Sierra Nevada Alliance

Wilderness First Aid with NOLS Wilderness Medicine
2026-04-04 07:30 - 2026-04-05 17:00 (America/Los_Angeles) | Tahoe Regional Planning Agency, 128 Market St. Ste. 3E, Stateline, NV, 89449, United States
Course Description
The Tahoe Rim Trail Association is hosting a two-day Wilderness First Aid (WFA) course taught by NOLS Wilderness Medicine (NOLS WMI). This course provides individuals with a foundation in important first-aid concepts critical to responding effectively to emergencies in a remote backcountry environment.
This fast-paced, hands-on training is designed to meet the needs of trip leaders, camp staff, outdoor enthusiasts, and individuals working in remote locations. It will introduce you to caring for people who become ill or injured far from definitive medical care. Classroom lectures and demonstrations are combined with realistic scenarios where mock patients will challenge you to integrate your learning. At the end of the course, you’ll have the knowledge, skills, and ability to make sound decisions in emergencies.
This course may also be used to recertify NOLS Wilderness Medicine Wilderness First Responder (WFR) and NOLS Wilderness Medicine WEMT (wilderness portion only) certifications.
Close physical contact is an inherent part of this course. Vaccines, boosters, and negative tests are not required to attend this course but all students are encouraged to be vaccinated against COVID-19 and up-to-date with any boosters they are eligible to receive. Standard PPE will continue to be used in scenarios.
Please see the NOLS WM Communicable Disease Practices for more information.

Poetry on Preserves: Wildflower Ridge
2026-04-04 10:00 - 12:00 | Wildflower Ridge Preserve, 13167 Ridge Rd, Grass Valley, CA, United States
Poetry on Preserves: Wildflower Ridge Preserve
Join Nevada County Poet Laureate Karen Terrey and Poets Ingrid Keriotis and Rooja Mohassessy for a poetry reading and writing workshop at Bear Yuba Land Trust’s Wildflower Ridge Preserve. Under the cover of heritage oaks with a view of the mountains beyond, the poets will read poems inspired by the land, with prompts for participants to write and share their own poetry.
This is a free event open to all. Please bring a writing utensil, notebook, and camping chair (though we will also provide some seating). We will also provide light refreshments.

KNOW & GO
WHAT: Poetry on Preserves
WHEN: Saturday, April 4, 10am – 12pm
WHERE: Wildflower Ridge Preserve in Grass Valley
DIRECTIONS: Park in Twin Cities Church parking lot and take Wildflower Ridge trail into the Preserve
If facing the church, the trailhead is at the far right side of the parking lot, near the road. You will see an event sign and a footbridge. From there follow the signage through the meadow. The walk from the parking lot is less than a half mile.
HOW: This is a free event open to all, though we do ask that you REGISTER at the button below so that we know who to expect and can communicate any additional information necessary.
If you are unable to make the walk, please contact BYLT’s Communication Manager Annette Muller at (530) 272-5994 x 208 or annette@bylt.org to make arrangements to drive into the Preserve.

Earth Day Celebration
2026-04-04 12:00 - 17:00 | South Lake Brewing Company, 1920 Lake Tahoe Blvd, South Lake Tahoe, United States
Kick off Earth Month with us at the Brewery! We’ll be taking over our front parking lot for an Earth Day Celebration on April 4th from 12-5 PM.
This free community event will feature live music by Karrie O’Neill, interactive activities, educational booths, a food truck, craft vendors, face painting, and sustainability talks.
Biking is encouraged! The Lake Tahoe Bicycle Coalition will have a free bike valet set up.
Participating organizations include:
Tahoe Rim Trail Association
Clean Up the Lake
Tahoe Composts
Sugar Pine Foundation
Restoring the Lake Depths
South Tahoe Refuse
Lake Tahoe Bicycle Coalition
South Tahoe Public Utility District
& More

Community Litter Cleanup
2026-04-06 10:00 - 12:00 | Fallen Leaf Lake Road, Fallen Leaf Lake Road, South Lake Tahoe, 96150, United States
Join Sierra Nevada Alliance’s Tahoe Blue Crew for a community litter‑cleanup at the corner of Emerald Bay Rd and Fallen Leaf Lake Rd, a popular winter recreation site. Your participation helps protect Lake Tahoe’s pristine environment and supports a healthier ecosystem for local wildlife and future generations.
Where: Fallen Leaf Lake Rd at Emerald Bay Rd
When: Monday, April 6th
Time: 10 am – 12 pm
Cleanups play an essential role in keeping Lake Tahoe healthy. Litter left outdoors can harm both people and wildlife—your contribution truly makes a difference. Be part of the solution today!

