology and conservation, conduct herpetological research, and hold state and federal permits for three pond species.
Sold Out - Please join the waitlist.
Rare Pond Species Survey Techniques Workshop
With Dave Cook and Jeff Alvarez
Saturday and Sunday, March 8 and 9, 2025.
$475. Registration required.
Lecture Location: Laguna Environmental Center, Heron Hall, 900 Sanford Road, Santa Rosa, CA
Field Trip Location in Sonoma CountyThis workshop is designed to provide practical training on aquatic survey techniques for the California tiger salamander, California red-legged frog, and western pond turtle. The range of these three rare and protected species overlap and they often occur in similar pond habitats. The lecture session will include a review of the biology and ecology of these species, identification of life stages, state and federal regulations, and approved survey protocols. The field trip sessions will provide field training in aquatic survey techniques, including dip net sampling for CTS larvae, evening spotlighting for frogs, and turtle visual encounter surveys and trapping.
Guest Speakers:
Dave Cook and Jeff Alvarez are experts on amphibian and reptile ecology and conservation, conduct herpetological research, and hold state and federal permits for three pond species.
Native Plant Garden Volunteer Day
Friday, March 14, 2025. 9:00 am – Noon
FREE. Registration Required.Location: Laguna Environmental Center, 900 Sanford Road, Santa Rosa, CA
Share your passion for pollinators by helping our native plant garden thrive! Volunteers are essential in beautifying our site. Activities include planting, weeding, pruning, and spreading wood chips. No experience necessary, just a willingness to learn about native plants. Training and tools will be provided plus abundant and hearty snacks! Wear clothes and shoes that can get dirty. Only heavy rain cancels.
Presented in Partnership With:
Laguna Stewards Day at Meadowlark Field
Saturday, March 15, 2025. 9:00 am – Noon
FREE. Registration required.Location: Laguna de Santa Rosa Trail, 6303 California 12, Santa Rosa, CA
Come be part of a fun and rewarding volunteer experience while enjoying the beautiful outdoors along the Laguna de Santa Rosa Trail at Meadowlark Field. This special spot has a complex history and has seen many restoration efforts over the years. It's also the site of our very first planting project on land accessible to the public, and we’d love for you to visit if you haven’t already! Join us in helping care for and preserve this incredible space—it’s a great way to make a difference while connecting with nature. We hope to see you there!
Bring a friend! Bring the kids! No experience needed. Tools and training provided. Wear clothes and shoes that can get dirty. Please bring a water bottle, a smile and some elbow grease. Only heavy rain cancels.
PLEASE NOTE: All ages are welcome! No experience is necessary; tools and training are provided.
There is no charge for this event, which is made possible by the voters of Sonoma County who fund the work of Ag + Open Space with a quarter-cent sales tax.
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Día de Laguna Stewards en Meadowlark Field
Sábado 15 de marzo de 2025. 9 a.m. – mediodía
GRATIS. Se requiere registro.Ubicación: Laguna de Santa Rosa Trail, 6303 California 12, Santa Rosa, CA
¡Ven a ser parte de una experiencia de voluntariado divertida y gratificante mientras disfrutas del hermoso aire libre a lo largo del sendero Laguna de Santa Rosa en Meadowlark Field! Este lugar especial tiene una historia compleja y ha sido testigo de muchos esfuerzos de restauración a lo largo de los años. También es el sitio de nuestro primer proyecto de restauración en un terreno accesible al público, ¡y nos encantaría que lo visites si aún no lo has hecho! Únete a nosotros para ayudar a cuidar y preservar este increíble espacio: es una excelente manera de marcar la diferencia mientras te conectas con la naturaleza. ¡Esperamos verte allí!
¡Trae a un amigo! ¡Trae a los niños! No se necesita experiencia. Se proporcionan herramientas y capacitación. Usa ropa y zapatos que se puedan ensuciar. Trae una botella de agua, una sonrisa y algo de esfuerzo. Solo se cancelan las lluvias intensas.
NOTA: ¡Se aceptan personas de todas las edades! No se necesita experiencia, se proporcionan herramientas y capacitación.
