California Natural Resources Agency

Calaveras Big Trees Labor Day Weekend Biodiversity Programs

California State Parks (Calaveras County)

SEPT 2 – SEPT 3

Join us for biodiversity themed programming Labor Day weekend. Programs include Junior Rangers and Cubs both days at 10am, guided North Grove hike both days at 11:30am, South Grove guided hike Sept. 2nd at 10am, Meadow Walk on Sept. 2nd at 10am, and Campfires both days at 8pm. There will also be weekend pop-Up tables around the park to learn more about the biodiversity of the park, with a quick activity. After learning about an organism from another program, draw/write your favorite and put it on the Biodiversity Board by the Visitor Center. Through the week, it'll fill up with a diverse ecosystem!

Bidwell-Sacramento River State Park BioBlitz

California State Parks (Butte County)

SEPT 2 – SEPT 10

A Bioblitz project will be available for participants to add observations to all week.

Mono Lake Tufa Sate Natural Reserve BioBlitz

California State Parks (Mono County)

SEPT 2 – SEPT 10

Be a part of citizen science by contributing to the bioblitz data and learn more about the natural world around you! Join us all week for a self-guided BioBlitz in the Mono Basin, including the Mono Lake Tufa SNR and Mono Basin National Forest Scenic Area.

Mount Diablo State Park BioBlitz

California State Parks (Contra Costa County)

SEPT 2 – SEPT 10

A self-guided Bioblitz project will be available for participants to add observations to all week.

Calaveras Big Trees BIOBLITZ!

California State Parks (Calaveras County)

SEPT 2 – SEPT 10

We will have on hand the QR code to join Calaveras Big Tree's bioblitz on iNaturalist that will last the duration of the week. We will have a fun general survey sheet for kids to take from the Visitor Center to fill out their own observations and participate in the bioblitz. This event is self-guided for anyone visiting from 9/2/23-9/10/23. We will also have a daily bird walk during the whole week for visitors around the visitor center, meadow, and campground area. Meet at the visitor center at 9:30am plan on walking about a mile for around an hour.

Indian Grinding Rock State Historic Park BioBlitz

California State Parks (Amador County)

SEPT 2 – SEPT 10

Join Indian Grinding Rock State Historic Park in celebrating CA Biodiversity Day 2023! We look forward to having everyone help the efforts of the scientific community by recording how many different species live in the park! Please be aware that Indian Grinding Rock SHP is a sacred place to the local Miwok Tribe. Be respectful at all times by staying on established trails, pathways and not crossing fence lines. Also, please be aware that it is against the law to remove or disturb any natural and cultural features of the park. Please notify the staff of any found cultural objects and their location. There are plenty of organisms to be found and recorded throughout the park without traveling into sensitive cultural areas and environments. Thank you in advance for being respectful. * Event seeking volunteers, please contact event host if interested.

Don Edwards San Francisco Bay National Wildlife Refuge BioBlitz

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Santa Clara County)

SEPT 2 – SEPT 10

This is a self-guided, week-long event that allows community members to visit the Don Edwards SF Bay National Wildlife Refuge on their own time to participate in community science and help us to track native California plant and animal species. All participants will need is a smartphone with the iNaturalist app. More information on how to make quality observations is available upon registration.

Salton Sea SRA BioBlitz

California State Parks (Riverside County)

SEPT 2 – SEPT 10

Let's get together and observe as many species as we can to celebrate California Biodiversity Day! Time to show off the amazing biodiversity the desert has to offer. Who will observe the most plants and animals? Download the iNaturalist app, take a picture, and share your findings.

Picacho SRA BioBlitz

California State Parks (Imperial County)

SEPT 2 – SEPT 10

Let's get together and observe as many species as we can to celebrate California Biodiversity Day! Time to show off the amazing biodiversity the desert has to offer. Who will observe the most plants and animals? Download the iNaturalist app, take a picture, and share your findings.

BioBlitz at Folsom Lake State Recreation Area

California State Parks (Sacramento County)

SEPT 2 – SEPT 10

A Bioblitz project will be available for participants to add observations to all week.

BioBlitz at Auburn State Recreation Area

California State Parks (Placer County)

SEPT 2 – SEPT 10

A Bioblitz project will be available for participants to add observations to all week.

BioBlitz at Marshall Gold Discovery State Historic Park

California State Parks (Sacramento County)

SEPT 2 – SEPT 10

A Bioblitz project will be available for participants to add observations to all week. Sept. 4th through Sept. 6th from 10am to 2pm, check out visual displays to illustrate why biodiversity matters, and visitor-created or found images to represent findings. Also see resources to view iNaturalist and maps of what's being found where.

Clear Lake State Park BioBlitz

California State Parks (Lake County)

SEPT 2 – SEPT 10

Clear Lake State Park is hosting a self-guided bioblitz that will last the entire biodiversity week from 9/2 to 9/10. Anyone visiting our park can contribute their observations through iNaturalist. * Event seeking volunteers, please contact event host if interested.

Salmon Falls Ranch BioBlitz

American River Conservancy (El Dorado County)

SEPT 4 – SEPT 10

It's a BioBlitz at Salmon Falls Ranch! Help ARC document the life at our property in Pilot Hill using the iNaturalist app on your phone. Come out on Monday September 4 from 9-11 AM for a naturalist led hike at the Acorn Creek Trailhead and learn how to use the iNaturlist app, while honing your plant and animal ID skills. The BioBlitz will go on all week and all observations made from September 4th-10th will be included.

Marsh Walks at Arcata Marsh Interpretive Center

Friends of Arcata Marsh (Humboldt County)

SEPT 4 – SEPT 8

Friends of the Arcata Marsh will host daily walks of the marsh, focusing on the diversity of plants and animals in the salt marsh, the mudflats, the freshwater ponds, and the brackish marsh. Docents and visitors will use iNaturalist and Merlin to document findings. Meet at the Arcata Marsh Interpretive Center, 580 G St, Arcata. Sept 2 meet at 2 pm, Sept 4 at 9:30 am. Sept 5 at 2 pm, Sept 6 at 5:30 pm, September 8 at 5:30 pm.

