From The Watershed Project:

*This event is part of the Wildcat Creek Awareness Campaign – A series of events that spur exploration of Wildcat Creek*

The Watershed Project and Safe Organized Spaces (SOS) Richmond are co-leading a creek cleanup at Wildcat Creek with local organizations from across West Contra Costa County. This collaborative effort highlights the power of community partnerships in protecting and restoring our shared watershed.

From East Bay Regional Park District:

BIG BREAK: Dive into the Delta's health every Sunday morning! Join us as we investigate water quality through hands-on testing. Discover how changes in water conditions impact our ecosystem and become a steward of Delta conservation alongside fellow enthusiasts.

Program content is designed for ages 8+

• Drop-in program, no registration.

• Meet at the Fishing/Observation Pier.

• Adult participation required. For information, call: (510) 544-3050.

For more info, visit: https://anc.apm.activecommunities.com/ebparks/activity/search/detail/56401?onlineSiteId=0&from_original_cui=true

From East Bay Regional Park District:

RADKE MARTINEZ REGIONAL SHORELINE - Martinez Shoreline features nice level trails, meandering marsh creeks, and lots of birds. Enjoy a gentle morning walk with community, learn about the role and importance of wetlands and enjoy observing their wonderful and unique flora and fauna.

Meet at the parking lot off N. Court St.

Radke Martinez Shoreline (Martinez): Parking lot off N. Court St.

https://goo.gl/maps/Dk3JW

No-registration required; Drop-in Program only.

For more info, visit: https://anc.apm.activecommunities.com/ebparks/activity/search/detail/55994?onlineSiteId=0&from_original_cui=true

From East Bay Regional Park District:

RADKE MARTINEZ REGIONAL SHORELINE - Join us during National Moth Week as we gather after dark to use UV lights and attract a variety of moths. We'll use iNaturalist to identify and record what we find to help better understand local moth populations. Come connect with nature at night while contributing to valuable scientific research. Be sure to bring a flashlight and wear comfortable clothing for nighttime exploration!

Meet at the main Radke Martinez Shoreline Parking lot (first left onto N Court, 300 North Court St.)

Radke Martinez Shoreline (Martinez): Parking lot off N. Court St.

https://goo.gl/maps/Dk3JW

No-registration required; Drop-in Program only.

For more info, visit: https://anc.apm.activecommunities.com/ebparks/activity/search/detail/55992?onlineSiteId=0&from_original_cui=true

From East Bay Regional Park District:

BIG BREAK: The Delta offers an immersive experience in local avian biodiversity guided by a naturalist. Participants will explore various habitats, learn bird identification skills, and gain insights into the ecological roles of different bird species. This program is perfect for novice birders and seasoned ornithologists seeking to deepen their knowledge and appreciation of the region's birdlife.

Hiking level: Easy

Restroom access: available at the Visitor Center and during the hike

• Drop-in program, no registration.

• Free Program.

• Adult participation required.

• For information, call: (510) 544-3050.

For more info, visit: https://anc.apm.activecommunities.com/ebparks/activity/search/detail/56532?onlineSiteId=0&from_original_cui=true

From CA State Parks & Mount Diablo Interpretive Association:

Jul 19, 2025, 8:30 PM – 10:30 PM

Mitchell Canyon Visitor Center, 96 Mitchell Canyon Rd, Clayton, CA 94517, USA

Drop by between 8:30 pm and 10:30 pm. No Reservation is required.

Bring your friends and family to discover the amazing moths of Mount Diablo! We'll have lights set up near the Mitchell Canyon Visitor Center to see what moths (and other nocturnal flyers) stop by. Enjoy observing, or you can help document what we see by uploading photos to iNaturalist.

Closed-toe shoes and a flashlight are recommended.

Presented by California State Parks

From The Watershed Project:

July 19 @ 9:30 am - 11:30 am

REGISTER HERE

The Richmond Greenway is a well-loved green corridor in the city that connects to the Ohlone Greenway on its east end and the Bay Trail (via a few blocks of protected bike lanes) on its west end. Among the many basketball courts, playgrounds, and community gardens that line the multi-use path, The Watershed Project tends a native-plant rain garden between 17th and 18th Streets.

