Certified California Naturalist Course

Spring 2026 — Registration is OPEN

Dates: Arpil 1 - June 10
Training Days: Wednesdays, 5:30–8:30 PM
Field Trips: Two required all-day Saturdays (dates TBA)

Course Overview

This 11-week course uses the official “California Naturalist Handbook”, expert speakers, field excursions, and project-based learning to explore California’s ecological diversity and the unique habitats of the Cosumnes River watershed. Upon successful completion, you’ll become a Certified California Naturalist and are eligible for four academic credits via UC Davis Extension (additional fee applies).

What you’ll do

• Attend weekly evening classes + join two full-day field excursions.
• Complete a volunteer stewardship project (minimum 8 hours).
• Participate in a citizen science project chosen by the class.
• Create a field notebook with entries for all field days and log at least 8 observations on iNaturalist.

Cost & Materials

Tuition: $400 (covers classes & field trips; transportation not included).
Required text: The California Naturalist Handbook (discount code UCP SAVE30 at UC Press).

Scholarships

Partial scholarships are available for a limited number of students. Email info@cosumnes.org to request an application.

Participant Requirements

1. Participants may miss one class day but must complete make-up work; notify us in advance if needed.
2. Complete 8 hours of volunteer stewardship service.
3. Participate in a class-adopted citizen science project.
4. Create a field notebook with entries from all field days.
5. Log at least eight observations on iNaturalist.

Cancellation Policy: Full refund (minus $50 fee) if cancelled up to two weeks before class start. If you refer another student and they fill your spot before class begins, you may receive a full refund. Medical exceptions may apply. In the event of low enrollment and course cancellation, full refund is issued.