It was the end of Earth Day, 1990, when a few local environmentalists gathered together to talk about the day and about Sonoma Valley’s future. This small group – Richard Dale among them – saw that our Valley could use some guidance in dealing with its environmental challenges. As a result of this conversation, Sonoma Ecology Center was born.

The years since have been busy ones, with SEC playing a vital role in preserving our open spaces (including Montini, Van Hoosear and the Sonoma Valley Wildlife Corridor), educating more than 12,000 local youths, founding and operating Sonoma Garden Park, reopening and operating Sugarloaf Ridge State Park, and many other successes.

That’s why every Earth Day we feel a special sense of accomplishment and optimism. Small actions can make a big difference, and communities working together can overcome huge obstacles. We know this from experience.

On this Earth Day, we plan to celebrate 27 excellent years alongside the Sonoma Valley community. Below are a few nearby events we’ll be taking part in – we hope to see you at Burlingame Hall, Nathanson Creek or Sugarloaf!

Whatever you do today, may your Earth Day be eventful, enjoyable, and steeped in the natural world.

Sonoma Earth Care Festival
11 a.m.-2 p.m.
Burlingame Hall, 252 W. Spain St., Sonoma
A local grassroots celebration of Earth Day hosted by First Congregational Church. Many local organizations will be represented, including Sonoma Ecology Center, and the event features music, food and interactive booths.

Nathanson Creek Volunteer Cleanup
9 a.m.-1 p.m.
Nathanson Creek Preserve, Sonoma
Spend your Earth Day in the great outdoors, working with neighbors to keep Nathanson Creek Preserve clean and beautiful. The event is overseen by our restoration experts and includes snacks. Click here for details.

Family Friendly Wildflower Walk
9 a.m.-11 a.m.
Van Hoosear Wildflower Preserve
Local families will join our naturalists at Van Hoosear Wildflower Preserve for one of the most spectacular wildflower displays in all of Sonoma County. Kids activities provided. Registration fills up but get the latest updates here.

Sugarloaf Trail Workday
9 a.m.-1 p.m.
Sugarloaf Ridge State Park
Team Sugarloaf, in partnership with the California State Parks Foundation, is holding a workday at Sugarloaf Ridge State Park to repair lower Brushy Peaks Trail. Sugarloaf lovers are encouraged to sign up here.