Join us for a Saturday morning to help care for our Greenway garden. Depending on the month, we may be weeding, mulching, or giving a little extra water to plants in the summer heat. Whether you are new to native plants, want a little weeding therapy to start your Saturday, or want to learn more about “planting the rain”, this is a great spot to get to know. Our restoration team always loves to talk about the plants here and what they do for our native pollinators and birds, and how rain gardens help add urban resiliency for both droughts and flood events.

Gloves, tools, and water will be provided. No experience necessary!

From Sustainable Contra Costa:

Green Movie Night

• Jul 18, 2025 from 7:00pm to 9:00pm

• Location: Unity of Walnut Creek, 1871 Geary Rd.

The Green Movie Night series presents a screening of two powerful films, "Coral Comeback" and "The Beautiful Undammed." 

"Coral Comeback" shows us that coral reefs around the world are threatened by rising ocean temperatures, but hope is growing off the coast of Hawaii. With the help of community volunteers, researchers at the Coral Resilience Lab are selectively breeding coral to increase their resilience.

"The Beautiful Undammed" reveals that ten years after the largest dam removal in history—on the Elwha River, in Washington State—scientists are chronicling an inspiring story of ecological rebirth. Recovering salmon populations are transferring critical nutrients from the ocean into the forests along the Elwha’s banks, enriching the entire ecosystem. The Elwha’s revival is encouraging advocates to push for the removal of many larger dams in the region, and in the rest of the world.

Let’s talk about how we can rewild our own patch of nature.  Can we restore watersheds? Even bring the salmon back to the rivers and streams in Contra Costa? The films will be followed by a conversation featuring Bob Simmons of the Walnut Creek Watershed Council, focusing on local watershed restoration opportunities and efforts.

REGISTER HERE. This is a FREE event and is open to everyone. Enjoy light snacks.

A free-will love donation will be gratefully accepted, but no one turned away!

Write to info@sustainablecoco.org with questions. Green Movie Nights are brought to you by the Interfaith Climate Action Network and Sustainable Contra Costa

From Sustainable Contra Costa:

Nature Lecture Series - Reptiles

• Jul 16, 2025 from 7:00pm to 8:00pm

• Location: Rodgers Ranch Heritage Center, Pleasant Hill

Rodgers Ranch Heritage Center is hosting a nature lecture series featuring local naturalist Michael Marchiano who will speak on local flora and wildlife. The final session will focus on local reptiles.
Born in Berkeley and raised in Concord, Michael has been studying plants and animals in California for over 60 years.  He has mentored many state park docents, led several guided hikes, and shared his experiences and tales of Mount Diablo’s wonders with audiences all over the Bay Area.  In 2020 he was added to the Mount Diablo Interpretive Association Hall of Fame. We are fortunate to have him as a speaker. 

The ticket fees for each lecture are $15 for the general public and $10 for members of Rodgers Ranch Heritage Center. One (1) child under 10 years old can accompany a paying adult for free.

The lectures will be held at Rodgers Ranch Heritage Center - 315 Cortsen Rd in Pleasant Hill.
​ 
​Seats will be limited and will require pre-registration. Please purchase your tickets HERE.

From Sustainable Contra Costa:

Nature Lecture Series - Birds

• Jul 13, 2025 from 7:00pm to 8:00pm

• Location: Rodgers Ranch Heritage Center, Pleasant Hill

Rodgers Ranch Heritage Center is hosting a nature lecture series featuring local naturalist Michael Marchiano who will speak on local flora and wildlife. The July 13th session will focus on local birds.

Born in Berkeley and raised in Concord, Michael has been studying plants and animals in California for over 60 years.  He has mentored many state park docents, led several guided hikes, and shared his experiences and tales of Mount Diablo’s wonders with audiences all over the Bay Area.  In 2020 he was added to the Mount Diablo Interpretive Association Hall of Fame. We are fortunate to have him as a speaker. 

The ticket fees for each lecture are $15 for the general public and $10 for members of Rodgers Ranch Heritage Center. One (1) child under 10 years old can accompany a paying adult for free.

The lectures will be held at Rodgers Ranch Heritage Center - 315 Cortsen Rd in Pleasant Hill.
​ 
​Seats will be limited and will require pre-registration.  Please purchase your tickets HERE.

