The 2026 California Naturalist cohort at Pepperwood.
Every year, from January through March, Pepperwood opens its doors to budding environmentalists through the UC Environmental Stewards courses. These immersive classes blend classroom learning with rich field experiences, enabling participants to delve into various aspects of science, problem-solving, communication training, and community service.
At the end of March, we proudly concluded the 2026 California Naturalist course, which attracted 20 enthusiastic participants across eight engaging class sessions. What began as a group of strangers transformed into a vibrant community, united by a shared passion for nature, stewardship, and an eagerness to explore our surroundings.
Throughout the course, we came together to learn about the diverse biotic and abiotic components of our local ecosystems. The curriculum was extensive, covering topics from natural history and ecological science to stewardship and pressing global environmental issues. Each session held new opportunities for discovery and deepened our understanding of the intricate web of life that surrounds us.
Tying it all together with the Stewardship Project
For their Stewardship Project, this group established a pollinator habitat at a community garden in Healdsburg. Photo by Holland Gistelli.
A vital component of our experience was the Stewardship Project. This initiative encourages each participant to engage deeply with a cause they feel passionate about. Every member committed at least eight hours to their chosen project and presented their findings in a concise five-minute presentation during our graduation day.
Moreover, the variety of topics explored reflected the rich tapestry of interests within our group. For example, one participant took on a volunteer role with the Chileno Valley Newt Brigade, dedicating their time to helping these amphibians cross a busy road safely at night. Their efforts not only highlighted the importance of wildlife conservation but also fostered a greater understanding of the challenges faced by local species.
Pages from sixth-grade students’ nature journals.
Another participant made a significant impact by introducing nature journaling to a group of sixth graders. Through this creative approach, they helped the children deepen their appreciation for the natural world. The project encourages students to document their observations and experiences in the great outdoors.
In yet another inspiring project, a trio of participants worked collaboratively to establish a pollinator habitat at a community garden in Healdsburg. They researched native plants and designed an inviting space that would support local pollinator populations, ultimately enhancing biodiversity in the area.
Lastly, one notable project involved creating an engaging video that explores bat monitoring at Pepperwood. This video is now part of our “Wild Wonders” series on the Pepperwood YouTube channel. It offers an in-depth look at the essential role these creatures play in our ecosystem and the innovative methods used to study their behavior.
Honoring our commitment to the planet through environmental stewardship
Most of our graduates aspire to become Pepperwood Stewards, and enrolling in a UC Environmental Stewards class here at Pepperwood is a step toward that goal. We want to take a moment to congratulate this year’s cohort for their hard work and commitment to environmental stewardship. These courses enhance our understanding of the natural world and serve as a tangible commitment to caring for our home.
Looking ahead to next year, we aim to continue igniting curiosity and building connections among those who are passionate about the environment. Together, we can make a meaningful impact on our ecosystems and our community. We invite you to join us on this journey of exploration and stewardship! Registration for next year’s UC Climate Stewards course will begin in December 2026. In the meantime, consider taking a class at Pepperwood or participating in a monthly volunteer workday, typically held on the first Saturday of each month. For more information about upcoming classes and events, check our classes and events page regularly.
The 2026 California Naturalist course cohort is off to explore the ponds at Pepperwood during a field excursion. Photo by Ian Nelson.