Monterey State Historic Park Garden Tours

California State Parks (Monterey County)

SEPT 5 – SEPT 8

Monterey State Historic Park is offering 90-minute Historic Garden Tours. Join a State Parks Guide in exploring some of Monterey's most historic gardens. Delve into their historic uses and the role they play as urban green spaces. Those that choose may engage in a BioBlitz throughout the tour. Tours begins at the Custom House Museum at 12:30pm.

Presidio Biodiversity Mini Portraits

Presidio Trust (San Francisco County)

SEPT 2, SEPT 3, SEPT 6, SEPT 7, SEPT 8, SEPT 9, SEPT 10

Visit the Presidio Field Station and choose from a variety of Presidio flora and fauna to draw a small portrait of your favorite species. The portraits will all be displayed together in the Field Station to highlight the fact that the Presidio is a biodiversity hotspot! Open to all ages from 11am – 4pm. 

Bethany Reservoir State Recreation Area BioBlitz

California State Parks (Contra Costa County)

SEPT 2 – SEPT 10

We encourage visitors to take pictures and upload to iNaturalist from Sept 2 - 10 to celebrate California Biodiversity Day!

Palomar Mountain State Park BioBlitz

California State Parks (San Diego County)

SEPT 2 – SEPT 10

Welcome to Biodiversity Week at Palomar Mountain State Park! It is late summer in PMSP and changing seasons bring added diversity to the mountain ecosystem. Help us to catalogue the incredible biodiversity at Palomar Mountain during this weeks Bioblitz!

Prescott Preserve Biodiversity Day Celebrations

Oswit Land Trust (Riverside County)

SEPT 6, SEPT 8, SEPT 9

Join us for a morning bird walk at the Prescott Preserve Wed Sept 6 and Sat Sept 9 at 7:30am. We’ll also be hosting a talk on desert reptiles with hands-on meet and greet with live reptile guests on Friday Sept 8 at 9am.

Angel Island State Park Biodiversity Celebration

California State Parks (Marin County)

SEPT 6, SEPT 8

Celebrate biodiversity at Angel Island State Park! Help us document plants and wildlife on Angel Island. State Park Interpretive Staff will be at Ayala Cove Wednesday, September 6 and Friday, September 8, from 10am-12:30pm, to greet and familiarize interested visitors to iNaturalist.

Back Bay Science Center BioBlitz

California Department of Fish and Wildlife (Orange County)

SEPT 2 – SEPT 9

The Back Bay Science Center will be hosting an iNaturalist Bioblitz event during the week of September 2-9. Participants simply need to download the app on their smartphones and tag CA Biodiversity Week 2023 Upper Newport Bay in their projects.

San Diego River Park BioBlitz

San Diego River Park Foundation (San Diego County)

SEPT 2 – SEPT 9

Come celebrate California's biodiversity this year during the week of September 2nd – 10th! The San Diego River Park will offer a variety of opportunities that reflect the communities the River travels through in a unified system of parks, trails, and open space. Community plazas, public art, educational facilities, outdoor experiences for trail users, and even wilderness opportunities will all be featured.

Cuyamaca Rancho State Park BioBlitz

California State Parks (San Diego County)

SEPT 2 – SEPT 10

Welcome to Biodiversity Week at Cuyamaca Rancho State Park! It is late summer in CRSP and changing seasons bring added diversity to the mountain ecosystem. Help us to catalogue the incredible biodiversity at Rancho Cuyamaca during this weeks Bioblitz!

Tidepool Bioblitz at Sue-meg State Park

California State Parks (Humboldt County)

8AM – 10AM

Join the interpreters at Sue-meg State Park for a tidepool bioblitz where we will explore the tidepools at Agate Beach and learn about the plants and animals that live there. Meet at the Agate Beach trailhead at 8am to hike down to the tidepools with the interpreters, or meet them at the tidepools anytime from 8am-10am. The hike to Agate Beach is approximately ½ mile downhill.

Gray Lodge Wildlife Area Nature Walk

California Department of Fish and Wildlife (Butte County)

8AM – 11:30AM

Join a walk through Gray Lodge Wildlife Area, observe flora and fauna, and make observations on inaturalist. Download iNaturalist on your phone, set up an account, and join this project to submit your observations in real-time. Meet in the parking lot 14 at 8am.

Biodiversity Week Hike at Mount Tamalpais State Park

California State Parks (Marin County)

9AM

Hiking through Tam Habitats. Explore the variety of habitats found on Mount Tamalpais, from coast redwood forest to chaparral, on a three mile loop hike. Suitable for ages 7 and up with suitable footwear and drinking water.

Parks for Pollinators BioBlitz

City of Santa Clara Parks and Recreation (Santa Clara County)

9:30AM – 12PM

The Parks for Pollinators BioBlitz is an event where community members work with park staff to create a snapshot of the variety of wildlife that can be found in local parks.; Join Santa Clara Parks & Recreation and parks throughout the country in a fun challenge to see how many pollinator species can be documented on September 2, 2023, 9:30am - 12:00pm. You can participate by exploring the nature and wildlife in San Tomas Aquino Trailhead and Everett N. “Eddie” Souza Park & Garden.

California Citrus State Historic Park Biodiversity Walk

California State Parks (Riverside County)

10AM

Biodiversity Walk in partnership with The Friends of California Citrus Park. A guided walk through the varietal citrus groves at California Citrus State Historic Park. Participants can record the diverse flora and fauna that call CA Citrus home using the iNaturalist app. Meet at the Visitor Center at 10am.

Bethany Reservoir State Recreation Area Biodiversity Walk and BioBlitz

California State Parks (Contra Costa County)

10AM – 11AM

Take a guided walk and learn about Bethany's biodiversity and invasive species. We encourage visitors to take pictures and upload to iNaturalist from Sept 2 - 10 to celebrate California Biodiversity Day!

Biodiversity Week Junior Ranger Program at Half Moon Bay State Beach

California State Parks (San Mateo County)

1:30PM – 2:30PM

Come learn about the stunning biodiversity of California with our Junior Rangers program on Saturday, September 2nd from 1:30 pm - 2:30 pm. We will learn what it means to live in a “biodiversity hotspot,” explore our native coastal scrub habitat through sight, smell, and touch on a guided walk, document the insects and animals we find on our native plants, and talk about what we can do to protect these treasures. This Junior Rangers meets at the campfire center at the north end of the campground and is open to children ages 7-12.