How to Register

Go here and click the blue “Sign Up” button.
Complete the 2026 liability waiver and upload it.
After uploading, click the blue “Sign Up” button again to finalize your registration for this event.

If you have any questions, please reach out to shannonflynn@sierranevadaalliance.org. We’re excited to welcome you to this cleanup event and appreciate your commitment to protecting and restoring Lake Tahoe!

Trail Talk: The Art of Trailbuilding
2026-04-08 18:30 - 20:30 | South Lake Brewing Company, 1920 Lake Tahoe Blvd, South Lake Tahoe, United States
Trail Talk: The Art of Trailbuilding
📅 April 8
🕡 6:30 PM – 8:30 PM
📍 South Lake Brewing Co
1920 Lake Tahoe Blvd, South Lake Tahoe, CA 96150
Ever wondered what goes into building and maintaining the incredible trails we love around Lake Tahoe? Join TRTA Trail Operations Director Sam Donnelly for an interactive presentation exploring the art and science of trailbuilding in the Basin. Sam will dive into the how, why, and where of trail construction, from sustainable design principles and environmental considerations to the hands-on techniques that shape your favorite singletrack.
Whether you’re a trail enthusiast, volunteer, outdoor professional, or simply trail-curious, this is a great opportunity to learn what it takes to create and care for the trails that connect our community.
Come thirsty for knowledge (and great local beer), bring your questions, and enjoy an evening of trails and pints with fellow outdoor enthusiasts! 🍻

EcoTour: Wildflowers and Blue Oak Woodlands at Dixon Ranch
2026-04-10 09:00 - 15:00 | Northern california regional land trust, 30 Independence Circle, St 100, Chico, 95973, United States
Step into a breathtaking blue oak savannah just northeast of Chico, where canyons, seasonal streams, and sweeping grasslands create a landscape rich in beauty and biodiversity. Next spring, this cattle ranch will transform into a wildflower paradise, with vibrant blooms carpeting the hillsides.
Key Features:

Tour guided by local botanist and NCRLT Leadership
Auto-tour with short walks to wildflower and wildlife viewing and vistas.
Includes locally sourced picnic with beverages.

We will meet at the NCRLT office in Philadelphia Square complex in North Chico and caravan to the site. An email with directions and further instructions will be sent out prior to the event.
This event is rain or shine. However, extreme weather will cancel and be rescheduled for a future date.
If you do not wish to register online or have questions about this event, you my email us at kim@landconservation.org or give us a call at 530-894-7738.
Space is limited to 8 guests.

Ski With A Scientist
2026-04-10 13:00 - 14:30 | Palisades Alpine Meadows 2600 Alpine Meadows Rd, Alpine Meadows, CA 96146, 2600 Alpine Meadows Rd, Alpine Meadows, 96146
Join TERC scientists for a fun, interactive on-the-mountain tour at Alpine in partnership with the US Forest Service. Do you love to ski/snowboard and science? This is a unique opportunity for you! Learn about the research and education of the UC Davis Tahoe Environmental Research Center (TERC), the environmental history of Alpine, and the role of the US Forest Service and public lands at Palisades Tahoe.
Featured Scientists:
February 6- How to Cope with Ecoanxiety
February 13- Snowpack and Soil Moisture for Reforestation
February 20- Fine Particle Detection with AUVs
February 27- Navigating through Wintery Tahoe Waters
March 6- How Bees Store Food
March 13- Quality Assurance of TERC Science
March 20- Plant Pathology
March 27- The Tech Behind Monitoring Algae
April 3- Zooplankton in Ancient Lakes
April 10- AUV Missions in Tahoe and Antartic
This program starts at 1:00pm on Fridays beginning February 21 to April 10. Tours will last approximately 1.5 hour. In the event that on-the-mountain tours are cancelled for inclement weather or unsafe snow conditions, the presentations will be alternatively available at 1:15pm inside the Alpine lodge.
All tours are free, but participants must be riding/skiing at an intermediate level and comfortable on all blue terrain. Tours are limited to the first 15 participants, please sign-up in person at the TERC outreach table on Fridays for the day-of tour. Look for the light blue tablecloth to find the TERC outreach table, it will be set up inside the Alpine lodge during colder, snowy days or outside on the Alpine deck near the base-to-base gondola. Tours will begin out on the deck, look for the UC Davis EVENT flag.

