Use of controlled or “prescribed” burns is both an ancient art and a new science. Here in the North Bay, the practice was used for centuries before the arrival of Europeans. Today, it is an essential tool in promoting both fire resiliency and biodiversity. That’s why...
Don’t let the late-season rains fool you: this has been another dry year for Sonoma Valley. Northern California’s 2019-20 rainy season started out strong, but petered out during the holidays. By February, weather watchers were hoping for a “March miracle”—and although...
In the space of a few weeks, Sonoma County’s public parks have gone from full closure to “soft closure” and now, as of this week, to a “soft opening.” Under the new rules, county residents may now drive to inland parks, including those managed by Sonoma Ecology...
Local teens who love nature and the outdoors—and could use some paid work this summer—are in luck. Our educators are constantly seeking new ways to offer their hands-on science education while keeping the community safe during the coronavirus pandemic. As part of that...
UPDATE: The prescribed burn at Van Hoosear is now tentatively scheduled for Friday, May 22, dependent on weather conditions. Sonoma Ecology Center, CalFire and other partners s are planning a prescribed burn at the privately owned Van Hoosear Wildflower Preserve west...