Mount Tamalpais Biodiversity Week Campfire Program: Biodiversely Beautiful

California State Parks (Marin County)

7PM

With its diverse habitats, Mount Tamalpais supports high biodiversity, including species found only around the mountain. This campfire talk, suitable for all ages, explores the beauty of that diversity. Meet at the The Pantoll Stage in the Pantoll Campground. (No seating, so please bring your own camp chairs.)

Mount Tamalpais Perk Up in the Park: Biodiversity Week Style

California State Parks (Marin County)

8AM – 10:30AM

A special version of our weekly coffee program in honor of Biodiversity Week! Stop by any time during the program for hot beverages and cool information on Mt Tam's biodiversity and more!

Fern Canyon Bioblitz AT Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park

California State Parks (Humboldt County)

12PM – 3PM

Visit the interpreter at the mouth of Fern Canyon in Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park to help identify plants and animals. Fern Canyon is home to frogs, salamanders, fish, centipedes, millipedes, and 13 species of ferns—can you find them all? Download the iNaturalist app from the beach and then make your way into the canyon to make observations. A ¾ mile loop trail leads through Fern Canyon. Expect ankle-deep water.

Habitat Walk Bioblitz at Natural Bridges State Beach

California State Parks (Santa Cruz County)

2PM

Join us on a walk through some of the unique habitats of Natural Bridges State Beach! Participate in community science by using the iNaturalist app to document the many species we have, while appreciating the uniqueness of our park. We will be walking about a mile, over sand, dirt and rocks so please wear closed- toe shoes and be prepared for uneven terrain.

City of Davis Wetlands Tour

Yolo Basin Foundation (Yolo County)

3PM – 5PM

The tours are appropriate for all levels of outdoor enthusiasts and birders. These are driving tours on gravel roads with several stops and an occasional, optional short walk. Pets are not allowed on tours. Registration is required.

MacKerricher State Park BioBlitz Kickoff Campfire Program

California State Parks (Mendocino County)

6PM – 7:30PM

Join us for a BioBlitz kickoff campfire program on Sunday, September 3rd. Learn more about BioBlitzes at this park and others in the surrounding area.

Tidepool Bioblitz AT Natural Bridges State Beach

California State Parks (Santa Cruz County)

9:30AM

Explore the ocean without getting your feet wet on this exciting tidepool tour! Join us for some fun in the sun for California Biodiversity Week, and help us document the incredible creatures of the Natural Bridges tidepools using the iNaturalist app. We will be walking over slippery rocks, through sand and up hills on this tour, so please wear closed- toe shoes and be prepared for uneven terrain.

Biodiversity Week Habitat Walk at Mount Diablo State Park

California State Parks (Contra Costa County)

10AM - 11:30AM

Join us on a walk to enjoy magnificent views and explore some of the habitats that contribute to the rich diversity of life found in Mount Diablo State Park. Our Environmental Scientist will be on hand to share ways staff and volunteers work to protect the park’s rich biodiversity. Bring a phone or camera if you’d like to contribute to the bioblitz by sharing your sightings on iNaturalist. Meet at Lower Summit Lot.

Marshall Gold Discovery State Historic Park Biodiversity Activity Booth

California State Parks (Sacramento County)

10AM - 2PM

Activity Table will include observation and sketching activities, actual field guides and info about the Seek app by iNaturalist for teachers and the classroom. Marshall Gold Discovery State Historic Park; $10.00/day to park (or appropriate pass ie: current Poppy Pass, Historian Pass, etc.).

Van Damme State Park Campfire Program and Junior Ranger Program

California State Parks (Mendocino County)

8PM - 9PM

Join us for a campfire program junior ranger program on Monday, Sept 4th. Hear and learn more about BioBlitzes at this park and others in the surrounding area. The junior ranger program will include an animal paper carton craft hour.

Bidwell-Sacramento River BioBlitz

California State Parks (Butte County)

8AM – 12PM

Join State Parks staff at Pine Creek Access Day Use September 5th 8am-Noon. The public is encouraged to join State Parks staff in observing and documenting the abundant biodiversity found within a small stretch of the Sacramento River and learn about the importance of protecting and restoring riparian areas.

Mt Tam Biodiversity Week Bird Walk

California State Parks (Marin County)

8:30AM

Join Marin Audubon Society guide Jim White in exploring the variety of birds found on the mountain. Suitable for ages 7 and up and all levels of birders ready for about 2 miles of walking.

Fire and the Forest Community Guided Hike at Calaveras Big Trees

California State Parks (Calaveras County)

10AM

Join us for a hike on the North Grove Overlook trail and learn about how fire impacts the forest community. This will be about 2 miles, moderate, about 1 hour of program, and meets at the Stump at 10am.

Auburn SRA Quarry Trail Biodiversity Hike

California State Parks (Placer County)

8AM

Celebrate the biodiversity of Auburn State Recreation Area at the Quarry Trail on this 2.5 mile easy out and back hike. We will explore and identify some of the many species of plants, animals and fungus that thrive on our Northern facing canyon slopes. If possible before you arrive, please download the ‘inaturalist’ app from the Appstore or Playstore as we will be tracking our observations using the app. We recommend arriving early, wearing sun protection, wearing comfortable walking shoes, and bringing plenty of water and snacks. The Quarry Trail is wheelchair and stroller accessible.

Mono Lake Tufa Sate Natural Reserve BioBlitz

California State Parks (Mono County)

8:30AM – 12PM 

Be a part of citizen science by contributing to the bioblitz data and learn more about the natural world around you! Join us for a guided BioBlitz in the Mono Basin, including the Mono Lake Tufa SNR and Mono Basin National Forest Scenic Area.

Point Lobos State Park Bioblitz and Weed Bash

California State Parks (Monterey County)

9AM – 1PM

Join park staff and docents for a combination BioBlitz and Weed Bash at Point Lobos SNR! To celebrate California Biodiversity Day, we'll be counting species and pulling weeds as we walk the trails of iconic Point Lobos SNR.

BioBlitz: Support community science! We'll split into small groups and each cover a different part of the reserve. As we walk the trails, we'll identify and log the different species that we see. Learn how to use the ""iNaturalist"" app on your smartphone to identify species and record biodiversity. Parks staff will teach you everything you need to know about using iNaturalist and participating in a BioBlitz. Please download the app ahead of time, as cellular reception is limited and wi-fi will not be available. Walks will be about two hours long at a leisurely pace with plenty of stops along the way. Each group will be guided by Parks Staff and/or a Volunteer Docent. Mileage and routes will vary between groups.