Project on Preserve: Adam Ryan Wildlife Preserve
2026-04-11 09:00 - 12:00 | Adam Ryan Wildlife Preserve, 12183 Auburn Rd, Grass Valley, 95949, United States
Project on Preserve: Adam Ryan Wildlife Preserve
Calling on the community! Join us for our Project on Preserve!
We are gathering folks to join us at Adam Ryan Wildlife Preserve in Alta Sierra to remove invasive species, brush-pile burn, weed, and tend to native plants. It’s a day of land beautification and hanging with your fellow nature lovers.
This is a great opportunity to get the whole family involved or to gather a group of friends—no green thumb necessary! We’ll supply the tools, but suggest bringing a hat, gloves, and a water bottle. We’ll have a water station, donuts and coffee. If you can’t stay for the whole event, no worries, we’d love to have you all the same.
PLEASE NOTE: There is poison oak where the work will take place so please prepare accordingly if you are susceptible. This event is also weather permitting: a downpour will cancel the event, though we will work through light rain.

KNOW & GO
WHEN: Saturday, April 11, 9 am-12 pm
WHERE: Adam Ryan Wildlife Preserve
MEETING LOCATION: Adam Ryan parking lot on the corner of Alta Sierra Drive and Dog Bar Road
PLEASE BRING: Gloves if you have them (though we have extra), water, and snacks. Tools will be provided (though you are welcome to bring your own), as will coffee, donuts, and a water station.
HOW: Please register to volunteer at the button below (navigate to the April 11 opportunity)
REGISTER TO VOLUNTEER

The Owens Lake Bird Festival
2026-04-17 - 2026-04-19 | Friends of the Inyo Office, 621 West Line St, Ste 201, Bishop, 93514, United States
Friends of the Inyo is pleased to announce that our Owens Lake Bird Festival will return in April 2026, with birding tours on and off the famous Owens Lake, as well as photography, advocacy, botany, geology, mining history tours and more! Join us in Lone Pine for peak migration season! More than just an amazing birding opportunity, there is something for everyone at the Owens Lake Bird Festival as we celebrate the amazing history and wildlife of Southern Inyo County. All of us at Friends of the Inyo hope to see you there: early bird registration will be available for Friends of the Inyo members, those who donate $35 or more annually so we can keep up our stewardship and policy work to protect and care for the land and water of the Eastern Sierra.
The festival will take place as follows:
Friday, April 17: Happy Hour and Check-in at FOI’s Lone Pine Office, 142 E. Bush Street, from 5:30-8:00 PM (optional).
Saturday, April 18: Half-Day Morning and Afternoon tours, as well as Full-Day Tours. The day will end with a celebratory catered Dinner (optional) with speaker and and a Silent Auction with goods donated by local businesses, starting at 6 PM.
Sunday, April 19: Morning Half-Day tours.

Subscribe to the newsletter to be alerted when tours are announced and tickets are on sale.
Become a Friends of the Inyo member to get access to early bird registration.

Spring Animal Tracking with Pathways for Wildlife
2026-04-18 09:00 - 12:00 | Spooner Lake State Park, Spooner Lake, Carson City, NV, United States
Description
Join us for a hike around Spooner Lake with Pathways for Wildlife! This incredible organization uses ecological data–including animal tracks–to advocate for wildlife crossing infrastructure. Tanya and Ahiga of Pathways for Wildlife will introduce you to techniques to identify animal tracks. If you want more animal tracking, consider joining the Spooner Summit Wildlife Crossing Team.
What to Expect
TRTA treks are group treks, and we do our best to keep the group together. Trip leaders dedicate a great deal of their time throughout the year sharing their passion for the outdoors. They are well-trained and experienced. Please respect the decisions made on the trail. Additionally, please understand that animal tracking takes time and you may not cover as many miles as you normally would on a hike.
Cost
Your $10 reservation fee is non-refundable. There is an additional $10 or $15 parking fee at Spooner Lake for NV or non-NV vehicles.

Difficulty
Moderate

Distance
~3 miles roundtrip

Location
Spooner Lake Trailhead

Time
9:00 AM to ~12:00 PM

South Lake Tahoe Earth Day
2026-04-18 10:00 - 15:00 | Lake Tahoe Community College, 1 College Dr, South Lake Tahoe, CA, 96150, United States
The goal of The South Lake Tahoe Earth Day Festival, a volunteer run, non-profit event is to recognize, celebrate and promote the region’s unique beauty and to educate the public regarding how to preserve and protect our local and global natural resources. The Tahoe Earth Day Foundation is also working to increase the effort around solid waste management and will continue to work towards its goal of hosting a Zero Waste and Carbon Neutral event.
Our local Earth Day celebration is one of the largest environmental education events in the area. The event provides local residents and visitors an opportunity to learn about the various environmental issues that affect South Lake Tahoe. The South Lake Tahoe Earth Day festival is hosted primarily by volunteers of the Tahoe Earth Day Foundation, a local non-profit, with the support of other non-profits, local agencies, businesses and dedicated supporters.
The festival recognizes, celebrates and promotes our unique environment by educating the public about the preservation and protection of our local and global natural resources. This is a free, family friendly event open to organizations and vendors that engage the community in a constructive and positive manner.
For more Earth Day fun in North Lake Tahoe, check out our sister event at Palisades Tahoe here.