No hay ningún costo por este evento, que es posible gracias a los votantes del condado de Sonoma que financian el trabajo de Ag + Open Space con un impuesto sobre las ventas de un cuarto de centavo.
Sold Out - Please join the waitlist.
Introduction to Native Bees
With Kandis Gilmore
Saturday, March 15, 2025. 10:00 am – 3:00 pm
$35. Registration Required.Location: Laguna Environmental Center, 900 Sanford Road, Santa Rosa, CA
Did you know that California is home to over 1,600 unique species of bees? While many are familiar with the European Honey Bee, Apis mellifera, and might recognize a bumble bee or carpenter bee, there’s a vast world of diverse and fascinating native bees thriving in our gardens and natural landscapes, waiting to be explored!
Join entomologist Kandis Gilmore for an engaging day all about native bees. This hands-on workshop starts indoors, where you'll learn to identify major bee families. Then, we'll head outside to observe these bees in their natural habitats at the Laguna Foundation, practicing safe catch-and-release techniques. We'll finish by comparing live specimens to pinned ones and exploring field guides. Don't miss this chance to connect with the buzzing life around us!
Guest Speaker:
Kandis Gilmore is broadly trained in organismal biology and ecology. She has worked as a field assistant in the rocky intertidal, oak woodlands, and vernal pool grassland ecosystems. She received her Master's of Science degree from Sonoma State Biology Department in 2017. Her master's thesis research focused on pollinators of three of Sonoma County's endemic and endangered vernal pool plant species Blennosperma bakeri (Sonoma sunshine), Limnanthes vinculans (Sebastopol meadowfoam, and Lasthenia burkei (Burke's Goldfields). Kandis serves on the Board of Directors of Conservation Works, and served as President of the Pacific Coast Entomological Society during 2020-2021.
Our Wild Watershed: Dragonflies
With Kathy Biggs and Sandra von Arb
Saturday, March 22, 2025. 11:00 am – Noon
Sliding Scale: $10, $15, $20. Registration Required.Location: Laguna Environmental Center, 900 Sanford Road, Santa Rosa, CA
Welcome to an exciting journey into the world of dragonflies! We’re thrilled to introduce you to these ancient and fascinating creatures, whose roots on Earth stretch back even before the dinosaurs. As you marvel at their vibrant colors and intricate patterns up on the big screen, we’ll dive deep into the biology and life cycles of these extraordinary insects.
Throughout our exploration, you’ll get to meet the most common dragonfly species found in the Laguna area, along with tips on how to identify them in the wild. We’ll also touch on their incredible migratory journeys, as some species travel great distances. One of the most captivating parts of their story is their metamorphosis—from life underwater as a nymph to becoming a graceful flying adult—this amazing transformation takes place in less than an hour!
Whether you're a nature enthusiast, a curious learner, or just someone who appreciates the beauty of the natural world we can’t wait to share this special experience with you.
Guest Speakers:
Kathy Biggs has loved nature her whole life. She wrote her first guide to California's Dragonflies, which sold over 15,000 copies. She also created websites for dragonflies of California, the Southwest, and Jalisco, MX, and just co-authored a new guide to California's Dragonflies with Sandra von Arb. Kathy’s passion for dragonflies is matched by her dedication to raising awareness about wetlands like the Laguna de Santa Rosa. In the late 1990s, Kathy had to choose between becoming a dragonfly author or a Laguna docent, so she feels especially grateful to have the chance to share her knowledge of dragonflies here today.
Presented in Partnership With:
Grazing as a Tool for Ecological Benefit and Wildfire Resilience
With Paigelynn Trotter, Sarah Keiser, and Brent Reed
Saturday, March 29, 2025. 10:00 am – 1:00 pm
FREE. Registration Required.Location: Laguna Environmental Center, 900 Sanford Road, Santa Rosa, CA
Are you ready to see annual vegetation as a resource, reimagine your relationship with fire, and explore land stewardship for climate resilience through grazing? Have you ever wondered how grazing can be part of a land management solution? Join us for an exciting and informative workshop where we’ll explore how grazing can be used as a powerful tool to reduce non-native plants, restore ecological balance, and bring landscapes back to a healthy fire ecosystem.