Weed Bash: Support efforts to promote biodiversity at Point Lobos by joining the Native Plant Patrol! Non-native, invasive plants reduce biodiversity by crowding out the native plants that form the basis of our local ecosystem. As we walk the trails, we'll be pulling out some of the invasive weeds that use the trail system to spread around the reserve."

Trione-Annadel State Park Nature Walk and BioBlitz

California State Parks (Sonoma County)

9AM 

We will be hosting a public hike with guides to take photos of different plant and animal species found here at Trione Annadel State Park. We will have participants take photos and upload them to our iNaturalist bioblitz project. Meet at the Warren Richardson parking lot. * Event seeking volunteers, please contact event host if interested.

Marshall Gold Bioblitz!

California State Parks (Sacramento County)

9AM – 12PM 

Everyone is invited to join State Parks staff to explore and document California's extraordinary biological diversity to celebrate the 2023 California Biodiversity Week from September 2-10th. Unleash your curiosity, explore the park, and submit photo observations of plant and wildlife encounters using iNaturalist. Meet at the Marshall Gold Discovery State Historic Park visitor center. Participants will be split into 3 groups, each with a parks staff member. One will head towards the river, one towards the Marshall monument along the monument trail, and one towards the picnic area along HWY 49.

Santa Barbara Channel and Gaviota Coast Biodiversity Showcase Webinar

California State Parks (Virtual)

10AM 

Join us for a virtual webinar to showcase biodiversity of the Santa Barbara Channel and Gaviota Coast in Southern California. To connect students with landscape and local biodiversity through digital technology. Encourage individuals to learn and explore about their local ecosystems.

30X30 Biodiversity Showcase Webinar

California Natural Resources Agency (Virtual)

10:30AM – 12PM

Join us in celebration of California Biodiversity Week! We will meet up with several 30x30 tour guides to explore the biodiversity and places they treasure and the work they are doing to protect, steward, and restore nature across the state. We’ll discuss how biodiversity plays a critical role in sustaining and enhancing California’s ecosystems and communities, and how the 30x30 Partnership is putting the state on a path toward a more resilient, productive, and hopeful future. We look forward to celebrating biodiversity week and our 30x30 Partnership work with you!

Habitat Restoration Project on Mt. Davidson

Yerba Buena Chapter of California Native Plant Society (San Francisco County)

12PM – 2:30PM 

Join us and the San Francisco Rec & Park Natural Resources Division staff team for an afternoon of habitat restoration on Mt. Davidson, SF's highest peak and habitat for many migratory & resident birds, butterflies and insects. Anyone age 12 and older is welcome. Gloves and tools are supplied, please wear closed toed shoes and clothes appropriate for physical work. Mt. Davidson has lots of interesting biodiversity stories and we'd love to share them with you. Meet at top of mountain at the memorial cross (entrance opposite 45 Dalewood or 9 Dalewood and take trails to top). * Event seeking volunteers, please contact event host if interested.

Bat Talk and Walk at Yolo Bypass Wildlife Area

Yolo Basin Foundation (Yolo County)

5:45PM

Bat Talk and Walk events are hosted by Yolo Basin Foundation to help bring awareness of the importance of bats throughout CA. California is home to 26 species of native bats, all of which eat insects and help support farming in an agricultural state. As part of the program participants meet live ambassador bats and watch the bats flyout from the Yolo Causeway.

Auburn SRA Olhmstead Loop Trail Biodiversity Hike

California State Parks (Placer County)

The 12-Hour California Nature Extravaganza

California Academy of Sciences (Virtual)

8AM – 8PM

We’re embarking on a task *almost* as monumental as California nature itself: In honor of California Biodiversity Day, we’ve lined up nearly 50 nature experts and enthusiasts to help us read out the scientific names of as many groups of California plants, animals, and fungi as humanly possible … in 12 HOURS. (Yes, you read that right.) It’ll be colossal, chaotic, strange, beautiful, fascinating, and more than a little overwhelming, but in all the best ways — aka a perfect homage to California’s incredible nature. Join us live on Sept. 7 to celebrate California Biodiversity Day in a way no one ever has before … possibly for very good reason. Live from 8am – 8pm on September 7th, featuring a series of very special guests!

BioBlitz at Lake Perris State Recreation Area

California State Parks (Riverside County)

Virtual Fieldtrip with State Parks PORTS Program

California State Parks (Virtual)

9AM - 9:45AM

Join us to explore California's diverse habitats and learn about the different species of plants and animals that inhabit them! In this virtual field trip, students will travel to several parks spread out across the state to gain an appreciation for California's extraordinary biodiversity and learn actions they can take to protect it. Pre-registration is required!

For Teachers: You are welcome to share this webinar-styled program in your classroom. If your students are watching on individual devices, please send this registration link to your students. If each student is registered, it ensures that they will be able to access this program. If students are not able to register, then you can simply share the link you receive after registering.

Folsom Lake SRA Bioblitz!  

California State Parks (Sacramento County)

9AM - 11:30AM

Meet at the Black Miners Bar Day Use Area. Staff will then turn you loose and be available for questions. Participants are allowed to join at any time and will be given introduction at time of joining event. Everyone is invited to join State Parks staff to explore and document California's extraordinary biological diversity to celebrate the 2023 California Biodiversity Week from September 2-10th. Unleash your curiosity, explore the parks, and submit photo observations of plant and wildlife encounters using iNaturalist. Participation is free, but day-use parking passes are $10, and are valid at other State Parks for the same-day duration.

Folsom Lake SRA Bioblitz!  

California State Parks (Sacramento County)

3PM - 7PM

Meet at the Willow Creek Recreation Area. Staff will then turn you loose and be available for questions. Participants are allowed to join at any time and will be given introduction at time of joining event. Everyone is invited to join State Parks staff to explore and document California's extraordinary biological diversity to celebrate the 2023 California Biodiversity Week from September 2-10th. Unleash your curiosity, explore the parks, and submit photo observations of plant and wildlife encounters using iNaturalist. Participation is free, but day-use parking passes are $10, and are valid at other State Parks for the same-day duration.

Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve Biodiversity Hike

California State Parks (San Diego County)

9AM – 2PM

Join us for a hike at Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve! We'll split into small groups and cover different parts of the reserve including the trails, beach and marsh/lagoon. Walks will be about two hours at a leisurely pace with plenty of stops along the way. Each group will be guided by Parks Staff and/or a Volunteer Docent. Mileage and routes will vary between groups. BioBlitz: Helps us identify and log in iNaturalist! Walk the trails, identify and log the different species of plants, animals and insects. Learn how to use the "iNaturalist" app on your smartphone to record biodiversity. Parks staff and Docents will teach you everything you need to know about using iNaturalist and participating in a BioBlitz. Please download the app ahead of time.

CDFW Conservation Lecture Series’ Biodiversity Day Special

California Department of Fish and Wildlife (Virtual)

1PM – 2:30PM

The Atlas of Biodiversity of California and using data, maps, and models to protect California's natural heritage. Special. In 2003, the California Department of Fish and Wildlife published a collection of full-color maps, photographs, and written accounts of the state's diverse wildlife species and habitats, called the Atlas of the Biodiversity of California. CDFW has now published the 2nd Edition of the Atlas online on its 20th anniversary. Sandra Hill, Annie Chang, and Ryan Hill from the Biogeographic Data Branch invite you to explore this beautifully illustrated digital version, which highlights Department efforts to chronicle, understand, and protect the natural resources that are California's heritage.

Naturehood: Seeding Connections Webinar

California Native Plant Society (Virtual)

5:30PM

Join us for a webinar hosted by CNPS staff and volunteers from various CNPS chapters on how you can volunteer with your chapters and make a difference for biodiversity at the local level.

Bats, Birds, and Biodiversity at El Monte Ecological Preserve

Earth Discovery Institute (San Diego County)

6PM – 7PM

Join us to celebrate California Biodiversity Day at El Monte Ecological Preserve. On this after-work walk through the preserve you will learn about our conservation projects on this preserve; restoring coastal cactus scrub habitat for a range of species including the locally listed Coastal Cactus Wren, our bat hotel supporting local bat species, and our oak restoration, all supporting local biodiversity and threatened species.

NightLife: California Love

California Academy of Sciences (San Francisco County)

6PM – 10PM

Celebrate California's amazing biodiversity while exploring the Academy at night at our weekly 21+ event. Test your knowledge at California Biodiversity Trivia, dive deep at an engaging Biodiversity 101 talk, learn about places in the Bay Area that Academy staff love for the nature you can find there, and talk with our local partners about their work to help people and nature thrive together.

Biodiversity Week Hike at Mount Tamalpais State Park

California State Parks (Marin County)

9AM

Hiking through Tam Habitats. Explore the variety of habitats found on Mount Tamalpais, from coast redwood forest to chaparral, on a three mile loop hike. Suitable for ages 7 and up with suitable footwear and drinking water.

Asilomar State Beach Weed Removal and Native Planting

California State Parks (Monterey County)

9AM – 12PM

Help parks staff with non-native plant removal & planting native plants! Meet at the Asilomar State Beach and Conference Grounds Greenhouse.

Buckeye Canyon Restoration Project

Yerba Buena Chapter California Native Plant Society (San Mateo County)

10AM – 12:30PM

Please join with CNPS_YB and San Bruno Mountain Watch to learn about this fascinating biodiversity hotspot and to help restore native plant habitat. Join the fight against invasive weed takeover after landslides changed Buckeye Canyon in last winter's heavy rains. Tools and gloves will be supplied (please don't bring your own gloves). Directions: 1) From Bayshore Blvd, turn onto Valley Drive, the entrance to Crocker Industrial Park in Brisbane. 2) Drive down Valley Drive and turn left at the stoplight at the intersection of Valley Drive and South Hill Drive 3) Drive a very short distance on South Hill Drive; as the road begins to curve, immediately after a pedestrian crosswalk, you'll see a steep driveway on your left with potholes. Turn into that steep driveway and drive up. 4) Immediately at the top of the driveway turn left and stop parallel to the concrete drainage ditch, next to the trailhead entrance sign to Buckeye Canyon. This is the location of the trail into Buckeye Canyon. There are no formal restroom facilities at this project location. The nearest bathroom will be a 3-minute drive away from the meeting location, at the Brisbane public library. We recommend volunteers attempt to use the bathroom prior to the start time.

The Weird and Wonderful Plants and Animals of Angel Island

California State Parks (virtual)

10AM

Join this PORTScast to learn about the fascinating - and sometimes strange - animals and plants that can be found at Angel Island State Park.

Celebrate Biodiversity Week at Morro Bay State Park!

California State Parks (San Luis Obispo County)

1PM – 2PM

All ages welcome for this FREE interpretive event! Meet State Park Interpreters at the Black Hill Trail parking area to enjoy a 1-mile hike on the second to last of nine volcanic plugs that lie between the city of San Luis Obispo and Morro Bay (the last being Morro Rock itself). The hike will include elevated views of the surrounding ancient volcanos, Montaña de Oro Park Sand Spit boarding the Pacific Ocean, and even Morro Rock. Dress in layers for the coast and wear sturdy shoes. Bring binoculars and sun protection. Slight incline on uneven and rocky terrain, 190ft elevation gain from parking lot. ~½ mile, 1 hours.

Bioblitz Nature Walk at Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park

California State Parks (Monterey County)

2PM

Join park interpretive staff to help celebrate biodiversity day on a guided walk through redwood, riparian and oak forests of Big Sur. Learn how to use iNaturalist and Seek apps on your smartphone to identify species and see who can log the most. Please download the apps ahead of time, as there may be limited reception at the park. Wear layers, and sturdy shoes, and bring water for this three mile round-trip hike. Meet at the Campfire Center at Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park. You can also go out into the park and log species anytime during the week on your own on iNaturalist at Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park and it will add to our project.

Girl Scouts Biodiversity of Wildlife at Chino Hills State Park Webinar

California State Parks (Virtual)

4PM – 4:45PM

Join us for this special Girl Scouts Love State Parks virtual fieldtrip at Chino Hills State Park! In this program, you will learn about the animals in the park, how we study them, and how we know they are here. Featuring actual photographic evidence from wildlife cameras, citizen scientists, and park staff. Pre-registration is required.