Merced River Fest
2026-04-18 14:00 - 21:30 | The Grove House, 4993 5th Street, Mariposa, CA, United States
Merced River Fest returns to the Grove House in 2026 on Saturday, April 18 for an evening of celebration and volunteer-raising!
The Upper Merced River Watershed Council is proud to host its fourth annual event featuring the Wild and Scenic Film Festival. The film festival, friend-raiser, and fundraiser combines a series of award-winning environmental and adventure films with the energy of local activism and community stewardship.
SECOND ANNUAL Mariposa YOUTH Film Festival from 2-4pm. FREE, featuring our WILD CHILD program with short films for kids of all ages PLUS the award winning films of the Mariposa County STUDENTS ON THE RIVER film contest
Social Hour from 5-6pm
Wild and Scenic Film Festival from 6-9:30pm + silent auction and door prizes. Ticket price includes free link for VIDEO-ON-DEMAND, good for 7 days to re-watch films
Can’t make it? You can FEST at HOME with the purchase of a VIDEO-ON-DEMAND ticket, which contains the film fest content viewable from April 18th – 24th.
Proceeds benefit the Upper Merced River Watershed Council.

TICKETS ON SALE NOW

Earth Fest Street Fair
2026-04-19 11:00 - 17:00 | commercial st Nevada City, Commercial St, Nevada City
Earth Fest Street Fair

Join us for our 5th Annual Earth Fest Celebration in Nevada City on Sunday, April 19, 2026 from 11am-3:30pm.
This event is sure to inform and inspire all who attend and will include live music, special performances, interactive booths and demos, kid’s activities, earth-friendly vendors, organic foods, and more.
Panel Discussion: From Wildfires to Renewable Energy
Bio-burner Trailer Demos – The bio-burner converts biomass into heat and biochar
Live Music
Haute Trash Fashion Show
Electric Vehicle Car Show
& more!

Masterclass: Going Beyond Land Acknowledgements
2026-04-21 10:00 - 12:30, 2026-09-08 10:00 - 12:30
An interactive 2.5 hour workshop for individuals seeking to grow their allyship with Native peoples. Participants learn about the strengths and limitations of land acknowledgements and explore concrete, action-oriented strategies for building connections with Native communities and organizations.
Click here to learn more

Can Tourism Play a Role in Climate Resiliency?
2026-04-22 11:00 - 12:00
This webinar will spotlight an innovative, action-oriented model designed to equip mountain communities to lead the way on climate response through strategic collaboration with tourism partners. We’ll feature key insights from recent research conducted in partnership with The Travel Foundation, focused on building tourism resilience in a changing climate.
Speakers:
Hilary Lewkowitz, Director of Destination Development & Sustainability, Colorado Tourism Office

Wild and Scenic Film Festival On Tour
2026-04-22 17:00 - 21:00 | Lake Tahoe Community College Duke Theatre, One College Drive, South Lake Tahoe, CA, 96150, United States
Sierra Nevada Alliance has been a host of the Wild & Scenic Film Festival On Tour since 2006. The flagship festival hosted by the South Yuba River Citizens League (SYRCL) takes place in winter and then hits the road to visit local communities! This inspiring festival combines award-winning environmental and adventure films with the energy of local activism. Each year, we share films to inspire viewers to take further action regarding issues impacting our environment, ourselves, and the world. Concerned citizens worldwide know the urgency of the many environmental crises facing our planet today, but most don’t know how they can contribute to the fight. The festival provides an opportunity for attendees in the Sierra to support their local advocates for the environment.
This year On Tour will be hosted at the Lake Tahoe Community College in South Lake Tahoe at 5pm. Tickets can be purchased here.
General Admission: $25
Student with ID: $20
Youth (16 and under): $15
This year’s event will have a silent auction, raffle, food and drinks! Please join us for an evening of fantastic and informative story telling.

