UC Climate Stewards — Certification Course
A public course from UC Environmental Stewards at the Cosumnes River Preserve combining classroom learning, field experience, and community-engaged projects to strengthen climate literacy and resilience.
Fall 2026 — Upcoming
Dates: TBD
Training: Wednesdays, 5:30–7:00 PM (Visitor Center) + weekly Canvas materials
Field trips: TBD
Course Overview
The Climate Stewards certification combines communication training, climate science, participatory science, and field-based learning focused on floodplains, wetlands, valley oak riparian forest, vernal pool grasslands, and compatible agriculture within the lower Cosumnes watershed.
What you'll do
- Attend weekly meetings + complete online Canvas modules.
- Participate in three required full-day field trips.
- Complete a participatory science project (ISeeChange) with 10 observations including photos.
- Engage in project-based learning and community service opportunities.
Cost & Materials
Tuition: $50.00 (covers classes & field trips; transportation not included).
Required text: Climate Stewardship: Taking Collective Action to Protect California by Adina Merenlender & Brendan Buhler (discount code available).
Scholarships
Partial scholarships are available for a limited number of students. Email info@cosumnes.org to apply.
Participant requirements
- Minimum 43 educational hours (online + classroom + field), including 12 field hours.
- Complete required reading and all Canvas units (Units 1–6) and the ISeeChange module.
- Register and submit 10 observations on ISeeChange with photos.
Cancellation policy: Full refund (minus $50 fee) if canceled up to two weeks before class start. Replacements may be allowed; limited medical exceptions apply. Class cancellation for low enrollment receives full refund.
Why this course matters
The Climate Stewards program prepares volunteers to support local adaptation and resilience efforts through science-backed education, communication skills, and community-driven projects. Graduates often volunteer in monitoring, outreach, stewardship, and education roles that directly benefit local ecosystems and residents.