| Photo by Michael Troutman, DMT Imaging
Join us online Saturday, March 20 and Sunday, March 21 from 10 am-3 pm PST to celebrate the rich and diverse wildlife of California at this free two-day event.
Since its founding, the Monterey Peninsula Regional Park District (MPRPD) and Carmel River Watershed Conservancy (CRWC) have co-sponsored this local annual event showcasing the exceptional, fragile, and significant wildlife that resides in California. For the first time, California Wildlife Day will come to you! Register for speaker sessions, listen and partake in poetry and art, connect with young professionals in a climate action forum and with wildfire experts during interactive panel discussions! There will be activities for the little naturalists out there, too!
California is a leader in environmental policy and conservation. Our state is filled with diverse and unique ecosystems, which is why California Wildlife Day was formally established through legislation co-sponsored by Senator Bill Monning and Assembly person Mark Stone and unanimously passed in the California State Legislative Branch in March 2017. This year’s theme is “Cultivating Resilience in a Changing Climate.” Though the 2020 celebration was postponed due to the unforeseen COVID-19, we have adapted to changing circumstances, much like our California wildlife, to bring you this virtual two-day event!
Marie Butcher, Carmel River Watershed Conservancy event organizer stated “We, too, are shifting to a changing environment. By having an online platform participants are able to share in the diversity of California’s wildlife remotely and in a comfortable space.” Attendees will be inspired as they discover the beauty in their own backyard.
On Saturday and Sunday, the two-day event opens with the event founders, key representatives, and recognition of the first people who inhabited this land inviting you to discover your connection to the land, river, sea, and wildlife. Four concurrent sessions will include speakers; student submissions and presentations in art, poetry, and science; panel discussions; local musicians; and activities for all ages. This event is made possible through partnership support; learn about the communities and organizations working in your area to enhance wildlife.
To register or view a detailed schedule visit californiawild.net. Registration is FREE!
About the Monterey Peninsula Regional Park District
The Monterey Peninsula Regional Park District (MPRPD) has been preserving and protecting parks and open space since 1972. MPRPD is committed to being an inspirational, inclusive, respected, sustainable, and valued open space district that collaborates with and serves the community and its conservation needs through interconnected open spaces, public parks, education, and advocacy for the entire community. For more information on the MPRPD and its mission, vision, and open spaces, please call 831.372-3196 or visit www.mprpd.org.
Mission Statement of Carmel River Watershed Conservancy
The mission of the Carmel River Watershed Conservancy (CRWC) is to preserve and eventually restore the Carmel River and watershed to its former health and beauty. We protect and help to restore populations of threatened species especially steelhead and California red-legged frogs. The Conservancy balances environmental protection and the diverse needs of the Community. This is accomplished by exemplifying integrity, inclusiveness, education, and mutual respect. Visit: https://www.carmelriverwatershed.org.