Sierra College Earth Day
2026-04-23 10:00 - 15:00 | Sierra College Rocklin Campus, 5100 Sierra College Blvd, Rocklin, CA, 95677, United States
Earth Day is an international celebration observed each year to demonstrate support for environmental protection, stewardship, and care for the systems that sustain all life. Celebrated in more than 190 countries, Earth Day reminds us that the health of our planet and the well-being of our communities are deeply interconnected. While the modern Earth Day movement began in 1970, cultures around the world have honored the Earth—and our responsibilities to one another—for millennia.
This year’s theme, Rooted in Justice, Growing Together, centers environmental action within the broader context of social justice, community resilience, and collective care. Just as healthy ecosystems depend on strong roots, diverse communities, and reciprocal relationships, a sustainable future requires equity, inclusion, and shared responsibility. Environmental challenges do not impact all communities equally—and meaningful solutions must be grounded in justice, community voices, and collaboration.
The 2026 Sierra College Earth Day celebration invites participants to reflect on how care for the Earth and care for people are inseparable. Together, we will explore how community-based action, environmental justice, and collective stewardship can help us not only endure challenges—but grow through them. When communities are pushed aside, overlooked, or “buried,” they persist, adapt, and rise—like seeds finding their way toward the light.
Organized by the Environmentally Concerned Organization of Students (ECOS) Club, the Associated Students of Sierra College (ASSC), the Student Engagement Centers (SEC), and the Earth Day Committee, Sierra College’s Earth Day celebration has been a cornerstone of campus and community life for more than 30 years.

Event Purpose

This free, public event welcomes Sierra College students, faculty, staff, and community members for a day of learning, connection, and action. Together, we aim to:
Celebrate the natural world and the diverse communities that depend on and care for it
Deepen understanding of environmental justice and how environmental harms and benefits are distributed
Emphasize reciprocity—recognizing that what we take, protect, and restore shapes the future for all life
Share practical, justice-centered actions that reduce harm and strengthen community resilience
Foster collaboration across students, educators, and community partners working toward a more just and sustainable future

Guided by Indigenous knowledge systems, including the Seventh Generation Principle, we are reminded that the choices we make today should support a thriving world seven generations into the future.

Key Highlights
Workshops & Activities:
Interactive sessions on themes such as environmental justice, climate resilience, sustainable food systems, renewable energy, and community-based solutions.
Guest Speakers:
Environmental advocates, educators, and community leaders will share insights on justice-centered environmental work and collective action.
Student Projects:
Innovative and inspiring student-led projects addressing environmental challenges through equity, creativity, and collaboration.
Community Partners:
Engage with local organizations and initiatives rooted in environmental stewardship, social justice, and community care.

Featured Quote

“Action on behalf of life transforms. Because the relationship between self and the world is reciprocal, it is not a question of first getting enlightened or saved and then acting. As we work to heal the earth, the earth heals us.”
— Robin Wall Kimmerer, Braiding Sweetgrass

Call to Action

Join us as we gather—rooted in justice and growing together—to celebrate Earth Day 2026 at Sierra College. Through learning, listening, and action, we can cultivate a future where both people and planet thrive. Mark your calendar and be part of a community committed to care, resilience, and collective growth.

California River Awards
2026-04-24 17:30 - 19:00 | The Verdi Club, 2424 Mariposa St, San Francisco, 94110, United States
Join us for the 28th Annual California River Awards on April 24, 2026, at The Verdi Club in San Francisco for an evening celebrating Rivers of Change—the rivers, science, and collective action shaping a healthier future for California. This year, we are honored to recognize climate scientist Daniel Swain, Ph.D., for helping us understand the connections between climate, water, and resilience in a changing world.

The night will feature fun, food, an inspiring program, and fantastic auction. There will be plenty of time to reconnect with old friends and meet new ones who share a love for rivers. This event is FOR’s most important fundraiser, and must bring in almost 20% of FOR’s total 2026 donations. Come raise a glass, celebrate progress, and help fuel the work ahead.

DONATE AUCTION ITEMS – You can help power our fundraiser by donating an auction item or reaching out to an individual or business you know and asking if they would be willing to donate an item or service—such as a vacation home stay, travel, art, massage, personal service or other unique experience—to inspire generous bids in support of our work. Contact our Operations Director, Amy Cottrell, with your questions and donation at amy@friendsoftheriver.org

Earth Day Concert
2026-04-24 19:00 - 22:00 | Native Sons Hall, 56 Main St., Sutter Creek, 95685, United States
Join us on Friday, April 24, from 7–10 p.m. for an evening of live music featuring local band Over the Edge, held at the historic Native Son’s Hall in Sutter Creek. This special event celebrates Earth Day with the music of Adam Gottstein, Dave Holob, Allan Alexopulous and Joe Bellamy. Proceeds from the event support Foothill Conservancy’s mission to protect local rivers, forests and our historic local towns. Guests will enjoy a no-host bar with local wine and beer, along with updates on our conservation work.

