Vernal Pool Sunset Stroll

The “golden hour”, a figurative term for the period just before sunset, is a great time to explore the blooming vernal pools of the Laguna de Santa Rosa watershed. Vernal pools, or temporary pools of water that provide habitat for distinctive plants and animals, are a unique feature of Sonoma County’s Santa Rosa Plain. During this evening stroll we will explore the grassland and seasonal wetland habitat at the Earle Baum Campus in west Santa Rosa where we are likely to see several species of endemic vernal pool flora, including the endangered Sebastopol Meadowfoam. The Laguna Foundation planted Sebastopol meadowfoam seeds in wetlands last fall and we can hunt to see if we can find any blooming plants on this field trip. Walking distance will be relatively short over uneven terrain with frequent kneeling and crouching to look at the small plants; alternately field participants can stay on the meandering 1 mile pathway through the vernal pool and oak woodlands. (Location of outing subject to change due to conditions.)

Event Venue & Nearby Stays

Earle Baum Center of the Blind, 4539 Occidental Road, Santa Rosa, United States