Reading the Land: Animal Tracking Excursion with Richard Vacha

Join Sonoma Ecology Center, Sonoma County Ag + Open Space, and noted tracker and author Richard Vacha (The Heart of Tracking-Inner and Outer Practices of Nature Awareness) for a rare opportunity to explore the Keen Property landscape beyond Sky Farm. Meeting just a few miles from Sonoma Plaza, we will wander the winter bay laurel woods in search of clues and climb the Sonoma Volcanics of the Mayacamas to glimpse evidence of the species who call this region home. On this outing you’ll learn to practice deep nature awareness and investigate signs and tracks from an expert naturalist. This outing is recommended for advanced and experienced hikers as it includes some steep terrain and scrabbling paths.

Please bring: a full water bottle, hat, wear sturdy, supportive shoes and layered clothing. Hiking sticks, binoculars, a small field notebook, camera and a bandana may come in handy.

We will meet at the Sonoma Police Department (and ball field) parking lot at 175 First Street West, Sonoma at 9:30 am sharp and caravan/carpool to the Keen Property at Sky Farm. We will return to the parking lot around 1:15pm.

There is no charge for this outing, which is made possible by the voters of Sonoma County who fund the work of Ag + Open Space with a quarter-cent sales tax.