Climate Stewards is an exciting new Initiative from the University of California Cooperative Extension in partnership with the Point Reyes National Seashore Association. In this program you will learn more about the science of climate change, how to communicate more effectively about this issue, and how to help your community adapt to climate challenges.

During this program you will receive six online classes with guest experts, spend three Saturdays learning and experiencing climate-relevant sites in Point Reyes and the North/East Bay region, and will complete online coursework and a final capstone project to receive your certification from the University of California. In this interactive class you will practice the skills you need to work with others on finding climate solutions!

As a Certified Climate Steward you will become part of a statewide network working to promote community and ecosystem resilience for California’s future. To learn more about this initiative, visit UCANR’s Climate Stewards page.

Instructors: Sam Chiriboga, PRNSA Assistant Director; Biret Adden PRNSA Education Director

Program Schedule

Tuesday evening classes will be held online from 6:30-9:00 and will include guest speakers, group discussions, and climate change content. The in-person Saturday field trips from 9:30-3:30 will include hands-on projects and instructional visits to locations in Point Reyes and the North/East Bay region.

• Tues 3/1 – Introduction online (6:30-7:30)
• Tues 3/8 – online class
• Tues 3/15 – online class
• Sat 3/19 – Field Day, location TBA
• Tues 3/22 – online class
• Sat 3/26 – Field Day, location TBA
• Tues 3/29 – online class
• Sat 4/2 – Field Day, location TBA
• Tues 4/5 – online class
• Tues 4/12 – online class
• Tues 4/19 – online office hours (optional)
• Tues 4/26 – Capstone Presentations and Celebration!

Time Commitment: You should plan to spend an additional 3-5 hours per week working independently outside of class to complete required reading, online modules, and homework assignments.

Graduation Requirements: Capstone project completion and presentation, required reading and questions, online learning modules with homework and quizzes, and attendance at all classes (one absence allowed). Certified graduates are eligible to receive academic credit through University of California.

Scholarships Available: Early career professionals, people of color, the LGBTQ+ community, or those working/interested in outdoor education or environmental action are strongly encouraged to apply. Spots are held for scholarship recipients, so you may apply up to the deadline even if the event appears “sold out.” Please complete the short online scholarship application form by 9:00am, January 24th, 2022 for consideration.

For questions or more information, please contact fieldinstitute@ptreyes.org

Class Materials

Required Text: Climate Stewardship by Merenlender and Buhler

(You will need to have a copy of Climate Stewardship available for use during class. If purchasing through UC Press, a discount is available. See Discount Flier for details)

Optional Text: The Thinking Person’s Guide to Climate Change, 2nd Edition by Robert Henson

Additional course materials, syllabus, and meeting links will be provided electronically to registered participants prior to the start of class.

Cancellation Policy

– Participants may miss one day if needed, but may be required to complete make-up work; please inform us if you know already that you will be missing a date  

– Refunds available up to 14 days in advance of the start date

– Refund requests made less than 14 days in advance of the start date will be honored if a student replacement is found, and may be subject to an administrative fee.

– Registration is required online prior to the start date

– Sales end 2 weeks before the start date

– Waitlists are available if needed

– Field trips will be held rain or shine

About the PRNSA Field Institute

The PRNSA Field Institute offers hands-on environmental education classes throughout the year that foster enjoyment of Point Reyes National Seashore. Our classes are led by expert instructors, who take you out of your everyday life and into the natural world. We host a variety of classes about the arts and sciences and have something for everyone. You can reach the Field Institute at (415) 663-1200 x304 or by email at fieldinstitute@ptreyes.org.

Interested in becoming a member of PRNSA? Click Here!

Interested in becoming a PRNSA Field Institute facilitator? Want to take classes for FREE while helping out a great cause? Give us a call!

Are you an outdoor educator or artist who would like to teach a PRNSA Field Institute class? Shoot us an Email!

For any questions, please email us at fieldinstitute@ptreyes.org.

COVID-19 Field Institute Guidelines

In accordance with Marin County guidelines for public health and safety, we will require all participants to respect the following COVID-19 procedures:

Perform a health self-check before coming to class using the CDC Symptoms of Coronavirus as a guide

Do not attend class if you are experiencing COVID-19 symptoms, suspect you have been exposed to the virus, or are suffering from any other flu-like or respiratory illness.

Participants exhibiting signs of respiratory illness may be asked to leave class

During class all participants will be required to do the following:

Wear a protective face covering indoors when in-person regardless of vaccination status

Maintain 4-6 feet distance from other participants not belonging to your household if unmasked outdoors. Note that we continue to recommend masks for everyone during close group gatherings outdoors.

Unvaccinated individuals are required to wear masks at all times when in-person.

Bring your own food and water.

Thank you for your cooperation in following these guidelines to help keep everyone safe.