Call Foothill Conservancy at 209-223-3508 for more information. Click on the QR code below or visit our webpage to purchase tickets in advance. Tickets are $35 for general admission.

Mount Shasta Ecology Center Earth Day
2026-04-25 08:00 - 20:00 | Mt. Shasta City Park, 1315 Nixon Rd, Mt Shasta, 96067, United States
Join us for a full day of free activities, presentations, and more on Saturday April 25th. Exhibitors, crafts, kid-friendly activities, a water blessing ceremony (on the lawn by the Gazebo), food, and more will be held on the grounds of the Mt. Shasta City Park while the presentations, films, and a nature art gallery will be indoors.
We’ll let loose and continue to celebrate Mama Earth later in the evening at the benefit concert at Spring Hill Nursery & Gardens. Doors open at 5:00 and the music starts at 5:30. Johnny & Tristan from the Sundown Poachers will be opening the concert and playing during intermission.
Our headliner Love Mischief from Sacramento, CA is one of Northern California’s freshest jam bands, bringing a high-energy sonic adventure that blends funk, jazz, country, blues, prog rock, and even a touch of metal. Featuring Berklee graduate brothers Brian and Colin Curtin, the band thrives on improvisation and a fearless mix of musical influences that keeps every performance unique. With a growing following across the West Coast and festival appearances on the horizon, Love Mischief is quickly becoming a rising force in the regional jam scene.
Come experience the ride and explore the edges of the jam.

NatureFest
2026-04-25 09:00 - 12:00 | Adam Ryan Wildlife Preserve, 12183 Auburn Rd, Grass Valley, 95949, United States
Join BYLT for our 6th Annual NatureFest, a day of nature exploration and recreation with self-guided adventures, arts in nature, activity tables, and a whole lot of fun outdoors! This FREE event is fun for the entire family!
WHAT: BYLT’s annual all-ages, family & youth event NatureFest
WHEN: Saturday, April 25, 9am to Noon (show up at anytime during the event)
WHERE: Two locations to choose from, or visit both!
Wildflower Ridge Preserve in Grass Valley
Park at Twin Cities Church: 11726 Rough and Ready Hwy, Grass Valley, CA 95945
Check in at the BYLT welcome tent at the start of the trail.
Adam Ryan Wildlife Preserve in Alta Sierra
Located at the intersection of Dog Bar Road and Alta Sierra Drive. From Highway 49 in Grass Valley, take the McKnight Way exit. From East McKnight Way go 2 miles south on La Barr Meadows Road, stay left on Dog Bar Road and go another 1.8 miles to the intersection of Alta Sierra Drive. Park in the parking lot and check in at the BYLT welcome tent.
HOW: Registration is requested though event-day drop-ins are welcome.
REGISTER NOW

Nevada County Recreation Fair
2026-04-25 11:00 - 16:00 | Nevada County Fairgrounds, Northern Mines Bldg, 11228 McCourtney Road, Grass Valley, CA, 95949, United States
The Recreation Fair is being hosted by the Nevada County Recreation Coalition. The Nevada County Recreation Coalition is a dynamic network of local parks, recreation providers, public land managers, community health and safety professionals, non-profits, and agencies at the local, regional, state, and federal levels. Together, we are advancing the vision set forth in the Nevada County Recreation and Resiliency Master Plan—a comprehensive strategy designed to enhance and expand recreation opportunities for residents and visitors alike.
Discover how the Nevada County Recreation Coalition is enhancing outdoor opportunities and community connections! Learn more and get involved here: Nevada County Recreation Coalition.

Tahoe Truckee Earth Day
2026-04-25 11:00 - 17:00 | Palisades Tahoe, 1960 Squaw Valley Road, Olympic Valley, CA, 96146, United States
Tahoe Truckee Earth Day
The largest Earth Day celebration in the region, this free community event takes place in The Village at Palisades Tahoe from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., and gives kids and adults the opportunity to learn about recycling, composting, alternative energy, and sustainability through hands-on activities the whole family can enjoy.
This event is a community tradition to learn about sustainable products and services offered by local organizations and businesses, meet with local area nonprofits that share Earth Day values, as well as showcasing local entertainment. Our goal is to connect the community with the people and resources found in our region who foster innovation, initiate change and ultimately implement an equitable partnership for a green planet.
This Earth Day, support SWEP (Sierra Watershed Education Partnerships) by buying raffle tickets, and celebrate our 30 years of promoting stewardship in the region. The ticket proceeds will go directly to helping SWEP connect students to the environment and local community environmental issues.

