Yosemite CalNat April 12th-18th, 2025
Immerse yourself in the beauty and ecology of the Sierra Nevada with our 7-day training program.
Why Join This Program?
Gain Knowledge: Dive deep into California’s natural history through expert-led lectures,
hands-on activities, and field trips.
Earn Certification: Receive a California Naturalist certificate upon successful course completion.
University Credit: Optional 4 undergraduate units from the University of California.
Program Highlights:
Interactive Learning: Participate in daily lectures and field seminars from 8 AM to 8 PM.
Field Studies in Yosemite: Explore geology, ecology, and riparian ecosystems while journaling
and using iNaturalist for community science.
Engage with Experts: Learn from specialists about California’s biomes, energy issues, and
traditional environmental knowledge.
Stewardship Project: Design a project that makes a lasting impact on California’s natural resources.
Schedule at a Glance:
Day 1: Orientation, camera trap setup, and introductory lectures.
Day 2: All-day field trip in Yosemite focusing on geology and hydrology.
Day 3: Perspectives from Native Americans, loggers, and hunters.
Day 4: Yosemite’s forest and meadow management and journaling.
Day 5: Research updates on sequoias and hands-on science activities.
Day 6: Interpretation and global environmental issues.
Day 7: Capstone presentations, graduation, and celebration.
What You’ll Learn:
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California’s diverse ecosystems and their importance to our daily lives.
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Science-backed strategies for resource management and conservation.
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Techniques to engage in citizen science and community stewardship.
Who Should Apply?
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Teachers, docents, land stewards, natural resource professionals.
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Nature enthusiasts looking to deepen their understanding and make a difference.
Benefits of Certification:
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Develop new skills and professional opportunities.
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Join a statewide network of over 4,000 certified California Naturalists.
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Receive invitations to exclusive conferences and continuing education.Receive in
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Earn 4 UC Davis Extension credits (additional fee applies).
Registration Details:
Location: Episcopal Conference Center of Oakhurst, 43803 Highway 41, Oakhurst, CA 93644
Graduation Requirements:
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Complete pre-reading (“The California Naturalist Handbook”).
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Maintain a detailed field notebook and upload iNaturalist observations.
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Design and present a Stewardship Project.
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Attend all lectures and field studies.
Cancellation Policy
The CalNat Course requires a minimum of 10 paid students. If there are not
10 paid students 30 days prior to the start date, the course will be cancelled.
All monies will be refunded if course cancellation occurs. The course will
NOT be canceled for weather. If the facility we stay at cancels for weather,
all monies can be refunded or applied to the next course.
If you must cancel, please contact us as soon as possible. If canceling
between thirty (30) and sixty (60) days of arrival date, a cancellation
fee is required equal to 50% of the course cost. If you cancel within
thirty (30) days of arrival date, a cancellation fee equal to 100% is required.
Since this is a financial commitment, you may consider trip insurance.