From East Bay Regional Park District:

BIG BREAK: Dive into the Delta's health every Sunday morning! Join us as we investigate water quality through hands-on testing. Discover how changes in water conditions impact our ecosystem and become a steward of Delta conservation alongside fellow enthusiasts.

Program content is designed for ages 8+

• Drop-in program, no registration.

• Meet at the Fishing/Observation Pier.

• Adult participation required. For information, call: (510) 544-3050.

For more info, visit: https://anc.apm.activecommunities.com/ebparks/activity/search/detail/56400?onlineSiteId=0&from_original_cui=true

From East Bay Regional Park District:
Habitat Restoration at Wildcat Wildcat Canyon - Alvarado Staging

Come join us as we restore habitat in the Wildcat Creek Watershed.

Age Restrictions: Youth under the age of 18 must have a signed permission by parent or legal guardian. Youth under the age of 13 must be accompanied by an adult.

Description: Come help restore habitat at Wildcat Canyon with your local community.

What to Bring: water bottle, gloves, and PPE. Wear sturdy hiking boots, closed toed shoes, long pants, long sleeve shirt.

What is Provided: Necessary tools.

Weather: Heavy rain or unsafe wildfire smoke conditions cancel the program. Please wear layers as Bay Area weather can be unpredictable.

Sign up here: https://apply.ebparks.org/custom/501/opp_details/3445

From Save Mount Diablo:

Get Tickets here

We’ll get an early start at Howe-Homestead Park, the little gem of a park in Walnut Creek, and follow the Kovar Trail into Shell Ridge Open Space, where we’ll watch the morning become day. The hike transitions from a narrow green corridor in the suburbs to the expanses of Mt Diablo foothills. This lollipop hike is about three miles long with mostly gentle grades. Parking and bathrooms are available at Howe-Homestead. Be sure to dress in layers and wear sturdy boots or shoes; bring plenty of water, and a snack.

Participant Limit: 20 people

Land: Walnut Creek Open Space

Rating: Easy/Moderate

Distance: 3.2 miles

Elevation change: 490 feet

Leader: Steve & Carolyn Balling, Save Mount Diablo Hike Leaders

Meet: Howe Homestead Park, 2950 Walnut Blvd, Walnut Creek, CA 94596

GPS Coordinates: 37.90049779855997, -122.04792515396417

Directions: From Interstate 680, take Ygnacio Valley Road, then turn right onto Walnut Blvd.

From Save Mount Diablo:

Get Tickets here

Named after one of the founders of Save Mount Diablo, the exceptional vistas, interesting natural history and wildflowers are found only in the highest reaches of our mountain. Hike: the trail is a flat loop, less than one mile long, encircling the summit of the mountain. The first one third is paved and is ADA accessible up to the Ransome Point overlook. This easy trail offers spectacular views as well as a journey through time. Discover how nature has created and altered this peak. Be sure to bring plenty of water and a snack, and dress in layers. Sturdy shoes or hiking boots are recommended. Heavy rain cancels. Restrooms available at the parking lot.

***There will be a $10 park entrance fee, exact cash is required.

Participant Limit: 15 people

Land: Mount Diablo State Park

Rating: Easy

Distance: 1 mile

Elevation change: 50 feet

Leader: Susan D’Alcamo, Save Mount Diablo Volunteer Hike Leader

Meet: Lower Summit Parking Lot, Mount Diablo State Park

GPS Coordinates: 37.880353, -121.919517

Directions: From Danville, take Southgate Road into Mount Diablo State Park; from Walnut Creek, take Northgate Road into Mount Diablo State Park. Continue up the mountain past the Junction Ranger station 4.5 miles; the lower lot is on the right just before the Summit Museum.

From California Native Plant Society, Yerba Buena Chapter:

Insect declines: evidence, causes, and solutions

Speaker: Tara Cornelisse

Join us to learn about our native insects!

Let’s explore what we know about insect declines, causes, and what folks can do about it locally and regionally with a particular focus on pollinators. We will put a spotlight on some species, including bumble bees, butterflies, and beetles, and issues specific to our region of California with Dr. Tara Cornelisse, entomologist and invertebrate zoologist. Tara will examine the current state of insect populations, including results of her recent pollinator analysis, share facts and stories about key species, their role in the ecosystems, and highlight conservation actions vital for the future of insect populations and ecosystem health.

