California Naturalist Course: Eastern Sierra

California Naturalist: Eastern Sierra

Sierra Forever and Eastern Sierra Land Trust are thrilled to bring the UC California Naturalist Program to the Eastern Sierra. In this program you will become part of a committed corps of volunteer naturalists and citizen scientists, equipped with the skills needed to take an active role in local natural resource conservation, restoration, and education. Our hybrid online/in-person course combines science instruction with guest speakers, field trips, and project-based learning to explore the unique ecology, geology and natural history of the Eastern Sierra.

Whether you are interested in a career in the natural sciences or you are just curious about our local surroundings and want to learn more, this course offers a deeper look into the landscapes and natural systems that define the Eastern Sierra.

Course Dates:

• Wednesdays from 6:00pm-7:30pm
• Start date: September 2, 2026
• End date: October 21, 2026
• No class 9/16 and 10/7

Course Location:

• Hybrid, Wednesday classes are held online via Zoom, field trips are in-person. Field trip locations will be in Inyo and Mono counties.

Field Trip Dates:

Students must attend at least 4 field trips, attendance to all 6 is optional but encouraged. Field trip start and end times are subject to change.

• Saturday, September 12, 8:30am – 4:00pm
• Sunday, September 13, 8:30am-3:00pm
• Saturday, October 3, 8:30am-4:00pm
• Sunday, October 4, 8:30am – 3:00pm
• Saturday, October 17, 8:30am – 4:00pm
• Sunday, October 18, 8:30am – 3:00pm

Course Fees:

• Early Bird (before June 25th) – $450.00
• Regular: $500.00
• Supporter: $600
• Scholarships are available, please contact us for more details.