During the engaging workshop, you’ll hear from a range of experts and organizations about the benefits of grazing ruminants and how they can help your land thrive. Plus, we’ll discuss how to collaborate with neighbors–both public and private–to create sustainable, collaborative solutions for managing your land.
With both classroom and field components, you’ll not only gain valuable knowledge but also have the opportunity to see grazing animals in action at the beautiful Laguna Uplands Preserve. Don’t miss this chance to learn new, practical techniques for enhancing your land’s health while building stronger community partnership. We can’t wait to see you there!
Guest Speakers:
Paigelynn Trotter, Owner, Coastal Land and Livestock
Sarah Keiser - Grazing Consultant, Wild Oat Hollow
Brent Reed - Stewardship Director, Laguna de Santa Rosa Foundation[ top ]
April 2025
Native Plant Garden Volunteer Day
Friday, April 4, 2025. 9:00 am – Noon
FREE. Registration Required.Location: Laguna Environmental Center, 900 Sanford Road, Santa Rosa, CA
Share your passion for pollinators by helping our native plant garden thrive! Volunteers are essential in beautifying our site. Activities include planting, weeding, pruning, and spreading wood chips. No experience necessary, just a willingness to learn about native plants. Training and tools will be provided plus abundant and hearty snacks! Wear clothes and shoes that can get dirty. Only heavy rain cancels.
Presented in Partnership With:
Our Wild Watershed: River Otters
With Mary Ellen King
Friday, April 4, 2025. 5:30 pm – 6:30 pm
Sliding Scale: $10, $15, $20. Registration Required.Location: Laguna Environmental Center, 900 Sanford Road, Santa Rosa, CA
The River Otter Ecology story is about the unexpected return of this charismatic predator, whose presence is a hopeful sign of relatively healthy watersheds and ecosystems. River otters, once thought to be in decline, are making a comeback, indicating that our natural spaces are recovering. Our presentation delves into this captivating natural history, illustrating how the otter’s return is not just about the species itself, but also about a broader story of environmental resilience. Through beautiful photos and thrilling critter cam videos, we’ll showcase the otters’ playful behaviors, their role in the ecosystem, and the ongoing conservation work that supports their recovery.
Guest Speaker:
Mary Ellen King worked in marketing communications and media in both the private and nonprofit sectors. She graduated from the School of Film, Video and Television at UCLA and worked on a wide range of educational, documentary, and independent film productions. She later did graduate studies in the School of Natural Resources – Wildlife Management at Humboldt State University. Ms. King has served on a number of boards including several Audubon chapters, Audubon Canyon Ranch and the River Otter Ecology Project. Critters, especially otters, are a passion.
Earth Day Open House at the Laguna Environmental Center
Saturday, April 19, 2025. Noon – 3:00 pm
*Garden tours at 1:00 pm and 2:00 pm
FREE. Donations welcome. No RSVP needed.Location: Laguna Environmental Center, 900 Sanford Road, Santa Rosa, CA
Celebrate Earth Day with us at the Laguna Environmental Center! Explore Sonoma County’s natural beauty, learn about native plants, and enjoy a variety of activities for all ages. Bring your own picnic and relax in our scenic outdoor spaces. Take part in a guided tour of our native plant garden at 1:00 pm or 2:00 pm, visit our observation deck for birdwatching and photography, and let children explore the play area with a living willow tunnel. A nature-inspired craft station will also be available for kids.
Be sure to stop by our native plant sale, where you can find beautiful, drought-tolerant plants perfect for attracting pollinators and supporting local ecosystems. Experts will be on hand to provide planting advice.
Don’t miss the final days of our special art exhibition, Sonoma Impressions, featuring impressionistic oil paintings by Lenona Winter that capture the breathtaking landscapes of Sonoma County. Visit the Heron Hall Gallery & Gift Shop, where proceeds from artwork and gifts directly support the Laguna Foundation’s conservation and education programs.