Tara Cornelisse is an Invertebrate Zoologist at NatureServe and has over 20 years of experience in entomology and conservation biology. She earned a B.A. in Biology from Boston University, where she worked on termite social behavior, an M.S. from San Francisco State University, and a Ph.D. from the University of California Santa Cruz, focusing on tiger beetle conservation. At NatureServe, Tara assesses the conservation status of a myriad of invertebrates, the results of which inform conservation and species priorities at state and national levels. 

NatureServe assembles robust data on the location and ecological condition of species and ecosystems collected by biodiversity experts from the NatureServe Network and other partners. Our scientists turn those data into maps, models, and metrics that document and predict distributions, evaluate threats, assess extinction risks, document trends, and identify priority conservation areas.

You can learn more about our work here: https://www.natureserve.org/

Explore species and their conservation statuses at NatureServe Explorer here: https://explorer.natureserve.org/ 

This is an online event - Zoom Reservation: Link Here

From CA State Parks & Mount Diablo Interpretive Association:

Jul 9, 2025, 7:00 PM – 8:00 PM

Webinar

Registration Required: https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_tVNGe6iqR7KoEBetq9r6ig

What is that flower? So many of us are asked that question by visitors or for our own knowledge. Join us in this webinar to learn basic features of leaves and flowers to more easily identify wildflowers, with an emphasis on the plants of Mount Diablo. With some knowledge of visible plant structures, field guides and dichotomous keys can become friend, not frustration! Michele Stanton is a relative newcomer to the Bay Area, but she holds a BS and MS in Horticulture, and taught Horticulture in the Midwest at both the university level and for adult education. She is often a docent at Mitchell Canyon Visitor Center.

Forum meetings are open to the public and take place on Zoom. To receive meeting invites, please add your email address to the Forum email list by filling out the form at the bottom of this webpage.

From East Bay Regional Park District:

BIG BREAK: Dive into the Delta's health every Sunday morning! Join us as we investigate water quality through hands-on testing. Discover how changes in water conditions impact our ecosystem and become a steward of Delta conservation alongside fellow enthusiasts.

Program content is designed for ages 8+

• Drop-in program, no registration.

• Meet at the Fishing/Observation Pier.

• Adult participation required. For information, call: (510) 544-3050.

For more info, visit: https://anc.apm.activecommunities.com/ebparks/activity/search/detail/56399?onlineSiteId=0&from_original_cui=true

From Bringing Back the Natives Garden Tour:

21st Anniversary Annual Picnic, native seed and cutting exchange, native seed sale, and book swap table - Free.

Saturday, June 28, 11:00 - 3:00

Location:  Mineral Springs Picnic Area, Wildcat Canyon, located on Wildcat Canyon Road in the EBRPD.  Register and find out more here.

Forum meetings are open to the public and take place on Zoom. To receive meeting invites, please add your email address to the Forum email list by filling out the form at the bottom of this webpage.

Join The Watershed Project, the Contra Costa Resource Conservation District, and volunteers from Friends of Pleasant Hill Creeks for an educational creek restoration event. Restore riparian habitat by picking up trash and collecting community science data and removing an invasive reed called Arundo donax from the creek bank. Grayson Creek is home to more than 100 bird species and also provides habitat for river otters, western pond turtles, and even beavers! Help protect this important community resource by removing trash and invasives from the creek banks.

Dress appropriately for outdoor work. Wear long sleeves and long pants, sturdy shoes, and wear sun protection (hat and/or sunscreen). All cleanup supplies, water, and light refreshments will be provided. Please bring a reusable water bottle and your own gloves if you have them.

Volunteers must be at least 16 years old. All volunteers under 18 years old must have parental permission to participate or be accompanied by an adult.

Contact Paula White at paula@thewatershedproject.org for more information.

Register for the event here.

From Bringing Back the Natives Garden Tour:

Learn more about this event here.

The tour starts at the garden of your choice at 10:00 am. Visit as many gardens as you like before 5:00 pm. Do not arrive before 10:00 am or stay after 5:00 pm. We recommend selecting the gardens you would like to visit by reviewing the garden descriptions and talks before setting out for the day. You can plan your route by referring to the maps that will show the relative locations of the gardens, then using an on-line mapping program for directions.