Auburn SRA BioBlitz at Mineral Bar

California State Parks (Placer County)

5PM – 7PM

Celebrate the biodiversity of Auburn State Recreation Area at this BioBlitz activity at Mineral Bar. Explore the North Fork of the American River and discover diverse plant and animal communities that thrive around it. If possible before you arrive, please download the ‘inaturalist’ app from the Appstore or Playstore as we will be tracking our observations using the app. We recommend arriving early, wearing sun protection, wearing comfortable walking shoes, and bringing plenty of water and snacks. Meet at the Mineral Bar kiosk.

Bat Talk and Walk at Yolo Bypass Wildlife Area

Yolo Basin Foundation (Yolo County)

5:30PM

Bat Talk and Walk events are hosted by Yolo Basin Foundation to help bring awareness of the importance of bats throughout CA. California is home to 26 species of native bats, all of which eat insects and help support farming in an agricultural state. As part of the program participants meet live ambassador bats and watch the bats flyout from the Yolo Causeway.

Russia/US/Climate Change Chaos - Native communities and Bering Sea Ecology Webinar

Rotary Nature Center Friends (Virtual)

7 – 8PM

Mark Rauzon will share Arctic research experiences and discuss Stanford University’s Education Partnership for Internationalizing Curriculum. Laney Geography Professor Mark Rauzon recently returned from a research cruise to the Arctic and completed Stanford University’s Education Partnership for Internationalizing Curriculum (EPIC) Fellows Program for the 2022-23. Mark has an extensive background in natural history, conservation and education having taught at Laney College for 15 years. His motto: "Trying to save the planet through direct action and maximum education." Mark will share his insights from his program about climate change and the importance of global education for all.

Bird Walk at Cuyamaca Rancho State Park

California State Parks (San Diego County)

8AM – 10AM

Join our bird walk with one of our environmental scientists at the Stonewell Mine are of Cuyamaca Rancho State Park!

Rewilding at Camp Pollock

Sacramento Valley Conservancy (Sacramento County)

8:30AM – 12:15PM

This year’s Biodiversity Day theme is Rewilding at Camp Pollock: Forests and Fields near Downtown Sacramento. Participate in a fun day of learning about the plants and animals that call Sacramento home. * Event seeking volunteers, please contact event host if interested.

BioBlitz at Lake Perris State Recreation Area

California State Parks (Riverside County)

9AM

Join us for Bioblitz events at Lake Perris State Recreation Area on September 7th and 9th at 9 AM in Lot 12. Use the iNaturalist or Seek app, explore nature, and help document local wildlife. Dress comfortably for field exploration and be a part of this exciting biodiversity adventure!

Tree Life Cycles BioBlitz Park BioBlitz

Keep Coyote Creek Beautiful (Santa Clara County)

9AM – 11AM

Tree Life Cycles BioBlitz for CA Biodiversity Day will take place from 9am-11am on September 9 at Tree Life Cycles Park in San Jose. KCCB will be co-hosting this event with BioBlitz Club. We hope participants of all ages will gain a greater understanding and appreciation of the diverse wildlife we have in the South Bay. * Event seeking volunteers, please contact event host if interested.

Carmel River State Beach Biodiversity Volunteer Day

California State Parks (Monterey County)

9AM – 12PM

Natural Resources volunteer day at Carmel River State Beach. We'll be removing invasive weeds and/or collecting native seeds to help with restoration in the park. Will start with talk about Biodiversity and tour of our restoration plots.

Effie Yeaw Biodiversity Day Bioblitz

Effie Yeaw Nature Center, California Natural Resources Agency, California Academy of Sciences, and California Department of Fish and Wildlife (Sacramento County)

9AM – 12PM

Join us for an exciting Biodiversity Day Event hosted by Effie Yeaw Nature Center, the California Natural Resources Agency, the California Academy of Sciences, and the California Department of Fish and Wildlife. We will explore the beautiful trails and riverfront around Effie Yeaw Nature Center while adding our observations of nature to iNaturalist. We'll spend a couple of hours exploring the trails for trees, flowers, deer, birds, fungi, fish... everything! Search carefully and you're bound to find many species!

Mather Lake Regional Park BioBlitz

Sacramento Splash (Sacramento County)

9AM – 12PM

Join naturalists from Sacramento Splash for a morning in nature, as we explore the wetlands, riparian areas, and grasslands of Mather Lake Regional Park, near Sacramento, on this easy 1.25-mile nature walk! We will be celebrating California’s Biodiversity Week with a “bioblitz” event during this special hike, to find and identify as many species of plants and animals as we can! We’ll be using the iNaturalist app to document our observations, adding to a robust set of data which conservation leaders can then use to better understand how to protect the living things in our beautiful state. You don’t have to be an expert, or even know how to use iNaturalist, because this event will be tailored to the experience levels of the participants. So, grab your camera or phone and join our naturalists for this fun citizen science project! Mather Lake Regional Park requires a $6.00 fee to park, unless you have an annual Sacramento County Parks pass. We will meet at 9:00am at the covered picnic pavilion near the parking fee payment kiosk. See you there!

BioBlitz at Refugio State Beach

California State Parks (Santa Barbara County)

9AM – 2PM

Join us at Refugio State Beach to discover the biodiversity of the Santa Barbara Channel. Explore our native plant garden, check out our Education Center, and explore the park and upload your findings to iNaturalist.

Biodiversity Week Accessible Walk & Talk at Mount Tamalpais State Park

California State Parks (Marin County)

9:30AM

Take a walk on the scenic Verna Dunshee Trail on Mount Tamalpais East Peak, looking over and discussing the biodiversity of the mountain. This paved 0.7-mile trail is accessible for strollers and wheelchairs.

Bolsa Chica Biodiversity Day Hike

Bolsa Chica Conservancy (Orange County)

10AM – 12PM

A 1.5-mile guided hike of Bolsa Chica, discussing the many plants and animals that call the coastal wetland and sage scrub habitats their homes. Hikers of all ages and fitness levels welcome! Trail is flat, hard-pack dirt with minimal shade - bring sun protection and water!

Bioblitz at the Elkhorn Slough Reserve

California Department of Fish and Wildlife (Monterey County)

10AM – 12PM

Elkhorn Slough Reserve will host a Reserve wide Bioblitz! Join us at the Reserve as we record the rich diversity of plants and wildlife found here.  Participants will learn how to use iNaturalist then head off with a trained docent to explore various habitats on the Reserve.  Please come with your iNaturalist app already loaded. To reserve a spot, go to the link above.