River Canyon Spring Roadside Clean-up
2026-04-26 10:00 - 12:00 | Briceburg, Briceburg, CA, 95345, United States
In collaboration with CalTrans, the Upper Merced River Watershed Council has adopted a 3-mile stretch of Highway 140 in the Merced River Canyon, from Slate Creek Bridge to Miller Gulch. We’ll meet at the Briceburg parking area and then collect trash, pick up recyclables–and generally make our river a healthier, happier place.
How it works:
Groups will carpool to the clean-up site. Safety is our #1 priority. Clean-up teams are given safety instructions and must wear safety vests and hard hats. Depending on the number in our clean-up group, a typical clean-up session is about 2-3 hours to do our designated stretch.
Participants must be at least 16 years old. Since CalTrans considers 16 and 17 year-olds as minors, one adult supervisor must be present at the work site for every 5 minors participating (adult supervisor must be 21 years of age).
We’ll provide all of the safety gear.
What to bring:
Wear close-toed shoes or boots, long pants, and preferably long-sleeved shirt.
Water for at least 3 hours.
Bring a hat, sunglasses, sunscreen.
For more information, email us at mercedwatershed@gmail.com

Trail Talk: How to Hike the Tahoe Rim Trail
2026-04-28 17:00 - 19:00 | South Lake Tahoe Library, 1000 Rufus Allen Blvd, South Lake Tahoe, United States
TRTA Trail Talk: How to Hike the TRT
📍 South Lake Tahoe Library
1000 Rufus Allen Blvd, South Lake Tahoe, CA 96150
🕔 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM
Join the Tahoe Rim Trail Association for a comprehensive and interactive Trail Talk. This workshop-style session is designed to help you confidently plan your adventure on the Tahoe Rim Trail , whether you’re preparing for your first thru-hike, returning for another lap, or exploring the trail section by section. Our presenters will walk through practical planning considerations, share real-world trail insights, and provide up-to-date information to set you up for success.
What to Expect
Structured presentation with visuals and planning resources
Tips for permits, resupply, water sources, and seasonal timing
Gear considerations for both thru-hikers and section hikers
Safety planning and Leave No Trace best practices
Dedicated Q&A time and community discussion
What to Bring
Your trail questions
A notebook or device for notes
Water bottle
A friend who’s curious about hiking the TRT!
Whether you’re in the early dreaming stage or actively mapping out your mileage, this session will provide the tools, confidence, and community support to help you get on the trail prepared.
This is a free event open to the public.

Washoe Environmental: Wasiw Earth Day
2026-05-03 09:00 - 14:00 | Woodfords Indian Education Center, 96 Washo Blvd #B, Markleeville, CA, 96120, United States

Water Quality Monitoring Volunteer Training
2026-05-16 10:00 - 12:00 | Briceburg, Briceburg, CA, 95345, United States
WANTED: CITIZEN SCIENTIST WATER QUALITY MONITORS
Want to help us collect water quality data on the Merced River? Join us for a morning of VOLUNTEER TRAINING! Each quarter, dedicated volunteers head out to their “adopted” spot on the river to take samples, conduct monitoring, collect data, and generally enjoy time connecting with the river. All in all, it takes about 45 minutes from start to finish.
WE PROVIDE everything you’ll need–including monitoring equipment, a first aid kit, air temp thermometer, and even a trash bag–for your citizen science experience.
We currently monitor along 5 identified sites, and we appreciate when volunteers pick a site that becomes “theirs.” Monitoring takes place over a scheduled weekend window, so once you are trained, you have the flexibility of picking the day that is convenient for you to go out on the river. Once trained, you pick up your equipment box at Briceburg, then head out to the river for monitoring. When you are finished, you bring your equipment box back to the pick-up location.
For your first monitoring experience, we invite you to join us for a VOLUNTEER TRAINING DAY on Saturday, May 16th at 10am at Briceburg. You will join other volunteers to learn why we monitor water quality, safety on the river, orientation to the equipment, and give you hands-on experience in how to monitor and record data. If you have a preference for which one of our sites you would like to “adopt,” we’ll talk about that, too.
WHAT TO BRING:
We won’t wade into the river, but we will be working at the river’s edge. Wear sturdy shoes, boots, or other footwear that you don’t mind getting wet.
We’ll be out there rain or shine. Come prepared for any weather eventuality, especially a hat and sunscreen.
Drinking water and snacks.