Registration is required. Register for the in-person tour here!

From Save Mount Diablo:

Wonder Hike
Sunday, May 4
9:00am - 1:00pm

Wonder and wander now with us while we explore along Curry Creek in the stunning Curry Canyon Ranch and into Mount Diablo State Park.

Have you ever wondered about the many species of organisms that inhabit our world beyond the sidewalks and streets? This is the hike for you! Wonder and wander now with us while we explore along Curry Creek in the stunning Curry Canyon Ranch and into Mount Diablo State Park. We may see: Birds – Western Bluebirds, and several species of Warblers and Sparrows; Butterflies – Skippers, Blues, Tortoiseshells, Crescents, and Whites; Blooms – Delphiniums, Shooting Stars, Milkmaids, Blue Dicks, and Buttercups; and maybe Bobcat and native Bees. You won’t be disappointed if you have an inquisitive mind.

Be sure to bring plenty of water and a snack, and dress in layers. Bring binoculars if you have them. Sturdy shoes or hiking boots are recommended. Heavy rain cancels.

This hike is limited to 20 participants.

For more info and to register, visit: https://savemountdiablo.org/event/all-that-begin-with-b-beyond-2/

From Bringing Back the Natives Garden Tour:

Learn more about this event here.

The tour starts at the garden of your choice at 10:00 am. Visit as many gardens as you like before 5:00 pm. Do not arrive before 10:00 am or stay after 5:00 pm. We recommend selecting the gardens you would like to visit by reviewing the garden descriptions and talks before setting out for the day. You can plan your route by referring to the maps that will show the relative locations of the gardens, then using an on-line mapping program for directions.

Registration is required. Register for the in-person tour here!

From Save Mount Diablo:

Mitchell Canyon Medicinal Herb Walk
Saturday, May 3
9:00am - 11:00am

Learn about the modern-day uses of the plants we see and discover some of the diversity that this abundant ecosystem holds.

Join us for a meander around the base of Mount Diablo to explore the medicinal plants growing along the trails at Mitchell Canyon. We will talk about the modern-day uses of the plants we see and discover some of the diversity that this abundant ecosystem holds. The walk will begin in the native plant garden at the Mitchell Canyon Visitor Center, where we will start our journey into the world of local medicinal herbs and their wonder/magic. Be sure to bring plenty of water and a snack, and dress in layers. Sturdy shoes or hiking boots are recommended. Heavy rain cancels.

Participant Limit: 20 people

For more info and to register, visit: https://savemountdiablo.org/event/mitchell-canyon-medicinal-herb-walk-3/

From Save Mount Diablo:

Castles & Peregrine Falcons
Tuesday, April 22
9:30am - 11:30am

Walk along beautiful Pine Creek and marvel at the magnificent rock formations and wildflowers. Bring binoculars to look for soaring peregrines. There are four creek crossings where hiking poles are very helpful if wet conditions. Be sure to bring plenty of water and a snack, and dress in layers. Sturdy shoes or hiking boots are recommended. Heavy rain cancels.

Participant Limit: 20 people

For more info and to register, visit: https://savemountdiablo.org/event/castles-peregrine-falcons-2/

From Save Mount Diablo:

Shell Ridge Open Space Loop Hike
Tuesday, April 15
10am - 12pm

Beautiful rolling hills, a meander through an oak woodland with wildflowers, views of Mt. Diablo, birds, and a lovely small lake near the end of the loop. Be sure to bring plenty of water, a snack, and dress in layers. Sturdy shoes or hiking boots, hiking poles and binoculars are recommended. Heavy rain cancels. No restrooms.

Participant Limit: 20 people

For more info and to register, visit: https://savemountdiablo.org/event/shell-ridge-open-space-loop-2/

Join the Contra Costa Resource Conservation District (CCRCD) and Cal State East Bay Concord Center for a fun outdoor event on April 12th, 9am-12pm! We’ll be cleaning along the banks of Galindo Creek as well as tracking the trash we find and inventorying the plants on site.

Please register for this event here. Registrants will receive more info about the event via email. If you have questions, please email Ldamerel@ccrcd.org.