Jack London State Historic Park BioBlitz

California State Parks (Sonoma County)

10AM – 1PM

Heed the Call of the Wild! Join expert naturalists and park staff and help us discover what is living in Jack London State Historic Park by taking pictures with your smartphone. Target audience: 4th graders and families (Adventure Pass). Partners: Jack London Park Partners, Sonoma Ecology Center. Materials: iNat instruction, 30x30 flyers, importance of biodiversity. Goals: We hope participants understand what is biodiversity and why it is important. Jack London park is next to a recent acquisition, the Sonoma Development Center (SDC). The SEC has held a number of bioblitzes on SDC land, so there are lots of observations on iNat for SDC, but few observations for Jack London. This bioblitz will help equalize the efforts on both properties. * Event seeking volunteers, please contact event host if interested.

Pepperwood Preserve Guided Nature Hike

Pepperwood Preserve (Sonoma County)

10AM – 1PM

Our event will be a guided nature hike celebrating the biodiversity of our California oak woodlands - titled Oak Woodland Hike. This event for all ages, and will take place at Pepperwood Preserve in Santa Rosa. Throughout the hike we will explore how oaks support a multitude of life - insects, birds, fungi, mammals, etc. through direct observation.

William B. Ide Adobe State Historic Park

California State Parks (Tehama County)

10AM – 1PM

Join us along the water on the Cottonwood Trail at 10 and 11 am for a guided nature walk where you’ll discover diverse native species unique to this part of California. Learn the running stitch and/or the backstitch to make an animal sewing card. Go for a self-guided walk and enjoy a StoryWalk® featuring We Will Live in This Forest Again by Gianna Marino (10 am to 1 pm). As a bonus, we will be giving away book bags provided by First 5 Tehama. The event and parking are free. Follow us on Facebook at Wm.B.IdeAdobeSHP and Instagram at wbideadobeshp. * Event seeking volunteers, please contact event host if interested.

Will Rogers State Historic Park Guided Biodiversity Hike

California State Parks (Los Angeles County)

10AM – 1PM

Guided hikes will help people of all ages to find, learn about, and record plant and animal species surrounding Los Angeles. We hope to engage peoples curiosity in the wide variety of species surrounding our urban communities and connect people to a larger community of nature lovers and scientists using iNaturalist. There will also be guided walks through historical buildings at the park every hour. The event will take place in Will Rogers State Historic Park main picnic areas and guided hikes will be on the nearby Inspiration Loop trail.

Lake Merritt Biodiversity Day

Rotary Nature Center Friends (Alameda County)

10AM – 1PM

Drop by our biodiversity table at the shore of Lake Merritt in downtown Oakland to see and document urban biodiversity from plankton to plants, insects, fish, birds and mammals. On September 9th, we can help you contribute your smartphone images to iNaturalist. * Event seeking volunteers, please contact event host if interested

Pacheco State Park Girl Scouts Biodiversity Badge

Four Rivers Natural History Association (San Benito County)

10AM – 2PM

Girl Scouts Heart Central California will be completing Biodiversity related badge work. This event will be facilitated by Four Rivers Natural History Association and California State Parks in partnership with the regional Girl Scouts. (Note - open to Girl Scouts only, not to the general public).

Tolowa Dunes State Park Bioblitz

California State Parks (Humboldt County)

10AM – 2PM

Join State Park interpreters at Tolowa Dunes State Park for an exploratory adventure through this spectacular coastal dunes habitat! Most importantly, this event aims at highlighting the incredible biodiversity that exists here while also engaging in community science. What! How are we engaging in community science? Well, this event is aimed towards using the iNaturalist app to take pictures and gather data regarding all of the life that resides here. Where do we show up?! Keep your eyes peeled for State Park Interpreters at the end of Sand Hill Road displaying plant guides, animal track molds, and scat models!

Biodiversity Day Program at Effie Yeaw Nature Center

American River Natural History Association (Sacramento County)

10:30AM

Biodiversity is one of the most important indicators of an ecosystem’s health. Greater biodiversity means a greater ability to cope with change. Come discuss the variety of species in an ecosystem and how this variety – or biodiversity – helps sustain life on Earth. *This program will be a presentation and includes a small fee. General Admission: $5 ages 12+ / $3 ages 4 - 11 / Nature Center Members: $4 ages 12+ / $2 ages 4 - 11 / Ages 3 & under FREE. Parking included with program purchase.

Habitat Walk Bioblitz AT Natural Bridges State Beach

California State Parks (Santa Cruz County)

10:30AM

Join us on a walk through some of the unique habitats of Natural Bridges State Beach! Participate in community science by using the iNaturalist app to document the many species we have, while appreciating the uniqueness of our park. We will be walking about a mile, over sand, dirt and rocks so please wear closed- toe shoes and be prepared for uneven terrain.

Habitat Walk Bioblitz at Sunset State Beach

California State Parks (Santa Cruz County)

10:30AM

Join us on a walk through some of the unique habitats of Sunset State Beach! Participate in community science by using the iNaturalist app to document the many species we have, while appreciating the uniqueness of our park. We will be walking about a mile, over sand and dirt so please wear closed- toe shoes and be prepared for uneven terrain. Meet in the lower day-use parking area.

Asilomar Tidepool Tour and BioBlitz

California State Parks (Monterey County)

1PM – 2PM

Join us for a tidepool tour and bioblitz from 1-2 pm! Staff will bring tidepool bingo sheets and "rules of the pool".

Back Bay Science Center BioBlitz

California Department of Fish and Wildlife (Orange County)

1:30 – 3PM

We will be hosting a bioblitz tour at the Back Bay Science Center to educate the public on how to use iNaturalist. All they need is their phone, the app and the desire to explore!

Folsom SRA Biodiversity Junior Ranger Program

California State Parks (Sacramento County)

3:30PM – 5PM

Explore Nimbus Flat and Black Miners Bar Day Use Areas at our Biodiversity themed Junior Rangers Program. Activities include a scavenger hunt and introduction to iNaturalist. Program will visit both Nimbus Flat and Black Miners Bar within the timeframe.

