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Every donation matters. Support our volunteer and education programs, preservation of ancient forests, and restoration of the natural and cultural resources that help make park visits cherished memories.
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Stewards Executive Director, Justin Lindenberg, met with Assemblymember Eloise Gómez Reyes with others to advocate for parks during Parks Advocacy Day. Seen above from left: Randy Widera, Bill Doolittle, Birt Johnson, Jr., Assembly Member Eloise Gómez Reyes, Rachel Norton, Alma Shaw and Justin Lindenberg. Widera, Doolittle, Johnson and Norton are staff and board at California State Park Foundation.
Veteran volunteer Bill Ruppert joined me in Sacramento last month for California State Park Foundation's Park Advocacy Day. We met with lawmakers and their staff to advocate for park access and equity and funding to address climate change, wildfire resilience, and more. One "special bill" we advocated for would indefinitely authorize nonprofit park operators, like Stewards of the Coast and Redwoods, to enter operating agreements with California State Park. On Wednesday - the bill made it out of committee! Huge thanks to special Bill for joining me.
- Justin Lindenberg, Executive Director
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Pond Farm Artist in Residence for June
Mel Renea
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June's Artist in Residence is cross-disciplinary artist, Mel Renea. Mel's current work focuses on merging experimental design and artisan handcraft to enhance livable spaces through visual ecosystems and functional art. Her background in fashion and fiber craft, along with research in experimental fabrication methods and material studies inspires her current studio practice. Previously spending several weeks on a survey trip across the US in 2021, where she sourced soil pigments, her interests in documenting regions and locations through their naturally derived colors will be her focus during her residency at Pond Farm. Meet Mel at Guerneville's Blue Door Gallery on Sunday, June 25th at 4PM for an ink-making workshop, or check out her website at melrenea.com. A flyer for the workshop will be posted to Stewards' Facebook page next week.
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Being an Armstrong Redwood Docent
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Born and raised in Los Angelas, Beth Lamb's fascination with the Earth's geological wonders led her to pursue a degree in geology at the University of California, Santa Barbara. Beth's love for sharing knowledge blossomed as she began assisting her daughter's class in identifying different rocks, igniting a newfound interest in working with children.
After her daughter had grown and left the nest, Beth, decided to become a volunteer for the Stewards of the Coast and Redwoods. This decision marked the beginning of a fulfilling journey for Beth. Beth's initial exposure to the Stewards of the Coast and Redwoods was through a class on Redwood Ecology, taught by docent and volunteer coordinator, Mike Roa. It was during this course that Beth's fascination with redwoods, their diverse ecosystem, and rich history, took root.
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Over the past seven years, Beth has served as a docent, sharing her passion for redwood ecology, the myriad of animals that call these forests home, and the significance of preserving these natural treasures. Through her engaging presentations and guided tours, she has enlightened countless individuals about the importance of conservation and instilled a deep appreciation for the fragile balance of nature.
Beth's commitment to environmental education and her unwavering dedication to the Stewards of the Coast and Redwoods have made her an integral part of the organization. Her genuine enthusiasm, combined with her wealth of knowledge in geology and redwood ecology, has earned her the admiration and respect of both fellow docents and visitors.
When Beth isn't busy enlightening others about the wonders of the coast and redwoods, she enjoys exploring the natural world, and hiking through scenic trails. She also joins the trail crew from time to time.
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Are you passionate about nature? Do you love working with children, and want to make a lasting impact? Join us as a docent with Stewards of the Coast and Redwoods and embark on your own volunteer journey through the breathtaking Armstrong Redwood forest! Training is free!
Become Part of the Story: Join our community of passionate docents, dedicated to preserving the redwood forest and educating future generations. Together, we can make a profound impact on the lives of these children and our precious environment. For more information telephone 707-869-9177 ex 3, or email stewards@stewardscr.org.
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On the Trail with Mark Anderson
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I did Trail Patrol today on the upper East Ridge Trail today to assess conditions for future work crews. It took me three hours to navigate my way down, relying on memory and knowledge of the terrain. I almost turned around a couple times, but at no point was I lost so I kept going.
The trail is completely overgrown and littered with downed trees and other obstructions. It is obliterated along some stretches and all of it will needed to be reestablished before it can open for public use. I could have taken more pictures, but frankly I was trying to down it without getting into trouble or sliding down the cliff. My feet and ankles are chewed up from all the burrs and stickers in my shoes and socks, LOL! I must say, it was nice to be back on that stretch of trail. After fifty four years of hiking it, I was amazed how much it could revert to a natural state in three years. Wildlife signs were abundant, and I’m sure they’d be just as happy if it it didn’t reopen again! I felt a bit like an intruder. An interesting and marvelous adventure, for sure. Cheers, Mark Anderson, a Stewards Foot Patrol and Trail Crew volunteer, as well as an ongoing contributing photographer with Stewards of the Coast and Redwoods, and regularly featured in the Press Democrat.
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If you would like to become a volunteer with Stewards, give us a call at 707-869-9177 ex 3 or stewards@stewardscr.org. So many opportunities to meet new people, learn a new skill, improve your history and environmental knowledge, and travel to parts of Sonoma County you never knew existed!
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Upcoming Events and Classes
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Join a docent-led tour of Pond Farm Pottery and Immerse yourself in the history and natural beauty of this significant cultural site, listed on the National Register of Historic Places and a National Historic Landmark. Learn about the dreams and challenges of internationally-renowned ceramicist Marguerite Wildenhain, the first woman to graduate from the Bauhaus as a Master Potter.
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Join us for a Summer Solstice celebration, at Armstrong Redwoods State Natural Reserve. Stewards of the Coast and Redwoods invites you to Yoga Under the Redwoods, with Cathy Johnson (E-RYT 500).
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Interested in volunteering for Seal Watch and assisting beachgoers by guiding interpretation of the Jenner harbor seal habitat, the largest on the Sonoma Coast? Volunteers support safe viewing of the harbor seals during weekends in the spring and summer months through guided interpretation.
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Stewards of the Coast and Redwoods is pleased to announce the UC Climate Steward Certification course this year for adults interested in climate science, interpretation, and action.
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At Sonoma Coast State Park, 7900 Carlevaro Way, Bodega Bay, CA 9492. Be sure to bring beach/lawn chairs, water/snacks, and dress in layers. This event is free to the public, with a capacity of 200 attendees.
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Volunteer Gear Now Available
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Volunteers that contributed 75+ hours in 2022 (and entered hours in Better Impact) have received one complimentary item as a thank you for volunteering. This is now open for any volunteer to place an order and have your swag shipped directly to you! You can order your swag here. We are also happy to announce that all current volunteers can order volunteer “swag” from Bonfire. There are different colors and sizes available by selecting various “styles.”
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