Praise for Tuleyome’s Certified California Naturalist Course from recent graduates:
“Tuleyome's CalNat course was a transformative experience for me. Not only did I gain a deeper understanding of the natural world, but I also formed lasting connections with beautiful landscapes in my backyard!”
“The hands-on field trips and learning opportunities from guided trips to self-guided adventures and intentional projects sparked joy and curiosity within me and others in the course.”
“The program embraces art, science, nature, and community in a deeply appreciated, engaging environment.”
“I highly recommend [Tuleyome’s Certified California Naturalist course] to anyone looking to connect with nature and learn from passionate experts. Each speaker is knowledgeable, enthusiastic, and eager to share with students.”
Sign-ups for our 2024 classes are open now!
Ten-week course: Fridays at 12 pm, January 12 - March 15
One-week course: April 14 - 19 at Wilbur Hot Springs Resort
Please contact Nate Lillge (nlillge@tuleyome.org) to register.
Tuleyome’s Certified California Naturalist (CalNat) program trains members of the public to become California Naturalists! No advanced degree or previous naturalist experience is required – Tuleyome teaches you everything you need to know to become certified. Our course is focused on the northern inner Coast Range mountains, specifically the Berryessa Snow Mountain National Monument region.
The program, developed by the University of California Agriculture and Natural Resources, is designed to introduce Californians to the wonders of our unique ecology and engage the public in study and stewardship of California’s natural communities. The California Naturalist program uses science curriculum, hands-on learning, problem-solving, participatory science, and community service to instill a deep appreciation for the natural communities of the state and to inspire individuals to become stewards of their local resources.
Courses combine classroom and field experience in science, problem-solving, communication training and community service, taught by an instructor and team of experts. Upon completing certification requirements, participants are eligible for academic credits through UC Davis Extension for an additional nominal fee.
Teaching Modules Include:
- A “Nature Table” for sharing field journals and photos of specimens found in the region
- An overview of the chapters of the textbook, along with more targeted information about our region with a focus on vocabulary
- Guest lecturers
- Guided field trips
- Hands-on learning experiences
- And our very popular “Species Identification Modules” during which we will go over various common species found in the region and tell you some fun facts about them
2024 10-WEEK WINTER COURSE
JANUARY 12 – MARCH 15
Class meets every Friday, 12 pm to 4 pm. Field trips take place at various locations on Saturdays.
Class Location: University of California - Davis
Classes:
- January 12
- January 19
- January 26
- February 2
- February 9
- February 16
- February 23
- March 1
- March 8
- March 15
Field Trips:
- January 20
- February 24
- March 2
A detailed syllabus for the course will be made available as we get closer to the start date.
All students will be expected to purchase the required textbook for the course. You can order the textbook directly from the University of California or through other book outlets.
To register for the course, please contact Nate Lillge (nlillge@tuleyome.org). Once you are registered, you will be sent a packet of forms to fill out. All forms need to be returned to Tuleyome PRIOR to the start of the first class. (Don't worry, we'll send you reminders.)
- Standard Registration: $525.00 [Note: If you would like to pay the tuition with a credit card, contact Nate Lillge (nlillge@tuleyome.org). Please note that there are additional fees when paying with a credit card to help us cover our costs. To avoid the extra fees you can send a check made out to "Tuleyome/CalNat" to Tuleyome, Attn: Nate Lillge, 622 Main Street, Suite 200, Woodland, CA 95695.]
- Scholarship Registration: Please contact Nate Lillge (nlillge@tuleyome.org) for more information.
NOTE: Once the registration fee has been paid it will NOT be refunded in whole or in part for any reason (except in the unlikely event that the entire course is canceled by Tuleyome).
2024 1-WEEK INTENSIVE COURSE
AT WILBUR HOT SPRINGS RESORT
APRIL 14 – 19
Class meets everyday Sunday to Friday. Students stay at the resort as there are many early morning and evening field trips. This course covers the same material as the 10-week program but in a more condensed time frame.
Students will be expected to purchase the required textbook for the course. You can order the textbook directly from the University of California or through other book outlets.
Please contact Nate (nlillge@tuleyome.org) for registration information.
NOTE: Once the registration fee has been paid it will NOT be refunded in whole or in part for any reason (except in the unlikely event that the entire course is canceled by Tuleyome).