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May 2025
Native Plant Garden Volunteer Day
Friday, May 2, 2025. 9:00 am – Noon
FREE. Registration Required.Location: Laguna Environmental Center, 900 Sanford Road, Santa Rosa, CA
Share your passion for pollinators by helping our native plant garden thrive! Volunteers are essential in beautifying our site. Activities include planting, weeding, pruning, and spreading wood chips. No experience necessary, just a willingness to learn about native plants. Training and tools will be provided plus abundant and hearty snacks! Wear clothes and shoes that can get dirty. Only heavy rain cancels.
Stop by the Laguna Environmental Center during the Eco-Friendly Garden Tour
Saturday, May 10, 2025. 10:00 am – 2:00 pm
*Guided walks at 11:00 am and 1:00 pm
FREE. Donations Welcome. Registration Required.Location: Laguna Environmental Center, 900 Sanford Road, Santa Rosa, CA
The Sonoma-Marin Saving Water Partnership is hosting the 15th annual Eco-Friendly Garden Tour, a self-guided journey showcasing low-water, sustainable landscapes across Sonoma and Marin counties. The Laguna Environmental Center is proud to be one of the featured stops on this inspiring tour. The Eco-Friendly Garden Tour is FREE, but pre-registration is required.
While visiting the Laguna Environmental Center, take time to:
- Stroll through our native plant demonstration garden (open until 2:00 pm).
- Explore Heron Hall’s latest art exhibit featuring works by Adam Wolpert.
- Browse the gift shop for nature-inspired books, cards, and gifts.
- Bring the family! Kids can enjoy nature-themed crafts and a fun scavenger hunt highlighting local flora and fauna.
- Guided garden tours at the LEC are offered at 11:00 am and 1:00 pm.
Whether you’re transforming your yard or simply seeking inspiration, the Eco-Friendly Garden Tour is a fantastic opportunity to explore sustainable landscaping ideas and connect with like-minded garden enthusiasts.
Please Note: The Laguna Environmental Center’s garden will close at 2:00 pm, although the county-wide Eco-Friendly Garden Tour continues until 4:00 pm. We encourage you to visit our garden early in the day!
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June 2025
Native Plant Garden Volunteer Day
Friday, June 6, 2025. 9:00 am – Noon
FREE. Registration Required.Location: Laguna Environmental Center, 900 Sanford Road, Santa Rosa, CA
Share your passion for pollinators by helping our native plant garden thrive! Volunteers are essential in beautifying our site. Activities include planting, weeding, pruning, and spreading wood chips. No experience necessary, just a willingness to learn about native plants. Training and tools will be provided plus abundant and hearty snacks! Wear clothes and shoes that can get dirty. Only heavy rain cancels.
Oliver Ranch Tour – A Unique Art & Nature Experience
Saturday, June 7, 2025. 9:15 am – 12:30 pm
$150. Registration Required.Location: Meet at Geyserville Park & Ride. The group will carpool to Oliver Ranch.
Join the Laguna de Santa Rosa Foundation for a special guided tour of Oliver Ranch, a hidden gem in the scenic hills of Geyserville. This 100-acre property is home to 18 remarkable site-specific art installations created over 35 years by renowned contemporary artists. Designed to blend seamlessly with the landscape, each piece tells a unique story, creating an unforgettable experience where art and nature come together in harmony.
Oliver Ranch is privately owned and not open for general public visits—tours are offered only to nonprofit groups on a limited basis. This is a wonderful opportunity to explore this one-of-a-kind outdoor museum and discover the creativity and vision behind each installation.
Tour Details:
- The 2.5-hour walking tour covers approximately 2.5 miles with 600 feet of elevation gain.
- Paths are unpaved, making for a light hike through beautiful natural surroundings.
- Please be aware that the tour is not wheelchair accessible, and there are no restrooms on-site.
- Space is limited to 20 participants, so early registration is encouraged!
Don’t miss this chance to experience inspiring art in a truly breathtaking setting!
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For more information, contact Ashley Carreño, Education Coordinator
(707) 527-9277 xt. 108 or by email
. Banner Image by Gary Hundt