San Diego Audubon Society Fall Preview event at Agua Hedionda

San Diego Audubon Society (San Diego County)

5 – 8 PM

Learn about our Fall program schedule and ways you can be involved. Avian Ambassadors, live music, a performance by Accipiter Dance, mothing with Hector Valtierra and ice cream!

Bat Talk and Walk at Yolo Bypass Wildlife Area

Yolo Basin Foundation (Yolo County)

5:30PM

Bat Talk and Walk events are hosted by Yolo Basin Foundation to help bring awareness of the importance of bats throughout CA. California is home to 26 species of native bats, all of which eat insects and help support farming in an agricultural state. As part of the program participants meet live ambassador bats and watch the bats flyout from the Yolo Causeway.

Riding the Waves of Change: Navigating California's Biodiversity in the Face of Sea Level Rise (San Clemente State Beach)

California State Parks (Orange County)

6:30PM

Join us at San Clemente State Beach amphitheater for an interactive program to learn about the effects of climate change and rising sea levels on California's unique biodiversity. All ages are welcome to come learn about the challenges facing coastal ecosystems and leave inspired to take collective action to protect and preserve California's unique habitats and species.

California Biodiversity Week Campfire Program at Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park

California State Parks (Monterey County)

7PM

Get a glimpse into the species of Big Sur through a photo showing of what visitors have logged in the iNaturalist app. Learn how you can be involved in helping scientists and park staff through community science participation. Meet Sara at the Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park Campfire Center near Day Use Lot #1 for this one hour program. Wear warm clothes and bring marshmallows if you would like to roast them after the show.

Mount Tamalpais Perk Up in the Park: Biodiversity Week Style

California State Parks (Marin County)

8AM – 10:30AM

A special version of our weekly coffee program in honor of Biodiversity Week! Stop by any time during the program for hot beverages and cool information on Mt Tam's biodiversity and more!

Mather Lake Regional Park BioBlitz

Sacramento Splash (Sacramento County)

9AM – 12PM

Join naturalists from Sacramento Splash for a morning in nature, as we explore the wetlands, riparian areas, and grasslands of Mather Lake Regional Park, near Sacramento, on this easy 1.25-mile nature walk! We will be celebrating California’s Biodiversity Week with a “bioblitz” event during this special hike, to find and identify as many species of plants and animals as we can! We’ll be using the iNaturalist app to document our observations, adding to a robust set of data which conservation leaders can then use to better understand how to protect the living things in our beautiful state. You don’t have to be an expert, or even know how to use iNaturalist, because this event will be tailored to the experience levels of the participants. So, grab your camera or phone and join our naturalists for this fun citizen science project! Mather Lake Regional Park requires a $6.00 fee to park, unless you have an annual Sacramento County Parks pass. We will meet at 9:00am at the covered picnic pavilion near the parking fee payment kiosk. See you there!

Folsom Lake SRA Bioblitz!

California State Parks (Sacramento County)

10AM – 3PM

Meet at Folsom Powerhouse visitor’s center for an introduction for initial participants from 10-10:30. Staff will then turn you loose and be available for questions. Participants are allowed to join at any time and will be given introduction at time of joining event. Everyone is invited to join State Parks staff to explore and document California's extraordinary biological diversity to celebrate the 2023 California Biodiversity Week from September 2-10th. Unleash your curiosity, explore the parks, and submit photo observations of plant and wildlife encounters using iNaturalist. Participation is free, but day-use parking passes are $10, and are valid at other State Parks for the same-day duration.

Stream Bioblitz at Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park

California State Parks (Humboldt County)

2PM

Meet the interpreter at the Prairie Creek Visitor Center at 2pm for a short ¼ mile walk to the creek to sample aquatic macroinvertebrates (a.k.a. catch water bugs!), learn what they are, and document them on iNaturalist!

Folsom SRA Biodiversity Junior Ranger Program

California State Parks (Sacramento County)

3:30PM – 5PM

Explore Nimbus Flat and Black Miners Bar Day Use Areas at our Biodiversity themed Junior Rangers Program. Activities include a scavenger hunt and introduction to iNaturalist. Program will visit both Nimbus Flat and Black Miners Bar within the timeframe.

Nighttime BioBlitz at Mormon Island Wetland Preserve

California State Parks (Sacramento County)

6:30PM – 10PM

Nighttime Session! Focused on observations of insects attracted to lights at night. Folsom Lake SRA Bioblitz! Everyone is invited to join State Parks staff to explore and document California's extraordinary biological diversity to celebrate the 2023 California Biodiversity Week from September 2-10th. Unleash your curiosity, explore the parks, and submit photo observations of plant and wildlife encounters using iNaturalist. Participation is free, but day-use parking passes are $10, and are valid at other State Parks for the same-day duration.

Vernal Pool Stewardship Day!

Laguna de Santa Rosa Foundation (Sonoma County)

SEPT. 16, 9AM – 12PM

Free! Pre-registration required. Vernal pools are unique ecosystems found in the Laguna de Santa Rosa watershed that host many threatened and endangered species found only in Sonoma County! Our conservation and restoration team will lead us in everything from raking and removing thatch, to preparing for planting endangered Sebastopol Meadowfoam seeds. Our Laguna Foundation education and restoration staff will also share some insight about the environmental field and the vast work the organization does as a whole. * Event seeking volunteers, please contact event host if interested.

The Great America River Cleanup

American River Conservancy (Sacramento County)

SEPT. 23, 9AM – 12PM 

Pick up trash and litter at one of the 23 locations across the Parkway from Discovery Park to Nimbus Dam. Register here at the link above.

Lake Merritt Shore Cleanup and Planting

Rotary Nature Center Friends (Alameda County)

SEPT. 23, 10AM – 1PM 

Join us for shore cleanup and planting native marsh plants (568 Bellevue Ave 94610). This is part of Oakland's city-wide Creek to Bay Day. We will identify native plants and plant native plants in a demonstration marsh shoreline. * Event seeking volunteers, please contact event host if interested.

California Coastal Cleanup Day

California Coastal Commission

SEPT 23 (Statewide locations)

Join us for the 39th California Coastal Cleanup Day, the state's largest annual volunteer event! It's a chance for everyone in our state, no matter where they live, to help clean up trash from our environment before the rains come and wash it out to the coast and ocean. Register here at the link above.