EcoTour: Hike, Bite and Delight at the Deer Creek Preserve
2026-05-29 08:00 - 14:00 | Northern california regional land trust, 30 Independence Circle, St 100, Chico, 95973, United States
Hiking Adventure at the Deer Creek Preserve

Join NCRLT staff for a private 3-mile hiking tour through the breathtaking beauty of Deer Creek Preserve, our hidden gem. This adventurous journey will lead you deep into the majestic canyon, where the purifying flows of Deer Creek wind through untouched landscapes.
The adventure begins at 8am at the Chico Park & Ride. We will meet there and board a van for the 50-minute drive to the Deer Creek Trailhead, where Deer Creek crosses HWY 32. We will hike the Deer Creek Trail from the trailhead to where the trail crosses K-line road, stopping to take in the view, wildlife, and flowers. We will enjoy a picnic of locally-sourced fare and you’ll receive a commemorative photo book with adventure memories (provided after the tour). Our tour concludes roughly 3 miles downstream, where our ride awaits.
The hiking trail is well maintained though there are a few areas that are narrow and may have loose rocks. This is a moderate level hike with little elevation gain. Dress in layers, appropriate footwear (hiking boots/athletic shoes), and bring water.
Included: round-trip transportation from Chico Park & Ride, locally sourced picnic, commemorative photo book.
This event is rain or shine. However, extreme weather will cancel and be rescheduled for a future date.
If you do not wish to register online, you may email us at kim@landconservation.org or give us a call at 530-894-7738.

California Naturalist Immersive Course
2026-06-21 08:00 - 2026-06-27 17:00
Since 2012, this course has used education and service to inspire and empower individuals to create more resilient communities and ecosystems by becoming a certified California Naturalist. Aspiring Naturalists enroll in a 40-hour course that combines classroom and field experience in science, problem-solving, communication training and community service. Class and field sessions are taught by local experts in the fields of: ecology, geology, plants, animals, climate, global environmental issues, energy, water, forests, and interpretation. Participants gain knowledge about the unique natural history of California with a focus on the Northern Sierras and Lake Tahoe Basin.

Program Goals
To promote environmental literacy and stewardship of California’s natural resources
To increase participation in resource conservation and community science projects throughout the state
To develop a core constituency of committed and educated citizens willing and able to participate in resource conservation, preservation, and restoration efforts
To provide participants with the knowledge, skills, and confidence they need to educate others and participate in many aspects of resource management, such as public education, resource planning, and public decision-making
To provide the communication experience and critical thinking skills necessary to grow a base that supports environmental protection and sustainable growth in California
To support partner organizations as they implement the program
Benefits to the Participant
A new appreciation for and knowledge of California’s unique ecology and natural history
Opportunities for personal and professional growth
New skills for volunteer and professional enrichment
Special knowledge of and access to local resources, ecology, and natural areas
Access to new venues for creative and hobby activities such as bird watching, sketching, photography, etc.
Fellowship from other California Naturalist participants throughout the state
The excitement of being part of the venerable tradition of naturalists throughout history and an innovative new program for natural resource stewardship.
Course Format
This One-Week Adult Immersion Course includes 40 hours of classroom and field courses during a residential week at the Field Station. The 2026 program dates are Saturday, June 21st to Sunday, June 27th.
Fees
The program costs $990 and includes all classes, food, and lodging at Sagehen Field Station.
Housing Options
Shared cabins are available for course participants. There are no private rooms at the field station, but participants may bring a tent and camp on-site if preferred. There is no discount for camping, since you will still be using all other station facilities. Course participants may not cook for themselves, nor opt out of catering. Please note dietary preferences on the registration form. Hotels in nearby Truckee, CA are an option for participants who require more amenities, but travel time of at least 1/2-hour each way will take away from valuable informal networking and field experience, not to mention sleep. The course consists of very full days and summer road work delays are always a factor, so we discourage this option.
Pack list
In addition to course materials described below, see our list of what you need to bring for your stay at Sagehen.
Course Textbook and Other Required Materials
Students need to purchase a field journal and the course text: The California Naturalist Handbook (30% discount code here). Please complete pre-course reading assignments: there will not be enough free time during the course to catch up from behind! Students should bring their textbook and field journal to every class and field trip session. Please bring your smartphone with the iNaturalist app installed and activated with your account. Participants may also find a small 10x hand lens and binoculars useful, but they are not required.
More information
Getting to Sagehen, what to pack, FAQs
Learn more about the California Naturalist program
An article about the program
Sagehen’s California Naturalist project on iNaturalist
Questions?
Contact the Course Coordinator: Lynn Hori (email: lynnhori@gmail.com)
