Coastal Naturalist Training

March 22nd - May 13th, 2023

Wednesday Evening Classroom Sessions from 6 to 8 p.m.

Weekend Field Sessions from 8:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.

*Mostly Sundays, with the exception of April 8th & May 13th

The Coastal Naturalist Training is an 8-week California Naturalist course that will introduce participants to the wonders of Humboldt's local coastal ecology and engage them in the stewardship of California’s natural communities. The course will combine a junior college-level introductory science course curriculum with classroom and field experiences, guest lecturers, and project-based learning to immerse students in the natural world of the Humboldt Bay region and coastal dune ecosystem. Guest lecturers and field instructors include professors, geologists, botanists, biologists, long-time naturalists, and other local experts. Upon completion of course requirements, participants will earn a California Naturalist Certificate through the UC California Naturalist Program and are eligible for an optional four UC Davis Extension academic credits.

The course is for community members interested in expanding their knowledge of Humboldt's coastal environments, as well as students, teachers, naturalists, and environmental educators seeking professional development. While you may take the course strictly for your own enjoyment, the course will also prepare you to become an active volunteer with Friends of the Dunes or other environmental organizations. Participants should be able to hike several miles in soft sand while carrying their own supplies (field notebook, water, lunch, and snacks). We will be traveling at an easy pace but will be in the field for up to 5 hours per field trip. Field sessions take place rain or shine, participants are expected to be prepared for the weather.

Registration Instructions:

Complete the Registration Form and

Submit a payment see below OR complete this Scholarship Application

Course Fee:

$450 General Public

$400 Members & Students

Scholarships & Payment Plans are available!

Email us for more information

Optional Additional Fees:

$80 for 4 academic credits

Approx. $30 for Kayak Rental

(collected at a later date)

Payments and donations towards our scholarship fund can be submitted using the payment form to the right, in person at the Humboldt Coastal Nature Center,

or by mailing a check to:

Friends of the Dunes

P.O. Box 186

Arcata, CA 95518